Meet Our Staff
Chris
Owner
I have owned and operated a Step Ahead Preschool & Childcare since it began in 1998. I hold a degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood Education, from Central Washington University. As a mother and former Kindergarten Teacher, my goal is to provide children with a quality environment where learning is fun. I am so proud to have a great staff that has helped me build this program. We have touched the lives of many Treasure Valley children. My husband and I are very fortunate to have two wonderful daughters an amazing son-in-law, and two grandchildren (Brinley & Luke). We are a busy family that enjoys traveling, skiing, boating and endless hours of family time.
We're excited to announce that open enrollment for the 2026-27 school year will begin on Monday, February 23rd at 8:00 AM! This is a first come first serve event at our building. Don't miss out on the opportunity to solidify a spot for your child.
Please call us today for more information and to schedule a tour of our facility.
Kaitlin
Director
I am very fortunate to have been with A Step Ahead for many years. This program has been a part of my life from a very young age and I am lucky to have the privilege of working with you and your children . I graduated from Boise State University in 2017 with a degree in Business Management and a minor in Marketing. I live in Meridian with my husband Austin, our daughter Brinley, our son Luke, and a new baby on the way. I am excited to be in the office this year, please don’t hesitate to stop by and say hello!
Tawna
Preschool Manager
After graduating from NNU in 1997 with an Elementary Education Degree and an endorsement in Early Childhood, I started teaching at a middle school in Marsing, Idaho. Two short years later, I left the middle school life to begin teaching at A Step Ahead. I’ve never looked back.
Being a preschool teacher is my dream job. I enjoy seeing young students grow in a multitude of ways including academically, socially and artistically.
When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family. With three out of four daughters married and grandkids starting to grow our family even bigger, I have a full schedule. I spend my days camping, fishing, movie going, picnicking, reading, exploring and volunteering at my church.
Gillian
Teacher
I graduated from Boise State University with a degree in Elementary Education. After I graduated from BSU, I worked at a Montessori School for 2 years. I have been at A Step Ahead Preschool since January 2005 and I love it! I live in Boise with my husband, Ben, and our two beautiful children. I am a native of Idaho and I enjoy all outdoor activities including: hiking, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, jet skiing, and snow skiing. I also enjoy reading books, scrapbooking, and playing with my kids.Jena
Teacher
I graduated in 2005 from the University of Idaho with a degree in Elementary Education. I’ve had the pleasure of working at A Step Ahead for over ten years! It’s been an absolute joy to teach preschool. I just adore this precious age where everything is exciting and new. The kiddos are so eager to learn.
When I am not at school, I spend my time with my wonderful husband and three amazing children. I also love to travel, cook, paint, bike, hike and spend time with my friends and family.
Ali
Teacher
Hello! My name is Ms. Ali. I graduated from Chico State in 2013 and spent five wonderful years teaching in an elementary classroom before stepping away to start a family. My husband and I now have two sweet daughters, Emi and Harper, who also attend A Step Ahead.
When I’m not in the classroom, you can usually find me out on the water boating/wake surfing with my family, or at home in the kitchen baking fresh sourdough bread. I’m excited to be part of this program and look forward to supporting your students as they learn and grow!
Alex
Teacher
Hi! I’m Ms. Alex, and I’ve been teaching young children for over ten years. I have a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from NNU and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Idaho. I truly love working with children and creating a classroom where they feel safe, encouraged, and excited to learn. My passion is helping each child grow through play, hands-on experiences, and strong partnerships with families.
I grew up here in Meridian, Idaho and love our community. When I’m not in the classroom, I’m usually staying active with my two young daughters and husband. I’m so grateful to be a part of your child’s learning journey!
Kylee
Teacher
Photo & Bio Coming Soon!
Kelly
Teacher
Photo & Bio Coming Soon!
Ayesha
Teacher
I have been with ASAP since 2019. I have enjoyed every minute of watching our students, (your kiddos) grow in so many ways! I love working with an amazing team. What a GREAT work family to be apart of when I’m not with my own family. I have an amazing husband and we have three AWESOME kids! We love family movie nights, going on camping trips and many other family fun adventures!Jessica
Teacher
I began at A Step Ahead Preschool and Childcare in August of 2010. I am so lucky to be able to work with the 4’s on the Childcare side of A Step Ahead. The children are so much fun and I can’t help but love them. It is such a joy to watch them blossom before me. My husband and I are also busy with four children of our own and two son-in-laws. Bringing up three brilliant young women and one amazing little boy keeps us hopping! We spend as much time as a family as is possible. Together we all enjoy many outdoor activities and sporting events. We also love to cheer on the Boise State Football team together! Go Broncos!
Michael
Assistant Teacher
Hello! I am Mr. Michael. My wife Gretchen and I enrolled our daughter in ASAP for preschool in 2009. We had such an amazing experience. We enrolled our son in 2016. I have been a work from home/stay at home father since our daughter was born in 2007.
During our kiddo’s time at ASAP I provided music and sound for their spring carnivals. I also assisted in the classroom as much as I could. I am excited to start this new adventure. Teaching, learning and creating smiles.
Ashley
Assistant Teacher
I have lived in Idaho for 12 years with my husband and our four kids, they always keep us on our toes! I’m also a proud plant and pet mom. In my free time I enjoy working on home projects, reading, and exploring the outdoors with my family. I was a photographer for seven years and have a passion for working with children and families. Since 2014, all of my children have attended A Step Ahead! The teachers and staff have always been so kind and fun, providing my kids with an amazing preschool experience. I am thrilled to be part of this wonderful team and can’t wait to meet all of your families. I’m excited to help nurture your children’s creativity and support their growth and development.
Karisa
Assistant Teacher
Hi, I’m Miss Karisa and I am excited to be apart of the A Step Ahead team. I’ve always had a passion for working with children. I have two boys myself, Nathan and Kyle. They both loved their time at A Step Ahead. In our free time we enjoy being with our family, paddle boarding, swimming, playing at the park and anything/everything Mario and Luigi. I can’t wait for an amazing year with your kiddos, watching them grow.
Kaytlin
Assistant Teacher
Photo & Bio Coming Soon!
Alyssa
Assistant Teacher
Hi there! I’ve spent the last six years as an assistant preschool teacher, which means I am a pro at finger-painting, glitter wrangling, and turning even the smallest moments into big learning adventures. When I’m not in the classroom, you can usually find me hanging out with my daughter, Stella- my favorite little sidekick- catching up on a good show, or coloring like it’s a competitive sport. I love bringing joy, creativity, and plenty of smiles to the kids I work with, and I’m all about creating a classroom where everyone feels special and are ready to have fun!
Amy
Assistant Teacher
Hi there! I’m Ms. Amy, and I’ve been a part of the A Step Ahead family for about three years. I love watching little ones learn, play, and grow each day- it’s the best part of my job! When I’m not at the school, you can usually find me cheering on my daughter at her competitions, spending time with my husband, or enjoyng the lake with our four dogs.
Maria
Assistant Teacher
Hi! I’m Ms. Maria! I’ve been with A Step Ahead since 2024 and have loved every part of it! I have always enjoyed working with kids and love getting to know all of their unique personalities. I was born and raised in Portland, OR but moved to Idaho in the summer of 2024. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, going on trips, shopping, and going on coffee runs! I am also a student at Boise State University (GO BRONCOS)
Meagan
Assistant Teacher
Photo & Bio Coming Soon!
