Educators

Jessica previously served as a Kindergarten teacher at The Compass School of Texas. She looks forward to continuing her journey as an educator in the 2nd grade. Jessica holds a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences from Dallas Baptist University with a course emphasis in psychology and child development. She is currently pursuing further education in Sequential English Education (S.E.E.) at The Shelton School and Evaluation Center to become a Certified Academic Language Practitioner (CALP) and is working towards her Master’s of Arts degree in Teaching. Previously, Jessica taught 1st and 2nd grades at The Winston School. She also contributed to curriculum selection and development, strategic planning, and the ISAS Accreditation team. Outside the classroom, Jessica enjoys photography and music. She and her husband live in Richardson and have six children and two grandchildren. They are passionate about travel and often take in concerts or live music, both locally and nationally.

Kate brings a dynamic blend of passion, experience, and curiosity to the classroom. A proud graduate of the University of South Florida, she studied both Biochemistry and Economics. For the past four years, Kate has been a middle school teacher in Colorado. Beyond the classroom, Kate has contributed to schools as a curriculum developer, team leader, and mentor. She has led student journalism programs, created leadership opportunities for young learners, and coached high-achieving Science Olympiad teams to success. Originally from the farmlands of north Texas, Kate is thrilled to be returning to her roots after years of living and learning across the country. Outside of school, Kate enjoys exploring the outdoors with her partner, Austin, and their dog, Ranger.

Amanda is a passionate and curious early childhood educator who thrives on creating environments that inspire wonder and ignite a love for learning in young children. Amanda earned her degree in Applied Behavioral Science with a specialization in Early Childhood Education from the University of Kansas. She has dedicated the last 16 years to teaching at Temple Emanuel, working with a range of early childhood age groups, including the past four years in a Pre-K. Immersed in the Reggio Emilia philosophy and a certified International Baccalaureate (IB) educator. Beyond the classroom, Amanda cherishes quality time with her family and friends, enjoys exploring the outdoors, discovering new restaurants, and traveling.She is eager to contribute her innovative teaching approach and dedication to fostering the growth of young learners within the Compass School community.

Mariana is a multidisciplinary artist, lawyer, and adventurer who sees the world through a deeply creative lens. Raised in Mexico City, she was profoundly influenced by her mother, an art historian, who nurtured her appreciation for beauty, history, and visual storytelling from an early age. Mariana’s educational journey took her to Switzerland and the Netherlands, where exposure to diverse cultures enriched her artistic vision. She earned recognition in national art competitions.  She studied law at Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City and earned a Master of Laws degree from Northwestern University. Even as she built a successful legal career, creativity remained at the core of her identity. Mariana’s artistic passion centers on three-dimensional work, using art as a tool for introspection, empathy, and connection. Seventeen years ago, Mariana moved to Dallas with her husband, where they now raise three adventurous boys. Together, they explore the outdoors, take on imaginative projects, and integrate art into daily life.
 

As a founding team member of Compass, Caroline is excited to shift to the 1st Grade team this year. Previously, she taught Pre-K at Compass and 1st grade at Washington Woods Elementary School in Westfield, Indiana. She has her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and completed two minors, Diverse Learners and Art + Design. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree at Baylor University. Additionally, Caroline studied the Reggio Emilia approach at Butler University. Caroline taught in a Reggio-inspired Pre-K-8 school. Caroline enjoys living in Dallas alongside her older sister since family is very important to her. Caroline grew up in southern California and loves going back to visit her parents and grandparents.

Stacey is a dedicated educator with over 24 years of experience in the Dallas area, working in public, charter, and private schools. Her career spans a rich blend of classroom teaching and school leadership, including four years as the principal of Trinity Christian School. Stacey holds a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Texas at Arlington and a master’s in Educational Leadership from Nelson University. She holds multiple Texas teaching certifications. Among her professional honors, she was named Teacher of the Year at Trinity before she became principal. When not at school, Stacey loves spending time with her husband and three grown children, reading, shopping, and watching movies. 
 

Darla is a dedicated elementary classroom teacher with over 14 years of experience fostering positive and engaging learning environments. She looks forward to serving as a 3rd grade teacher at The Compass School of Texas for another year.
Darla attended Abilene Christian University where she holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Education Policy and Leadership from American University, and she is excited to be graduating in December 2024. Her previous experience includes teaching 1st and 3rd grades at HEB ISD and Northside ISD in San Antonio, where she participated in curriculum planning, differentiated instruction, and leadership positions on her campuses. Darla also served as a mentor for new teachers and student teachers, piloting innovative programs and providing guidance on classroom management and lesson planning. Outside of her professional life, Darla enjoys spending time in nature hiking, camping, and kayaking. She loves spending quality time with her dog and indulging in her passion for baking.

Marita is excited to serve as an elementary educator at Compass. Marita is a 2025 graduate of Liberty University, earning her degree in Elementary Education. Throughout her years at Liberty, she spent time in many different schools, experiencing demographics ranging from urban to rural, private and public, and grades ranging from 1st to 6th. She student-taught in a departmentalized 3rd Grade class, during which she learned how valuable mutual respect is within the classroom. If she’s not at school, you’ll likely find Marita in the kitchen. She loves to share what she cooks with the people in her life. Marita also enjoys participating in team-oriented sports and activities, like pickleball and field hockey. She is new to the Dallas area and is excited to explore her new home.   

Susanne has over 21 years of teaching experience. Susanne graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Education with a minor in reading. She is certified Kindergarten- 8th grade. She began teaching in kindergarten for 5 years in the Dallas Independent School District. After getting married and having triplets, Susanne was a stay-at-home mom until she became a substitute teacher in the Plano Independent School District. After being a substitute for a short time, she became a 2nd grade teacher for 10 years and a 3rd teacher for 6 years. When she retired from Plano Independent School District, Susanne became a substitute teacher for Plano ISD and The Compass School of Texas. Susanne enjoys spending time with her husband, children, and her granddaughter. Her children live in the Dallas area, and she loves spending time with them on the weekends. She has another grandchild due early next year.
 

Marlys Krueck serves as a Pre-K Educator at The Compass School of Texas. She brings six years of experience as an educator in Dallas, having taught preschool for four years at Temple Emanu-El ECEC and two years at Saint Michael Episcopal School. Marlys earned her Human Development and Family Studies degree from Texas Tech University. While at Texas Tech, she worked closely with children at the university’s Child Development Research Center, where she observed and tracked developmental progress over multiple semesters. She completed her practicum at the Texas Tech Early Head Start Center, gaining hands-on experience in early childhood education. Outside the classroom, Marlys enjoys spending time with her dog, Rocky, visiting her grandmother, and traveling to Wisconsin to see her father.

Mercedes Macedo serves as the Spanish educator and the Pedagogista for all of the Compass School of Texas. Mercedes has taught children for nearly twenty-five years. Most recently, she taught preschoolers at Temple Emanu-El ECEC in Dallas for five years and guided many teachers as the Pedagogista for the last two years. Prior to teaching in Dallas, Mercedes taught in early childhood education preschools in Austin, Berkeley (CA), and Alexandria (VA). In addition, Mercedes has presented the Reggio Emilia approach to the Education department in her home country, Peru. Mercedes holds a Bachelor's degree in Education from St. Agustin University in Arequipa, Peru.

Mercedes is committed and passionate about inquiry-based, emergent curriculum, and the Reggio Emilia approach. In her words, "These approaches promote and support an education where every child is the main character on 'stage' and having an essential role in their learning." As the Compass School of Texas Pedagogista, Mercedes assists with professional development and provides ongoing support around documenting projects and the learning process. Mercedes is excited to share her love for her native language and to bring the culture of other Spanish-speaking countries alive for her students.

Mercedes enjoys collecting materials outside school to spark children's wonder and inquiry. When Mercedes is home, you will find her snuggling her little dog Mocha Marie, enjoying good music, and cooking. Mercedes is married and, with her husband Eric, loves traveling and attending concerts.

Michele is excited to return to teach Compass’ 2nd Grade class this year. With over 20 years of experience in accredited international schools, she served as a Special Education Teacher and Interventionist, a Reading and Math Instructional Coach, and as Elementary Principal. Michele holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders from Baylor University, a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Leadership and Management, and a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction for Special Education from Longwood University in Virginia. Outside the classroom, she enjoys swimming, horseback riding, and reading. As recent empty nesters, Michele and her husband love going to the beach and spending time with family and friends.

Rachel brings over a decade of experience in charter and public-school settings. Her roles included teaching 3rd and 4th Grade English Language Arts, supporting Kindergarten through 4th Grade as a Reading Interventionist, and working as a Grants Manager. She holds a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis on EC–6 education from Sam Houston State University. Outside the classroom, Rachel enjoys baking, blogging, cooking, reading, and traveling. She treasures time with her husband and daughter, whether relaxing on the patio, exploring new places, or savoring the simple moments that fuel her love for lifelong learning.

Elizabeth Quezada serves as a Spanish Educator for the Compass School of Texas. She worked as an early intervention teacher in Chile and Israel, and her most recent work experience was at Temple Emanuel as a 3-year-old teacher, where she incorporated more than one language into her pedagogical routines. Before joining Temple Emanuel, Elizabeth worked for five years with autistic children in Israel. She also trained as a Learning Recovery Teacher, acquiring skills and strategies to develop playful and thoughtful group activities. Elizabeth holds a bachelor's degree in Education from her native country, Chile, a university degree in Early Childhood Education, and a postgraduate degree in Learning Difficulties. She is proficient in Spanish and Hebrew and is working on improving her English. Elizabeth is married and she has three boys. Her family strives to maintain and care for the three languages ​​that her children know, even though it is challenging in daily life. Elizabeth is also an animal and plant lover, with a cat, a dog, and an adopted and rescued Axolotl in her home. 
 

Audrey holds a Bachelor of Science in Ministerial Leadership with a focus in Pastoral Care and Counseling from Southeastern University, graduating magna cum laude. Audrey spent years guiding children, teenagers, and young adults in church, home, and classroom settings. She taught lessons to kids, oversaw curriculum implementation, organized and led events, and trained volunteers to engage meaningfully with students. In addition, she managed system operations, ensuring programs ran smoothly and efficiently. In her free time, Audrey enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing pickleball, and discovering new coffee shops. She’s also excitedly planning her upcoming wedding, which keeps her busy and full of excitement. Audrey finds joy in serving others and seeing them grow.

Originally from Houston, Austin moved to the Dallas-Fort Worth area over a decade ago and has since become deeply rooted in the community. She began her seven-year journey in early childhood education by teaching Pre-K and kindergarten in Dallas and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD. Austin graduated from Texas Christian University with a degree in Strategic Communication and a minor in Spanish. She also studied at the Istituto Lorenzo de Medici in Florence, Italy, and Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo in Seville, Spain. Austin enjoys traveling, reading, shopping, and spending time with her friends and family. She is active in her church and several Dallas community organizations.

Brie is excited to return to Compass this year and shift to teaching Kindergarten. With over a decade of experience with elementary students, Brie continues to dedicate herself to creating an engaging learning environment for her students. Her journey began in a before and after-school program, where she discovered a passion for teaching before pursuing a degree in Elementary Education with a Minor in Special Education at The College of St. Scholastica. Originally from Minnesota, she relocated to Texas with her fiancé last year and will get married in July. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and traveling to experience other cultures, with highlights including South Africa and Spain.

Amy serves as a PreK-4 teacher at The Compass School of Texas. Amy has over 20 years of experience in education and describes teaching as a calling. She began her career teaching 1st grade and then stayed home with her children before returning to teaching in 2013. Amy graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Applied Learning and Development from the University of Texas at Austin. She then graduated with a Master of Education degree with an emphasis in Literacy from the University of North Texas. In her free time, Amy enjoys spending time with her husband, 3 young adult children, and her very large extended family. She also enjoys reading, shopping, and going for walks with her two dogs.

María Tolnay joins The Compass School of Texas as an Associate Spanish Educator, bringing warmth, creativity, and a deep appreciation for childhood development. Originally from Argentina, María is a native Spanish speaker with a strong cultural foundation and a passion for supporting children as they grow, explore, and express themselves. She studied Social Work at the University of Buenos Aires, where her interest in nurturing and empowering others began to take shape. During that time, she discovered the healing power of yoga and eventually shifted paths to become a certified yoga teacher. In 2024, María completed her 200-hour yoga teacher training at the Dallas Yoga Center. Since then, she has taught yoga to adults across Dallas and in outdoor community settings, creating inclusive spaces rooted in mindfulness, breath, and self-awareness. María’s experience as a babysitter and joyful party performer (yes, even as a clown!) reflects her natural ability to connect with children through play, imagination, and care. Outside of school, María enjoys dancing, spending time with her family, playing with her puppy, practicing yoga, and exploring the beauty of nature.
 

Khadicha Vinokur serves as the Farm to Table & Mindfulness Educator. Khadicha graduated in 2003 from National University of Uzbekistan with a Journalism degree. After graduating, Khadicha worked as a journalist and editor at a radio station while also teaching English. In 2006, she met her husband, and in 2009 moved to Dallas, Texas. She studied and engaged in Integrative Nutrition Health as well as Positive Psychology and Mindfulness. In June 2013, Khadicha became a teacher at Temple Emanu-El Dallas, where she captivated and engaged children with immersive Farm to Table experiences. Her classroom was a garden, rich in lessons that nurtured children’s love for nature and working together to see where food came from. Khadicha brings curiosity and a love for food and cooking in all of her classes. Khadicha is an avid reader of child development books and is a proud mom of a beautiful daughter who is 13 years old. She looks forward to bringing her passion in Farm-to-Table living with Mindfulness practices to Compass students, two fields which are proven to improve focus, overall health, and well-being of children.

Leslie is a passionate educator who brings both leadership and experience to her work in independent schools. She has shared her expertise in literacy instruction at national conferences, including the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). A graduate of an independent school, Columbus School for Girls in Columbus, Ohio, Leslie holds a B.A. in Political Science from Wellesley College and an M.A. in International Affairs from Ohio University, where she was honored by the U.S. Department of Education with a Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowship. She earned a second Master’s degree from Columbia University’s Teachers College as a Klingenstein Fellow in Private School Leadership. Leslie is the proud parent of a sixth grader and finds daily inspiration in the quote, “A life of significance is about serving others.” 

Kelly earned her degree in Public Relations and Marketing from the University of Louisiana. After graduating, she moved to Dallas to begin her career in marketing. Following ten years of experience as a National Account Manager for Nabisco and American Greetings, Kelly became a mother to three wonderful boys. It was during this time that she started working as a teacher at Temple Emanu-El Pre-School (ECEC). While at Temple Emanu-El, Kelly had the opportunity to travel to Emilia-Romagna, Italy, to study the best practices of the Reggio Emilia approach to education. Kelly and her family are passionate travelers who love hiking and exploring the world. She truly believes that the best way to grow and learn is through travel, as it opens one's mind to different perspectives on humanity. When she is not traveling, you can find her relaxing on the back porch of their family home in Louisiana, enjoying the sunsets.