Hello! I’m Brandi, the proud owner of Smart Beginnings Early Learning Center, serving families since July 2017. Over the years, I’ve grown alongside the center and now serve as Executive Director while also leading our Liberty location. This allows me to stay closely connected to our classrooms, staff, and families each day. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, I’ve had the joy of teaching children of all ages, from infants through 5th grade. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Leadership from Park University.

At Smart Beginnings, I’ve built and led a team of passionate, creative educators who share my commitment to providing a nurturing, developmentally appropriate foundation that supports each child’s growth, confidence, and lifelong love of learning.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my partner and our four beautiful daughters Addyson, Alexa, Averie, and Ashlyn. In my free time, I love playing volleyball, crafting, and cheering on my girls at their sporting events.

My favorite part of Smart Beginnings is the meaningful relationships we build with our children and families. It is truly a privilege to walk alongside each family and be part of each child’s journey. You’ll often see me in the hallways greeting families, popping into classrooms, and supporting our incredible teachers, because staying connected is at the heart of everything we do at Smart Beginnings.

Hello, I am Amanda Von Behren, I am the Director of the Smart Beginnings Parkville Location. I am super excited to be a part of your child's journey here at Smart Beginnings. I have worked in various rooms throughout my years here at Smart Beginnings. In July 2017 I started as an assistant teacher and has since moved up to lead teacher. I began my management track as an afternoon administrator and am excited to now serve as your director. I love working for Smart Beginnings and love helping your children grow. I was born and raised in Minnesota and moved to Missouri when my daughter was about 4years old. She is now 20 and is going to Mizzou. I too have taken the jump into college; I’m currently going for my degree in Early Childhood Education. When not at work or doing schoolwork you will find me with my partner and her four girls. My favorite thing about working at Smart Beginnings is facilitating the growth and learning of each child in my care.

Hello, I'm Ms. Melanie!

I graduated from JC Harmon. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren. I love cooking and spending time with my grandchildren. I've worked in childcare for over 6 years, I love developing the bond with all the children I care for. I love to watch them grow and learn. Smart Beginnings is such a great place to work because it really feels like a big family.

Hi, I am Ms. Cheryl. I am the co-lead teacher for Little Movers Classroom. I started at Smart Beginnings at the end of February 2021. I have been the Little Movers lead since March of 2021. My fiancé and I have a beautiful daughter and five godchildren, four boys and one girl. We have six fur babies, two dogs and four cats. I have lived in Missouri all my life. I went to Park Hill high school and grew up in the Park Hill School District. I am excited to get to know you and your family and work with your child. I am also excited to watch the kids as they grow and meet new milestones. My favorite thing about working for Smart Beginnings is to watch how much each child has grown over time, they grow and change so fast.

My name is Madison, though most people call me Maddie. I’m in my 20's and very close to my family. I’ve been working in childcare for 3 years and babysitting for 9 years, and I absolutely love helping children learn, grow, and be happy.

I’m a big animal lover and have one dog named Davison. My favorite season is fall, and I enjoy shopping, reading, and spending time with loved ones. I also have a soft spot for energy drinks and love the colors black and pink.

What I enjoy most about working with children is seeing the joy on their faces as they discover new things and develop new skills.

Hi, my name is McKenna and I'm 24 years old. I've been in childcare for three years. I have two sisters; I am the middle child. I graduated from Staley high school and have always wanted to work in childcare or special education. My hobbies include shopping and hanging out with my friends and family. I'm excited to work at Smart Beginnings because I love working with children.

My name is Grace, and I’ve been involved in childcare for as long as I can remember, from caring for my siblings, to working in Kidzone Ministry, to nannying. I began my journey at Smart Beginnings as a Multi-Focus Teacher and have since grown into my current roles as Classroom Coordinator and Afternoon Administrator.

Outside of work, I enjoy going to the gym and sewing. I have three siblings (with another on the way!) and live with my mom, dad, and our beloved dog, Duke, who is very much a part of our family.

What I love most about working with children is building strong bonds with each one and ensuring they are always well cared for and supported.

Hello, my name is Madilyn Acosta, and I am currently a full-time student at Park University working toward my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. In my free time, I enjoy reading and spending time with my two dogs, an English Bulldog named Chimichanga and a Silky Terrier named Coraline. I come from a family of four girls, and one of my sisters is nearly ten years younger than me, giving me the special opportunity to be actively involved in her growth and development. That experience has fueled my passion for working with young children. I’m thrilled to be joining Smart Beginnings, where I look forward to helping your children grow, learn, and develop into their own unique selves.

Hello, my name is Sheyenne Curtis. I am a teacher in the Explorers classroom at our Liberty location. I am super excited to have a small role in your child’s journey here at Smart Beginnings Early Learning Center. I enjoy working here at Smart Beginning so much that I will be furthering my education in Early Childhood Education. Watching my nephew grow and become the highlight of our family has been one of the deciding factors to continue my education as well. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, baking, and playing with my dogs. I look forward to teaching your kids and watching them grow.

Hello! My name is Emily, my background is mainly in caregiving but in the summer of 2024, I worked at a summer camp and found a love for working with children. I’ve been with Smart Beginnings since October 24’ and have enjoyed every minute. In 2026 I will begin furthering my education in early childhood education. Some of my hobbies outside of work include painting, going on walks with my dog Blue, working on cars and playing card games with my grandparents. I love travelling, my favorite colors are baby pink and baby blue. I love forming connections with the children and getting to see the children's imagination through the eyes of an adult.

Hello, I'm Ms. Amy!

My name is Amy, I am married my best friend, and wonderful husband! I have lived most of my life south of KC in Raymore with my parents and two older brothers, but recently my husband and I moved up to Parkville and we love it. I have been involved in childcare for about 5 years now. First as a Teacher Aid/Assistant and then working my way up as a Lead Teacher!

Outside of work I enjoy a good coffee shop, reading, watching my favorite shows, fishing, sewing, spending time with family and friends, and relaxing at home with my husband and cat Millie.

The best part about my job here at Smart Beginnings, is getting to teach your children new things and watch your child be so proud of themselves for figuring out something new!

Hello, my name is Jay! I graduated from KU in December of 2023 as an English major, but I've taken many child development classes both in high school and college. I grew up taking care of my younger sister then branched out to babysitting other kids and I have volunteered in elementary schools helping kindergarten teachers. Some of my hobbies include hanging out with my family and my cat, listening to music, and getting back into reading. I'm excited to work at Smart Beginnings because I really enjoy working with children and building personal relationships with them!

Hello, I'm Autumn!

I graduated from Mid-Buchanan High School, where I also took dual-credit classes through Missouri Western. After graduation, I attended MCC Maple Woods to complete my general education courses. I originally planned to pursue a degree in Veterinary Technology, but I’ve recently decided to switch my focus to either a Child Development Associate (CDA) or Early Childhood Education (ECED) degree. My experience with children includes babysitting and working in a before- and after-school program with students ranging from preschool through sixth grade.

In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, watching movies, going for drives, and spending time with friends, family, and my niece and nephew. My family is small but close, it’s made up of my mom, dad, stepdad, sister, and me.

I’m so excited to be part of Smart Beginnings because I absolutely love working with kids! It’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was little, and I know this opportunity will be an amazing experience as I continue my education and career in early childhood development.

Hello! I am Ms. Kelsey, a proud mom of three; two boys and one girl. I also come from a big family with seven younger siblings, so being around children has always been a big part of my life. As a child I spent much of my childhood on my grandparents’ farm in Kansas, which helped spark my lifelong love for animals. I have one cat, and if I could own any animal, it would definitely be a panda, they are my absolute favorite! When I am not teaching, I enjoy swimming and taking nature walks with my kids. Halloween is my favorite holiday, and I am a big fan of scary movies! My children are my world, and they’re a big part of why I’m so passionate about teaching. I’m thrilled to be joining Smart Beginnings and can’t wait to help your children learn, grow, and thrive. Working with little ones is truly special to me, and I’m honored to be part of this journey.

Hi! My name is Addyson, and I will be starting college in the fall. I plan to join the Air Force after college and pursue a career in emergency services. I have three younger sisters who mean the world to me. Growing up around childcare has given me a deep love for working with kids and watching them learn and grow. Some of my favorite hobbies include playing competitive volleyball, coaching younger teams, and reading. I love being part of the Smart Beginnings family because I get to create meaningful bonds with children and make an impact.

Hello, my name is Alyssa, and I am a sophomore in high school. After I am done with school, I plan on going to the University of Reno Nevada to get a teaching degree. I have a younger brother, and he is a really fun guy, and has the biggest heart that I have ever seen. I love working with kids because they bring me so much joy seeing them learn and grow. Some of the things I love to do in my free time are reading and doing art. If you don’t see me reading. I am doing art. I love being with Smart Beginnings and being able to help your kids grow and learn.

My name is Kathryn Holloway. I am a mother to two boys ages. I also have 6 cats. I have lived in Kansas City and worked for Smart Beginnings since July 2022. I have been cooking professionally for 20 years; however, I've been cooking since I was a child. I have primarily worked in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. I have prepared meals for as many as 150 people. I love cooking and baking and sharing new creations with others.

What I enjoy most about Smart Beginnings is being able to create my own menus and giving the children the opportunity to try different foods.

Hi, I’m Shelbi,

I am the nutrition specialist at the Liberty location. I am 24 years old, and I have one daughter and one stepdaughter. I grew up in a small town and love all things outdoors such as archery, camping and going on nature walks. I love spending time with my family whenever I can. I am super outgoing and get along with everyone I meet.