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.

Hello everyone!

My name is Kimberly, but most people call me Kim. I am originally from Saint Joseph, Missouri, and I am a proud wife and mother of six wonderful children.

Outside of work, I enjoy riding motorcycles, traveling, camping, fishing, and spending quality time with my family. I am also a huge animal lover! I currently have two dogs, several reptiles and amphibians, and I previously owned and operated an animal and reptile rescue. Halloween is my favorite holiday and it also happens to be my wedding anniversary! My favorite season is fall.

I graduated from nursing school in 2013 and have worked in both healthcare and childcare since 2009. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals of all ages and abilities. These experiences have strengthened my empathy, compassion, communication skills, and commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone feels valued.

What I enjoy most about working with children is witnessing the excitement and joy on their faces as they discover something new. I love building meaningful relationships with each child and family, fostering trust through consistent care, encouragement, and engaging interactions.

I am thrilled to be joining the Smart Beginnings family and look forward to getting to know your children, supporting their growth and development, and partnering with your family throughout their learning journey.

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.

Ms. Ali

Hello! My name is Alizaya.

I am 20 years old, and my birthday is July 6th. In my free time, I enjoy fishing, camping, traveling, crafting, shopping, and spending quality time with my nieces and nephews. I love making memories with my family and trying new experiences whenever I can.

I have been working in childcare for three years, and I truly enjoy helping children learn, grow, and discover new things. One of my favorite parts of working with children is watching them reach new milestones and build confidence in themselves each day.

I am excited to continue growing my career with Smart Beginnings and to be part of a team that is passionate about supporting children and families. I love teaching new skills and lessons that not only help the children I work with but also help me continue learning and growing as an educator.

I look forward to building relationships with your family and helping your child learn, explore, and thrive in a safe, nurturing, and fun environment!

Hi, my name is Ms. Lauren...

Meet Our Future Liberty Team

As our Liberty location continues to grow, we are excited to welcome passionate, qualified educators who share our commitment to providing exceptional early childhood education. Each member of our team is carefully selected for their experience, dedication, and love for helping children learn and thrive.

We are actively building a team of nurturing professionals who embody the Smart Beginnings mission: Start Smart. Shine Bright.

As classrooms fill, teacher

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.

Hello, I'm Ms. Chylle

I’ve been teaching for over 20 years, and while some people say I’m crazy, teaching is truly my Zen! It has always been my passion, and I’m so excited to bring my free-spirited energy into the classroom here at Smart Beginnings Early Learning Center.

A little about me, I moved from Virginia to Missouri almost three years ago and have continued pursuing the career I love ever since. I absolutely love Kansas City! I have an amazing partner, cheer hard for the best football team around (Go Chiefs!), and you can often spot me cruising around town in my pink Jeep… yep, that one’s mine! 😊

I’m also a very creative person. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy crafting custom dream catchers, singing karaoke, dancing, and expressing myself through movement. I also have a competitive side and love bowling, pool, and golf. And of course, I can’t forget my two cats, Weezy F. Baggins and Sir Dukes-A-Lot — who are basically my sons.

One of my favorite quotes to live by comes from the wonderful Ms. Frizzle: “Get messy, take chances, and make mistakes.”

I cannot wait to begin this journey with your children, watch them grow, learn, and thrive, and build wonderful relationships with all of your families along the way!

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.

Ms. Alexa

Hello! My name is Alexa.

I enjoy creating art, playing musical instruments, and trying new things that help me learn and grow. I love being creative and finding new ways to express myself while continuing to challenge myself through new experiences.

I plan to attend college and pursue a degree in Marine Biology because I am fascinated by ocean life and passionate about protecting marine ecosystems and the animals that call them home.

One of my favorite things about working at Smart Beginnings is having the opportunity to support children as they learn, grow, and build confidence every day. I love being part of their journey, celebrating their accomplishments, and helping create a positive environment where they feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore the world around them.

I look forward to getting to know your family and being a part of your child's growth and development!

Ms. Savanah

Hello! My name is Savannah.

I am a proud mother of four energetic boys who keep life exciting and full of adventure. I have over six months of childcare experience and am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

My non-traditional educational background has helped me become adaptable, hardworking, compassionate, and understanding. These qualities allow me to connect with children and support their individual needs as they develop new skills and reach important milestones.

In my free time, I enjoy building model cars and collecting rubber ducks—two hobbies that reflect my creativity, attention to detail, and fun-loving personality.

One of the things I enjoy most about working with children is watching them discover new things, gain confidence, and celebrate their accomplishments. I am excited to be part of the Smart Beginnings family and look forward to helping your children learn, grow, and succeed each day.

I can't wait to get to know your family and be a part of your child's journey!

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.

Hi, I’m Shelbi,

I am the nutrition specialist. 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.