All teachers here at Peapod Learning Center are passionate about each child’s growth, happiness and safety. They hope to inspire the curiosity and wonder inside of each mind here at the Peapod and create an environment where each child feels free to learn about the world around them. The teachers at the Peapod have diverse educational backgrounds and experience in the area of Early Childhood Education. All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and participate in at least 18 hours of professional development at a minimum annually.
Founded the family in 2008 Hello! I’m Carly Walton. I have been in education and childcare in some form or another for 25+ years. I hold a master’s degree in reading, a bachelor’s in Elementary Education, and a lifetime teaching certification through DESE for Early Childhood and Elementary Education. I have taught Kindergarten, Preschool, summer school, title I math and reading, gardening, and now I teach future teachers and Early Childhood educators as a trainer for Projects WET (Water Education for teachers), Growing UP WILD (Project WILD for early childhood), and Project Learning Tree. I am currently serving my fifth year in the Early Learning Leadership Academy (ELLA). I live on the farm with a wide assortment of farm animals and our Labrador retrievers. In my free time I cook, garden, go to Mass, and explore nature with my daughters Cambelle and Channing. I am very thankful and blessed to be able to do what I love and share it with others as a career. Welcome to our school family! |
Joined the family in 2023
Hello! My name is Kailie Crews, in my free time I love going on hikes with my dog Spike and spending time with my family. I grew up in Willard, Missouri just a few minutes outside of Springfield. I am currently enrolled in Missouri State University obtaining my bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Becoming a teacher has always been a dream of mine! I believe all children should be provided a safe and positive nurturing environment to learn and grow. Here at Peapod we are simply playing to learn not learning to play.
Joined the family in 2024
Hello! My Name is Emma Goodman, I am from Springfield Mo. I have a dog named Luna and in my free time I like to hang out with my family or relax at home! I am so excited to be a part of the Peapod team and work with your kids! As a lead my sole responsibility is to make sure your kids are provided a safe and loving environment to learn and grow.
| Joined the family in 2024 Hello! My name is Mikaela Grisham. I have a bachelor’s degree in child studies. In my free time I am either reading or baking. I love making new things and my favorite genre are classics and nonfictions. One of my all-time favorites is Frankenstein. My favorite colors are yellow, pink, and red. As a lead my sole responsibility is to make sure the kids feel safe and loved. I strive to make the classroom enjoyable and relaxing. |
Joined the family in 2024
Hello! My name is Emmalynn Dean. I am currently a junior working on my bachelor’s degree in child development with a focus on pre-occupational therapy at Missouri State University. I hope to become a pediatric clinical occupational therapist! This is my second year in childcare, and I love being a part of these little one’s lives!
Joined the family in 2024
Hello! My name is Morgan Smith, I love archery and have competed for 8 years. I plan on going to college to get my bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, my wish is to become a kindergarten teacher. I have a huge family with lots of kids and have been working with children since I was 14 years old.
Hello! My name is Yisel Zuniga. I graduated from OTC with my associates degree in 2021. I enjoy reading and writing in my free time.
Joined the family in 2024
Hello! My name is Justina Downs. I have over 7 years of experience working with children as a private nanny. I absolutely love working with kids and am happy to advance my professional experience here at Peapod! In my free time I love playing tennis!
Joined the family in 2022
Hello! My name is Theresa Wolken. I am a mother to four sons. I have 9 grandchildren. I have many hobbies art, guitar, singing, and making t-shirts! I am a Christian and I love theatrics.