Our People
Meet Our Educators
Summers-Knoll staff know what learners need to succeed. As dedicated educators, our staff reach every student and bring joy to every lesson. We are a community of committed, progressive educators dedicated to building community and preparing students for the next stage of their academic careers.
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Clara Ashwood
Young 5s & Kindergarten Teacher
cashwood@summers-knoll.org
I am an educator of young scholars with a background of 21 years experience in Preschool and Kindergarten. I have an Elementary Education degree from University of Wisconsin-Madison and a certificate of Education Leadership from Capella University. I have been at Summers-Knoll School for five years. When first visiting Summers-Knoll, my initial thought was that I wanted to teach here because I wished I could have been a Summers-Knoll student. I would have loved it.
I have specific experience teaching Kindergarten in project-based schools, having spent 8 years at Tesseract School and Minnesota Excellence in Learning Academy. At Tesseract School I gained exposure in implementing a project-based approach to education within a team of Kindergarten and First grade teachers. At Minnesota Excellence in Learning Academy I led in creating the Math Curriculum and Personalized Learning Plan program for Kindergarten.
I live in Ann Arbor with my fiancé Matt. I love to run long distance races, bake bread, dance, and travel. This October I’ll be running the Detroit half marathon.
I draw inspiration from the young children to continue to be creative and explorers of the world. I am passionate about sharing to others the importance of the young child.
cashwood@summers-knoll.org
I am an educator of young scholars with a background of 21 years experience in Preschool and Kindergarten. I have an Elementary Education degree from University of Wisconsin-Madison and a certificate of Education Leadership from Capella University. I have been at Summers-Knoll School for five years. When first visiting Summers-Knoll, my initial thought was that I wanted to teach here because I wished I could have been a Summers-Knoll student. I would have loved it.
I have specific experience teaching Kindergarten in project-based schools, having spent 8 years at Tesseract School and Minnesota Excellence in Learning Academy. At Tesseract School I gained exposure in implementing a project-based approach to education within a team of Kindergarten and First grade teachers. At Minnesota Excellence in Learning Academy I led in creating the Math Curriculum and Personalized Learning Plan program for Kindergarten.
I live in Ann Arbor with my fiancé Matt. I love to run long distance races, bake bread, dance, and travel. This October I’ll be running the Detroit half marathon.
I draw inspiration from the young children to continue to be creative and explorers of the world. I am passionate about sharing to others the importance of the young child.
Clara Ashwood
Young 5s & Kindergarten Teacher
cashwood@summers-knoll.org
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Karen Bayoneto
Director of Operations
kbayoneto@summers-knoll.org
As the Director of Operations I have overseen the day to day operations of Summers-Knoll since January 2009 and admissions and enrollment since 2017. The position is very rewarding for me because it allows me to work with not only the staff, but our students, parents and prospective parents daily. After graduating with my Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Michigan, I spent many years working in healthcare finance before joining the team at SK. I have two children, a Wolverine and a Spartan that are both alumni of SK.
kbayoneto@summers-knoll.org
As the Director of Operations I have overseen the day to day operations of Summers-Knoll since January 2009 and admissions and enrollment since 2017. The position is very rewarding for me because it allows me to work with not only the staff, but our students, parents and prospective parents daily. After graduating with my Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Michigan, I spent many years working in healthcare finance before joining the team at SK. I have two children, a Wolverine and a Spartan that are both alumni of SK.
Karen Bayoneto
Director of Operations
kbayoneto@summers-knoll.org
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Ian Cook
Upper School Teacher
icook@summers-knoll.org
Ian was born in the Ann Arbor area and went to school in Dexter before completing his Bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Science and Spanish at the University of Michigan. In high school and at college, he was involved in a variety of activities, including theatre organizations, orchestras, the student newspaper, and a robotics club. Ian believes life is full of opportunities for him to reflect, learn, and grow, and is excited to help that process occur within the young folk at Summers-Knoll. After he graduated college, Ian spent an academic year in Spain as a classroom assistant, helping students there improve their English skills. This experience made him realize how joyful and rewarding working with kids is. Before working at Summers-Knoll, Ian worked with neurodivergent individuals one-on-one, doing interpersonal therapy with the goal of fostering social, emotional, and independent living skills. He is happy to now be part of the Aftercare team and to assist in classrooms this year. Outside of work at the school, Ian enjoys playing board and role-playing games, reading books, spending time with family, hanging out with and supporting friends, playing video games, riding bikes, kayaking, and continuing to learn.
icook@summers-knoll.org
Ian was born in the Ann Arbor area and went to school in Dexter before completing his Bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Science and Spanish at the University of Michigan. In high school and at college, he was involved in a variety of activities, including theatre organizations, orchestras, the student newspaper, and a robotics club. Ian believes life is full of opportunities for him to reflect, learn, and grow, and is excited to help that process occur within the young folk at Summers-Knoll. After he graduated college, Ian spent an academic year in Spain as a classroom assistant, helping students there improve their English skills. This experience made him realize how joyful and rewarding working with kids is. Before working at Summers-Knoll, Ian worked with neurodivergent individuals one-on-one, doing interpersonal therapy with the goal of fostering social, emotional, and independent living skills. He is happy to now be part of the Aftercare team and to assist in classrooms this year. Outside of work at the school, Ian enjoys playing board and role-playing games, reading books, spending time with family, hanging out with and supporting friends, playing video games, riding bikes, kayaking, and continuing to learn.
Ian Cook
Upper School Teacher
icook@summers-knoll.org
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Huda Derneika
Aftercare Attendant
hderneika@summers-knoll.org
Huda joined Summers-Knoll in 2023/2024 as a volunteer from U of M. She enjoyed the work so much that she stayed on during summer camp and then joined SK’s aftercare team. She is currently pursuing a Sociology major with a Social Work sub major at U of M.
hderneika@summers-knoll.org
Huda joined Summers-Knoll in 2023/2024 as a volunteer from U of M. She enjoyed the work so much that she stayed on during summer camp and then joined SK’s aftercare team. She is currently pursuing a Sociology major with a Social Work sub major at U of M.
Huda Derneika
Aftercare Attendant
hderneika@summers-knoll.org
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Aristea Fulcher
Aftercare Attendant
afulcher@summers-knoll.org
I am a Aftercare Attendant at Summers-Knoll and a SK alumnus. Even when attending Summers-Knoll in middle school I knew it was a special place. I’ve always loved how community-focused the school is, and I am so excited to be able to rejoin this community. It has been amazing to get the opportunity to revisit my old school and see how they’ve continued to improve it. While most schools and school plans haven’t changed for years, Summers-Knoll is constantly changing and evolving to make sure it’s the best version of itself for the student body. I spent several years tutoring and babysitting before working at the school, which ignited my love of teaching and spending time with children. I love getting their perspective of the world, even though they assume I am 55 and have children. No one sees the world quite like a kid. I’m interested in pursuing a career in teaching, but for the time being I’ve been enjoying just spending time with the kids, telling stories, making crafts, and playing games. I enjoy playing guitar, reading, and playing Dungeons and Dragons with my friends in my free time. I love animals and am a pescatarian and cat owner. I have two cats, one which my friend theorizes is stuffed with bean bag filling and the other which is named Rocket Ship. My Favorite color is periwinkle, mostly because I think the name is funny. The color is pretty too though.
afulcher@summers-knoll.org
I am a Aftercare Attendant at Summers-Knoll and a SK alumnus. Even when attending Summers-Knoll in middle school I knew it was a special place. I’ve always loved how community-focused the school is, and I am so excited to be able to rejoin this community. It has been amazing to get the opportunity to revisit my old school and see how they’ve continued to improve it. While most schools and school plans haven’t changed for years, Summers-Knoll is constantly changing and evolving to make sure it’s the best version of itself for the student body. I spent several years tutoring and babysitting before working at the school, which ignited my love of teaching and spending time with children. I love getting their perspective of the world, even though they assume I am 55 and have children. No one sees the world quite like a kid. I’m interested in pursuing a career in teaching, but for the time being I’ve been enjoying just spending time with the kids, telling stories, making crafts, and playing games. I enjoy playing guitar, reading, and playing Dungeons and Dragons with my friends in my free time. I love animals and am a pescatarian and cat owner. I have two cats, one which my friend theorizes is stuffed with bean bag filling and the other which is named Rocket Ship. My Favorite color is periwinkle, mostly because I think the name is funny. The color is pretty too though.
Aristea Fulcher
Aftercare Attendant
afulcher@summers-knoll.org
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Imogen Giles
French and Latin Teacher
igiles@summers-knoll.org
I am the Languages teacher at Summers-Knoll and have been an SK faculty member for over a decade. I teach Latin to every class from Preschool to 8th grade and French from 1st to 8th grade. This role in our school life means I am known as Magistra and as Madame, and I consider myself very fortunate to have had the opportunity to begin a Latin program for the School when I was first appointed to transform what was a small French program to one that embraces all our students.
I gained my Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from the University of London in England. I taught in a number of independent schools before becoming the Head of Classics at Cobham Hall School in Kent and then moving to this country.
I am an ardent reader and love classical music, ballet, drawing, and painting. I also love to travel and look forward to spending each Summer with my family in our home in France.
igiles@summers-knoll.org
I am the Languages teacher at Summers-Knoll and have been an SK faculty member for over a decade. I teach Latin to every class from Preschool to 8th grade and French from 1st to 8th grade. This role in our school life means I am known as Magistra and as Madame, and I consider myself very fortunate to have had the opportunity to begin a Latin program for the School when I was first appointed to transform what was a small French program to one that embraces all our students.
I gained my Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from the University of London in England. I taught in a number of independent schools before becoming the Head of Classics at Cobham Hall School in Kent and then moving to this country.
I am an ardent reader and love classical music, ballet, drawing, and painting. I also love to travel and look forward to spending each Summer with my family in our home in France.
Imogen Giles
French and Latin Teacher
igiles@summers-knoll.org
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Thea Givens
Classroom Assistant
tgivens@summers-knoll.org
I began at Summers-Knoll two years ago as a classroom assistant and aftercare attendant for the Young 5s and Kindergarten class. I’ve grown up in the Ann Arbor area and have forayed in my personal and academic learning into foreign language (French, Japanese, Spanish), global cultures, and various slices of biology such as medical science, native plants and trees. Anything that has to do with humans or the natural world will often pique my interest. I’m very excited to be working at a school with a Project-Based Learning curriculum. I hope to somehow transmit my zeal for knowledge to those I work with at Summers-Knoll.
tgivens@summers-knoll.org
I began at Summers-Knoll two years ago as a classroom assistant and aftercare attendant for the Young 5s and Kindergarten class. I’ve grown up in the Ann Arbor area and have forayed in my personal and academic learning into foreign language (French, Japanese, Spanish), global cultures, and various slices of biology such as medical science, native plants and trees. Anything that has to do with humans or the natural world will often pique my interest. I’m very excited to be working at a school with a Project-Based Learning curriculum. I hope to somehow transmit my zeal for knowledge to those I work with at Summers-Knoll.
Thea Givens
Classroom Assistant
tgivens@summers-knoll.org
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Tao Graham
Front Office Manager & Communications
Tao Graham is the Office Manager at Summers-Knoll and is responsible for helping document, shape, and create Communications SK, essentially telling the story of SK in the SK community, the larger community of Ann Arbor, and surrounding areas. He is dedicated to supporting the SK students, teachers and administration with deep listening, kindness, practical organizational knowledge, and technical support, always with an eye for enhancing day to day operations. Tao was born in New Mexico and partly raised in California, but also has deep roots in Ann Arbor. Tao’s great uncle, Horace Rackham’s trust donated the Horace Rackham School of Graduate Studies building to the University of Michigan completed in 1938. Tao’s grandfather was born and raised in Ann Arbor, fought in World War II as a fighter pilot, and then came back to Ann Arbor to finish school at UofM after the war. Tao earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from California State University.
Tao Graham is the Office Manager at Summers-Knoll and is responsible for helping document, shape, and create Communications SK, essentially telling the story of SK in the SK community, the larger community of Ann Arbor, and surrounding areas. He is dedicated to supporting the SK students, teachers and administration with deep listening, kindness, practical organizational knowledge, and technical support, always with an eye for enhancing day to day operations. Tao was born in New Mexico and partly raised in California, but also has deep roots in Ann Arbor. Tao’s great uncle, Horace Rackham’s trust donated the Horace Rackham School of Graduate Studies building to the University of Michigan completed in 1938. Tao’s grandfather was born and raised in Ann Arbor, fought in World War II as a fighter pilot, and then came back to Ann Arbor to finish school at UofM after the war. Tao earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from California State University.
Tao Graham
Front Office Manager & Communications
tgraham@summers-knoll.org
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Barbara Hohmann
1st/2nd Grade Teacher
bhohmann@summers-knoll.org
Hello, my name is Barbara Hohmann. I am a First and Second grade teacher at Summers-Knoll. This is my sixth year at Summers-Knoll, first as a parent, then as a substitute, and then lead teacher. I am a passionate, creative person and always work hard to do my best.
I was raised in Okinawa until I was 10 years old and then my family moved to New Smyrna Bleach, Florida. I feel the relationships that I have formed throughout my life are powerful and have shaped who I am. Given this, teaching is some of the most important work I can do. Through human connection, I believe that we have the ability to cause change.
Over the past 20 years I have taught and learned from young people as a camp counselor, public school teacher, children’s shelter counselor and teacher, Waldorf teacher, museum educator, art teacher, and mother. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and a Masters in Education and Arts Administration, both from Florida State University. I also have a degree in Surface Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and a Waldorf teaching certificate from the Waldorf Institute of SouthEast Michigan.
When I am not teaching I enjoy my wonderful family. My partner and two children keep me busy, rock climbing, surfing, fishing and going on adventures. I love the ocean, plants and creating things.
bhohmann@summers-knoll.org
Hello, my name is Barbara Hohmann. I am a First and Second grade teacher at Summers-Knoll. This is my sixth year at Summers-Knoll, first as a parent, then as a substitute, and then lead teacher. I am a passionate, creative person and always work hard to do my best.
I was raised in Okinawa until I was 10 years old and then my family moved to New Smyrna Bleach, Florida. I feel the relationships that I have formed throughout my life are powerful and have shaped who I am. Given this, teaching is some of the most important work I can do. Through human connection, I believe that we have the ability to cause change.
Over the past 20 years I have taught and learned from young people as a camp counselor, public school teacher, children’s shelter counselor and teacher, Waldorf teacher, museum educator, art teacher, and mother. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and a Masters in Education and Arts Administration, both from Florida State University. I also have a degree in Surface Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and a Waldorf teaching certificate from the Waldorf Institute of SouthEast Michigan.
When I am not teaching I enjoy my wonderful family. My partner and two children keep me busy, rock climbing, surfing, fishing and going on adventures. I love the ocean, plants and creating things.
Barbara Hohmann
1st/2nd Grade Teacher
bhohmann@summers-knoll.org
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Johnathan Letcher
Head of School
jletcher@summers-knoll.org
Johnathan Letcher is an experienced educator with over 20 years of service in education. He has worked in various capacities and locations throughout the United States, including Seattle, Massachusetts, and Maryland. His diverse roles have included being a teacher, principal, School Improvement Officer, and Deputy Superintendent. In addition to his domestic experience, Mr. Johnathan has worked internationally as a Head for several international American schools.
Mr. Johnathan (as students call him) joined Summers-Knoll because he believes SK’s approach to education is the best form of teaching for the 21st-century student. Summers-Knoll’s innovative and forward-thinking educational philosophy ensures students are well-equipped with rigorous Hard and Soft skills, which are critical for children as they attend high school, college, and career.
jletcher@summers-knoll.org
Johnathan Letcher is an experienced educator with over 20 years of service in education. He has worked in various capacities and locations throughout the United States, including Seattle, Massachusetts, and Maryland. His diverse roles have included being a teacher, principal, School Improvement Officer, and Deputy Superintendent. In addition to his domestic experience, Mr. Johnathan has worked internationally as a Head for several international American schools.
Mr. Johnathan (as students call him) joined Summers-Knoll because he believes SK’s approach to education is the best form of teaching for the 21st-century student. Summers-Knoll’s innovative and forward-thinking educational philosophy ensures students are well-equipped with rigorous Hard and Soft skills, which are critical for children as they attend high school, college, and career.
Johnathan Letcher
Head of School
jletcher@summers-knoll.org
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Alexa Lokensgard
Music Teacher
alokensgard@summers-knoll.org
I grew up in Ypsilanti near the campus of EMU. After attending Greenhills school from sixth through 12th grades, I headed first to St. Olaf College to pursue a B.M. in vocal performance then New England Conservatory in Boston for a Master’s in Music also in voice. The next many years were devoted to performing opera, musical theater, jazz, and chamber music. We returned to Michigan when my husband began a graduate degree at U of M, bought a home a block away from the one I grew up in (and where my parents still live) and started our family. My introduction to the classroom was as a parent. I relished opportunities to work with students and always left those events feeling inspired. I began to work with youth choirs as a guest conductor and clinician, opened a private voice studio, and led sessions and assemblies in elementary and high schools. I recently completed a post-baccalaureate teaching certificate in K-12 music education from EMU and enjoyed student teaching placements in Ann Arbor and Saline. Each student will enter the music classroom with unique prior experiences, interests, and aptitude. I aim to provide group and individual instruction that develops your learner’s skills and musical literacy while exposing them to incredible music of varied tonality, rhythm, origin and genre. Each hour together we will sing, move, listen, create, and play instruments. As tonal and rhythm “audiation” develops, musicians gain deep understanding of the music they listen to and play or sing, while gaining or honing the ability to improvise and compose. My husband Chris is in research and development at Thermo Fisher Scientific, my son Elliott is a seventh grader at WIMA, and my daughter Clara is a second grader at Eberwhite Elementary. In the fall, I’m at soccer games and cross country meets, in winter I’m making soup in my dutch oven (share your favorite recipes!), and as spring approaches each year I train for the Dexter-Ann Arbor half-marathon. Summer is reserved for long soggy days at our local pool and travel. I’m so looking forward to meeting all of you and joining this vital community!
alokensgard@summers-knoll.org
I grew up in Ypsilanti near the campus of EMU. After attending Greenhills school from sixth through 12th grades, I headed first to St. Olaf College to pursue a B.M. in vocal performance then New England Conservatory in Boston for a Master’s in Music also in voice. The next many years were devoted to performing opera, musical theater, jazz, and chamber music. We returned to Michigan when my husband began a graduate degree at U of M, bought a home a block away from the one I grew up in (and where my parents still live) and started our family. My introduction to the classroom was as a parent. I relished opportunities to work with students and always left those events feeling inspired. I began to work with youth choirs as a guest conductor and clinician, opened a private voice studio, and led sessions and assemblies in elementary and high schools. I recently completed a post-baccalaureate teaching certificate in K-12 music education from EMU and enjoyed student teaching placements in Ann Arbor and Saline. Each student will enter the music classroom with unique prior experiences, interests, and aptitude. I aim to provide group and individual instruction that develops your learner’s skills and musical literacy while exposing them to incredible music of varied tonality, rhythm, origin and genre. Each hour together we will sing, move, listen, create, and play instruments. As tonal and rhythm “audiation” develops, musicians gain deep understanding of the music they listen to and play or sing, while gaining or honing the ability to improvise and compose. My husband Chris is in research and development at Thermo Fisher Scientific, my son Elliott is a seventh grader at WIMA, and my daughter Clara is a second grader at Eberwhite Elementary. In the fall, I’m at soccer games and cross country meets, in winter I’m making soup in my dutch oven (share your favorite recipes!), and as spring approaches each year I train for the Dexter-Ann Arbor half-marathon. Summer is reserved for long soggy days at our local pool and travel. I’m so looking forward to meeting all of you and joining this vital community!
Alexa Lokensgard
Music Teacher
alokensgard@summers-knoll.org
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Myia Love
Myia is originally from Fenton Michigan, and recently graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a bachelors’ degree in anthropology. Myia finds herself passionate about pursuing a career in the education field and accumulating experience working in early childhood education. She plans on attending graduate school in the Fall of 2024 and is currently securing a Child Development Associate credential during her gap year. Myia hopes to combine her love of anthropology and her passion for early childhood education during her graduate studies. In her free time, Myia enjoys small social gatherings, writing, and learning new languages.
Myia Love
Aftercare Attendant
mlove@summers-knoll.org
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Kimberley Michalishyn
Business Director
kdowning@summers-knoll.org
I came to Summers-Knoll with 15 years of experience in retail and wholesale banking. During the last seven years of my career, I supervised the Funding Department, created the Monetary Collections Department, and then moved on to being a Business Analyst for Interfirst. She holds a degree in Occupational Studies from Washtenaw Community College along with several other banking-specific certificates. I have been with Summers-Knoll for over 13 years now and love watching how the students change and grow from year to year. It is truly amazing to watch as they progress through their journey. I have a blended family of five boys who keep me on my toes.
kdowning@summers-knoll.org
I came to Summers-Knoll with 15 years of experience in retail and wholesale banking. During the last seven years of my career, I supervised the Funding Department, created the Monetary Collections Department, and then moved on to being a Business Analyst for Interfirst. She holds a degree in Occupational Studies from Washtenaw Community College along with several other banking-specific certificates. I have been with Summers-Knoll for over 13 years now and love watching how the students change and grow from year to year. It is truly amazing to watch as they progress through their journey. I have a blended family of five boys who keep me on my toes.
Kimberley Michalishyn
Business Director
kdowning@summers-knoll.org
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Erika Noel
3rd/4th Grade Teacher
enoel@summers-knoll.org
Erika was born and raised in Ann Arbor and earned two bachelor’s degrees (Cultural Anthropology and Environmental Studies) at the University of Michigan. She has been teaching in the San Francisco Bay Area for the past 23 years and is thrilled to part of the SK community. Her teaching career began in outdoor/environmental education, where students regularly asked her, “Why can’t school always be like this?” This question drove her to get her teaching credential and devote the next 15 years to bringing thematically integrated, hands-on, project-based learning to grades 1-6 in both public and private schools. In addition, Erika spent two years teaching and writing curriculum for the education department at The Lawrence Hall of Science.
Erika’s passion is science, and thus, it has been the main through line in her career. Her hobbies are hiking, birding, traveling, reading, gardening, and dancing.
enoel@summers-knoll.org
Erika was born and raised in Ann Arbor and earned two bachelor’s degrees (Cultural Anthropology and Environmental Studies) at the University of Michigan. She has been teaching in the San Francisco Bay Area for the past 23 years and is thrilled to part of the SK community. Her teaching career began in outdoor/environmental education, where students regularly asked her, “Why can’t school always be like this?” This question drove her to get her teaching credential and devote the next 15 years to bringing thematically integrated, hands-on, project-based learning to grades 1-6 in both public and private schools. In addition, Erika spent two years teaching and writing curriculum for the education department at The Lawrence Hall of Science.
Erika’s passion is science, and thus, it has been the main through line in her career. Her hobbies are hiking, birding, traveling, reading, gardening, and dancing.
Erika Noel
3rd/4th Grade Teacher
enoel@summers-knoll.org
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Mary Perrin
Art Teacher
mperrin@summers-knoll.org
This is my 8th year at Summers-Knoll. My BFA is from EMU, and my skill base in the arts is wide, varied, and always growing. I currently work with an artist’s collective based in Detroit, building themed vehicles, sets, and activities for creative events.
Though I am working towards becoming a certified teacher, I believe my background in the “real world” of Art, as opposed to arts education, is one of the strengths I bring to the school. Many things can only be learned through doing, and I have a lifetime of experience being an artist, working with other artists, and presenting my art to the public. My goal is to teach your children how to teach themselves art so they can continue to learn and grow as artists and creative thinkers long after they leave my classroom.
mperrin@summers-knoll.org
This is my 8th year at Summers-Knoll. My BFA is from EMU, and my skill base in the arts is wide, varied, and always growing. I currently work with an artist’s collective based in Detroit, building themed vehicles, sets, and activities for creative events.
Though I am working towards becoming a certified teacher, I believe my background in the “real world” of Art, as opposed to arts education, is one of the strengths I bring to the school. Many things can only be learned through doing, and I have a lifetime of experience being an artist, working with other artists, and presenting my art to the public. My goal is to teach your children how to teach themselves art so they can continue to learn and grow as artists and creative thinkers long after they leave my classroom.
Mary Perrin
Art Teacher
mperrin@summers-knoll.org
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Johanna (Jo) Davis Ross
Preschool Director & Lead Teacher
jdavisross@summers-knoll.org
I grew up in Toledo, Ohio, and attended the University of Michigan for my undergraduate and graduate degrees. In between, I worked as a nanny and then as a preschool art and French teacher at the Sunshine Special Children’s Studio in Ann Arbor. After graduating with my MA and teaching credentials, I moved to Chicago. I taught first and second grade at Chicago Public Schools and then at Francis W. Parker School, a renowned independent school known for its progressive approach to education. During my thirteen years at Parker, I taught Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten. I loved working with young children as they explored their creativity and developed their passions. I was able to incorporate some of my own passions, as well, engaging students through art, music, and drama. In 2017, when my daughter Loie was two years old, we moved back to my hometown of Toledo so she could grow up close to her grandparents. I became a Tinkergarten Leader, which fostered my interest in outdoor education for both children and adults. I also worked as a graduate assistant at the University of Toledo and co-taught an undergraduate course in Science Methods for elementary teachers. During COVID, I launched a Kindergarten pandemic pod for my daughter and several other children and consulted with families transitioning from conventional schools to home education. It’s wonderful to be back in Ann Arbor, a place that holds many special memories for me. Loie will be joining the third and fourth-grade classroom at Summers-Knoll this year, and I’m looking forward to being a part of the school community alongside her. I have always been fascinated by the ways that children learn and the unique perspectives they bring to the world. I’m excited to create a preschool where children can build meaningful relationships, explore their interests, and discover their unique talents. I can’t wait to get to know all of you and to embark on this exciting new journey together.
jdavisross@summers-knoll.org
I grew up in Toledo, Ohio, and attended the University of Michigan for my undergraduate and graduate degrees. In between, I worked as a nanny and then as a preschool art and French teacher at the Sunshine Special Children’s Studio in Ann Arbor. After graduating with my MA and teaching credentials, I moved to Chicago. I taught first and second grade at Chicago Public Schools and then at Francis W. Parker School, a renowned independent school known for its progressive approach to education. During my thirteen years at Parker, I taught Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten. I loved working with young children as they explored their creativity and developed their passions. I was able to incorporate some of my own passions, as well, engaging students through art, music, and drama. In 2017, when my daughter Loie was two years old, we moved back to my hometown of Toledo so she could grow up close to her grandparents. I became a Tinkergarten Leader, which fostered my interest in outdoor education for both children and adults. I also worked as a graduate assistant at the University of Toledo and co-taught an undergraduate course in Science Methods for elementary teachers. During COVID, I launched a Kindergarten pandemic pod for my daughter and several other children and consulted with families transitioning from conventional schools to home education. It’s wonderful to be back in Ann Arbor, a place that holds many special memories for me. Loie will be joining the third and fourth-grade classroom at Summers-Knoll this year, and I’m looking forward to being a part of the school community alongside her. I have always been fascinated by the ways that children learn and the unique perspectives they bring to the world. I’m excited to create a preschool where children can build meaningful relationships, explore their interests, and discover their unique talents. I can’t wait to get to know all of you and to embark on this exciting new journey together.
Johanna (Jo) Davis Ross
Preschool Director & Lead Teacher
jdavisross@summers-knoll.org
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Jaylen Shipp
Classroom Assistant
jshipp@summers-knoll.org
I went to Port Huron Northern High School and went to St. Clair County Community College for college. This is my 4th year at Summers-Knoll. I started as an assistant in Val’s kindergarten classroom and an aftercare attendant. Then, in 2022-23, I was an assistant teacher in the 3/4 class, and in 2023-24, I returned to the aftercare staff. Throughout high school, I played sports but as I grew, I came to appreciate more nerdy kinds of things. Now, as a full time preschool assistant in the 2024-25 school year, my goal is to leave it better than it was when I got there.
jshipp@summers-knoll.org
I went to Port Huron Northern High School and went to St. Clair County Community College for college. This is my 4th year at Summers-Knoll. I started as an assistant in Val’s kindergarten classroom and an aftercare attendant. Then, in 2022-23, I was an assistant teacher in the 3/4 class, and in 2023-24, I returned to the aftercare staff. Throughout high school, I played sports but as I grew, I came to appreciate more nerdy kinds of things. Now, as a full time preschool assistant in the 2024-25 school year, my goal is to leave it better than it was when I got there.
Jaylen Shipp
Classroom Assistant
jshipp@summers-knoll.org
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Carrie Symons
Executive Director of Teaching & Learning
csymons@summers-knoll.org
As the Executive Director of Teaching & Learning at Summers-Knoll (SK), I work with SK teachers to design standards-aligned, project-based instruction that fosters students’ creativity, curiosity, and compassion for others. My long-term goal is to co-construct systematic, sustainable structures that support SK teachers’ curriculum development, instruction, and continual professional growth.
Before joining SK, I was an elementary classroom teacher for ten years (six at a public school in Denver, Colorado, and four at a PreK-12 independent school in Watsonville, California). After earning my PhD in Educational Studies at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, I joined the faculty in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University in East Lansing for seven years, where I taught undergraduate and graduate courses in literacy methods, action research, and multilingual learners’ language development across content areas.
Alongside my work in education, I enjoy cycling, practicing yoga, spending time with my spouse and two cats, and traveling.
csymons@summers-knoll.org
As the Executive Director of Teaching & Learning at Summers-Knoll (SK), I work with SK teachers to design standards-aligned, project-based instruction that fosters students’ creativity, curiosity, and compassion for others. My long-term goal is to co-construct systematic, sustainable structures that support SK teachers’ curriculum development, instruction, and continual professional growth.
Before joining SK, I was an elementary classroom teacher for ten years (six at a public school in Denver, Colorado, and four at a PreK-12 independent school in Watsonville, California). After earning my PhD in Educational Studies at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, I joined the faculty in the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University in East Lansing for seven years, where I taught undergraduate and graduate courses in literacy methods, action research, and multilingual learners’ language development across content areas.
Alongside my work in education, I enjoy cycling, practicing yoga, spending time with my spouse and two cats, and traveling.
Carrie Symons
Executive Director of Teaching & Learning
csymons@summers-knoll.org
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Gabriella (Gabby) Wilson
Aftercare Attendant
Gabby joined the Summers-Knoll aftercare team in September of 2024. After working at SK she has decided to change her major and is pursing Early Childhood Education.
Gabby joined the Summers-Knoll aftercare team in September of 2024. After working at SK she has decided to change her major and is pursing Early Childhood Education.
Gabriella (Gabby) Wilson
Aftercare Attendant
Meet Our Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is a diverse group of parents and community members who oversees school policies, maintains financial oversight, and plans for the long-term future of Summers-Knoll. Board members serve three-year terms, with the potential of re-election for a second term.
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Victoria Burton-Harris
Victoria Burton-Harris serves as the Chief Assistant Prosecutor for Washtenaw County. She earned a B.A. in Political Science and African American Studies from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and earned her JD from Wayne State University Law School. Victoria is passionate about the relationship between law, social justice, equality, and making sure that the people around her feel valued and heard. Victoria is dedicated to supporting SK because of its mission to meet each child where they are, despite their different needs. Victoria and her husband Robert are the parents of a kindergarten student.
Victoria Burton-Harris
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Fatima Ahmed
Fatima Ahmed is an Ohio native but don’t hold that against her, she bleeds Maize and Blue! Fatima is an orthodontist, practicing in Ann Arbor since she graduated from the University of Michigan. She resides in Ann Arbor with her husband Syed, their three children and their cat. In her free time she enjoys reading and traveling. Fatima is passionate about project based learning and believes it is the best way to educate young minds.
Fatima Ahmed
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HJ Decker, Treasurer
HJ Decker is vice president of Gas Sales & Supply for DTE Gas, DTE Energy’s natural gas utility. HJ is responsible for procuring and delivering natural gas to DTE Energy’s supply customers. He is also leading the sales and marketing efforts in delivering gas and related services to all customers, from residential to large industrial. HJ holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a Master of Business Administration degree from Carnegie Mellon University. HJ is also the Treasurer of the United Way of Washtenaw County. He has one son attending SK.
HJ Decker, Treasurer
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Ed Feng
Ed Feng is a data scientist, mathematician and writer. After getting his Ph.D. from Stanford in Chemical Engineering, he started The Power Rank, a site devoted to football and March Madness predictions through analytics. Ed also serves as a volunteer math teacher at Summers-Knoll. He uses games to teach probability and is working on a computer programming curriculum.
Ed Feng
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Leon Parker, President
Leon is an attorney practicing federal criminal defense law. He has a J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis and a Bachelor’s from Vanderbilt University. Leon and his wife, Nancy, recently relocated to Detroit and have two children attending SK. Leon values an inclusive educational environment where children are provided with the tools necessary to become intellectually independent.
Leon Parker, President
Explore our Signature Academic Programs
Preschool – Kindergarten
Through exploration, experimentation, and play, our preschool students find deep understanding in appropriate academic and social learning environments.
Through exploration, experimentation, and play, our preschool students find deep understanding in appropriate academic and social learning environments.
1st – 4th Grade
Our lower school students continue their interdisciplinary core subject discoveries with a focus on collaboration and independence.
5th – 8th Grade
Our Upper School students are prepared for success in high school, college, and life. Our program culminates in eight 21st century proficiencies by creating an instructional program so that students can apply what they have learned.
Young Explorers
Lower School
Upper School
