Teaching Staff

Karen Olewnick~ Director and 3's Teacher

It is a pleasure and an honor to introduce myself to you as the Director and 3's Teacher at St. Stephen's Pre-K Academy. I have had the pleasure of teaching at St. Stephen's preschool since its opening in 2013. I am passionate and committed to working with our students, families and staff to provide a safe, nurturing and respectful environment that will foster imagination, exploration and creativity. As an educator and a mother myself, I am a firm believer that parents are the primary teachers in their child’s life. I seek to create partnerships with each family to successfully contribute to your child’s education. My goal is that your child will develop a lifelong love of learning and thrive academically, socially and spiritually at St. Stephen’s Pre-K Academy.

Kathy Brown ~3's Teacher

Kathy Brown has a Master’s degree in Education from Southern CT State University. She has two children. I believe in teaching the whole child by engaging students in hands on activities to increase their confidence and vocabulary. When students feel safe and respected they open themselves to learning about the world around them. I find joy in exploring with students and am always looking to laugh – I love funny books. I promote patience, model forgiveness, and encourage compassion to foster our wonderful Christian community at St. Stephen’s Pre-K Academy.”

Melissa Volk ~ 4's Teacher

Melissa has a BS in Education from SUNY Oswego and over fifteen years of teaching experience. She is married with two sons and two cats. During her free time she enjoys reading, playing board games, puzzles, and watching funny cat videos with her family. "In my class, students learn Bible stories, literacy, math, science, creative arts and music, and so much more while making friends and having fun. My classroom is a safe and loving place for students to develop personal and social skills. My goal is that students will leave my class fully prepared for kindergarten and with the knowledge that Jesus loves them, and I do too. “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Psalm 10:14"

Katie Peris ~ 3's Teaching Assistant

Katie Peris is the assistant teacher in the 3’s room. Katie has over 10 years experience working with children ages 3-4 as an assistant teacher in a pre-school setting. She is married with two children. In her spare time she loves to spend time with her family, travel and do arts and crafts.

Danielle Nagengast ~ 4's Teaching Assistant

Danielle Nagengast has a Psychology degree from Western New England University. She is married with two children. Previously, she has worked as a Teacher's Assistant for students on the Autism Spectrum. She loves to be outside enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Her favorite pastimes are reading, kayaking, taking walks and going on adventures with her family. She is looking forward to an amazing year of fun-filled learning.

Melanie Jensen ~ 3's Teaching Assistant

Melanie Jensen is the teaching assistant in the 3's classroom. She is a busy mom to five children. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family and loves watching her favorite baseball team the Orioles. She is excited to be working with your children and watching them grow.

Kellie Rancourt ~ 3's Teaching Assistant

Kellie Rancourt is the teaching assistant in the 3’s classroom. She lives in Delmar with her husband and 2 daughters . She has a BS in Finance from Siena College. In her free time, she loves to travel and explore new places with her family. Being outside is her favorite place to be! She is excited to work with your children and help them develop their love of learning.

Bill Pearce ~ Treasurer

Bill has been a part of the St. Stephen's Pre-K staff from the start of the program in 2013. He is a retired CPA who volunteers his time as the Treasurer of the school. He is also a member of the School Board and has an extensive background in finances.
Contact Information
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 518-729-3723