Management Team

Ashley Raby, Director of Program and Curriculum

Originally from Minneapolis, Ashley moved to Tennessee during her senior year of high school, where she met her husband, Archie. They married in 2010 and are proud parents of two daughters, both graduates of Westland Children’s Academy.

Ashley earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Tennessee Technological University and has worked in education since 2009. She joined the Children’s Academy in 2016 as a Pre-K I teacher before stepping into the role of Director of Curriculum for all three centers.

Ashley believes that a thoughtfully designed curriculum is the foundation of meaningful early childhood education. Her passion for innovative, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences continues to shape and strengthen the educational programs across each academy.

Outside of work, Ashley enjoys reading, hiking, watching her daughters play softball, and spending time with family.

Molly Cooper, Director  

Born and raised in Maryville, Molly Cooper earned her degree in Child and Family Studies from Carson-Newman University. Before joining Maryville Children’s Academy in 2019, she worked as a social worker and had extensive experience caring for children through church nurseries, babysitting, nannying, and after-school programs.

Molly’s passion for children and families has always been at the center of her work. Prior to becoming Director, she spent three years as a Pre-K II teacher, where she built strong relationships with students and families while helping children learn, grow, and confidently explore their world.

Molly’s experience across multiple age groups, combined with her calm leadership style and creativity, make her an exceptional leader for MCA. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and son, exploring local parks and coffee shops, shopping, and doing creative projects.

Kaitlyn Bogard, Assistant Director  

Kaitlyn, known affectionately as Ms. Kait to her students, was born and raised in Claremont, California before relocating to East Tennessee in 2021.
From a young age, Ms. Kait knew she wanted to work with children.  She began her childcare journey at 16 as a babysitter for family and friends for whom she transitioned into a full-time nanny role while attending high school and college. Ms. Kait then began her formal early childhood career as the Preschool Coordinator for Hillside Community Church in Rancho Cucamonga, California where she was in charge of the preschool curriculum and making sure rooms were properly staffed while assisting teachers and volunteers with anything they needed. Ms. Kait’s extensive experience working with children in both private and professional settings has been instrumental in her understanding of early childhood education and childcare program management and has made her an outstanding member of the WCA family.

Since Ms. Kait joined WCA in 2021, she has displayed dedication, creativity, and leadership while garnering experience as a Toddler 1, Toddler 2, Twos, and Pre- K I teacher.  Evidencing her commitment to early childhood education and her drive to better herself each day, Ms. Kait is continuing her early childhood education by pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential to further strengthen her knowledge and understanding of the young minds she will help mold.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Kait enjoys reading, cooking, and spending quality time with her husband and three children . As Assistant Director at MCA, she looks forward to inspiring students and staff to learn and grow daily and to otherwise shepherding the vibrant, creative learning environment our families have come to expect from the Center.

Christine Stacy, Assistant Director of Program and Curriculum  

Christine Stacy, an Oak Ridge native, brings more than 20 years of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education to our schools. She holds both her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and an Associate’s Degree in Business Management.

Since joining the Children’s Academy family in 2015, Christine has served in many roles across the centers and has become an invaluable member of our leadership team. Known affectionately as a “Jill-of-all-trades,” Christine provides support in classroom organization, behavioral guidance, curriculum preparation, and daily operations. Her flexibility, knowledge, and willingness to jump in wherever needed make her an incredible asset to both teachers and students.

Outside of work, Christine enjoys spending time with her two sons.

Alyssa Miller, Director of Staff Development 

Originally from Pittsburgh, Alyssa Miller relocated to Oak Ridge in 2021 with her husband, Brian, and their two dogs. She began her career in childcare as a private nanny and brings more than thirteen years of experience working with children as both a nanny and preschool teacher.

Alyssa joined Ebenezer Children’s Academy in 2022 as a Pre-K II teacher before quickly advancing into leadership roles, first as Assistant Director at ECA and now as Assistant Director at Westland Children’s Academy.

She is TECTA certified and is currently pursuing her Associate’s Degree in Child Development. Alyssa is passionate about creating nurturing, engaging learning environments where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow.

Outside of work and school, Alyssa enjoys kayaking, cooking, and gardening.