OUR Founders
Krista Adedamola
Program Director
Hello! My name is Krista and I have been with Brooklyn Explorers Academy for 6 years. I have been in the field for a total of 22 years! I am very passionate about Early Childhood Education and am so thrilled that we get to be a part of laying the foundation for a love of learning! It’s so wonderful to see how children grow as they are part of an environment that fosters play, encourages self-confidence, focuses on social-emotional development and teaches what it looks like to be a part of a community.
Ms. Karen
Teaching Director/Lead Teacher
(White Owlets classroom)
My name is Karen and I am grateful to be a part of the Explorers' team in the role of Teaching Education Director. I have been blessed to spend 25 years in Early Childhood Education classrooms. My favorite thing about teaching is seeing children's wonder, excitement and curiosity develop as they learn. Considering myself a life-long learner, I am always amazed how my students teach me as much (if not more) than I teach them!
Mr. Dre
Assistant Teacher
(White Owlets classroom)
Hi, my name is B’Andre, but I go by Dre. I have been working with children for the majority of my life in all settings ranging from home to camps to schools. I am experienced in watching over and nurturing your children to the highest capability. I love how kids still find joy in the simple things which adults may overlook or take for granted. I am looking forward to a fun-filled school year full of new experiences and the new personalities the children are sure to come with.
Ms. Simone
Lead Teacher
(Brown Cubs classroom)
Hi! My name is Simone and I’m the Lead Teacher for The Brown Cubs classroom. I have always enjoyed watching children learn and create with very hands-on activities so they can feel a sense of accomplishment and empowerment throughout these formative years. I also love how they continue to teach me things about myself and help me grow and become a better teacher for them. I look forward to another year of being part of the Brooklyn Explorers Academy and to continue to explore!
Ms. Kim
Assistant Teacher
(Brown Cubs classroom)
Hi! My name is Ms.Kim. I am a Floater here at Brooklyn Explorers Academy. I have been with Explorers for three years in October. I am excited to meet new students and parents. I am also excited to know more about our new students that will be attending our school. I love hearing the hilarious stories that children come up with.
Mr. Tamir
Preschool Floater
I’ve been working with World Explorers for a year plus and it’s been such a great experience. I love working with children because it keeps me active and they always make you laugh no matter the situation, keeping you on your toes. I’m looking forward to having another fun and active school year with the kids; getting to spend time with and know more about the kids, and enjoying the school year while we learn new things and have fun.
Ms. Dawa
Preschool Floater
I love working with children of all ages, especially the most young ones in preschool. I can see their character growth through time, and they teach me so much more than anyone can imagine. This school year, I hope we can all have fun and explore so many new things together. I cannot wait to meet everyone!!
Joey Demita
Senior Director of
Programs and Development
I bring over 15 year of childcare and teaching experience both in and out of the classroom, ranging in ages from 3 to 14. I love using my experience to find ways to enhance current programs and develop new programs, taking into account what is best for the children and families of our community. As a theatre artist, my creativity and love of the arts has helped me find new and exciting ways to use our curriculum to enrich and engage the children in our care.
Tahirah White
Local School Aged
Operations Director
I bring years of teaching experience, organization, resourcefulness, leadership as well as creative and innovative ideas. I enjoy building a team of passionate leaders that are creative and will inspire the children of our future to explore the world and take on new challenges confidently.
Curt Jack
After School Site Supervisor
PS 38
I’ve been working with World Explorers for 8 years. I bring a childlike creativity to the table while simultaneously being able to lead my team of educators and counselors to teach our future leaders about the world around them. I have a background in Business and Computer Science, but I have found a love for working with our youth. Nothing can give me more joy. I believe it truly does take a village, and I will do my part to build the best one around your children.
Sonya Harold
After School Site Supervisor
PS 196
Michelle Cameron
After School Site Supervisor
PS 9
It's Michelle here!
Having worked with children for over eight years, I confidently can say I love working with children. I bring a background in child care, art, and healthcare which is very beneficial in this field. Being able to be a part of building the foundations for leaders of the future is truly magical. I enjoy bringing smiles, balance and serenity to the table especially when it is most needed
Danielle Copeland
After School Site Supervisor
Brighter Choice
I offer a distinct blend of attributes that sets me apart. My creativity allows me to design engaging and stimulating activities that foster children's imagination and development. I genuinely care about each child's well-being and strive to create a nurturing and safe space where they can thrive. I believe in truly understanding each child's unique needs, strengths, and challenges, tailoring my approach to support their individual growth. I love working with children because I believe that my ability to bring smiles to their faces and make them laugh contributes to their overall well-being and emotional development.
Arlela Smith-Bryant
Enrollment Director
With over 15 years in customer service, my goal is to support the Explorers community through compassion, open communication, and as a guiding hand connecting families to educational and enrichment opportunities that booster their lives. I enjoy putting parent’s minds at ease and watching our Explorers discoveries, accomplishments, and growth.
Dr. Corey Emanuel
Media Psychologist & Youth Development Leader
As an educator for over 17 years, Dr. Corey began his career as an applied behavioral therapist and is now a highly sought after educational technology consultant, serving school districts across the U.S. and abroad who are implementing digital curriculums. In 2011, he earned a Master of Arts at Columbia University Teachers College from the school of Communication, Computing, and Technology in Education. In 2012, he published his first children’s book entitled, Can I Be President, Too? Dr. Corey is a proud member of the non-profit organization, Engage the Vision, which serves at-risk youth through weekly mentoring. He is also an instructor at FYI-Films which teaches filmmaking to incarcerated teens. Dr. Corey holds a Ph.D. in Media Psychology and resides in Los Angeles, California.
Lyouba Assadourova
Chief Brand Officer
I am passionate about creativity, design, communication, and education. My goal is build a sustainable, trusted brand with longevity where families and employees feel valued and work together to achieve a common goal - raising healthy and happy children.
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