Higher Ground Academic Academy
HGAA TEAM
Our students are a reflection of our staff and at HGAA, we believe in hiring educated and experienced staff members to work with and help your child develop. Every teacher completes background checks and well as reference checks to ensure your child is in a safe environment. Under the leadership of Director Riddle, the HGAA teaching team are experienced, committed and dedicated to their profession.
SHALONDA RIDDLE
DIRECTOR
Hello, I'm Shalonda Riddle, a wife and mother of three amazing children. I'm a graduate from Allied Medical College with a Certification as a Chair-side Dental Assistant. I have enjoyed working in the Education field for over 20years as a Preschool Teacher, Parent Involvement Specialist, Caseworker, and SSD Para Professional. I have worked for many wonderful Organization and Agencies in St. Louis Missouri, Head Start a national program that provides child development services for low income children and families, were I was able to advocate and help change laws to service children and families. Special School District (SSD) were I supported the educational and social needs of children with disabilities. Higher Ground Academic Academy as a camp counsel to provide a healthy, safe and enjoyable camp experience were I planned and implemented programs and activities for campers, we visiting local parks and libraries, Museum's, Amusement park, the famous Gateway Arch, St. Louis Zoo, touring Grants Farm and strolled through the Botanicals Garden.
As the Director of HGAA I stand on these principles, Trust in God, Advocate, Encourage and Educating others. I'm looking forward to guiding the next generation into the future.
MARY MERRIWEATHER
PRE-K
Hello! My name is Mrs. Mary Merriweather. I am the lead Pre-K teacher. Throughout my life I have dedicated a lot of my time to taking care of children and I must say I enjoy every minute of it. I have over eighteen years of experience in childcare. I have been a teacher for Higher Ground Academic Academy since 2010. I know the Abeka curriculum like the back of my hand. I have also been teaching Abeka curriculum for over eighteen years. I believe a child’s education is the most valuable thing in the world. Knowledge is power and I recognize that the earlier it begins the better for the child. To me the most amazing thing is to see or hear one of your students apply the skills that you have taught them and see the excitement on their face.
JOE COHEN
BEFORE & AFTER CARE
Hello my name is Joe Cohen. I have been employed with Higher Ground since 2010. I'm the before and after van driver. My role is to ensure your child arrives to and from the center safely and I take pride in that responsibility. Its a pleasure to be apart of this establishment.