Our Leaders

About Our Staff

We know that every child is unique and deserves a unique education. Our highly qualified teachers and staff guide the way for your child to become independent while making good choices. We strive to ensure that your children will be introduced to every aspect of learning in their formative years, so they're prepared for the future.

We are extremely proud of our excellent staff of teachers, directors and support staff. We require on-going training for our staff through state classes, orientation videos, in-house training, and other certified professionals in the education field. All of our staff is trained in First Aid and CPR. We take great pride and responsibility to keep safe, educate and nurture the children within our care.

We strive to be the top leader in quality childcare and invite you to stop by to meet us! We would love to have your family join ours!

Meet Our Team

The Owners: 

Jay and Andrea Criddle are a husband-and-wife team. They have been married since Dec 2000 and have 2 children, Colby, and Carli Grace. The Criddle’s enjoy spending time as a family and attend Vertical Church located in Gluckstadt Mississippi. 

Andrea worked in the marketing department for Cspire for ten years until she found her true calling for becoming the owner and leader of The Children’s Academy. Upon receiving her Directors License in 2008 she started her adventure of brining high-quality care to families in the Gluckstadt community. Andrea has a true desire for fashion and enjoys traveling and watching her children play sports. 

Jay graduated from Ole Miss in 2003 with a bachelor’s in business administration. He is an avid fisherman, golfer, and hunter, unless it is Ole Miss football season.

Both Jay and Andrea are very passionate about The Children’s Academy and so thankful to be serving their community and families that live in it. 

The Directors: 

Director of Parent/Student Relations (Distribution): Salena Wilson

Director (Distribution): Salena Wilson

Director (Distribution): Rhonda Kuriger

Director (Yandell): Jamesia Archie

After-School Director: Thomas Gill