Weinacker's at Lake Forest

Welcome!

Meet the Director | Dr. Deadra Powe

After 30 years as a middle and high school principal in the Baldwin County Public School System, I retired and transitioned to higher education. I hold Master’s degrees in education, leadership, and English, along with a doctorate in Educational Leadership. As an adjunct English professor, I taught at the University of Mobile, Faulkner State Community College, and Bishop State Community College. I also facilitated teacher education programs for the Alabama State Department of Education. My passion for fostering student growth and empowering educators continues at Weinacker’s Montessori School, where I am proud to contribute today.

Meet the Assistant Director | Ms. Rhuemanha Longshaw-Hill

I hold a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Alabama A&M, of which I am so very proud. I am thrilled to be the mother of three fantastic children, two of which are currently attending college close to home and my last child will be a senior in high school, set to graduate in 2025. He has an offer to play football for the University of Alabama. I have worked in childcare for over 25 years and have enjoyed watching young minds grow and flourish. I was a director for 10 years where I found my passion for educating young minds. I know everyone has a calling in life and I know that my calling is watching young children grow into the best young people they can possibly be. “Nothing can dim the light which shines from within” ~ Dr. Maya Angelou

Meet the Teachers

Preschool Teacher

Faye Brinkley

My name is Faye Brinkley and I have been part of the Weinacker’s Montessori teaching staff since 2018. I am currently the lead preschool teacher. I love working with children. I look forward to getting to now your child better and watching them grow and learn.

Toddler Teacher

Alisha Williams

Toddler Lead Teacher Hello, my name is Alisha Williams. I am a licensed massage therapist. However, I have been working with children for over ten years and plan to continue on my current path. I’m a single parent and with one child who I love so dearly. I grew up in Daphne Alabama. I’m the youngest of 2 siblings. I started out babysitting for some of my church family and I knew it was something I loved. I adjusted my career to childcare and teaching children. I love seeing their unique talents and personalities. When not a work, I love spending time with friends and family. We like to go to the parks to explore.

Infant Teacher

Princess Underwood

My name is Princess Underwood. I was born in Michigan and grew up in Arizona. I am the oldest of seven siblings a mother of three and a grandmother of six grandsons. I have a certificate in early childhood development. Montessori certified and CPR certified. I started babysitting at an early age. I started a daycare at my church. In my free time I enjoy camping, traveling, the beach, friends and yoga.

Support

Curriculum Coach

Allise Bowden

As a lifelong educator in Baldwin County, I grew up in Magnolia Springs and currently reside in Loxley Alabama with my husband and two children. I have always had a passion for working with children and after earning a degree in Child Development, I received a dual degree in Early Childhood Education/Elementary Education from the University of West Mobile. When introduced to The Montessori Philosophy, I fell in love and received my Montessori Teaching Certificate from The North American Montessori Center. I have proudly worked at Weinacker’s Montessori School since the fall of 2015. I look forward to watching our children learn and grow. The first duty of an education is to stir up life, but leave it free to develop. – Maria Montessori