Welcome to Bellewood

Deborah Cunningham is thrilled to join the Cedar Crest Academy as the Elementary Director. Originally from the state of Michigan, her journey into the realm of education started in New York City. She earned her Bachelor of Arts, focusing on English and Classical Studies from Hunter College, and her Master of Science in Teaching from The New School. She worked as a middle school teacher, guiding students through English Language Arts using Teachers College, Columbia University, balanced literacy program. Completion of her Certification in Administration led to the enriching experience of working as an assistant principal in an elementary school, with three-year-old through fifth grade students. Professional growth was extremely rewarding. Deborah looks forward to being part of a rich learning and collaborative community.

Nurturing her own curiosity, Deborah's lifelong interests are literature and baking, cycling, and hiking, in addition to traveling.

Ms. Kristy joined Cedar Crest Academy in 2019 as the Office Administrator for the Bellewood Pre-Primary program. Over the years, she quickly became an essential team member for Bellewood's Pre-Primary & Elementary teams. Last year Ms. Kristy stepped into her new leadership role as Director for Bellewood Pre-Primary. Ms. Kristy graduated from Corban University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in English Studies. She is currently earning her Early Childhood Education certifications from the Lake Washington Institute of Technology. She is excited to apply the education she is receiving to cultivate her passion for building supportive relationships through her leadership of the Pre-primary staff & her interactions with the families in the program.

When not at school, Ms. Kristy loves to spend time with her husband and two cats, Isabelle & Harley. She also enjoys reading, singing, acting, watching movies, playing board games, and spending time with family & friends.