Message from Our Center Director
Welcome to ABC Academy at Laurence Ave Center
My passion for Education manifested at a very early age. I always rushed finishing my homework so I can play “Teacher” to my imaginative students, while using the cap of a pen as my “chalk” and pretend like I’m writing on the chalkboard that was the wall in my bedroom. I believe that teaching is a work of heart, and helping learners and their families achieving their needs is what I strive for. I am a family oriented person, and I possess interpersonal and intra personal skills that will allow me to thoroughly understand situations and respond in a culturally sensitive and friendly manner. Fun fact about myself, I speak 4 languages! Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions or concerns. I am very excited to help you and your child embark on an exciting and fun journey.
–Kristy West
LAURENCE AVE PROGRAMS
Programs we offer
At ABC Academy, we want to set your child in the right direction! That’s why our curriculum-focused programs are designed to provide a quality education that prepares them for continued growth and success.
Meet the Team
Kathy Hoszkiw
Founder & ChairKathy established ABC Academy in 1984. She is very active in the early childhood profession. She is currently a member of the Great Start Collaborative Executive Committee, along with a member of the Child Care and Early Education subcommittee, the Great Start Committee Co-Chairperson and a member of the Partnership to Support Quality Advisory Team. She is also the co-founder of the Jackson Area Early Childhood Conference, providing annual training for early childhood professionals.
Kristy West
ABC Laurence Ave DirectorMy name is Kristy West. I have been involved in early childhood for the last 20+years as a Lead preschool teacher and Director of Preschool and Childcare. I enjoy being a part of the progression and growth process in young students and providing a safe, nurturing and educational environment for them to grow.
I have been married for 32 years and this year we became empty nesters. This led us to getting a puppy who has become our only “child” at home. She is now a 10 month old 100+ pound 1/2 St Bernard/1/2 Great Dane puppy named Maizey. I enjoy walking our pup, hiking on nature trails, playing softball and traveling. We have 2 adult kids, Eliott and Mallory, who we love spending time with.
I am so excited to be a part of the ABC Academy team. I strive to make a positive impact on the development and learning of our children and work together as a team with our families to achieve this goal.
Mariann Gladstone
ABC Academy Executive DirectorMariann graduated from Jackson Community College with an Associates Degree and Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Mariann joined ABC Academy on Lansing Ave. in 1992 as a Teacher, Toddler Coordinator, and Assistant Director. The location has since become a Nationally Accredited program. Mariann says that she is proud to be part of a group of hard-working and caring individuals that provide an excellent program for the community.