Board Chair Statement

“The future of The Schools of McKeel Academy has never been brighter! With Michele Spurgeon as Director of Schools and Alan Black as Chief Strategic Officer, this dynamic leadership pair brings both continuity and bold vision. Together, they will elevate our schools’ vision of producing lifelong learners and leaders who thrive in our global society.”

—Andrew Snyder, Board Chair
The Schools of McKeel Academy

Jennifer Burnett

Jennifer Burnett

Kindergarten Team

Welcome Kindergarten Wildcats! 

I am SO excited for this school year! This is my 21st year of teaching and my 5th year as part of the fabulous kindergarten team at McKeel Academy Central. In January I was honored to be chosen as the 2024 McKeel Academy Central Teacher of the Year. Prior to my time at McKeel, I taught for sixteen years at Caldwell Elementary in Auburndale where I was honored to be named the 2017 Polk County Schools District 7 Teacher of the Year. I received my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Elementary Education at the University of Connecticut...GO HUSKIES! I am certified to teach grades K-6 and I also have my ESOL and Reading K-12 endorsements. I have teaching experience in both kindergarten and first grade but my heart has always belonged to kindergarten. I hope to make your child's first year of school memorable and to instill in them a love of learning that they will hold on to throughout their educational journey. I am looking forward to an amazing school year!!!