Early-Ed

ACSI's Early Education Department works with early education schools to strengthen programs and equip early educators as they prepare young children (ages birth to kindergarten) spiritually, socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively and influence children to love and follow Jesus Christ. We do that through consultations, services, and professional development—preparing teachers as they guide and mentor the children of God.

ACSI seeks to foster programs and educators that take a holistic approach to teaching and learning and embody a biblical worldview. You can learn more about our vision and values by reading our Foundation Statements.

 

Member Benefits

Early Education Benefit - Accreditation
Professional Development
Community
Thought Leadership

Accreditation

Verify and validate the quality of your program with ACSI accreditation—and push your program to be the best it can be.

Professional Development

Equip and prepare your teachers through conferences and webinars taught by the best.

Community

Christian schooling is a global movement. Get connected with likeminded leaders who understand exactly what you're going through.

Thought Leadership

Hear from leaders at the forefront of the movement about where Christian schooling is going—and where it needs to go.

Your Early Education Team

 

Jeannie Forrest, M.Ed.

Jeannie Forrest, M.Ed.
Director of Early Education

Jeannie

Jeannie Forrest, M.Ed., serves as Director of Early Education at ACSI. She is passionate about strengthening Christian early education by equipping and encouraging leaders and educators as they create flourishing, Christ-centered environments where young children are known, loved, and nurtured to grow in every area of development.

With a heart for serving those who serve young children, Jeannie’s work focuses on professional learning, leadership development, and expanding access to quality Christian early education. She is committed to helping early education leaders navigate a changing educational landscape while connecting research-informed practices with a biblical worldview and the greater purpose of shaping the hearts and minds of young children.

Jeannie values relationships, lifelong learning, and collaboration with Christian educators around the world. Her favorite children’s author is Eric Carle, and a favorite verse she has taught children throughout the years is Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine…”

 

Cindy Barnum, Ed.D.

Cindy Barnum, Ed.D.
Senior Coordinator for Early Education
ACSI Eastern Division

Dr. Cindy Barnum

Cindy counts it an honor and privilege to serve early educators in their Kingdom call. With over 30 years of educational experiences, Cindy pours into educators by providing resources, support, and encouragement from the wisdom and experiences the Lord has given her in Christian early education leadership. Cindy’s favorite children’s book is Sir Maggie the Mighty by Michael P. Waite and her favorite verse to teach children is Proverbs 3:5-6.

Suzie Mohler, Ed.D.

Suzie Mohler, Ed.D.
Senior Coordinator for Early Education
ACSI Western Division

Suzie Mohler

Suzie has served in the field of education for over 30 years and loves Christian education and building relationships with educators. She encourages and mentors leaders, promotes membership and accreditation, consults with programs, and helps facilitate connections with EE staff. Suzie’s favorite children’s book is Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae and one of her favorite verses to teach children is Ephesians 1:4.

Ashley Bisbee, Ed.D.

Ashley Bisbee, Ed.D.
Senior Coordinator for Early Education
ACSI Central Division

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Ashley serves as the ACSI Early Education Senior Coordinator for the Central Division and brings more than a decade of experience in education. She holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration (Assessment and Evaluation) from Liberty University, along with master's degrees in Teaching and Educational Leadership, and Texas teaching and principal certifications. Her experience includes roles as a classroom teacher, mentor teacher, and Early Education Senior Technician and Team Lead within the U.S. Air Force Child and Youth Programs. Ashley is passionate about supporting early educators through Christ-centered leadership and encouragement. Her favorite children's book is Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle, and her favorite Bible verse to share with children is Proverbs 3:5.
Raevin Mahaney, BS

Raevin Mahaney, BS
Early Education Administrative Assistant 

Raevin_Mahaney

Raevin has the honor of supporting the Early Education team with over 20 years of administrative expertise, which has been greatly influenced by her passion to serve God and others. Out of tremendous zeal for educating children and learning about their development, she has earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Development and holds credentials for Early Childhood Administration. One of her favorite children’s books is “Thank You, Lord, for Everything” by P.J. Lyons, and Matthew 22:37 is a verse she enjoys sharing with children. 

Tammy Hicks, FL Director’s Credential; FCCPC

Tammy Hicks

Early Education Florida Approval Coordinator  | ACSI

Tammy currently serves as the coordinator for ACSI’s Florida Approval Program.  Tammy has over 29 years of experience in early childhood education and has served as the director of a faith-based early education program. As the FAP Coordinator, she mentors, assists, and equips EE Directors and leaders in the Florida Approval Program.  Tammy’s favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, and her favorite verse to teach children is Psalm 139:14.