Meet Our Amazing Team of Educators

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Ms. Polly (as children have referred to her for many years) is an experienced and highly qualified Early Childhood Program Director with a lifelong commitment to teaching young children since her start in 1988. Ms. Polly has a Bachelor’s degree from Northwood University and certifications in Early Childhood Education. In addition, her leadership roles over the years have expanded her credentials and skills to include extensive continuing education and professional development in areas such as emotional intelligence, healthy bodies, CPR/First Aid/AED/BBP and Catholic education training certification “Protecting God’s Children.” Parents and staff value her proven philosophy of servant leadership and communications which has led to strong outcomes for families and children alike. Ms. Polly is a lifelong resident of Michigan and lives in the area with her husband, who are blessed with a son who is a senior in college, and together are empty nesters with an “overly friendly” Black Lab. 

Mrs. Berden joins St. George Preschool Academy from the Waterford School District where she has been teaching Preschool for over 20 years. Throughout her career, Mrs. Berden has completed training in all aspects of Early Childhood Education with specialized knowledge in conflict resolution and literacy. Further, she has direct experience in programs such as High Scope and Handwriting Without Tears.  Mrs. Berden has a degree in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University. It’s a rare and wonderful combination of experience and knowledge educating our little ones.  Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Berden enjoys being the proud mother of two young men and enjoys shopping and working out. 

Ms. Bickel is a proven Christian educator with experience throughout Michigan and has been a favorite teacher at St. George Preschool Academy.  She has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan and has been working with young children for several years, and now enters her fourth year as our Lead Preschool teacher. In addition to excellent academics and credentials, children and parents alike appreciate Ms. Bickel’s incredible creativity and inspiring programs.  Ms. Bickel is originally from Frankenmuth, Michigan and now lives in Lake Orion and loves spending time with friends and family. 

Ms. Buffone is delighted to join the team at St. George Preschool Academy as she recently moved to Michigan three years ago and continues her successful Early Childhood Education career.  This will be Ms. Buffone’s 14th year teaching Preschool, with previous Early Childhood Education experience in Hollywood, California.  Ms. Buffone has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a certification in Early Childhood Education as well as being certified in Foster Care.   Ms. Buffone is a proud mom to a son and daughter, loves spending time with her family and looks forward to sharing creatively from her exposure to the entertainment industry in California.

We welcome Mrs. Peil as our new Kindergarten teacher.  While new to our program, Mrs. Peil has over 25 years of Early Childhood Education experience teaching across private, public, and parochial institutions. She has degrees in the Behavioral Sciences and pursued Early Childhood Education at the graduate school level.  Mrs. Peil brings a strong background and experience through her work in premium programs at schools in New York, Connecticut, and California.    Mrs. Peil has four children and lives in our local community.  When not in the classroom, you can find Mrs. Peil near the pool where she coaches swimming (and has for over 30 years). She has a clear passion for developing young minds and athletes.  

Mrs. Green continues to play the important role of handling all our important administrative, enrollment and office related activities, as she has for several years at St. George Preschool Academy.  Mrs. Green balances her knowledge of Early Childhood program administration with strong financial and accounting expertise.  Mrs. Green has a Bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in accounting, as well as a Master’s Degree in Consulting.  Mrs. Green can handle any question from finance, enrollment, accounting, and payables.  When not managing all the administrative details, you can find Mrs. Green spending time with her five children and husband.