Meet Our Amazing Team of Educators

---

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.  Throughout her career, she has built and led some of the most successful private and parochial early childhood programs in the area.  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 lives out of state 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. 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.

Mrs. Peil leads our 3’s classroom with expertise across a variety of age groups and most recently serving as our  Kindergarten teacher. 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.  

Ms. Perkins is the lead teacher in our 2 year-old classroom.  As a dedicated educator with 9 years of experience teaching toddlers, she is passionate about fostering a love for learning in young children.  Ms. Perkins holds a teaching certificate and additional certification in Protecting God's Children, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for all her students.  Her commitment to Early Childhood Education is driven by the belief that positive foundational experiences shape life-long learners.  She strives to create a supportive and engaging atmosphere where every child can thrive.  When not teaching, Ms. Perkins enjoys spending time with her wonderful family and friends within the Detroit Metro area.

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.