Five Star MKE Team
Akyaa Smith
Founder/CEO
Shaping the future, one child at a time
– Akyaa Smith
Shaping the future, one child at a time
– Akyaa Smith
I am passionate about nurturing young minds, I’ve dedicated over two decades to shaping the future of early childhood education. At Five Star MKE, we empower childcare professionals with exceptional training, guided by principles of continuous learning and excellence.
Meet Veronica
Early Childhood Education professional with over 20 years of childcare expertise. Started as a teacher’s assistant, working my way up to center director. This has inspired me to want to help those coming into the field with all I have learned over the years to help them be the best early childhood education worker they can possibly be. I am passionate about teaching others how to create childcare businesses.
You can start as a teacher assistant and become an owner
Veronica Ovanin
Meet Mildred
For more than 30 years, Mildred Starks has worked to improve growth of early learners. She has served in a variety of roles in early care and education, demonstrating her passion for ensuring that all children have access to quality programs and empowering educators to promote healthy child development through continued education.
You have the power to take the lead
Mildred Starks
Meet LaDonna
LaDonna Green is a dynamic educator and advocate with a rich background in early childhood education, community engagement, and sustainable agriculture. With over a decade of experience as a Montessori educator, LaDonna has nurtured the growth and development of young learners, fostering a love for learning and exploration.
Grow your own food and live sustainably
LaDonna Green
Meet Adina
Born in Chicago, Adina Banks has been "everyone's babysitter" for as long as she can remember and has had an interest in early childhood education since she was in her early teens. She has an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education, a Preschool Credential and a Technical Diploma in Child Care Services.
Growing up I was everyone's babysitter
Adina Banks