Akeyla has her associate degree in Early Childhood Education, and she’s a current East Carolina University student getting her bachelor’s in birth-kindergarten with a minor in disability studies. She first came to Refuge as a student teacher, before becoming a substitute, and eventually a full-time teacher.

Her passion for teaching stems from a desire to take care of others and to give the best possible education to children during the crucial, early years of their lives.

Outside of the classroom, Akeyla loves spending time with her husband and traveling. She also enjoys baking and cooking.