PreK4 Classroom Teachers
Akeyla Beard - Lead Teacher
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.
Marcia Thorpe - Assistant Teacher
After retiring from a full career in professional accreditation and customer service, Marcia adapted her expertise and training (MS Business Administration and Human Relations) to God’s most important “customers” – children. She started as a substitute at Refuge in 2024 and worked in every room before becoming an assistant in the PreK-4 room. She loves helping the students as they master new skills and walk with Jesus.
When not working, Marcia enjoys singing in her church choir with her husband, spending time with her grandchildren, line dancing with a group that performs at assisted living centers, and traveling. She has visited 40 states and 26 countries, and her passport is always ready for a new stamp!
Olga Zambrano-Azuz - Assistant Teacher
Olga began working at our Early Learning Center in 2025. She is looking forward to spending her days with the students playing, exploring their surroundings, and learning about their Savior.
Originally from Venezuela, she loves learning about and experiencing other cultures. In her free time, she enjoys baking, painting, and going to the theater.
Olga is married and has twin teenage sons.