Meet Our Leadership Team
Janine Klaassen Welsh
Founder & Director
Windmill Creek Academy was founded by Janine Klaassen Welsh in 2008, continuing a family legacy of educators with over 35 years of experience in private schools spanning infants through 8th grade. Growing up in an education-focused household, Janine developed a deep passion for fostering young minds and creating learning environments that inspire hands-on exploration, creativity, and problem-solving.
Janine holds a degree in Operatic Performance from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from George Mason University. She has performed over 250 concerts in multiple languages and plays the piano, incorporating her love of music into Windmill Creek Academy’s curriculum.
Her vision for the school stems from her Dutch heritage, which inspired the name “Windmill Creek”—a tribute to her family’s roots and love of nature. Windmill Creek Academy’s Reggio Emilia-based approach ensures that every child develops critical thinking skills, creativity, and a love of learning in a supportive and stimulating environment.
"The highlight of my day is leading the school's 'Music and Movement' classes. I get to be a child over and over again, sharing my love of music and creativity with our students. The children simply call me ‘the music lady,’ and I am perfectly delighted by that!" – Janine
Janine is a proud mother to her daughter, Madison, who is following in her footsteps as an education major at the University of South Florida. She is married to James Welsh, an OSHA/MSHA consultant and educator with two Master’s Degrees in Public Health.
Jennifer Stiers
Assistant Director & Curriculum Specialist
Ms. Jennifer brings over 5,000 hours of formal training in early childhood education and a wealth of experience to Windmill Creek Academy. Born and raised on Marco Island, Jennifer obtained her Child Development Associate’s Degree and Director’s Credential in 2012. She has taught in every classroom at the school, from infants to VPK (Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten), making her an invaluable part of our teaching and leadership team.
As Assistant Director and Curriculum Specialist, she ensures that each child’s educational experience is meaningful, engaging, and developmentally appropriate.
Jennifer is also a dedicated mother of two, Christina and Garrett. Her passion for education extends beyond the classroom—she served as a founding board member, secretary, and cheer coordinator for a local non-profit football and cheerleading program for over 250 young athletes.
"I love teaching children something new and then seeing them do it on their own—even something as simple as tying a shoe, counting to 10, or practicing a routine. When that ‘light switch’ turns on, and a child accomplishes something independently, it brings me so much joy!" – Jennifer
Outside of the classroom, Jennifer is an avid DIY enthusiast, enjoying home renovation projects, the outdoors, and spending time with her dogs.
Jennifer Smith ("Ms. Jenn")
Office Manager
Ms. Jenn is the friendly face that greets families each day, bringing warmth, energy, and organization to Windmill Creek Academy. Born and raised outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jenn has lived in Southwest Florida for 30 years and has a strong background in education, business management, and customer service.
She attended Penn State University and the University of Arizona, focusing on psychology, before working as an ESE assistant for Collier County Schools, where she gained valuable experience supporting children with varying learning abilities.
Jenn also spent six years as a business owner, running a local thrift and consignment shop before deciding to return to the world of education.
"I have found a home here at Windmill Creek Academy! The staff is warm, welcoming, and talented, and I love interacting with our students. They are full of curiosity, enthusiasm, and pure joy—it keeps me young!" – Ms. Jenn
Jenn has been married for nearly 25 years and is the proud mother of three children, soon to be an empty nester. In her free time, she enjoys antiquing, reading, cooking, and cheering on her favorite teams—the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers (Go Birds!).
At Windmill Creek Academy, our dedicated team is committed to creating a nurturing and inspiring environment where every child can learn, grow, and flourish. Our combined experience, passion for education, and dedication to family values make Windmill Creek Academy a place where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn every day.