Teacher’s Corner

Jeanne Abkes
Roadrunner Teacher
I am in my 15th year as a co-teacher in the NMSU Roadrunner PreK classroom, where I utilize my Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction to focus on playful curricula, family engagement and mentoring teaching candidates.  My early years were spent in Iowa, where my family and I continue to enjoy an extended camping road trip each summer.  I also love co-parenting my two daughters, ages 12 and 16, and enjoy carpentry, gardening, biking, and reading.

Mikaela Bruhn 
Roadrunner Teacher 
Hello! I am a second-year teacher for the Roadrunner Classroom. I graduated from NMSU with my Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2020. I am currently working on obtaining my Master's Degree, teaching is my passion and I am excited to continue on with my education in the field. I am originally from a small town called, Logan, NM, but have lived in Las Cruces since 2016. When not at work I enjoy reading, hiking and spending time with my two dogs and my Fiancé. 

Jayleen Nestor
Bobcat Teacher
Jayleen Nestor was born and raised in El Paso, TX. She received her Master's in Curriculum and Instruction in 2021 and her Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education in 2019. Although this is her 4th year teaching, Ms. Jayleen has been affiliated with the School for Young Children since 2017. She began as a practicum student and moved through various positions before becoming a full-time teacher. She taught in the Turtles, Wolves, and is now in the Bobcat Early Pre-K Program. She enjoys spending time with her dog, Codie and crafting on her free time. 

Abigail Wisniewski
Bobcat Teacher
Abigail Wisniewski (or Ms. Abby) is in her sixth year of teaching at NMSU SFYC with her fourth year in the Bobcat Early Pre-K. She received her Master's in Curriculum & Instruction from NMSU in 2018 and her Bachelor's in Psychology from Texas Tech in 2016. Ms. Abby currently commutes from her home in El Paso, Texas. She enjoys reading, traveling, eating great food, and spending quality time with her Fiancé and two cats, Draco and Luna. 

Kyle Alcachupas
Wolves Teacher
My name is Ms. Kyle. I am one of the Wolves Pre-K Teachers. I have been teaching preschool age about 9 years now. I have been with NSMU SFYC for 4 years. Prior to becoming a teacher, I served in the United States Marine Corps for 8 years honorable. Recently graduated with my Master’s in Early Childhood Education Curriculum and Instruction. My teaching philosophy is teaching is a work of art and takes some passion. As a teacher, we need to look at all children as an empty book waiting to be filled with knowledge and experiences. I think we should invest in the time with children and listen to what they must teach us. Teaching is a relationship that takes effort from both the teacher and the student.