Grace Education Academy INC

Bio and Picture to come

Hello! My name is Leslie Buterbaugh, though my students lovingly know me as Mrs. Leslie. I have been blessed to share 37 wonderful years of marriage with my husband, and together we have raised three incredible sons who have enriched our lives with five precious grandchildren—four beautiful granddaughters and one amazing grandson.

Teaching has always been more than a career for me—it has been a calling. My love for learning began at an early age while spending countless hours in my grandmother’s bookstore, where I developed a lifelong passion for books, reading, and education. Those early experiences inspired my dream of becoming a teacher, a dream I am grateful to live out each day.

With more than 20 years of experience teaching students from Kindergarten through fifth grade, I have developed a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of every child and the importance of nurturing the whole learner. I believe children thrive in an inclusive, play-based environment where curiosity is encouraged, diversity is celebrated, and learning is joyful. My educational philosophy is grounded in a child-centered approach, recognizing that each student’s developmental needs, interests, and strengths should guide instruction.

I am especially passionate about early literacy and bring a strong foundation in phonics and reading instruction to the classroom. My goal is to help every child, regardless of background or ability, develop the confidence, skills, and love of learning necessary to become lifelong readers, thinkers, and problem-solvers. I view play as an essential component of learning—one that supports academic growth, social-emotional development, creativity, and discovery.

My classroom management philosophy is rooted in consistency, mutual respect, and the belief that children rise to meet expectations when they feel genuinely seen, valued, and supported. I strive to create a structured yet nurturing environment where students are guided with kindness, patience, and grace. Through intentional teaching and positive relationships, I help students develop important social-emotional skills such as empathy, responsibility, self-control, and collaboration.

As a Christian educator, I am committed to nurturing both the heart and the mind. I seek to weave biblical principles into everyday learning experiences, helping children grow in faith, character, compassion, and integrity. I encourage students to recognize themselves and others as uniquely created by God, fostering a sense of purpose, service, and love in all they do.

When I am not teaching, I treasure spending time with my family and enjoy traveling whenever possible. The beach is my favorite place to relax and recharge—I often joke that my birthstone must be a seashell! Whether in the classroom, with my family, or exploring new places, I am continually inspired by the opportunities to learn, grow, and serve others.

My greatest joy is helping children flourish academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. I am honored to partner with families in creating a classroom community where every child feels safe, loved, valued, and empowered to reach their God-given potential.

My name is Ma Mireyl Laessle, my nickname is Mimi. I am an accomplished dedicated educator originally from the Philippines. I have always had a passion for teaching and obtained a degree in Elementary Education. Driven to further my expertise in early childhood education, I pursued additional studies in California at Palomar College, where I completed 9 units in Early Childhood Education. In my pursuit of professional growth and excellence, I earned a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. This accomplishment is a testament to my commitment to providing high-quality care and education to young children, ensuring their holistic development. 

Family is paramount to me,  and I cherish my role as a wife and mother. I am blessed with two wonderful boys and a loving husband who supports my endeavors.

My upbringing in a Christian church has played a significant role in shaping my values and worldview.