Director

Karen Shields

Hi and welcome! This will be my 15th year as part of this preschool program, where I started as a teacher, then Curriculum Coordinator, and now Director. I have over 30 years of experience in Early Childhood Education throughout the US and in the UK. I earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary/Early Childhood Education and my Master's in Curriculum and Instruction. Teaching PreK or Kindergarten and in also volunteering in children's ministry in so many places has allowed me to combine the best of practices for our school. KUCI is my favorite place to be! We have an amazing staff, wonderful kids, and fabulous families. Please reach out if you have any questions. I pray that God will bless you and your family during your time here.


Click here for Ms. Karen's Welcome Message!

Administrative Assistant

Samantha Davis

I am a born and raised Albuquerque native and received my Bachelors in Elementary Education from the University of New Mexico.  I have two children, 11 and 13.  I love doing anything outdoors or active and can most commonly be found on a sporting field cheering and on my children.  My career in early childhood education has been extremely rewarding and while it is a blessing to get to teach children God has provided the opportunity to help with the administrative duties at KUCI.

instructional Coach & 

Music Teacher

Stacy Dencklau

Hi!  My name is Stacy Dencklau.  I've been teaching at KUCI for 13 years and LOVE IT!  I'm so fortunate that my family -  my husband, Jeremy, my sons, Ryan (Sophomore at UNM), Dylan (Junior at Eldorado), and Zach (Freshman at Eldorado) support me in this role!  I also look forward to teaching and making music with your students this year. I consider it a true privilege to be a part of KUCI and look forward to supporting our amazing staff in their "Calling" to teach young children in God's love.