Director

Karen Shields

Hi and welcome! I'm Karen and I will be serving as your new Director of KUCI. This will be my 14th 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 in schools and in church children's ministry in so many places has allowed me to combine the best of practices for our school's curriculum. 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 continue to bless our program for years to come.

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 am married, and 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

Stacy Dencklau

Hi!  My name is Stacy Dencklau.  I've been teaching at KUCI for 12 years and LOVE IT!  I'm so fortunate that my family -  my husband, Jeremy, my sons, Ryan (Freshman at UNM), Dylan (Junior at Eldorado), and Zachary (8th grader at Eisenhower) support me in this role!  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.

Facility Manager

Scott Summerhill

Scott Summerhill joined the St. Stephen's staff as Facility Manager in 2013. He has 23 years experience in church facility management.