who we are

Joy has a B.S. in Mathematics and a B.S. in Accounting along with a minor in dance and an emphasis in Teacher Education. She has been the owner/operator of Creative Avenues since 2007 and currently has her teaching license with CDE with endorsements in Mathematics, Dance, and Early Childhood Education along with her large center Director’s License. Joy has over 30 years of experience teaching ages 3 through adult academics, dance, and theatre including 22 years at GJHS and CMU.

Shayna earned a BFA in Studio Art: Sculpture and a BFA in K-12 Art Education from Colorado Mesa University. In her own studio practice, Shayna specializes in large scale cast metal sculpture including bronze and iron as well as three-dimensional painting.   She has worked in a variety of learning environments and has taught art to all ages ranging from preschool to undergraduates. Outside of school, Shayna enjoys rafting, camping, and traveling.

Judy Shero grew up in Tennessee and earned her degree in elementary education through Freed-Hardeman Christian College and Abilene Christian College. This degree eventually led to 19 years of teaching in public and private schools. She also served in direct care for children placed at the Residential Behavioral Treatment facility in Anchorage, AK. She worked as the coordinator for a 21st Century Community Learning Center after-school program at 2 elementary schools over 9 ½ years while in Alas

Merritt and her husband have three children so being an award-winning magician comes in handy. She graduated with an Associate degree in Liberal Arts and a second Associate degree in Early Childhood Education. One of her passions is creating developmentally appropriate lessons and activities. Knowing that all children do not learn the same way, Merritt uses her free time to continue her education by attending conferences like Orton-Gillingham, Steve Spangler Science, and Love and Logic Institute

Jennifer received her teacher certificate through CMU in 2022. She originally planned to pursue a nursing career but always felt a pull towards childcare. She has worked as a nanny for the last eight years and has loved every moment of it. Her hobbies include hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, camping, paddle boarding and spending any time with her fur babies. She looks forward to being part of the Creative Avenues team and helping children grow and learn.

Melanie has been teaching and performing (theatre, dance and music) for many years and loves teaching various art techniques to young children. She believes that every child has the ability to be creative! Children respond with wonder and delight when introduced to theatre, music, dance, and visual arts. She truly enjoys being with these kids and sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for the arts! 

Jessica has worked with children in various settings for the past 13 years. She has her degree in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor in Business. Her favorite hobby is hanging out with my girls Lorelei (8) and Evelynn (6) – going to movies, the park and the pool. Her second favorite hobby is reading. Jessica loves working with children because they have fantastic wonderful souls and she enjoys getting to know each of them and watching them grow. 

Destany has had a passion for early childhood education as early as she can remember. From teaching her stuffed animals in "school" as a child, to now, where she is teaching in an actual school. Destany is Early Childhood Teacher certified and is furthering her education at Colorado Mesa University in Early Education. Destany also has experience in fine arts with 8 years in musical theatre and dance. She has lived in Colorado her whole life and enjoys spending time with her cat Tigger and dog La

Olivia has just completed her CDA program is currently attending school for Early Childhood Education Degree and a Director Certificate. She has lived in Grand Junction her whole life and has always loved working with children. Olivia is excited to work with children and pursue this career path to continue helping young children develop and become amazing individuals. 

Jennifer has over 20 years of experience as a teacher and large center director with a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Central Michigan University.  She truly enjoys both sides of the education world - in the classroom and as a director - but her true passion is working with families to create the best environment for their students.  Jennifer truly enjoys the Western slope after raising her 4 grown daughters in the Denver area.