Meet our team

Meet Our Founders – Tina & Steve Kendall
Tina and Steve Kendall are the proud co-owners of Valued Kids. Tina serves as Corporate President and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education, while Steve, our Vice President, brings his background in Business and Communications with a Bachelor’s degree in both fields.

Tina is not only a seasoned educator who has taught learners of all ages—from toddlers and preschoolers to high school students in advanced subjects like biochemistry—but also a certified coach. She specializes in equipping children with skills to manage behavior challenges and support special needs. Passionate about whole-child wellness, Tina also incorporates natural solutions into her practice and offers doTERRA essential oils through her office for families interested in holistic support.

While Steve played an instrumental role in launching Valued Kids and wore many hats in the early days—from teaching and cooking to maintenance and management—you may not see him on-site as often these days. He currently serves as a dedicated U.S. Postal Carrier in the Toledo area but remains a supportive presence behind the scenes.

Together, Tina and Steve built Valued Kids with hands-on care and heartfelt commitment. Today, they are blessed to lead a passionate team who shares their vision of creating a nurturing, inclusive, and joyful learning environment for all children.

Meet Our Director – Karissa
Karissa is the heart of our day-to-day operations and brings vibrant energy to Valued Kids as our Director. She holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education and has a remarkable gift for recognizing what needs attention—whether it’s supporting a child, refining a program, or assisting staff.

Karissa is not only an incredible leader, but also a hands-on problem solver who steps in wherever she’s needed. Her passion, flexibility, and commitment to excellence help strengthen our program every single day.

Meet Sandi – Administrative Director
Sandi brings a wealth of experience and heart to Valued Kids. With her CDA certification and many years in the educational field, she is deeply loved by children and respected by staff alike. Whether she’s leading a classroom or handling behind-the-scenes responsibilities, Sandi consistently leads with grace, diligence, and care.

As our Administrative Director, Sandi ensures that all records and files are kept up to date and organized. She’s also incredibly flexible—always ready to step into any classroom or task where she’s needed. The younger children especially adore her nurturing presence, and her leadership sets a strong example for all.