Emily founded Zoe Learning House in 2024 after years of prayer, grateful to serve families with a new educational option in New Orleans. She has 17 years of experience teaching across public, international, and museum settings. A certified educator with a master's in Educational Leadership from Teachers College Columbia University, Teacher of the Year finalist, and former K-12 homeschooler herself, Emily considers it a true honor to partner with families in this Christ-centered program that honors each child's uniqueness. When not directing the program, she enjoys coffee, taking walks with her husband and two boys, music, and traveling both near and far. At Zoe Learning House, academic growth doesn't come at the expense of wonder and joy, but is propelled by it!

Emily Barnitz, M.Ed.

Founder and Director

Madison is an educator, photographer, and mother of three who is passionate about nurturing a love of learning in young children. She has taught in kindergarten, first grade, enrichment and preschool programs, and children’s ministry.

As both a teacher and parent, Madison believes every child learns best when they feel safe, known, and valued. She fosters a classroom where curiosity thrives and students grow in confidence, building a strong foundation and a lifelong love of learning.

When she is not teaching, Madison enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, exploring New Orleans, traveling, and capturing special moments through photography. She feels honored to partner with families and is excited to be part of the Zoe Learning House community.

Madison Reyes

Lead Teacher, Kindergarten (Monday-Thursday), Spark Enrichment Teacher (Friday)

Mrs. Latroya is our Kindergarten Co-Teacher at Zoe Learning House, leading our literacy and math small groups for this age with a strong background in phonics-based literacy instruction and a deep care for seeing and supporting the growth of each individual child. As a dedicated homeschool mom and Christian, experienced as a reading tutor and Sunday school teacher, Latroya is committed to our mission of nurturing each child's growth while sharing the love of Christ. With extensive management experience, she brings skills in team-building and creating positive learning environments. Her warm and welcoming presence, paired with her years as a coach, greatly benefits our students and helps us foster community and joy in learning.

Latroya Paul

Co-Teacher, Kindergarten (Monday-Thursday)

Kathryn Healy is an educator, literacy specialist, and homeschool mother of five with a background in classical and mastery-based education. She holds a Master’s degree in Education, is an Orton-Gillingham Associate, and holds a CELTA in teaching English as a foreign language. Kathryn has worked with students in a variety of settings including homeschooling, worldschooling, tutoring, online instruction, and individualized literacy intervention. Kathryn specializes in early childhood literacy, executive functioning support, and helping students build confidence through hands-on, engaging learning experiences.

Having spent over a decade worldschooling her own children across multiple countries, Kathryn brings a global perspective and deep appreciation for curiosity-led learning into the classroom. She is passionate about creating calm, joyful learning environments where children feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and develop a lifelong love of learning. It's a joy to have her join our team this year!

Kathryn Healy, M.Ed.

Lead Teacher, 1st and 2nd Grade (Monday-Thursday)

Mrs. Cheryl has over three decades of elementary education experience, with a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from UNO and Reading Specialist certification. She will be co-teaching our lower elementary students this year. Her teaching background includes a career with Jefferson Parish Public Schools, as well as serving as school librarian and teacher at St. George's Episcopal School. As a NOMA docent since 2013, she brings a unique ability to integrate visual arts with academic learning that compliments our creative, holistic approach. Cheryl is excited to return to our Christ-centered community where she can blend her love for literature and the arts while nurturing each child's wonder and creativity.

Cheryl Kain, M.Ed.

Co-Teacher, 1st and 2nd Grade (Tuesdays & Thursdays)

Auburn is a passionate educator with nearly a decade of experience working with children in classrooms, enrichment programs, and international settings. Coming from a family of scientists and educators, she developed an early appreciation for both learning and discovery. She earned her degree in Marketing from Louisiana State University and has taught children of all ages, including serving as an au pair in Germany and as a lead early childhood teacher. Most recently, Auburn served as the Nutrition Director at Redeemer's School in Jackson, MS, serving K4 through 8th grade students. Auburn believes that every child learns best when they feel known, encouraged, and challenged to grow. She loves a good book, enjoys solving and and supporting students in math problems, and is dedicated to creating a classroom environment where confidence and a love of learning can flourish.

When she’s not teaching, Auburn loves traveling, painting, working with ceramics, and finding any excuse to spend time with children. She is honored to partner with families in helping students grow both academically and personally.

Auburn Hamme

Lead Teacher, 3rd - 5th Grade (Monday-Thursday), Spark Enrichment Teacher (Fridays)

Katie is excited to officially join the community at Zoe Learning House as a co-teacher/floater, bringing a heart-centered, whole-child approach to learning. With a background in supporting both children and families, she is passionate about creating safe, nurturing environments where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to grow. Her teaching style blends structure with creativity, encouraging curiosity, emotional awareness, and hands-on exploration. As both an educator and a mother of a student at Zoe Learning House, she understands the importance of connection and meeting each child where they are. She is honored to support students on their learning journey and to collaborate with families and fellow educators to create a meaningful experience for every child.

Katie Fernino

3rd-5th Grade Co-Teacher & Floater (Monday-Thursday)

Jessica Arbour is our GROW Together teacher at Spark Enrichment (Gardening, Renewing, Observing, Wondering). She is a dedicated homeschool mom of four and an active leader of the Gretna Homeschoolers co-op, where she coordinates field trips and community activities. Jessica is a certified Nature-Based Teacher from The Association for Nature-Based Education, and is also a part of Louisiana's Farm to School Seeds to Success Teacher Training Program. Originally from Chicago where she was involved with youth ministry, Jessica has always loved music, dance, and dramatic arts! When not teaching or leading community activities, she loves foraging for wild berries when in season with family and friends.

Jessica Arbour

GROW Together Nature-Based Teacher at Spark Enrichment (Fridays)

We are happy to answer any questions you may have about our programs!

Phone (text or call):

Email:

504-517-2321

info@zoelearninghouse.com