Chicago native Kiley Russell is the founder of Kemit Academy, an evidence-based and family-centered daycare/preschool for children through age four, located in Hyde Park.
Kemit Academy works with children in three categories: Infants, Toddlers, and Jr. Preschool. Each “home-like” classroom balances stimulating experiences for later learning and is structured to fit the needs of the child in that respective stage of development. The academy also helps children through occupational therapy, speech therapy, and therapeutic & behavioral health services. The therapy services are centered around school readiness, family engagement, and support through sustained quality programming.
N’DIGO recently caught up with Russell to learn more about her background and all that goes into Kemit Academy.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Kiley Russell?
Kiley Russell: I am a mother, wife, sister, daughter, and friend to many. I have many children I have adopted as my own while on my path in education. I have remained in contact with many of them for nearly 25 years. Some people have called me a fairy because folks gravitate toward my energy. I love spreading positive vibes and sharing words of encouragement and advice.
As a child, what did you dream your profession would be?
As a child, I listed many things like all children. For example, I wanted to be a dancer, a doctor, an artist, and so on. But in my heart, I knew I always wanted to be a teacher. So I used to make my brothers play school with me, and I always had to be the teacher. So I helped them with their homework and studying while sometimes forgetting to do my own!
What is the mission of Kemit Academy?
Through a broad range of activities and exceptional instruction, we encourage children to apply their talents, identify new interests, develop caring friendships, and build confidence in their ability to succeed. Our programs operate in developmentally stimulating environments within which children’s natural love of learning can flourish. We foster the growth of the whole child through age-appropriate activities that address social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development.
Please tell us about your inspiration behind making Kemit Academy a reality?
Two things inspired Kemit Academy & Pediatric Therapy. The first is my own children and the need for quality early education in my community. Another inspiration stemmed from tragedy/ trauma. I decided I wanted to take a break from the entrepreneurial world and return to my roots in education. I felt children in some of our most disadvantaged neighborhoods needed quality teachers to help them move to the next level. I wanted to inspire or reach a few with my story. So, I decided to return to my old neighborhood to teach. Upon my return, I quickly realized how depleted Chicago’s community and inner-city schools were. I had nearly 34 children in my classroom reading three grades below their grade (if at all). Not to mention a host of other social ills that plagued the room. I tightened my wallet and pulled all the resources I could afford, even asking friends to pitch in to help support the needs of the children in my classroom.
Unfortunately, one child was not in his appropriate placement and was prone to physical aggression. I was assaulted a few times by this student. The last one landed me in the ER and later two surgeries. Was I angry? Yes, of course. For a long time, I blamed myself for not pushing the school system harder to change his placement (per his IEP). This child has such unique needs we could not have begun to service him in the regular education setting. The school system failed him. The school system failed me. Again.
I thought, indeed this is what the prison pipeline looks like — lack of resources and response to children and staff that need it most. The failure to respond and inadequacy of conditions for children like him and teachers like me keep this cycle going.
I used this pain and trauma to create an early childhood space where all children, including children with special needs, would be able to receive the services they need EARLY in the game versus later. I hope to educate parents, the community, and children about equitable solutions for children with special needs.
Can you share some things that go into running an academy that most people would never imagine?
Whew! It’s a ton of work! Most people don’t think about the amount of time it takes for just the preparation plan. For example, curriculum, healthy meal planning, and having options for the children with dietary restrictions. Additionally, even the parent events and activities take a large amount of time.
What do you do to maintain your self-care and mental health?
I’m usually up at about 4 am every morning for meditation and stretching, then at the gym by 5 am for a workout. This helps keep me focused for the day ahead and gives me the jump I need.
Who or what inspires you?
My children inspire me every day. I work for the babies born to me and the children I care for each day. They depend on us (adults) to lead the way for them and I know THEY are our future. It’s my duty to make sure they have the best path, and best start possible.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I think people would be surprised how silly I am. I love cracking jokes and laughing until I cry.
Best advice to young people?
It’s ok to go after it! Do it anyway!
Favorite quote or affirmation?
“No one is built like you, you design yourself.” – Jay-Z
What’s next for Kiley Russell and Kemit Academy?
I would like to build other pediatric therapy facilities on the South and West sides of Chicago.
For more information on Kemit Academy, please visit www.kemitacademy.com and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
