Why I Started Cactus Creek Academy

My name is McKenzie Tingey, and for the past seven years, I’ve had the joy of doing what I love most—teaching and inspiring young children. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Utah, along with teaching certifications in both Arizona and Utah. I’ve had the privilege of teaching Kindergarten, 1st, and 3rd grade in both public and charter schools here in Arizona.

 

But my heart has always belonged to the early years especially early childhood education. For the past five years, I’ve poured my passion into those first school experiences, where I’ve seen just how powerful a strong foundation is. I’ve watched how early skills in reading, math, and self-confidence can shape a child’s entire academic journey—and their sense of who they are.

 

One of my greatest passions in early childhood education is building a child’s confidence and self-esteem through literacy. When children learn to read, they unlock the world around them—and with each success, they gain a lasting sense of pride, independence, and joy in learning.

 

Over the years, I’ve completed extensive training in the Science of Reading and earned certifications in several evidence-based programs, including:

• LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling)

• Spalding Phonics

• FUNdations

• UFLI Phonics

• Learning Dynamics Phonics

• Kagan Cooperative Learning Strategies

 

I’ve dedicated myself to helping young children become not just readers, but readers who believe in themselves. Along the way I developed a dream of what I wanted a school to be. 

 

That dream became Cactus Creek Academy—Inspired by Reggio Emilia approach we’ve blended research-based instruction with child-led exploration to cultivate confident, capable learners. A school where families feel like they’re part of something special. A place where childhood is celebrated, curiosity is nurtured, and learning is exciting!