Kari Gibson

Director of Preschool Operations

I have worked at Christ The King Christian Preschool since the fall of 2013. All four of my children attended Christ the King Christian Preschool and I have loved being a part of the preschool as a parent and now as director. I believe in a caring, nurturing play based environment for preschoolers to learn and grow. My prior work experience included working as an activity director in a long-term care facility for persons with Alzheimer’s Disease and other types of dementia. After spending 10 years in the Chicago area, my husband and I moved back to Iowa City to be closer to family and to raise our children in this community. Our children range in age from junior high age to college age.

Paige VanCleave

Lead Teacher

I have an AA in early childhood development from Kirkwood Community College. I am working towards my early childhood degree from UNI.

Prior to coming to Christ The King I was a preschool teacher for 13 years at another center locally. I have worked with children as a swim instructor, summer program counselor and nanny.

I believe learning is best done through play, in a kind, inclusive environment which aims to meet the needs of all the children in the classroom. Learning social-emotional skills in early childhood sets the foundation for the child to be successful in elementary school and beyond.

I live in Coralville with my husband Eric, our two sons Cooper and Quinn. We are originally from southern Iowa but have fallen in love with Iowa City and all it has to offer.