Dr. Megan Knighton - First Grade Teacher
Dr. Megan Knighton is an educator with over ten years of experience working
with students at all grade levels. She holds a masters of science in curriculum and
instruction and recently earned her PhD in curriculum and instruction from Capella
University. Her accomplishments include helping design and implement STEM
programming for schools have received Governor and Congressional recognition. She
has also coached championship robotics teams that have received awards at the
regional, state, and international levels. Recently, she was honored by the city council
and mayor of Las Vegas for her work in promoting STEM education with her students
She specializes in providing authentic and rigorous educational opportunities for
learners that prepare them to excel and become the leaders of the future.
Contact Dr. Megan – mknighton@kesheracademy.org
Becca Weeks – First Grade Teacher
Mrs. Weeks is thrilled to join Kesher Academy as a founding team member and first grade teacher. With 12 years of teaching experience, she is passionate about creating a warm, supportive classroom where every child feels encouraged, valued, and inspired to learn.
Mrs. Weeks earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is pursuing her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. Throughout her career, she has taught elementary and middle school students and has also served in leadership roles supporting teachers, students, and school-wide initiatives. She is proud to be a Teacher Leader through the Leadership Institute of Nevada.
She believes that meaningful relationships and strong communication with families are an essential part of a child’s educational journey. Mrs. Weeks is excited to get to know Kesher’s students and families and looks forward to helping build a joyful, welcoming school community where students can learn, grow, and thrive.
Contact Mrs. Weeks – bweeks@kesheracademy.org
Abigail Rodriguez - Kindergarten Teacher
Mrs. Rodriguez is a teacher with over ten years of experience working with young students.She holds a master’s degree in special education and an Alternative Route to Licensure (ARL) in Special Education (K-12). She has devoted her professional life to creating an inclusive, engaging learning environment where students feel safe and are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Her expertise lies in differentiating instruction to meet the unique needs of all students while encouraging curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning. She helps students build the foundational skills needed for future success by partnering with families and offering appropriate hands-on learning experiences. She is committed to ensuring that every student feels appreciated, encouraged, and supported when they embark on their educational journey.
Contact Mrs. Rodriguez – arodriguez@kesheracademy.org
Ms. Beneven
We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Shirelle Beneven as Kesher Academy’s Founding Hebrew teacher and Front Office Administration!
Ms. Beneven has worked in early childhood education in Israel at Kibbutz Ein Dor, and served as a therapeutic foster parent for six children at St. Jude’s Ranch for Children in Boulder City, providing a safe, healing, and structured environment for youth in need.
She has built a diverse background in customer-centric roles, having worked at Google and in the hospitality industry. Ms. Beneven also holds a Certificate in Audio Engineering & Music Production from The Recording Connection. Her core competencies include CRM and POS systems, team collaboration, and a proven ability to maintain a positive and loving environment for children.
Contact Ms. Beneven – sbeneven@kesheracademy.org
Ms. Bess
Ms. Bess is a dedicated early childhood educator with 10 years of experience working with children. She is passionate about fostering a supportive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. Originally born and raised in California,
Ms. Bess relocated to Henderson, Nevada, two years ago. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from California State University, Northridge. Throughout her career, Ms. Bess has been committed to supporting children’s academic, social, and emotional development. She believes that strong relationships, meaningful learning experiences, and a nurturing classroom environment are essential to helping young children thrive. She looks forward to partnering with families and creating a positive foundation for each child’s educational journey.
Contact Ms. Bess – bbess@kesheracademy.org