CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT Stitching Peace, Spreading JoyFor many crafters, crocheting offers a calming and creative escape—thanks in part to the soothing rhythm of its repetitive motions. Alecia Freistedt, a former student at Jenks Alternative Center, reflects on how crochet changed her life: “Crochet helped me find the peaceful joy I so desperately needed. I was an anxious student dealing with a lot of personal challenges. But after taking an elective craft course at the Alternative Center, I was hooked after just one lesson.” Today, Alecia shares her passion as a crochet instructor with Jenks Community Education. “I never imagined I’d become a teacher,” she admits. “At first, I was scared. But once I started explaining and demonstrating the techniques, it became incredibly rewarding. It’s amazing to see my students light up with excitement when they catch on. The real joy comes from knowing I’ve helped them discover the same creative outlet that has brought so much meaning to my own life.” When asked what advice she would give her younger self, Alecia didn’t hesitate: “I’d stop taking everything so seriously. It takes more energy to be angry at myself than to be kind to others. And I’d definitely remind myself to never stop learning.” View previous staff and customer spotlights. MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS Charlotte Chalakee has loved theatre for as long as she can remember. Charlotte has had the joy of performing in everything from Shakespeare to sharing the stage with her own children in The Wizard of Oz. As the proud founder of River's Edge Community Theatre in Jenks, she is dedicated to creating a welcoming space where young people can explore theatre and discover the magic of performing. Through directing and producing shows for a wide range of ages, Charlotte aims to foster creativity, confidence, and a lifelong love for the arts in the next generation.Charlotte Chalakee, theater instructor With her daughter Fran, Amy is part of an organizing team passionate about what they do—helping you solve your organizing dilemmas. They provide professional organizing services to help you learn techniques and strategies to better manage your time, things and space. Amy and Fran provide a can-do, nurturing attitude—with lots of energy and enthusiasm!Amy Tuggle, professional organizer Kim Miller-Clark is the Jenks Premiere Pom and Cheer's Program Director and head instructor. For the past 12 years, Kim has been the technique coach for Jenks 7th and 8th, 9th, JV, and Varsity Pom Squads. She has taught dancers of all ages for over 25 years.Kim traveled the United States and Europe with Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago and the River North Dance Company. She also performed with the Radio City Rockettes for 3 years.Kim has coached at Sapulpa, Broken Arrow, Edison, and owned Extension Dance Academy in Broken Arrow for 17 years. In 2006 and 2020 Kim was awarded the OSDTDA coach of the year award for the state of Oklahoma.Kim Miller-Clark, JPS coach and Premiere Pom and Cheer Program Director Lori JanzenExplore in the STEM lab with JPS teacher Lori Janzen. Alecia FreistedtLearn to crochet with Alecia Freistedt. Torry NunneleePrepare for the ACT with certified teachers like Torry Nunnelee. Damon SullivanBuild skills in Windows 11 with Damon Sullivan. Rachel Gunther4th grade students learn archery with JPS teacher Rachel Gunther. Heather ThompsonDraw, paint, and create with JPS teacher Heather Thompson. Join our team! JCE offers a variety of full and part-time positions. Apply today! With childcare, Drivers Education, coaching, and more, the perfect position may be waiting just for you. Open positions can be found through Jenks Public Schools. Interested in teaching an enrichment course? Email Kimberly.Hoffman@jenksps.org or call 918-298-0340 to propose a class or find out more information. Our instructors include community members and JPS certified teachers.
