About Us

Hands-on, project based learning for today’s world.

LAKE Academy was founded in 2023 as a way to prepare our children for a future that requires the knowledge and discipline of self-driven learning. We focus on teaching children to learn to do, learn to be, and learn to learn. High academic achievement is valued alongside creativity, integrity, independence, and curiosity. We cherish each child’s individuality and are here to guide them in bringing their gifts to the world.

Lead Guide

Kerstie Johnson

Throughout my childhood I knew I wanted to become a teacher, closely studying each adult in all of my classrooms. After spending time in a traditional classroom, I realized that my values were not aligned with those of the public school system. I was answering 1000’s of questions a day and ended everyday feeling like every student had needs that were unable to be met. I dreamed of working in an environment that was warm and relaxing while also holding learners to a high standard; a place children would be given space to explore their passions, rather than pushed to achieve A’s on a report card.

The vision of LAKE Academy aligns perfectly with the values we hold in our family and the hope I have for the future of our community. What would our world feel like if more people were living out their best life? I am here to find out!

Education
• Grand Rapids High School Graduate
• Elementary Education BS with a Middle Level (5-8) Math Endorsement

Bemidji State University
• Technology Integration in Education MS from Walden University
• Basic Level Orton-Gillingham (Practicum Certified) Tutor

Work Experience
• Four years in a public school classroom
• Five years as a private tutor (focusing on helping students with dyslexia)

When I am not at LAKE Academy you can find me exploring with my kids, pouring my energy into a project, snuggled up with a good book, or planning my next vacation to somewhere sunny. I enjoy a challenge and love learning new information. Next time you see me around, share your favorite podcast, documentary or book title with me!

LAKE Academy Co-Founder & CEO

Brook Kirwin

As a little girl, I always struggled in school. I was in all the special classes, always had a special tutor to help me “catch up” and cried to my mom almost every day on the way home. By the time I was in High School, the light had gone out and I had lost all confidence in my academic abilities. Honestly, I wouldn’t even have gone to school if it wasn’t for the friends I loved and my desire to play sports. I had a deep belief system that “school wasn’t for me, and I just wasn’t very smart.”

That is until I got to college at MSU - Mankato and started studying Sports Medicine. I fell in love with Athletic Training because of it’s hands on, real life, think on your feet energy. The football field was my classroom and the athletes were my tests. For the first time in my life, I thrived in an academic setting. I started to believe that maybe I wasn’t dumb after all…. maybe the traditional school system just didn’t work for me.

LAKE Academy is the school that the eight year old Brook would have thrived in. A school based on real life problem solving and project based learning. A school that makes learning FUN & gives children confidence as they focus on their natural strengths. I believe there are other little girls (and boys) just like me who are struggling and LAKE Academy was created to offer them another option to thrive in life.

Education

Bachelor Degree in Athletic Training from Minnesota State University, Mankato
Masters Degree in Education from University of MN - Duluth

Professional Experience

Athletic Trainer for University of MN - Duluth
Founder of first Herbalife Nutrition Club in MN
Founder, Owner of Rapid Fuel in Grand Rapids, MN
Grew Herbalife Nutrition business to 25 million per year in sales
International Trainer and Speaker
Master CEO Coach
Co-Founder & CEO of LAKE Academy

When I am not at LAKE Academy you can find me watching our two boys play sports, relaxing in the pontoon on Pokegama Lake or traveling the world with my husband Karl. I have a deep passion for finding ways to use my skills & gifts to build businesses that impact my local community and the people who live here.

Sparks Guide

Jerzie Colter

It has always been a dream of mine to work with children to help them grow, develop, and become independent individuals. As long as I can remember, I have loved being around children. Helping little ones discover the world around them has been a natural pull in my life. I am dedicated to learning and seek out various opportunities to work alongside children.

Education

Grand Rapids High School Graduate
Montessori Early Childhood 3-6 Certification
Currently completing a Montessori Lower Elementary 6-9 Certification
Currently completing an Associate of Science Degree at Minnesota North - Itasca

Work Experience

LAKE Academy Guide since it's opening in August of 2023
College For Kids instructor for 3 years
Volunteered in public school setting in multiple classrooms for 2 years
Nanny for over 6 years

At LAKE Academy, we foster opportunities for children to explore and build their character. I take pride in watching children become decision makers and take on challenges as they grow. I look forward to working with your children and developing a new generation of independent learners.

When I am not at LAKE Academy, you can find me adventuring with my family, going on camping trips with Myles, and soaking up the sun on any of the beautiful lakes of Minnesota.

Elementary Guide

Jeff Johnson

With 14 years of experience in education, I am dedicated to helping students grow not only academically but also as curious, independent learners. Holding a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction, I strive to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences that inspire a lifelong love of learning.

As a proud parent of three and a loving husband to my wife, Kerstie Johnson, I understand the importance of nurturing the growth of young minds both inside and outside the classroom. In addition to my work in education, I’ve been a local fishing guide for 14 years, where I have the privilege of sharing my love for the outdoors with others.

My passions lie in getting kids engaged in nature and fostering their curiosity. Whether on the water or in the classroom, I believe in empowering students to take ownership of their learning and build confidence along the way.

Education

Greenway High School Graduate
Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, Bemidji State University
Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, Bemidji State University