Linda Kusel - Director

Linda received her degree in Early Childhood & Elementary Education from Mundelein (Loyola Univ.) She has had extensive dance training and  formerly taught Developmental Kindergarten for Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Her honors include being a finalist for the 2001 Kohl / McCormick Early Childhood Teaching Awards and being the proud mother of two children.

John Leonard - Culinary Instructor

John is a citizen of the world. Born in Brazil, he has lived in 13 countries and speaks five languages. He retired from an international advertising career in 2003 to attend Kendall College and become a chef. Since becoming a chef John has become a teacher, both of cooking and French. As a Northshore leader in preparing meals for the homeless, his skills in leading teams truly shine. He also works at private parties on the North Shore. For John, teaching kids at CKC is an inspirational challenge. He is always amazed at what they accomplish.

Linda Vaccaro - Instructor

In many different yet complementary ways, Linda Vaccaro has been a teacher and a culinary pro for most of her career.  She began her teaching career as a first grade teacher in the Evanston School District.  In later years she served both as a regular and substitute teacher for grades K through 6, as well as music, art, and special education.  She also worked in the Niles Township, Northbrook, Glenview, and Park Ridge districts. Following her teaching career Linda got involved in the culinary world, working in the catering department of the Sheraton O”Hare hotel, planning and executing social and corporate functions.  Afterwards see was the catering consultant for The Mixing Bowl, training new personnel, planning events from 20-1,000, and acting as the primary pastry consultant. Linda has the culinary chops to make her a compelling teacher of culinary arts and the experienced long-time teacher’s touch that lets her help her students get the most out of every class. CKC is thrilled to have her.

Debbie Berg - Instructor

Debbie first became familiar with CKC as a participant in one of the classes with her youngest daughter Carolyn. Once she said “Yes” to teaching, nothing could stop her from joining the CKC family. In addition to teaching music at CKC, Debbie also teaches music at Glenview Community Church Nursery School. Debbie graduated from the University of Illinois with her Masters in Speech and Language Pathology and continues to work per dium at Lake Forest Hospital. Debbie’s interests in music are piano, flute, choir , and bell choir. She and her husband Doug live in Glenview with their 3 children, who all love music.

Thea Halvorson - Educator

Thea left Evanston District 65 after 20 years of teaching Kindergarten,1st and 2nd grade. She has a BS in Elementary Education and a Masters in Early Childhood from National Louis University. In addition to teaching at Kingsley School in District 65, early in her career she taught kindergarten at Roycemore School in Evanston and was the Director/teacher at Unity Nursery School for seven years. Thea has taught at Cherry Preschool for ten years. She has three delightful, grown children and has a very lovely grandson who is a Cherry Preschool alum. Children and teaching are her passion and CKC is thrilled to have her!

Group Counselors

Group counselors consist of college and high school students who are VERY carefully chosen for their leadership, enthusiasm, and experience working with children. CKC prides itself on having many returning staff members year after year. Director Linda supervises each camp daily and will work closely with you and your child’s camp leaders to make certain that your child’s experience is the best that it can be.

 Junior Counselors

Junior Counselors, many of whom grew up in the CKC program, complete our learning circle and belief that children should be empowered at all ages. All counselors (Lead and Jr.) are well trained in group management, establishing a safe, comfortable environment and play an active role in motivating and assisting to the needs of your child. Their primary role is to support  the lead teacher by demonstrating their belief in what we all want for your children...an innovative and lively day!