As a co-founder of ACCESS, Monika Garner-Smith has shaped the organization from the very beginning, and as Chief Academic Officer, she continues to do just that. Her expertise in curriculum development, instructional design, and staff training is woven into every program we offer, from the classroom to professional development. In this role, Monika continues to elevate quality and consistency across all of our learning programs, bringing her creativity and vision to every corner of ACCESS.
Monika began her career as a special educator in 1988 before co-founding the ACCESS preschool in 1995. A graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, she earned her bachelor’s degree in special education. Monika then went on to pursue master’s degree in early childhood special education at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She is certified in The DuBard Association Method®, as well as early childhood education (birth to grade 3), elementary education (grades K-6) and special education (grades K-12). Monika holds a special love for the Pre-K 4 classrooms as this was the inaugural class at ACCESS which she taught before stepping into full time administrative duties.
Monika has served as a guest speaker at the annual national Division for Early Childhood conference, the Arkansas Department of Education Special Show biennial conference, and at several parent and professional training workshops.
Monika’s favorite part of the ACCESS mission is developing long-term relationships with families. Watching our students grow at ACCESS and then continuing to watch them achieve their goals throughout their journey is so rewarding! She also enjoys the collaboration efforts with her education team and seeing the mission continue with the next generation of educators.
When she is not busy serving the ACCESS mission, Monika enjoys time with her family, traveling, being outdoors, and cheering on the Razorbacks.
