Long before Level Up Academy became a reality, co-founders Samantha Lindenmeyer and Kerry McLaurin had already made a meaningful impact in the community. Through their involvement in local schools as parents—and their dedication to providing hands-on guidance, academic support, and encouragement—they became trusted resources for children who needed individualized attention. Through small-group and private tutoring, along with their well-known “Summer Back-to-School Bootcamps,” they helped students rebuild confidence, strengthen academic routines, and rediscover excitement for learning. Their early work reflected a shared belief: children thrive when they receive personalized instruction, meaningful enrichment, and support in a warm, engaging environment.

That belief became even more evident during COVID-19. Asynchronous learning and limited classroom interaction left many families struggling, and Sam and Kerry stepped in by offering small, structured classes from their homes. These sessions provided consistency, connection, and individualized instruction at a time when students needed stability the most. It quickly became clear that many children benefit from a more customized approach than traditional schooling often allows.   

From this understanding, Level Up Academy Prep School officially took shape. The Prep School’s mission centers on individualized instruction, strong academic foundations, and real-world learning experiences that prepare Kindergarten through 2nd Grade students for long-term success. Through both full-day and half-day programs grounded in a whole-child philosophy, Level Up provides hands-on learning, small-group instruction, and support from certified teachers. With an exceptional 5:1student-to-teacher ratio, educators can meet each child exactly where they are while nurturing foundational skills, curiosity, independence, creativity, social-emotional growth, and executive functioning.

Level Up’s curriculum is fluid and adaptive—no two students complete the same work. Lessons align with the Common Core State Standards and incorporate evidence-based tools such as i-Ready, Wilson Fundations, and multisensory literacy strategies that strengthen numeracy, phonics, fluency, and comprehension. This flexibility allows teachers to tailor instruction to each child’s strengths, needs, and learning style.

The staff is another defining feature of the Prep School. Every teacher is not only a certified educator but also a mom, creating a warm, supportive environment where students are genuinely seen, heard, and understood.

Level Up Academy continues to grow by expanding its original PreK–1st-grade program to include a full-day 2nd-grade program, introducing a new Science Exploratory Outdoor Area, and supporting families through year-round classes and tutoring. Even as the school evolves, the mission remains constant: to help every child learn, grow, and thrive with confidence.

Join Level Up Academy at an Open House on
Wednesday, January 14, from 6:30 – 7:30 PM.
Or to learn more or schedule a tour, visit lu-academy.com.

Level Up Academy
760 Pasquinelli Drive, Suite 346, Westmont, Illinois
331-704-0848 | www.lu-academy.com