Teaching with Purpose.
Leading with Faith.
Inspiring for Life.
Answering God's call to teach, encourage, and transform lives.
Founder of Kingdom Academy & Santi Reads & Writes
Teaching has never been just a career for Joannis Santiago. It has been a calling. Born and raised in New York City, she grew up in a Christ-centered home shaped by the example of her parents, two devoted Sunday School teachers who faithfully served the Lord for many years.
At just ten years old, while in fifth grade, Joannis sensed that God was calling her to become a teacher. From that moment on, she understood education as more than a profession. It was a gift from God and a ministry placed on her heart.
Prepared for the Calling
Joannis pursued higher education with that calling in mind, earning an Associate Degree in Education, a Bachelor's Degree in Childhood Education, and a Master's Degree in Teacher Leadership. She also graduated from Bible Institute, strengthening the foundation for her work with children, families, and ministry.
Throughout her years in New York, she served in her local church as a Sunday School teacher for children and teenagers, a Youth Pastor, and a leader within children's ministry. She also served with the Spanish Eastern District of the Assemblies of God, assisting the Educational Department in equipping and supporting ministries throughout the district.
20+ Years in Education
Her professional experience includes Early Intervention, supporting young children with developmental delays and disabilities, differentiated instruction, and teaching students from a wide range of academic backgrounds and learning styles.
A New Chapter in Arizona
After years in public education, Joannis stepped away from the traditional classroom to homeschool her three sons. That experience reshaped her understanding of what education could be: flexible, individualized, purposeful, and responsive to each child's gifts.
From Homeschooling to Kingdom Academy
Homeschooling deepened Joannis's conviction that education should never be one size fits all. She discovered the freedom to thoughtfully select curriculum, follow a child's interests, and build an educational path around individual strengths and future goals.
Out of that journey, Santi Reads & Writes was born. Through tutoring, Joannis has helped students strengthen reading and writing skills, gain confidence, and rediscover the joy of learning.
Then, in 2021, she sensed the Lord giving her another clear direction: build a school. Kingdom Academy is the next chapter in that story, a Christ-centered homeschool enrichment community created to come alongside families rather than replace what they are already doing at home.