Meet Our Team

Melody Kraus

Melody Kraus has served non profit and religious organizations for over 20 years. As an Ordained Elder, Kraus is highly regarded in the United Methodist Church system, and has served in Mont Belvieu, Pearland, Deer Park and Dickinson. Kraus lives in Mont Belvieu, TX with her husband and 3 children. Click HERE to email Melody.

Courtney Dorsey

Courtney Dorsey has taught various grade levels and subjects throughout the past eight years. She has a degree in Communication from The University of Texas at San Antonio. After graduating, she found her passion for teaching and began that career. Courtney believes that learning through exploration and questioning is vital in creating lasting educational achievements. She resides in Chambers County with her husband, Denton, and two boys, Reese and Jack. Courtney is excited to be the Program Director and the opportunity to help children in the community grow into lifelong learners. Click HERE to email Courtney.

Kenzie Simunek

Hi! I am Mackenzie Simunek but I go by Kenzie. I have an older sister, Maddie, and a younger brother, Colton. I currently live with my Mom and Dad. I have two dogs, Boomer and Bentley. Currently, I am attending school at Lee college to get an associates in science and then plan to go to a dental hygiene school. During my free time, my favorite things to do are go to Schlitterbahn and hangout with my friends and family. At the museum, I am most looking forward to seeing kids smile and helping them find things that interest them. Fun fact: I was the mascot at Barbers Hill for about five years. Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite color: Pink
• Favorite food: Cheese Sticks
• Favorite season: Summer

Cornell Jones

Hi! I am Cornell Jones. I have three younger sisters and a dog named Charlie that likes chasing bubbles. I will be attending Lee College and then transfer to a university to study Marketing. In my free time I like to exercise, draw, and swim. At the museum, I am looking forward to bringing positivity and influencing creative thinking. Fun Fact: I practice Jiu Jitsu training as a hobby and fitness. Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: Rain Forest Green 
• Favorite Food: Salmon and rice
• Favorite Season: Fall, the perfect weather 

Alex Reed

Hi! I am Alexandra Reed but I go by Alex. I have a little brother who’s in 5th grade. I have 3 pets; a golden retriever, Biscuit, and two cats, Franklin and Candee. Currently, I am attending San Jacinto College to pursue Teaching E-6th grade. During my free time, I like to paint or draw outdoor scenes, as well as visit the movie theater. I am most looking forward to working with kids and seeing them excited about exploring the museum. Fun fact: I have been to Japan and Singapore. Here are few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: Pink
• Favorite Food: Ramen
• Favorite Season: Spring

Penny Robinson

Hi! I am Penny Robinson. I am married to my husband of 42 years, Marty. We have a daughter, Alicia Hamilton, son-in-law, Jeff Hamilton, and grandchildren, Braeden, Cadence, and Levi Hamilton. We also have a son, Ryan Robinson, daughter-in-law, Samantha Robinson, and grandson, Rogan Robinson. I have a husky, Cooter. I like to read and do yard work in my spare time. At the museum, I am looking forward to seeing the kid’s faces when they interact with the exhibits. Fun fact: I was named Penny because I had copper colored hair when I was born. Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: Green
• Favorite Food: Shrimp (cooked anyway)
• Favorite Season: Fall

Matthew Harrington

Hi! I am Matthew Harrington. I have a mom, dad, an older sister, and a brother who is 10 years younger than me. I am attending Lamar University to earn my Masters in Clinical Psychology. When I am not studying, I like to take pictures of nature and wildlife. I am looking forward to igniting the imagination and creativity of all the children of the area and helping them find their passion. Fun fact: I am an Eagle Scout from Troop 105 in Mont Belvieu. Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: Purple
• Favorite Food: Macaroni & Cheese
• Favorite Season: Fall

Jill Abshire

Hi! I am Jill Abshire! I am the youngest in my family, I have one sister. I have two adorable dachshunds; Gus and Penelope. Currently, I am attending Lee College to get my Associates of Science and further my education into dental school. At the museum, I’m most looking forward to playing with the kids and making the museum a fun and memorable place that they will want to visit again soon. In my free time, I like to travel to different cities and try good food. Fun Fact: I want to be a pediatric dentist. Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: Turquoise
• Favorite Food: Chicken Taquitos
• Favorite Season: Winter

Lizbeth Barrera

Hi! I am Lizbeth Barrera! I am the middle child in my family. I have two brothers. I am attending Lee College to get my associates degree and be a paralegal. At the museum, I’m looking forward to making a kid’s day and seeing them walk out with a smile on their face wanting to come back soon. In my free time I love to spend time with my family. Fun Fact: I’m bilingual! Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: Pink
• Favorite Food: Sushi
• Favorite Season: Fall

Jasmine Pratt

Hi! I am Jasmine Pratt! I have a younger brother and sister. I also have 3 dogs. During my free time I like to read or hang out with my family and friends. Fun fact: My birthday is on my parents’ anniversary. Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: Navy Blue & Yellow
• Favorite Food: Chick-Fil-A
• Favorite Season: Fall & Winter 

Jordan Jones

Hi! I am Jordan Jones. I’m married and we have a son named Oliver and a daughter on the way. I have a dog named Cas. During my free time, I like to take my son to the park, read, and play video games with my family. At the museum, I am looking forward to making new friends and having a fun place to take my son. Fun fact: I was a surrogate! Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: blue
• Favorite Food: beef fajita nachos from iguana joes
• Favorite Season: fall

Averi Henderson

Hi! I am Averi Henderson! I am the youngest of 4 girls. I have a dog named Kooper. I am attending Lee College for basics with a plan to transfer to the University of Houston Clear Lake majoring in Early Childhood Education. During my free time, I love to dance and spend time with my niece Paisley and nephew Ben. At the museum, I am most looking forward to watching the kids’ minds bloom while using their imagination. Fun fact: I want to open my own daycare! Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite color: pink 
• Favorite food: crabs 
• Favorite season: summer

Krista Smith

Hi! I am Krista Smith! I am the oldest in my family, I have a younger brother.  I have a dog named Athena, who is a princess, a 23 year old box turtle named Red, a Russian tortoise named Muffin, and two parakeets named Dobby and Tweety. Currently, I am attending UHCL majoring in Mathematical Education. At the museum, I’m most looking forward to seeing what part of the museum makes the kids most excited. In my free time, I like to crochet, read, and play video games. Fun Fact: I love to crochet and also love DC and Marvel! Here are a few of my favorite things:

• Favorite Color: Purple
• Favorite Food: Whataburger
• Favorite Season: Winter