Preschool Teachers
Preschool Director & Teacher
Beginners | Juniors | K-Prep
LAURA GILLELAND
Why I teach: Young children are my passion. Each child comes from a different background and home environment ....they are individuals! In the classroom they mold together into a group of eager and energy-filled learners. I enjoy meeting the needs of each child and taking the classroom, as a whole, into new learning opportunities and adventures.
Personality of my classroom: My classroom centers around Christ's love for us and for one another! The environment is a nurturing and loving space where sharing, politeness and respect for others is valued. Daily developmentally appropriate lessons are taught as the Preschoolers participate in hands-on activities that help shape and mold them in all aspects of learning. The classroom time is structured with a predictable schedule and is child-centered. There are opportunities for choices and most definitely there is singing and dancing and smiles all around!
Memorable teaching experience: My second year teaching I had a class of preschoolers that was passionate about all-things-TRAINS! So what do you do? You run with it!! I reorganized my curriculum to create a train theme that taught to all of the main teaching concepts and needed skills for my students. Not only did my students enjoy each day of this theme, but so did I! And, to this day you'll still find me humming the song..."Freight train, freight train, what do you carry? With your huff, puff, chug, chug, clickety clack"!
Why I chose Immanuel: There is no better place than Immanuel!! Through Christ's love, the family feel shines through. I love being able to teach in a Christian, loving environment bringing Jesus into the classroom each day.
Experience: I have been sharing my gift of teaching since 1998. I taught preschool for 2 years at Concordia University Early Childhood Center and 3 years teaching Kdg. in Grayslake public schools. I also served as Immanuel's Director of Children and Family Ministry for 6 years.
Education: BS in Early Childhood Education from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.
Outside of class: I love spending time with my husband, Brian, and three boys. You can find them at Immanuel and Prairie Ridge High School, as well as other youth sporting events around town. The Gilleland family also loves to serve at Immanuel!