School Administration
School Principal
CAROLE FIESMAN
Why I teach: There is nothing more I love to do than be with the children and help them learn. It brings me great joy to see the things that they can accomplish in such a short amount of time.
Personality of my classroom: My classroom is a room full of fun and adventure where we share the love of God. I use a balanced, interdisciplinary, collaborative approach to learning through play. I build on the children’s interests and curiosity to create an environment that welcomes all children and helps them become joyful learners.
Memorable teaching experience: My most memorable experience was while doing home visits, I returned to my minivan and there was a baby goat on top of my van! God is good all the time, sometimes you just need a funny reminder!
Why I chose Immanuel: Immanuel is a wonderful place to work. Everyone is so welcoming and kind. There isn’t a better group of people who collaborate for the common good. Immanuel also has a top notch secure facility.
Experience: Started as a classroom teacher’s aide in 2004. Completed teacher certification and began teaching preschool in 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Preschool-East Dundee. Worked as an Assistant Director at ABBA Lutheran Childcare in Glendale Heights and then accepted my current position as Preschool Director at Immanuel Lutheran Preschool-Crystal Lake.
Education: BA in Sociology from University of Iowa, Accounting Certificate from Northwestern University, Early Childhood certification from Judson University, Colloquy from Concordia University-Chicago, Commissioned Minister of Religion.
Outside of class: I like to spend my time outside of the classroom with my family and exploring new places to travel.
Assistant Principal & Jr. High Math
GINA GOTTSCHALK
Why I teach: I love being able to help children learn and discover new things. Not every thing clicks right away for every child. Figuring out how they learn and what works for them is an enjoyable challenge for me. Once it clicks and their face lights up with a smile, that's the greatest reward.
Personality of my classroom: My classroom is colorful, organized and fun. If there is a song to help us learn something new, then we'll being singing it (usually off key). Add dance moves and they will remember it for years to come.
Memorable teaching experience: Our class had been practicing lines for a Chapel skit for a couple of weeks. At the dress rehearsal the day before, things were just not coming together. However, the very next day the class rallied. Everyone remembered their lines and cues, and the students also helped cover for a friend that was home sick. I was so proud of them for not only leading Chapel in front of a crowd, but for proving that practice and perseverance will pay off.
Why I chose Immanuel: Our family joined Immanuel Lutheran Church shortly before the twins started kindergarten at Immanuel Lutheran School. Right away we felt at home. We wanted a school where our children can learn math, reading, etc. while talking and singing about Jesus' love. We found that and so much more. Later, I had the amazing opportunity to become part of the Immanuel staff/family and to work with God's amazing miracles...your children.
Experience: Started teaching in 2004 (4th, 5th, 2’s preschool, 1st)
Education: Northeastern Illinois University, 2003 B.A. in Elementary Ed. with an ESL endorsement
Outside of class: I love reading and listening to books with my own children. I enjoying cheering for the twins at various baseball, soccer, and basketball games. I also love challenging my class to a game of kickball or jumping into the Gaga pit at recess.
Immanuel Care Coordinator
TRACY DORFNER
What I Do: I lead a team of wonderful staff members who provide before and after school care for children in Preschool - 8th grade. We provide a safe and nurturing environment where children can play, do crafts, and provide a quiet environment for homework.
How and when I joined the Immanuel team: My husband and I were looking for a preschool for our daughter as well as a church to call home. We found Immanuel to be the perfect fit for what we were looking for. We enrolled our daughter and became members in 2015. We quickly became volunteers during the Clinics, Hosts for God Connects New Member Classes and Immanuel Serves community projects. When our youngest daughter was preschool age, I began teaching Sunday School. As our daughters grew, my role shifted from being a stay-at-home mom to working in Immanuel Care. I truly enjoy working with the Immanuel Family.
Memorable teaching experience: One afternoon during Immanuel Care, I was sitting on the Buddy Bench on the playground listening to a student sort out a friendship conflict. I look up and I see a line of children waiting for their turn to talk and for me to listen. It was at this point I realized that I was not just there to watch the children, but to be there for them.
Experience and Education: I studied Geography and Physical Sciences at Northern Arizona University. I enjoy learning about the geological and environmental processes around us. I have enjoyed the many different opportunities that God has offered including substitute aide for a school district in California, Land Surveyor in Arizona, Assistant Store Manager in retail, but the most joyous job is being a mother of two girls and sharing God's love here at Immanuel.
Outside of Class: I enjoy spending time with my husband, kids, family and friends. Anytime I can get outside to enjoy the four seasons, I will garden, hike, swim, and play with our dogs.
Office Manager
JULIE KEARLEY
What I do: I am the Office Manager for Immanuel Lutheran Church and School
How and when I joined the Immanuel team: I began working for Immanuel in March 1994 as the school secretary for Immanuel Lutheran School. My family was moving back to our hometown of Crystal Lake after a short work-related move took us to Des Moines, Iowa. I am an alumnus of Immanuel Lutheran School and a lifelong member of the church. Coming back “home” to Immanuel was fantastic for me and my family, and has been a blessing ever since.
Education and Experience: After graduation from Crystal Lake Central High School,l I began a secretarial program at Robert Morris College in Chicago. While attending school I worked at a corporation in the Willis (Sears) Tower. After completion of the program at Robert Morris, I held positions at two law firms and two CPA firms prior to joining the Immanuel staff.
Memorable moment in ministry: My most memorable moment would have to be the day of the September 11, 2001 attacks. That was a certainly a day like none other. The phone calls from the parents, the shock and disbelief of many, along with the careful calmness needed around the students. After school dismissed, we headed to the church for a prayer service led by Pastor Bergen.
A few of my favorite things: Some of my favorite things include spending time with my family and grandchildren. For fun and fitness, my husband and I like to go on hikes/walks as well as bike rides on our tandem bicycle. I also enjoy Sudoku, cross-stitching and Candy Crush.
Favorite quote: “The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.”
Cubs of Sox? Cubs
Italian Beef, deep dish pizza or Chicago style hot dog? Deep dish pizza