School Administration
What I Do: Principal
How and When I Joined the Immanuel Team: I joined the Immanuel team in 2016, seeking a place where I could truly harness my passion and enthusiasm for working with children. I was looking for an environment where I could make a meaningful impact, and Immanuel stood out as the perfect place to channel my energy. From the beginning, I knew this was a community where my love for children and my commitment to fostering their growth would be valued and nurtured. Over the years, I've been fortunate to be part of a team that shares my dedication to helping students thrive academically and personally.
Memorable Teaching or Admin Experience: My most memorable teaching experience occurred during home visits. After completing a visit, I stepped outside to find a family's goat perched right on top of my mini van! It was one of those moments that truly made me stop and laugh. It taught me an important lesson: don't sweat the small things and always find time to appreciate the humor in life.
Why I Chose Immanuel: I chose Immanuel because of the warm and welcoming environment created by both the families and staff. From the moment I arrived, it felt like a true sense of community—everyone genuinely cares for one another and fosters a supportive atmosphere. They embraced my new ideas with open arms, and I felt encouraged to share my vision for the school.
Experience: I have over 20 years of experience working in Lutheran schools. My journey in education has only strengthened my belief in the importance of creating a supportive, faith-filled space for children to learn and develop. I've had the privilege of holding various roles, from Teacher's Aide to Preschool Director and now as Principal. Each position has deepened my passion for working with children and reinforced my commitment to helping them grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
Education: BS in Sociology and Business Administration minor from the University of Iowa Accounting Certificate from Northwestern University
Type 04 Teaching Certificate from Judson University
Ongoing-Masters in Educational Leadership from Concordia University Chicago
Favorite Quote: Isaiah 40:31, “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint
A Few of my Favorite Things: Anything Cricut and crafting
What I Do: Assistant Principal
When I joined the Immanuel Team: August 2024
Why I Chose Immanuel: I felt called to help serve a school and church that has become a family and home to us and one we believe in so much.
Experience: I have been a Family and Consumer Science teacher since 2008 at the middle school and high school levels. I love being able to teach students practical, life skills - such as cooking and sewing.
Education:
Eastern Illinois University - Bachelor of Science in 6-12 Education in Family and Consumer Sciences
Concordia University - Chicago - Master of Science in Curriciulum and Instruction & ESL Endorsement
Favorite Quote: Faith is not hoping that God can, it's knowing that God will.
A Few of my Favorite Things: Being a mom is my most favorite thing! I love being on the field or the court watching my boys do what they love. Traveling and planning lots of adventures along the way for my family is my other biggest passion - creating those core family memories is the best!
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.
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, 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