Flex Program
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 preschool 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.
Beginners | Juniors | Kindergarten 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!