Hello, I am Pastor Adriana Hernandez the Director of Spiritual Formation at First United Methodist Church of Gilbert. My joy in serving this church has just expanded to include serving as the Director of the Gilbert Preschool. My work experience includes over twenty-five years of working with children and youth in the non-profit sector. My vocation and calling have been dedicated to fostering a warm, safe and loving environments for people to learn, grow, and thrive. My expertise is program development and cultivating communities that love God and take care of each other.
You can reach me by email pastoradriana@gilbertumc.org
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Psalms 143:10 is my favorite scripture:
“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May the Holy Spirit lead me to level ground.” I have been led here to serve, nurture, and lead.
Shannon Webb has dedicated more than twenty-five years to nurturing and educating young children. Her experience spans both traditional preschool classrooms and behavioral health settings, giving her a unique ability to support each child’s individual growth and development. Shannon’s joyful spirit, warm sense of humor, and genuine love for children create a classroom where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is built, and learning is filled with fun.
Shannon especially enjoys inspiring creativity through hands-on arts and crafts, while never missing an opportunity to be playful and share laughter with her students. She believes that meaningful learning happens when children feel loved, engaged, and free to explore. Two of her favorite children’s books, Yes, Virginia, There Is a Santa Claus and Love You Forever, reflect her appreciation for the wonder, kindness, and lasting connections that make childhood so special.
Mrs. Lisa Schell is a dedicated preschool teacher with a passion for nurturing young minds. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Mississippi and a post-baccalaureate degrees in Teaching and Early Childhood Education. With experience in both elementary and preschool settings, Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to her classroom.
Lisa excels at fostering a love for learning in her students, making each day an exciting adventure filled with exploration. She believes in the power of hands-on activities, utilizing sensory bins and engaging word games to spark curiosity and creativity. Her approach ensures that learning is not just educational, but also enjoyable for every child.
Among her favorite children’s literature is “Llama Llama Red Pajamas.” Lisa’s enthusiasm extends to music as well, with “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” being her go-to preschool song.
Teaching from the heart, Lisa embodies the spirit of the Bible verse she cherishes: “We should do good to everyone.” (Galatians 6:10). She is committed to creating a nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and explore the world around them with love and joy.
Sarah Lim is a wonderful new addition to the Gilbert Preschool team. She is excited to share her love of children and learning as she assists in our classrooms, bringing warmth, enthusiasm, and a caring spirit to each day. Sarah has studied psychology and enjoys continuing her education through independent studies in civics and world history. As a mother of two, she understands the joy of watching children learn and grow, and every smile from her own children and the children in our preschool inspires her.
Sarah loves engaging children through music and movement, especially with the always-popular “Hokey Pokey” and “Hop Little Bunnies.” One of her favorite children’s books is Love You Forever, a story that reflects her heart for nurturing others with kindness and compassion. Guided by her spirituality, Sarah is passionate about helping children understand the importance of loving one another as God loves us. Her enthusiasm, kindness, and genuine love for children make her a treasured part of the Gilbert Preschool family.
Connie began her love for our preschool when her granddaughter attended in 2014. She was excited for the opportunity to join the school as a classroom aide in 2019. She has completed the CDA program and has been a preschool teacher for 15 years, including working at the GPS Toybox preschool. Connie enjoys watching and experiencing the growth of the children throughout their learning.
Here are some of Connie’s favorite things:
- Book: The Napping House by Audrey Wood
- Preschool Day Activity: Circle Time
- Preschool Song: “5 Little Ducks”
- Chapel Lesson: Noah’s Arc
- Bible Verse: Psalm 25 : 4-5
“Show me the path where I should go, point out the right road for me to walk. Lead me: teach me.” Psalm 25 : 4-5
Marilyn Harter has been a passionate musician since childhood, playing the piano and organ, and sharing her love for music with others. Her journey began at just twelve years old when she started accompanying church choirs. By high school, she was already leading worship services on the organ, demonstrating her early commitment and talent.
She attended the State University of New York Crane School of Music, Marilyn brings a wealth of experience to our preschool community. She has taught music in elementary schools, led children’s choirs, and provided private piano lessons, enriching the lives of countless young learners.
In her music classes, Marilyn creates a joyful atmosphere filled with movement, memorization, and rhyming, ensuring that each child experiences the pure delight of music. Her teaching style is deeply connected to her faith, embodying her belief that music is a powerful tool for connection and learning. One of her favorite scriptures—“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo I am with you always, even unto the end of the world”—reflects her commitment to nurturing and guiding her students.
Outside of her teaching, Marilyn enjoys the timeless children’s book “Are You My Mother?” and delights in the preschool favorite “Roly Poly.” Her dedication to fostering a love for music in young hearts makes her an invaluable part of our preschool family.
With Marilyn, every music time is a celebration of joy and creativity!
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