St Paul Lutheran Preschool

New Braunfels, Tx

Our Teachers

Michelle Rivera: Executive Director I grew up in McAllen, Texas. I am married to my wonderful husband Matt and we have three daughters, Audrey, Molly and Vivian. I started a career in early childhood education in the classroom. I worked to learn about the administration of childcare programs as an Assistant Director and spent over 11 years as a Director of programs. I have an AAS in Child Development, BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Psychology and a Masters of Education with an emphasis in Teacher Leadership.	Michelle Martin:Program Director I was born and raised in New Braunfels. I have my Child Development Associate Credential and Para Professional Credential. I began working in childcare in 1998. My favorite color is purple and I love GLITTER! I have 3 beautiful children, Amanda, who graduated from Tarleton State University; Sarah who graduated Midwestern State University; and Jacob who is attending Texas A&M Corpus Christi. I enjoy reading, watching movies, going to the beach and spending time with my family.	Amanda Kennedy: Admin. Coordinator Hello, my name is Amanda and I am the s administrative coordinator for the preschool. I have a Bachelor's degree in History and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Tarleton State University. I am currently working on my Doctor of Public Administration from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. I look forward to working with the families of St. Paul.
Kacey Leos: Toddler 1 Hello, my name is Kacey. I graduated from New Braunfels High School. I have been working with children for many years. I am a alumni of communities in schools South Central Texas. I can’t wait to watch your little ones grow!	Elizabeth Strasma- Toddler 2 Hi, I’m “Ms Elizabeth.” I received my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and when my youngest went to college, I went back too and earned my Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Concordia University. Over the decades, I’ve taught students from infants through college undergrads, in the US and abroad. I have enjoyed working with every age group, but early childhood is my favorite. My husband and I moved from Wisconsin to New Braunfels to help with our first grandchild	Amelia Morris- Toddler 2 Hello! My name is Amelia Morris. I recently graduated with my Master of Library Science from the University of North Texas and am new to the New Braunfels area. I already love it here and have found some good hiking spots to take my dog, Smiles! I am very passionate about childhood literacy and love having story time. I am excited to work with your children and see them grow and learn a little every day!
Reagan Knetsch- Preschool My name is Reagan Knetsch. I am 21 years old. I was a group leader at the YMCA for 3 years. My favorite things to do when I am at home is paint and play video games. I live with my parents, sister, 2 dogs and 5 cats. My dream is to go to art school and become a character designer for video games/ cartoons.	Sharon Brewington- Preschool Hi, my name is Sharon Brewington. My family moved from Colorado Springs, Colorado to New Braunfels, Texas 10 months ago. I am originally from Sylvester Georgia where I was born and raised. I have been in Early Childhood Education for 24 years. I attended Pike Peak community college and have taken a couple of Early Childhood classes. I enjoy early childcare because it allows me the opportunity to assist with molding young children’s mind and helping to guide the future leaders of America.	Heather Knetsch- PreK Hi, my name is Heather Knetsch. I am a native of the New Braunfels/Seguin Area. My husband Brian and I have been married over 20 years and have 2 daughters, Reagan and Drue. We are a retried Navy family and members of St. Paul Lutheran Church. I graduated from Gulf Coast Community College with an Associate in Early Childhood Education in 2007. I have worked with children in different educational settings for 20 years.
Taylor Cockerham: Pre-K Hi, my name is Taylor Cockerham. I am originally from Nashville, TN. I moved to New Braunfels 7 years ago and love it! In my spare time I will always be outdoors with my family and friends. I have worked with children for 2 years now and can’t wait for this wonderful journey at St. Paul! I look forward to meeting everyone!	Jose Jimenez: Kindergarten Hi my name is Jose Jimenez. I moved to New Braunfels three years ago. I have three boys whom I am very proud of because they grew up to be very humble and responsible persons. I have been in education for over 32 years. I love being around young curious and active minds that are just ready to learn new things. I graduated from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas with a Bachlor of Science in Education in 1985. In 2005, I received my Masters of Education with a certification in school admin.	Monica Stolp: School Age My name is Monica Stolp. I am originally from Temple, TX and now live in New Braunfels with my son, Russell. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Texas State University. I enjoy teaching and watching children grow.
Jordan Wesch: Resource Teacher Hi, my name is Jordan. I was born and raised in New Braunfels. I am currently attending Texas State University to obtain my teaching degree. In August I got engaged to the sweetest man and we plan to marry in January 2022! In my free time I enjoy doing puzzles, reading, and spending time with my family and friends. I have been at St. Paul Preschool for 4 years now and have enjoyed my time here so much. I’m so excited to teach and learn from your children!