My name is Rachel Cruz, the Director of Good Shepherd Preschool. I am beyond grateful to work at this beautiful school with this amazing team of teachers. I am originally from San Diego, but I have lived in the Monterey Bay area since 1999 and specifically in Salinas since 2004. I have an MA in education and the emphasis of my BA was Human Development. I have both an Administration and Teaching credential. I have worked in the field of Early Childhood Development since 2005 and it is truly my passion. I believe children learn through play and the natural curiosity of children should lead their learning. My husband and I have been married for over 23 years and we have three sons. I believe in empowering children to be resilient problem solvers, critical thinkers, and embrace a growth mindset. In my free time, I love to cook, play board games, and travel.

My name is Merissa Karam, and I am the Administrative Assistant and Music Teacher at the Good Shepherd Preschool. I grew up in a small town in Maine, where I go home and visit often. I have been teaching over 5 years with varying ages from 4 months old to 15 years old. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education with a minor in Psychology. I have my Site Supervisor Permit with the state of California. This past year, my husband and I welcomed a beautiful little girl named Joyce, and she is the light of my world. I love that I get to extend my love of learning to my new tiny human, and she gets to teach me how to navigate parenthood. I am a big lover of music, reading, and Harry Potter! I can’t wait to meet everyone that walks through the Good Shepherd doors.

My name is Ann Barrie, teacher of the Yellow Class. I grew up on a farm in a small South Dakota town and learned how to drive a tractor before a car. I required adventure in my twenties and moved from the farm to Boston to be a nanny for a family I had never met. I moved to California with that family over 20 years ago. I have one daughter who recently got married and is an SLP in Tuscon. I have worked with children for over 25 years, and with Good Shepherd since 2015. I love working at a school that offers learning through play and exploration. My hope for each one of my students is they develop independence and confidence.

My name is Rachel Galli, and I will be Miss Ann’s assistant teacher for the Yellow Class. I hold a B.S. degree in behavioral sciences and clinical counseling from Bellevue University and numerous Early Childhood Education units from Monterey Peninsula College so that I can best take care of children. I have worked in numerous childcare settings including Child Development Centers, after school programs, Church programs, and Special Needs Education where I assisted as an aide for children on the Autism spectrum, ADHD, those with physical disabilities, and learning disabilities.

I am a mother of two beautiful children, a son and a daughter, who both have attended Church of the Good Shepherd Preschool. I am the wife of a first responder, and also a pet parent of two dogs, and a cat. In my spare time I enjoy taking my family on outings around the beautiful Monterey Peninsula, writing, watching television, reading, cooking, dreaming of going to Disneyland, and going to the movies.

My name is Daisy Millan, and I am delighted to be the lead teacher for the Orange Family. I will be going into my 3rd year at Good Shepherd; however, this will be my 7th month as a lead teacher! My deep-rooted passion for teaching and working with children began at the age of 14, when I volunteered and then worked at a daycare center. I graduated from CSUMB with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science, and a minor in Liberal Studies. I believe in creating an inclusive and nurturing learning environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to explore their full potential. This year, we will embark on a wonderful journey of learning and discovery, focusing on social skills, emotional development, cognitive skills, and physical development through fun, hands-on activities. I look forward to getting to know each of your children and supporting their unique learning journeys. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy taking care of my fur baby Teddy, taking nature walks, and traveling. Let's make this a memorable year filled with growth, joy, and unforgettable moments.

Hello, my name is Miss Iris, I am Miss Daisy’s teacher assistant in the Orange class. This is my 2nd year working with the staff and children at Good Shepherd Preschool. I have worked in other childcare programs so I have a few years of experience in the classroom.

I was born and raised in Salinas CA. While in high school I did my community hours at an elementary school and that was what inspired me to pursue a career in education. I am still studying both ECE and pursuing a Liberal Studies degree. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I like to travel and explore new places. I can’t wait to meet you, and your little ones. I know how important a child’s education is and I am looking forward to helping them discover their individuality and working alongside them to maximize their learning.

My name is Miss Crystal, teacher of the Green Class. This is my 4th year at Good Shepherd. I have worked in early childhood education for over 10 years in summer camps, afterschool programs, in-home childcare, and teaching preschool. I will be continuing my education in early childhood development this year through community college courses. In my spare time, I love to spend time with my extended family and friends. I relax by watching movies or listening to music. I also love cheering on my three favorite professional sports teams in football, baseball, and basketball all from the northern part of beautiful California. If given the chance to be at a game physically in the stadiums or arenas, I'm there! When traveling, it is a must to stop by any professional sports venues that are nearby, and I hope to one day visit all stadiums in the U.S.! I love to teach all my students about kindness towards others and themselves. My goal is to partner with you to not only keep them safe, but to teach, guide, and nurture them every single day.

My name is Jillian Kim, and I am truly looking forward to working with you and your child for the remaining part of the school year in the Green Family. I am originally from Silverdale, Washington. My husband and I have recently moved to Monterey as he is studying at the Naval PostGraduate school. We are so happy to be living here in this beautiful part of the country!  

I graduated from Northwest Nazarene University with a Bachelor's in Secondary English Education. However, my journey in education began in early childhood, where I first discovered my love for working with young learners. I’ve earned several college credits in Early Childhood Education, which has given me the foundational knowledge to support your child's growth and development in the preschool setting. In addition to my experience in early childhood education, I am currently pursuing my Master's in Education Technology.

I am committed to creating a classroom where every child feels valued, supported, and excited about learning. I am excited about the opportunity to work together to ensure your child has a positive and enriching experience. Thank you for trusting me with this important role in your child’s early education.

My name is Sandra Carrasco, teacher of the Turquoise class. I am originally from Zinapecuaro, Michoacán, Mexico. I completed my first career as an aviation flight attendant obtaining my license and diploma in 2010. I have currently been living in the Salinas Valley for 9 years, where I began a new path by beginning my studies at Hartnell College in the field of Early Childhood Education. I worked as a teacher's assistant for 3 years at Hartnell Child Development Center. I have been working with children between the ages of 2 and 5 for almost 6 years. I have three sons with whom I enjoy spending my time and doing different activities with them. Among our favorite activities are watching our movies (Marvel and Disney), dancing, singing, cooking and doing artcraft. I like to create memories with my family so we travel when possible. We have driven 36 hours to Mexico to get to my hometown. In the future I would like to visit the Dallas Cowboys stadium and Disneyland. I am excited to be part of the wonderful school community that makes up Good Shepherd Preschool.

My name is Adriana Jasso, the teacher assistant of the Turquoise.This is my 3rd year working here at GSP. I attended Hartnell College where I received my AA degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE).I’ve been working in the ECE field for over 4 years. I strongly believe that children learn through play and by providing a positive environment that allows the children to explore and enhance their curiosity. In my spare time I enjoy baking, crafting, going on road trips, but most of all spending time with my family.It’s  going to be a fun year of learning and new adventures. I can’t wait to see what the year has in store for us.

My name is Elizabeth Montano. I’m new to Monterey County. I moved from Santa Maria Ca a 2 hour and a half drive going South.I attended Fresno State.I will be  the Lead Teacher for ASP. This is my first year teaching at Good Shepherd and I am looking forward to working with all the students. When I’m not working, I like to go on long walks along the beach or explore national parks. I love spending time with my family. 

I love working with children. I volunteered for CASA for a year. I worked with infants and fell in love with the work. I was a Child Development Specialist for 5 years. It was magical to see how each child reached their milestone in cognitive, social emotional, and language development. That is something I will continue to work on here at GS. 

I’m thrilled and look forward to a new school year.

My name is Destiny Rizo, and I am excited to begin my first year at Good Shepherd with ASP and I look forward to sharing my passion for teaching with our students. My passion for teaching was ignited by the profound impact my own teachers had on my life. This inspiration led me to become an SEL Coach and tutor for college students shortly after high school. I earned my AA in Elementary Education, and I am now pursuing my bachelor's and master's degrees to further my career. Early childhood education, especially preschool, is vital because it establishes the foundation for lifelong learning and development. Moreover, preschool equips children with essential skills like communication, cooperation, and problem-solving, setting them up for future academic success. I’m excited to build a strong and loving environment for this year!

My name is Ruth Menjivar-Allen, teacher of the Red Class. I grew up in Southern California and lived in Los Angeles for 30 years. I lived in Santa Rosa for 7 years before moving to the Central Coast. I have fallen in love with the beauty that surrounds Monterey County and have lived in Salinas for 19 years. I am a proud mother of 2 young adult children and I have 2 cats.

I discovered my passion for working with younger children in high school while volunteering in a preschool for the children of Skid Row. I received my education in Early Child Development in Southern California. I have taught in Los Angeles, Petaluma, and Salinas.

I have been with Good Shepherd Preschool since I moved here in the summer of 2005. I believe in Play based learning and enjoy helping children to become more independent, assertive, and confident. Still, most of all I love teaching children that we are all different and beautiful just as we are and that we all deserve respect and kindness.

When not at work, I enjoy going to concerts, and movies, cooking, and spending time with my children.

My name is Olga Cornejo. This is my first year working at Good Shepherd.  I'm happy to be part of the Red Class Family as a teacher assistant this year. I was born in Mexico City and moved to California at the age of 16.  I'm the second oldest sister of four brothers and one sister. When I moved to California, I went to school and worked with my parents in the flower fields. My husband and I are proud parents of four children. My daughter, Aileen graduated from UC Davis, my son Arath currently attends high school. My son, Alek and my daughter, Aritza are in elementary school.

My passion for working with children developed when I was young and had to take care of my siblings. I often enjoyed pretending to be their teacher.   I grew up with the idea that I was suited to be a teacher.   Later I went to Hartnell and MPC to earn units to work with children. I worked for twelve years at Presidio Daycare as a teacher’s assistant with infants and toddlers. Then I stayed home to raise my children and now I am ready for a new adventure and work with preschool aged children. I am very excited to learn and work with your children to help them grow and develop their social, emotional and motor skills.

My name is Nikki Rodrigues, teacher of the Purple and Blue Class. I am so glad you have chosen Good Shepherd for your child. I believe strongly in the play based philosophy. During the school year we will focus on kindness, responsibility, confidence, working together and problem solving, all while having a great time at school. I look forward to watching your child grow and learn throughout the year. I have grown up in the Salinas Valley and have raised two wonderful children here. I am married and have two dogs. I enjoy all the things this county has to offer; great hikes and amazing beaches. I also enjoy cooking, gardening and yoga.

My name is Ashley Kinney, and I am the teaching assistant for the Purple Family. I am excited you have chosen Good Shepherd for your preschooler. Teaching children has always been a passion of mine. I love watching little minds blossom and grow as they experience the world around them. Your child’s preschool experience is important to me, and I look forward to teaching and learning with your child through daily enrichment and play. This is my 3rd year at Church of the Good Shepherd, and my second  year as an Assistant Preschool Teacher. Prior to working here, I was a stay-at-home mother for 9 years. I graduated college from Sacramento State where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in Human Development. I have also taken numerous ECE courses at Hartnell and Monterey Peninsula College. When I am not working, I love spending quality time with my husband and sons. I enjoy baking, being outdoors, hiking, and mountain biking. I also volunteer with local animal rescues who focus on spaying and neutering cats.

My name is Rebecca Botta, and it has been a joy to join the Blue Family this school year. I have always enjoyed working with kids. With a background in education, most of my career has been spent at the elementary level, but I am truly enjoying working with the littles and watching them learn and grow. 

I earned my Bachelors in Art Education and my Masters in General Education. I am very passionate about the arts and its importance in the classroom. Working at the preschool level is wonderful because we can incorporate art into every subject area and it provides the kids with a great hands on learning experience. I am really looking forward to the rest of the school year, making unforgettable memories with the Blue Family.

My name is Raymonda Haddad, and I teach Arabic, French, and assist at the Grange site. I was born and raised in Lebanon; I moved to Monterey since about six years. I completed ECED classes at Monterey Peninsula College, where I also worked at the Child Care Center for four years. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, organizing, and hiking with my two daughters. My passion for children started when I had my kids; I love working with kids and watching them grow up. In Lebanon, I had in-home daycare for about ten years. My favorite part about working with children is helping them grow and develop their cognitive, social, emotional, and motor skills. I believe that each child is unique and their individual strengths. I love to help them discover these strengths and improve their weaknesses.

My name is Heather Hoogendyk, and I assist the entire Church site. I am delighted to say that I have worked in the field of education for over 20 years. From teaching infant swim classes to coaching middle school soccer, I have always gravitated toward working with young people. A native of Southern California, I am a fairly recent transplant to the Central Coast. Upon arrival here, time in my child’s preschool classroom soon rekindled a love of interacting with this very special age group. I am very excited to start my second year at Good Shepherd Preschool. When not at work, I enjoy going to concerts and baseball games, being outdoors or reading a book. I look forward to nurturing a love of learning through play alongside your children. 

My name is Jennifer Babcock, and I am assisting the Grange and Church sites. I have been a teacher at Church of the Good Shepherd Preschool for over 14 years. Prior to coming to the school, I took care of my children for 7 years. Before my children were born, I taught in several preschools on the East Coast (where I am from originally) and I was a Kindergarten teacher in the Southwest. My Bachelor’s Degree is in Human Development with a specialization in Education. My mother taught 1st and 2nd grade for 30 years! I used to look forward to dinner time when my Mom shared stories of children that made her laugh or touched her heart that day. I believe that is where my passion for young children came from. As I mentioned, I have worked in several different educational settings in different parts of the country and have never seen a preschool like Good Shepherd. The rustic setting is so beautiful and makes me feel close to God. The children get to see lizards, turkeys, and deer in nature. The indoor & outdoor classrooms and playgrounds at both sites are unique. In my spare time I like to hike with my husband, read, and spend time with my 3 children.

My name is Miss Stacey Gooder, and I assist with the Grange and Church sites. I am excited to have joined the Good Shepherd Preschool team. I am originally from the Bay Area, but have lived on the Central Coast for the past 20 years. My husband and I have been married for over 30 years and have two sons. When I am not working you will find me traveling, hiking, hanging out with family, or reading a good book. What I love most about working with children is their curiosity and imagination. Good Shepherd offers that through playful learning and exploration.

My name is Fatima Olivares. I have been an Assistant Teacher for the wonderful ASP class for a year now, and it has been great working with these kiddos. I am also a floater at the grange site. I have also been involved in other child related jobs previously with various age groups.

I attended Hartnell College where I received my ECE credits and my AA in Elementary Education. I am now on my journey to continue my studies at CSUMB to receive my Bachelors for Liberal Studies. In my free time I enjoy spending time with loved ones, going out to eat delicious food, and going on hikes. I am so excited to see what this year has in store for us.

My name is Jazmin Murillo, and I am a substitute at The Good Shepherd Preschool. This is my 2nd year working at Good Shepherd. I graduated from Hartnell College in 2019 and received my AA in Early Childhood Education. I have been working in the ECE field for 7 years. I’ve lived in Gonzales, CA for 23 years, got married and moved to Salinas, CA. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my Family, traveling, and shopping! I am very excited to work with your child. I am passionate about creating a safe and inclusive learning environment.

My name is  Brittani Medina. I was born and raised right here in Salinas,CA and am thrilled to be part of this wonderful educational environment. My journey in early childhood education began with babysitting, progressing to nanny and day care roles. With a strong desire to pursue a career in this field, I enrolled in courses at Foothill College. My goal is to continue my education and become a lead Teacher. When I'm not at work, I'm a busy mother to four amazing children—three daughters and one son. My husband and I have been together for 20 years. Our home is lively with four cats and a dog, ensuring it's never quiet.Beyond work, my time revolves around my children's activities, from sports like soccer, dance, volleyball, and basketball to engaging in plays and music. We also enjoy spending quality time together and going on mini adventures to try new things. I am truly excited about my role at Good Shepherd Preschool, where I can contribute to the growth and development of young learners in this nurturing and welcoming environment.