Meet the Teachers

Live in:

Franklin, Wi

College:

I went to school at UW-Whitewater and got my bachelor of science degree in Education-dual licensure (regular and special education)- Birth-3rd grade

Fun Fact:

I am a wife, mom and teacher.  I have been married for 15 years and I have 2 boys-Owen (12) and Bryce (9)

Favorite Bible Verse:

Peter 4: 8-10 Above, all love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.  Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.  Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms

Live in:

Weatherford, Texas

College:

Stephen F. Austin State University. Earned a Bachelor’s of Science with an emphasis in early childhood through sixth grade education. I hold a State Teaching Certificate, ESL Certification, and am Certified in the Science of Teaching Reading.

Fun Fact:

I can’t help but use the word “y’all” in every conversation I have! I also LOVE Disney World. I consider myself a “Disney Adult”.

Favorite Bible Verse:

"But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Bio:

Hello, my name is Mrs. Atilano (Mrs. A), and I’m from Dallas, Texas. Over the past three years, I have taught virtual Kindergarten at Britestar. I first began my virtual teaching journey in 2019, and I truly enjoy leveraging technology to promote excitement and engagement. My academic journey includes a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, with a focus on child psychology, attained from Abilene Christian University, and a Master's degree in Communication from Liberty University. In my classroom I value kindness and creativity. I am a strong advocate for mental health and inclusion. Ultimately, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space for all those I encounter.

Outside of school I enjoy:

Traveling, thrift store shopping, going to the movies & obsessing over all things Disney (I’m a former Disney World cast member)!

Favorites:

Snack: Movie theater popcorn mixed with m&m’s + jalapenos!
Drink: Iced Coffee Boba Tea & Icees
Candy: Twix & Mexican Candy
School Supply: Planners & Pens!
Restaurant: Any place with authentic Mexican food
Store: World Market & Thrift Stores
Song/ Music: Anything by Taylor Swift. I’m a long time Swiftie!

Bible Verse:

“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever” - Isaiah 40:8

Live in:

New Ulm, Minnesota

College:

Hello Team and Family! I am a 1998 WLC graduate with a degree in art education. I have spent most of my career in Milwaukee. In 2017, I got my education licence for grades K-3.

Fun Fact:

My goals are always to raise the math and reading scores  and my joy is to share the great news of Jesus!

Favorite Bible Verse:

Romans 1:16a - “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to all who believe”

Lives in:

Tennessee

College:

I attended Westminster University in Salt Lake City and received my master of arts in teaching. I have my bachelor’s degree in psychology and justice studies from Westminster University.

Fun Fact:

I have a basset hound named Bonnie and a cat named Mr. Peach!

Favorite Bible Verse:

Philippians 4:13 - I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Live in:

Conroe, TX

College:

Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN
Bachelor of Science in education

Fun Fact:

We have a Siberian Husky who loves the Texas summers.

Favorite Bible Verse:

“I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.” -2 Timothy 1:12

Live in:

Wisconsin

College:

I received my bachelors degree in early childhood education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Fun Fact:

I have two cats named Brady & Meeko and a husky mix named Luna

Favorite Bible Verse:

2 Corinthians 12:9 - My grace is all you need, for my power is the greatest when you are weak

Live in:

Winter Garden, Florida

College:

I  attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH, where I obtained my Bachelor’s degree.  I am currently working on my Administration Certification for Christian Schools.

Fun Facts:

I have an amazing husband and three wonderful children (17, 15, and 12).  I am the mother that screams and cheers super loud at all athletic events and musical performances!  I used to host my own show on a Christian international television network.

Favorite Bible Verse:

Psalms 37:4  Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.

Live in:

Plano, Texas

College:

I attended Colorado Christian University and graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. I have my teaching certificate for grades EC-6 and ESL endorsement.

Fun Fact:

I got married in 2020 and now have two incredible children: a girl, Hazael, and a boy, Ezra.

Favorite Bible Verse:

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Bio:

Hello! My name is Erica Wilkes and this is my year with the Britestar Team!. I was born and raised on the southside of Chicago, IL and have since relocated to Austin, TX. I graduated from Illinois State University with my bachelors degree in Social Work. Prior to virtual teaching, I taught 5th/6th ELA, Social Science, Christian Ed. and 3rd-8th grade math; but I also bring experience such as subbing long-term and an education interventionist assisting students achieve their academic goals. I’m so excited to grow and build with the students this year! We are a team, so please feel free to reach out in regards to anything!

Outside of school:

Go to Self-Care Activity: Prayer, Painting and Light Candles Favorite thing to do on off days: I love Concerts and trying out new cooking recipes!

Favorites:

Snack: Chips
Drink: Cold can of Coca-Cola
Candy: Twix
School Supply: Post-It Notes
Restaurant: Any native CHICAGO restaurant
Store: Five Below
Song/ Music: Angel- Halle Bailey

Bible Verse:

Matthew 19:26

Live in:

Manchester, TN

College:

I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from East Tennessee State University.

Fun Fact:

I love to go off-roading with my husband in the mountains and spend time with my children in the sunshine!

Favorite Bible Verse:

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Bio:

Hello everyone! This is my tenth year with Shining Star! I am excited to be teaching virtually again this year in Milwaukee. It is so important to me that my students learn the power of prayer and with hard work they can accomplish anything.

Outside of school:

I enjoy my family, my friends, my dogs, shopping, watching TV shows

Favorites:

Snack: Cool Ranch Doritos
Drink: Vanilla Coke
Candy: Reeses
School Supply: Pens
Restaurant: Longhorn
Store: Home Goods
Music: wide variety

Bible Verse:

Philippians 4:6

Bio:

Hello! My name is Kelsey Lawson, and I’m a 5th grade virtual teacher at our Hope Fortis campus! I was born and raised in Williamsburg, KY. I earned my bachelors in Secondary and Middle school English Education from the University of the Cumberlands. Before becoming a virtual teacher, I taught in a variety of grade levels in Virginia and Montana. I have recently moved home to Kentucky and live with my husband, Ryan, and two Australian Shepherds, Odi and Gus.

Outside of school:

I enjoy traveling with my husband, reading, woodworking projects, cooking, and spending time with my family and dogs!

Favorites:

Snack: Kettle Corn
Drink: Diet Dr. Pepper
Candy: Sour Gummy Worms
School Supply: Flair Pens
Restaurant: Any type of Mexican food!
Store: Costco and Sams Club
Song/ Music: Lauren Daigle

Bible Verse:

Joshua 1:9 - “Be strong and courageous, do not be frightened, Do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Bio:

I was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI.I attended Jackson State University for undergrad. After graduation, I returned home and began working for Milwaukee Public Schools where my passion for education grew. I completed graduate school at Alverno College, I continued teaching in different capacities for many years. I am married with two beautiful children PJ and Bellamy. I am excited to join Britestar this school year and to continue serving students in the city of Milwaukee.

Outside of school I enjoy:

Spending time with family Shopping, Traveling ,Binge watching on TV.

Favorites:

Snack: Potato Chips

Drink: Sparling water

Candy: Chocolate

School Supply: Ink pens

Restaurant: Cheddars

Store: Target

Song/Music: Varies

Bible Verse:

2 Timothy 1:7

Bio:

Hello! My name is Miss. Washington and I am excited about teaching 5th/6th grade at Shining Star Christian School. I look forward to pushing high rigor and teaching strong character traits with middle school this year. This will be my third year teaching at Shining Star/Britestar, formly I taught 1st grade/3rd grade at St. Marcus Lutheran school for ten years. In middle school, we plan on working hard so that we can play hard!
I have one son who is going into the 7th Grade his name is Daniel and he is 12 years old. I love spending time with my family and spending quality time with my son. During my free time I enjoy going swimming, hanging out with my son and grandma, watching movies and spending time outside. I also love attending my son's’ baseball games and watching him play violin.

Outside of school:

I enjoy Swimming and watching my son play baseball.

Favorites:

Snack: Chips
Drink: Strawberry lemonade
Candy: Reese’s peanut butter sticks or swedish fish
School Supply: post its or dry erase markers.
Restaurant: Any mexican food works for me 🙂
Store: Target
Song/ Music: I love gospel or R&B music.

Bible Verse:

Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Bio:

My name is Lynn Garrow and I love teaching. I get excited each year for my new class! I have 3 amazing daughters and 3 unbelievable grandchildren! Having grandchildren is one of God’s greatest gifts. I believe in working hard, appreciating what you have and living life to its fullest. Each year is a new adventure and I want to be the best the teacher I can for my students. I truly believe our kids can change the world!

Outside of work:

I enjoy Working Out, Going to the Beach! Laughing! Spending time with family & friends! Watching movies! Music & Dancing! Respecting our Military! Thanking God for all His blessings!

Favorites:

Snack: Chips
Candy: Dark Chocolate Sea Salt/Gummy Bears
School Supply: Colorful
Highlighters Restaurant: CC’s Elbow Room
Store: Amazon/TJ Maxx
Song/ Music: Abba “Dancing Queen”

Bible Verse:

“This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

Bio:

Hello everyone my name is Monique! I’m excited to be teaching with Shining Star. I received my Bachelor's Degree from Alverno College and I’m currently working on my Masters in Education. I enjoy spending time with my family and love to cook. My goal is to leave a imprint in each one of my scholars hearts and minds.

Outside of school:

I enjoy my family, Reading, Cooking  and Watching TV

Favorites:

Snack: Cool Ranch Doritos
Drink: Ice Cold Water/Strawberry Lemonade
Candy: Jolly Rancher Chews
School Supply: R.S.V.P Pens & Colorful Pens
Restaurant: Chinese or Mexican
Store: Amazon
Music: RnB/ Variety

Bible Verse:

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.

Bio:

Hello everyone my name is Edyonna! I am excited about teaching 3rd & 4th grade math this year. This will be my 6th year with Shining Star. I was blessed to be able to teach multiple different grade levels throughout these years. I wear many hats besides being a teacher. I am a wife, a student, a Pastor, and a small business owner along with a host of other things. I was born and raised in Milwaukee WI. My husband and I recently relocated to Richmond VA in June 2021 which is where we now reside. I cannot wait to meet all of the amazing families and build strong, trusting relationships.

Outside of school:

I enjoy Family time, shopping and readingFavorites:

Snack: Any spicy chips, white chocolate covered pretzels
Drink: Ice cold water/sweet tea
Candy: Chocolate
School Supply: cute pens & notepads
Restaurant: Red Lobster/ Anywhere with seafood
Store: Amazon
Song/ Music: Everything

Bible Verse:

1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Residence:

A native Texan who has moved over 24 times, I currently reside in Pennsylvania.

College Degrees:

Southern Illinois University Carbondale- May 2000-

Bachelor’s degree in English with Communications endorsement; teacher certification completed

Grand Canyon University- October 2017-Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

Maryville University- Graduating in December 2024- Doctor of Education  in Higher Education Leadership

Fun Fact:

I have run half marathons and a marathon! The runDisney races are my favorite!

Favorite Bible Verse:

My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Live in:

Wilton, CT

College:

Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT

Fun Fact:

I was named after my father’s kindergarten teacher, Ms. Kelly.

Favorite scripture verse:

Romans 15:4a “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us.”

Live in:

Neenah, WI

College:

Concordia University in Mequon, WI

Fun Fact:

In high school I played clarinet in band and competed in synchronized swimming

Favorite scripture verse:

Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Live in:

Milwaukee, WI

College:

Concordia University, Chicago

Fun Fact:

I was in the colorguard in my high school marching band

Favorite scripture verse:

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.”

Live in:

Brown Deer, WI

College:

Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT

Fun Fact:

I enjoy working out and fighting my cat!

Favorite scripture verse:

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Live in:

Manitowoc, WI

College:

UW-Madison: Bachelor of Science - Chemistry

University of Chicago: Master of Science - Chemistry

Fun Fact:

During the summer, I love camping as far into Wisconsin's northwoods as I can get.

Favorite scripture verse:

Daniel 3:18 “...be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.”

Live in:

Caledonia, WI

College:

Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN

Fun Fact:

I have stepped I have stepped foot in all 50 states and at least 25 countries across 6 continents, but I prefer to stay home

Favorite scripture verse:

John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."