BY KATIE WHITEHEAD, DIRECTOR, THE PRESCHOOL AT CHRIST THE KING

One of my favorite things about being a part of The Preschool at Christ the King is experiencing first-hand how God brought each and every teacher to be a part of this amazing program.

Two years ago, Ashley and I met when she came to visit The Preschool with her two children Hunter and Abby. As we walked through the halls touring the classrooms, one of our young students spotted Ashley at the door and came running towards her - arms outstretched to give her a BIG hug! Ashley stopped immediately and got to her knees to receive his enthusiastic embrace. Then, noticing the confusion on his face, she gently explained how he usually sees her at Sunday School, and how today was special because she was visiting his school with her children. She asked him about his day, met his teachers, and commented on the amazing block tower he was busy creating. I knew at that moment, she was a naturally gifted teacher and would be an incredible addition to our teaching team someday.  Ashley’s love, joy, peace, patience, kindness and goodness are a true reflection of Christ in her, and we are eternally grateful that she is sharing her time with us at The Preschool this year.

Where did you grow up? Where does your family live now?

I grew up in Plymouth, Michigan. My parents still have a lake house in Michigan which we (Hunter, Abby, Jeff and myself) go visit every summer and have made the most wonderful memories with my siblings and their children. My husband and I currently live in Timbergrove with our two children, Hunter and Abby.

Are you named after anyone? How did you get your name?

My middle name is Virginia, which is after my Grandmother (Mam-ma) my Mom’s Mother.  Ashley on the other hand was just a very popular name for babies born in the mid-80s.

What was your favorite thing to do or play with as a child?

I remember a lot of imaginary play with friends…funny enough a lot of teacher “let’s play school” and “play restaurant/cooking” …both of which I love now as an adult!

What do you remember about your first years of preschool or school?

Recess! I mostly remember playing outside and story time.

How did you meet your husband?

Jeff and I met after I moved to Houston for work. We were both living in the same apartment complex in Midtown. He knew I was from Michigan and asked if he could show me around the city…I had already lived here almost 3 years, of course I said yes anyway!

What are your children’s names and ages?

Hunter is six and Abby is four.

What do your children say about having you be a teacher at The Preschool?

Hunter is jealous Abby gets to see Mommy while she’s at school.

What is your favorite meal to cook at your house?

As much as I love my kids helping prepare dinner and then enjoying a nice family dinner around the table…my favorite meals are probably post bedtime Jeff and Ashley date night meals which is usually seafood.

What do you love to do when you are not at The Preschool?

I love playing tennis and being outside enjoying God’s creation with my family on a walk, bike ride or a hike.  I also love sharing meals and conversations with family and friends.

What led you to answer the call to be a part of building the Preschool at Christ the King?

Although my education is in business, I have always had a desire to teach and love for children. My children have had the most wonderful experience being a part of this program, they actually get excited to go to school! I was excited to become a part of this team that gave that gift to my kids! I love that the Preschool at Christ the King is intentional about first loving the kids while creating a safe, fun, and creative space to learn. I believe every child is so special and unique just as God created them and I can’t wait to share that with them.

What is one word that other people would use to describe you?

Easy going or laid back…my husband would disagree :)

What is your prayer for this ministry? And how can we pray specifically for you?

I pray that each child would feel loved and safe when they walk through the doors of the Preschool. That the children see and learn their value in Jesus.  We are praying for our transition from a faith-based school program to public school and that our children have the needed confidence in their faith.