Front Office

Ansley Hall

Preschool Director
Ansley Hall has been the director at JCBC Preschool since 2018. She is originally from the Johns Creek, GA area and feels very blessed to be serving in the community where she grew up. Ansley has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Elementary Education and has experience teaching both elementary school and preschool. She lives in Cumming with her husband and two children, Bennett (11) and Emory (8). Ansley is an Auburn graduate and you will find her cheering on her Auburn Tigers every Saturday in the fall! She enjoys playing tennis and golf, taking her new puppy on lots of walks, and traveling with her family. Working alongside the families and teachers at JCBC Preschool brings her so much joy! If you have any questions or concerns throughout the school year please don’t hesitate to contact her!

Tonya Kennedy

Director’s Assistant
Ms Tonya has been at JCBC Preschool since 2019 as the 2’s lead teacher and last year as lead in one of our Pre-K classes.  She is a native of Michigan and moved here from Cincinnati in 2018 where she and her family lived for 18 years.  Her husband Ben grew up in Atlanta and they have two daughters, Georgia - 23 years old and Piper- 14 years old. Tonya has a bachelors in communication from Western Michigan University and has worked as a flight attendant for Delta Air Lines for 15 years. After flying the friendly skies she took a break to raise her daughters and then became a preschool teacher which she has been enjoying doing for the last 10 years.  She also loves cooking, traveling, cheering on the GA Bulldogs and paddle boarding with her two Boykin Spaniel dogs, Belle and Grits out on Lake Lanier. She can’t wait to welcome you and your child every morning as you come to our preschool! 

Karen Self

Administrative Assistant
Karen Self has served as our Administrative Assistant since 2018.  She is a native of South Carolina.  She holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Converse College and a Masters Degree in Music from the University of Tennessee.  She is also a National Board-certified teacher.  She taught music in Fulton County Schools for 35 ½ years before retiring in 2018. She and her husband’s family are founding members of JCBC.  She lives in Cumming with her husband and college age son.  She also has a married son and daughter in-law. She enjoys cooking, reading, crocheting and playing the piano. Her favorite thing about our preschool is getting to know all the children and their families.

Ones and Young 2s Teachers

Ona Hamilt

Ones and Young 2s Lead Teacher
Hello! My name is Ona Hamilt.  For 12 years, I was a paraprofessional in K, 1st and special education. I graduated from Clayton State University in Morrow, GA. My husband and I have lived in Suwanee for 38 years, where we raised our family. We gave 2 grown children that we love and miss so much. This is my second year at JCBC and I'm excited to be working with such talented and kind people. It makes me so happy to be working with our youngest little ones. Looking forward to a great year!

Diana Ung

Ones T/TH Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Diana Ung, and I am so excited to be assisting in the Ones class this year! I am originally from Philadelphia, PA, but moved to Georgia in 2013. I currently reside in Cumming with my husband and our two sweet children (7 and 4 years old). I have a B.A. in Chinese Language and Literature from Swarthmore College and an M.S.Ed in Elementary Education from the University of Pennsylvania. I have over 10 years of teaching experience in all types of settings: international, public, charter and private school. I’ve been blessed to spend the last 3 years at home with my children and am so grateful that God has led me to JCBC to share the goodness of the Gospel with our littlest preschoolers! In my spare time, I love to travel, try new restaurants and drink bubble tea!

Brittany Schmaus

Young 2s Assistant Teacher- Mondays
Hello JCBC Preschool my name is Brittany Schmaus. I am the proud mom to three children Conner (5th), Savannah (3rd grade), and Parker (Kindergarten). My family is originally from Orlando, FL. We moved to Georgia eight years ago. My husband and I have been married for 11 years. I graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Health Care Administration, Go Knights! My hobbies include volunteering, camping and spending time with my family. This will be my third year teaching at JCBC but I have been a proud parent at JCBC since 2016. Getting to know the children and see their personalities, understanding and hearts develop through the school year is truly a blessing.  

God had great plans for you. Jeremiah 29:11

Sandra Galarza

Young 2s Assistant Teacher- Wednesdays
My name is Sandra Galarza,  I'm  so happy to be the assistant teacher in the young 2s class. I've been a substitute teacher for a while and I has been a parent at the Preschool since 2021. I am married and have a wonderful son, Mateo (5).I studied Fashion Design and I have a master’s degree in design and visual merchandising from European Institute of Design in Barcelona, Spain. I have worked in the fashion industry for a while. When my son was born, I decided to stay at home and dedicate myself completely to him. I love children, playing with them and being able to teach them about Jesus and see them smile and learn new things every day.

2s and Young 3s Teachers

Leslie Glass

2s M/W/F Lead Teacher
Leslie is beginning her second year here at JCBC after being a stay at home mom for the past 18 years!! Her oldest son, Garrett will be attending his second year of college at KSU and she has twin girls, Bella and Madi, who are 17 going into their senior year. Leslie has held many community volunteer positions in Johns Creek and has lived here with her husband since 2000. This year they will celebrate their 26th anniversary. Leslie is an avid tennis player, Bama football lover, enjoys gardening and boating on Lake Lanier. You can spot her almost daily on her 5 mile walks around Johns Creek. Give her a “beep” if you see her. Leslie is excited to get to know the wonderful families of the JCBC!!!

Thandi Buddo

2s M/W/F Assistant Teacher
My name is Thandi Buddo, and I am looking forward to working with your wonderful team at JCBC Preschool. I am originally from Jamaica, where I practiced medicine for 15 years, before moving with my family to the US. My family and I moved to California in early 2020 and then to Georgia between December 2021 / January 2022. I have been married for almost 19 years now, and I’m the mother of 3 beautiful girls (ages 8, 12 and 15 years). The last 3 years have afforded me the opportunity to be at home with my girls in a way my previous career didn’t allow, and I have loved every minute of it! I recently transitioned to Health and Wellness Coaching, and thanks to my church (JCBC), I was introduced to the preschool where I have had the privilege of subbing when needed. I have thoroughly enjoyed the interaction with the staff and have found such joy in my days with the students. I am looking forward to officially being part of the team! In my free time I enjoy baking / cooking, reading, gardening and spending time with my family. I look forward to getting to know you all and to having a spectacular school year!

Ellen Emery

2s T/Th Lead Teacher
Ms. Ellen is looking forward to another great year at JCBC Preschool! She is an Atlanta native, having attended Pace Academy and then Emory University, where she met her husband of 16 years, Patrick. Ellen received her M.A. in theater studies from the University of Pittsburgh. She has three delightful daughters (in high school, middle school, and elementary school!) and a yellow lab named Quincy. Ellen and her family live in Johns Creek and attend Perimeter Church. For over a decade Ellen loved being a stay-at-home mom, and she is delighted to now serve the JCBCP community!

Jane Lai

2s T/Th Assistant Teacher
Hi everyone! I’m excited to return to JCBC Preschool for my second year assisting in the 2’s T/Th class. My husband and I met as undergraduate students at Georgia Tech and now we live in Johns Creek with our two children- Logan (1st grade) and daughter Taylor (Pre-K). I have my masters in elementary education from Georgia State University with teaching experience in DeKalb County Schools before staying home to raise my kids. In my free time I love to stay active by playing tennis, doing Pilates and yoga, and serving in the children’s ministry at 4Pointes Church. I’m looking forward to another great year of teaching your children! 

Brittany Schmaus

Young 3s Lead Teacher
My name is Brittany Schmaus and I am thrilled to be the new lead teacher for your children. I have been the Young 2's Assistant for the last two years. I have three children Conner (11), Savannah (9) and Parker (6) who were all students at JCBC Preschool. I am looking forward to getting to know each of your children and creating a fun and engaging learning environment for them. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions.

Rebecca McCullough

Young 3s Assistant Teacher
Ms. Rebecca is thrilled to be returning to JCBC Preschool for her second year as the Young 3’s assistant.  This is her favorite age group to work with, and she loves seeing how much they grow, learn and develop over the course of the school year.  Originally from Alabama, Ms. Rebecca has lived in Johns Creek for the past 19 years with her husband, Jeff, and their two teenage daughters, Ava and Brynn. She has a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education & Special Education and a Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction.  After working for 14 years as a Special Education teacher she was blessed to be able to stay home with her daughters for several years before coming to JCBC.  In her free time she enjoys traveling, attending her daughters’ sporting events and activities, cheering on the Crimson Tide, and spending time with family and friends.

3s and Young 4s Teachers

Virginia Moore

3s T/W/Th Lead Teacher
Ms Virginia is the 3s T/W/Th lead teacher. She graduated from UGA with an art education degree and from UAB with her masters in counseling before becoming a mom. She has lived all over including time as a missionary in France. She currently lives in Suwanee with her husband, John, and their 4 kids, Abby (19), Ellie (17), Eva Claire (13) and Sam (13).  Virginia has taught preschool for 6 years previously. She is excited to start her 4th year at JCBC Preschool. When she’s not teaching she loves making art, walking, and hanging out with her family and her son’s sweet service dog, Reese. 

Angela Berninger

3s T/W/Th Assistant Teacher
My name is Angela Berninger, and I am delighted to be joining the JCBC preschool family as an assistant teacher in the 3’s class.  I graduated from Oral Roberts University and my teaching experience includes a range of positions and ages from preschoolers to elementary age students.  Nine years ago, my husband and our three children moved from Pittsburgh, PA to Johns Creek.  When I am not cheering on our children in their various activities, I like to relax with a good book and a warm cup of tea.

Ashley McTall

3s M-Th Lead Teacher
Ms.Ashley has been a member of the JCBC Preschool family as a mom, room mom, board member, and teacher since its opening in 2013. She has been teaching with us since 2017, and both her son, Cooper (12), and her daughter, Rooney (9), attended JCBCP. Ashley graduated from the Art Institute of Atlanta with a Bachelor's of Fine Arts degree in Interior Design. Her artistic background makes Ms.Ashley a great asset to the JCBC preschool family, providing lots of fun ways for students to learn. In her free time, she loves to spend time with her husband, kids, and Mini Aussie, Tucker; cheering on her son at the hockey rink and football field, or with her daughter at the dance studio. She enjoys: being outside, reading, coffee, travel, photography, and is an active member of Northpoint Community Church.

Jennie Hundley

3s M-Th Assistant Teacher on M/T
Hi, my name is Jennie Hundley. I previously worked at JCBC Preschool from 2015-2019 and am excited to return as the Monday assistant in the M-Th 3's. I have over 15 years of teaching preschool experience and truly love watching children grow and learn. My husband and I have 3 sons- a senior in high school, a senior in college, and the oldest is married with our first grandson. In my spare time you will find me walking my 2 little dogs, eating out and spending time with friends and family, and my favorite activity, spoiling my precious grandson!

Stephany Waters

3s M-Th Assistant Teacher on W/Th
My name is Stephany Waters and I’m so excited to be back in the classroom at JCBC Preschool. I have been a mom and a teacher here and I am so excited to be with the happy campers for the reminder of the year. I went to school at Georgia College and then went on to Kennesaw State for my Masters in Social Work with a concentration in child development and counseling. I have 3 daughters who all went to preschool at JCBC and I love how this school feels like family! In our spare time we like to be playing outside, at the lake, or having family movie nights!

Stacey Eslinger

3s M-Th Lead Teacher
Welcome to the Twinkle Stars Class!  This will be Ms. Stacey’s 7th year teaching at JCBC Preschool and her 14th year teaching 3K.  She is originally from Georgia, however she spent 10 years in Colorado and 2 years in Birmingham, AL before finding her way back home!  She has her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and an Early Childhood teaching certificate.  She lives in Cumming with her husband of 21 years and two children, Emma and Ashley. She is blessed to be a part of JCBC Preschool and enjoys watching her students grow academically and shine for Jesus!

Chris Sim

3s M-Th Assistant Teacher
Ms. Chris is thrilled to be returning to the JCBC preschool family this year! Ms. Chris starting teaching preschool in 2000 in St Augustine, FL. Ms. Chris has had the privilege of teaching grades levels that range from the 2 year old class on up to the Kindergarten level. Ms. Chris moved to Georgia in 2012 and currently lives in Cumming with her husband Trevor and their 2 dogs. They have two daughters Rachel (25) who is actively pursuing her advanced degree in physical therapy at Florida Gulf Coast University in Ft. Myers, FL and Meagan (19) who is starting at the University of Central Florida in Orlando to pursue a degree in health science. Ms. Chris is an avid gator fan, and football season is her favorite time of the year! Ms. Chris is honored to be part of the amazing team at JCBC preschool and of your child’s early education experience.  

June Akers

Young 4s Lead Teacher
 June has over 20 years of teaching in elementary schools, private piano lessons, tutoring, preschool, and middle school. She has a BS in Elementary Education and a MA in Instructional Leadership. She also is an award-winning children's author. However, her favorite job is being a mom! She and her husband, Brandon, have been married for 19 years and have the coolest kids. Their daughter, Riley, is 18. Lawson, their oldest son, is 14. McGuire is 11, and their youngest is Zander. Zander is 4 and will be attending JCBC. When she is not teaching, writing, or having fun with her family you will find her reading books, playing the piano or exercising. You will probably find her sneaking chocolate and sweets from her pantry too, but don't tell her children.

Jennie Lee

Young 4s Assistant Teacher
My name is Jennie and I'm so excited to be teaching at JCBC this year! I have over 7 years of teaching experience with young toddlers up to high school students. I just recently moved to Georgia from New Jersey and I'm loving it so far! My daughter, Hazel(4) is also joining JCBC this year and she's very excited for the school to start to meet her new friends and teachers. I'm looking forward to this year and I feel so honored to be part of the JCBC family!

Pre-k and Young 5s Teachers

Chrissy Might

Pre-k M-Th Lead Teacher
Ms. Chrissy is so excited to be teaching Pre-K this year and is looking forward to an awesome year! She is originally from Syracuse, NY and graduated with a degree in Mathematics with a minor in Secondary Education from LeMoyne College. She obtained her Master’s Degree in Educational Technology from Western Michigan University. She taught high school Math and was an Instructional Coach in Houston and Dallas, Texas before deciding to stay home when her first daughter was born. Chrissy has lived in Alpharetta for 6 years with her husband Justin and her daughters Mackenzie (8), Parker (5) and their Beagle mix, Tucker. Chrissy has been a parent at the preschool since 2016 and began subbing and then teaching as an assistant at the preschool in the 2s class last year. She is honored to be teaching at a preschool that has meant so much to her family for the last 6 years and provided such a wonderful, loving environment for her girls. In her free time, Ms. Chrissy enjoys spending time with her family, taking her girls to their many activities, reading and spending time outside.

Laura Coonan

Pre-K M-Th Assistant Teacher
Ms. Laura is looking forward to her third year at JCBC Preschool as a Pre-K assistant for the Ocean Explorers class!  Ms. Laura taught elementary school for 5 years before having her three children.  She graduated from the University of California, Irvine with an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a teaching degree in Early Childhood Education.  She was born and raised in Southern California, and moved to Georgia 14 years ago. She lives in Cumming with her husband, Patrick, and her children, Harper (13), Davis (10), and Jackson (7).   She is so blessed to be a part of such a nurturing, Christ-centered preschool, and she is looking forward to another wonderful school year that will be filled with lots of learning, joy, and fun!

Angel Ritz

Pre-k M-Th Lead Teacher
Hello! My Name is Angel Ritz and I’ve been teaching in a preschool setting for 15 years. I was born and raised in Ohio and moved to California after graduating from high school. I attended Saddleback College and received my teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education. I lived in California for 14 years where I met my husband Anthony and got married. In 2019 we moved to Georgia and bought a home, and a year later had our son Michael, who is now 3 years old. My hobbies are sewing, baking, running, and spending time with my family. I’m thrilled that my son will be attending JCBC this year while I work my first year as a Pre-K teacher in such a wonderful setting. I can’t wait to get to know all the staff, families, and children. Here’s to an amazing school year full of laugher, learning, fun, and lots of blessings.

April Merritt

Pre-K M-Th Assistant Teacher
Hello! My name is April Merritt and this will be my first year as an assistant teacher in Young 4’s at JCBC Preschool. I am originally from Gordon AL, ROLL TIDE! My husband and I have been happily married for 24 years and we have 3 wonderful children, Jaxson-14 years old, Clayton-11 years old and Allie- 7 years old. We reside in Sugar Hill. For 13 years my profession was in the dental field and then I became a mom. I have been working with children for over 14 years in church preschools as a lead or assistant teacher.  I have enjoyed teaching and showing children the love of Jesus. In my spare time I volunteer at a community children’s theatre. Also I love to spend lots of time with my husband and children. My 3 children keep me pretty busy! I am very excited to get to know all the students, families and staff! Looking forward to a fantastic year!

Jody Mathews

Young 5s Lead Teacher
My name is Jody Mathews and I am the lead teacher for the Young 5s. I graduated from the University of Georgia with a Masters in Early Childhood Education. I taught in Gwinnett County Public Schools prior to staying home with my children. My husband Justin and I have 2 boys, Hudson (7) and Tanner (4). I have over 10 years of teaching experience, most recently the last two years in Kindergarten during what was one of the most unique school years in history! I enjoy being outdoors with my boys, watching them play soccer, shopping, and reading!

Tara Landry

Young 5s Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Tara Landry and I am so excited to be joining the staff at JCBC preschool this year and working with Ms. Jody in the Young 5s class. I have lived in Sugar Hill for 24 years and in the metro area my entire life. My husband Glenn and I have been married for 41 years, and have two grown sons. My world and heart revolve around my 22-year-old grandson, Drew, who we have had full time since birth. I have a BS Ed in Social Studies and BS Ed in Elementary Education, both from the University of Georgia. “Goooo Dawgs!” This will be my 21st year as an early childhood teacher and 40th year of teaching. We are members of Life Unlimited Church where I lead the Women’s Ministry and Drew plays acoustic guitar with the worship team. I am looking forward to meeting your kiddos and watching them grow physically, academically, and most of all, spiritually.

Terri MacDonald

Pre-k and Young 5s Fun Friday Lead Teacher
Ms. Terri is returning for a third year as a part time lead teacher at JCBCP.  She officially retired from 20 years of preschool and elementary school teaching in May of 2021.  However, her passion for working with young children brought her back to the classroom on an abbreviated schedule.  Ms. Terri is an active member of JCBC, working in children’s ministry and greeting worshippers every Sunday.  She and her husband Bob have lived in the Johns Creek area for 22 years.  They have two married children and three precious grandchildren in the Atlanta area.  Ms. Terri loves walking, reading, participating in Bible study, spending time with her family, and traveling with her husband of 43 years.

Andrea Ivie

Pre-k and Young 5s Fun Friday Assistant Teacher
I am excited to officially join Johns Creek Baptist Preschool helping to pave the way for kids to enter Kindergarten! I have been a substitute teacher and helped in the Mothers Morning Fellowship at JCBC since 2019. Before that I worked as a 3s assistant at Smyrna First Baptist Church. I have also worked in the spa industry for 20 years performing services and managing a luxury spa resort. My husband and I have two daughters, Ella (10) and Avery (8). In our spare time we enjoy traveling to National Parks, hiking, golfing and enjoy watching our girls activities such as swim, soccer and church choir.

Special Teachers

Michelle Cleary

Fitness and Science Teacher
Hi there! I am Ms. Michelle and this is my 4th year teaching science and fitness at JCBC Preschool. Both of my younger children attended JCBCP. I’m originally from Oregon, where I earned a degree in Nutrition and Food Management, Dietetics option from Oregon State University.  I spent a year on exchange at the University of Georgia and after finishing my degree at Oregon State, I decided to move back to Georgia permanently. I live in Cumming with my husband, Joe, and four children: Owen (17), Wyatt (15), Finn (8) and Violet (6). In my spare time, I love spending time with my family, our dog, Scout, and our friends as well as going to the beach, gardening, crafting, cooking and reading. I look forward to another amazing year at JCBC with all of our wonderful students. 

Christy Dixon

Music Teacher
Hi I’m Christy Dixon.  I’m married to TJ, and have 5 children that keep me on my toes.  I got my degree in Early Childhood Education from Berry College in 2000.   During my time there, I assisted in the school of music as one of my student jobs, and fell in love with Kindermusik, the world’s largest preschool music and movement program.  Shortly after graduating, I launched Kindermusik with Christy and have been teaching preschool music in some sort or fashion now for over 20 years.   I love watching music come alive to young children.    I’ve been with JCBC for about 10 years now.  My youngest 2 girls came to preschool here the first year they opened, and I’ve been teaching music here ever since.