Staff

St. John’s has an amazing staff. Please read a bit about the wonderful people that make St. John’s the best place for your child.

Wanda Burkett, Director

Welcome to St. John's School.  My family- Dan, my husband- our daughters, Laura and Amanda, and I moved to Richmond in 1995.  We joined St. John's Methodist Church shortly thereafter, and remian active members.  In 1996 I started teaching a 3's class here at St. John's.  I moved to the 4's classes and taught there until taking the director's position in August of 2001.  My prior teaching experience includes: a toddler's class, substituting in a preschool, elementary classes (4th & 5th grade), and teaching classes for children with learning disabilities, ages K-9th.

I earned my master's degree from Southern Illinios Univ. and my bachelor's from Eastern Illinios Univ.

I grew up on a farm in the Midwest, and still have a country girl heart.

Valerie Smithey, Teacher - 2 1/2 year olds and Afternoon Child Care

My name is Valerie Smithey.  My husband and I live in Rosenberg and we have one son.  I have been teaching at St. John's Methodist School for Little Children since 2004.

I have my Child Development Associate credential, as well as many years of experience working with young children in the Methodist ministry.

I believe that a child's environment should include quality time and routine.  This will ensure that children develop good relationships and strong learning skills.  I strive to offer new ideas and hands on experiences to make your child's preschool year fun and rewarding!

Karen Sebesta, Teacher Assistant - 2 1/2 year olds and Lunch Bunch Assistant

My name is Karen Sebesta.  My husband, Eddie, and I live in Rosenberg and have a daughter.

My passion for working with children has spanned over 15 years.  As I spend each day with the children, my love and dedication continually grows.

I believe in nurturing children's independence and creativity.  I enjoy seeing children getting excited over their accomplishments.

Mary Ann Sliva, teacher - 3 year olds and Lunch Bunch Teacher

Hi! My name is Mary Ann Sliva. I’ve been with St. John’s School since January 1981, starting out as a teacher’s assistant and then becoming a teacher of the 3 year olds in 1984.  I'm also the lead teacher of the Lunch Bunch class. In 1990 I received my Child Development Associate certification.

It is a joy teaching the 3 year olds and helping them along their educational paths. They are at an age where they enjoy exploring new experiences, and I want their experience at St. John’s to be a positive one, enriching each child’s life both socially and academically. It’s my hope that each child and their parents leave my class prepared to take the next steps in their lives.

Candice Hein, Teacher Assistant - 3 year olds and Afternoon Child Care

Welcome to The Sesame Street Class.  My husband and I have three wonderful children; our daughter Carlee, my son Lance, and my stepson Christopher.  Being involved in my children's lives and activities is extremely important to me.  When time permits, I enjoy antique shopping and making rustic crosses.

I have been a part of St. John's School family since 2006.  My son, Lance was blessed to attend preschool and kindergarten here.  I became an assistant here at St.John's School in 2008.  I am excited to be a part of your children's lives and look forward to a FANTASTIC year!

Sue Ann Stavinoha, Teacher - 3 year olds and Afternoon Child Care

My name is Sue Ann Stavinoha. I’ve been teaching at St. John’s School since 1991. I love teaching the 3 year olds. I find it so rewarding to be able to enrich young children’s lives as they develop and learn in a Christian atmosphere.

I was born and raised in La Grange, TX.  I graduated from La Grange High School and Blinn College.  I am married to my husband Donnie, and we were blessed with two children, Jenna and Justin.  I am a memeber of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

 My hobbies include antique/collectible shopping, gardening, reading, and just spending time with my family.

Rena Sullivan, Teacher Assistant - 3 year olds and Afternoon Child Care

My name is  Rena Sullivan.  I have been at St. John’s School since 1996. During this time I have worked with children in the 3's, 4's, and Kindergarten and Bridge classes.

I'm married and have three great kids.  I enjoy being around children and watching them learn and grow.

Gina Galvan, Teacher Assistant - 4 year olds and Afternoon Child Care

Hello.  My name is Gina Galvan.  My family and I reside in Needville.  I have been with St. John's School since 2006. 

From a very young age, the Lord planted a "deep love" in my heart for children!  He has given me the awesome opportunity to love and nurture the hearts, minds, and souls of children.  I am also able to help inspire good character and inner strength.  Over the years, I have truly been blessed spiritually and personally by my relationships with children.

Kristy Hedden, Teacher - 4 year olds

My name is Kristy Hedden. I am married and have four young children, three boys and one girl.

I have a B.S. in Elementary Ed. and an endorsement in Early Childhood.  I previously taught Kinder and preschool, and took time to be a stay home Mommy, before joining the St. John's family 2007.

I believe that preschool should be a warm, nurturing environment for children to experience many new hands on activites.  I will do all that I can to make this experience a long lasting, loving memory for your child.

My one true love outside of my family, is teaching, especially the very young.

Marilyn Wester, Teacher - 4 year olds and Afternoon Child Care

My name is Marilyn Wester and we have lived in the Richmond area since 1985.  We have two grown children, a son and a daughter.  In 1994 I joined the St. John's School staff and have loved it and been here ever since.  I completed my studies for the Early Childhood Development Associate in April 2002.
Being able to teach and grow with each child through these years has been a very rewarding and satisfying opportunity to me.  Knowing that I am helping structure a young child's life and am making a difference in it, keeps me coming back year after year.  I'd love to give a shout out to all those children who I have had the opportunity to be part of their lives. Thanks! You have made mine.

Mylene Flores, Teacher - 4 year olds
My name is Mylene Flores and I have been teaching since 1992.  I joined the staff at St.John's Methodist School in 2006.  I graduated from Louisiana State University where I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.  After realizing that my true passion is working with children, I returned to college and attained teaching certification.  Currently, I am a resident of Richmond.  My husband and I have five children, four boys and on girl.  My teaching philosophies are: teach with patience and understanding, teach each child as an unique individual with his or her own learning styles, potential and abilities, provide a creative classroom environment with engaging activities, and apply discipline fairly and consistently.  Have fun! 

Stephanie Thielemann, Teacher Assistant - 4 year olds and Afternoon Child Care

Hi, my name is Stephanie Thielemann.  I love working with the children, they are a joy to work with.  I feel they are a blessing from God.

I have two children myself, Lauren and Stewart.  My husband is a teacher at Foster High School.

May God bless your child and family this school year.

Marla Hynson, Teacher - Kindergarten
I grew up not far from Richmond and graduated from Sweeny High School.  I then attended Wharton County Jr. College and transferred to Sam Houston State University.  There I earned my master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and received my certification in kindergarten.  I have always taught kindergarten and pre-kindergarten, and have recently retired after 26 years of teaching in Lamar C.I.S.D.
I love to do things with my husband, family, and especially the grandchildren.  This keeps us busy.  We are active in our church.
I am so glad to part of the St. John’s family, and I am looking forward to a wonderful year here with your children.

Tammy Hasty, Teacher - Music and Afternoon Child Care

Hi! My name is Tammy Hasty.  My husband, Randy and I live in Pecan Bend and are members of the Brazos Bend Baptist Church.  We have two married sons, James (Stefanie) and Steven (Krista).  I came to St.John's in 2001 working with the 3 yr. olds and the afternoon child care.  In 2008, I became the music/motor teacher.  I absolutely love my job of teaching and having a good time with your children.  God has definitely blessed me!

Kathie Psencik, Afternoon Child Care

I work with the Child Care program here at St. John's.  Occasionally I work in the classrooms during the mornings when a substitute is needed.

Working with the children keeps me going and definitely "on my toes".  Each child is unique, with their own personality and charm.

I have been employed at St. John's since 2002.

I grew up in Rosenberg, attended Lamar CISD, and graduated in 1972.  I am a member of St. John's United Methodist Church and of the Sojourners Sunday School  Class.

Mary Ann Kramer, Secretary

Hi, I want to welcome you and your family to St.John's School.  My name is Mary Ann Kramer.  My husband, Gary, and I have one son, Jeff.  I have lived in the Richmond/Rosenberg area all my life.  We are active members of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Beasley.  I enjoy playing volleyball, shopping for crafts, singing in our church choir, and being with my family.

I have worked at St. John's School for Little Children since 1979 as a secretary/bookkeeper and I also work the child care in the afternoons on occasions.

I have enjoyed every year at St. John's watching your children grow.

Barbara Randles

Over the years I have been blessed to have worked with children in my community in many ways.  I have served my church in teaching the word of God.  I have been a CASA volunteer of Fort Bend County.  More recently, I served as a mentor in HOST program at Austin Elementary School.  I have had the pleasure of substituting at St. John's School and getting to know the children.

I enjoy painting, baking, and gardening... but love antiquing!  I'm married and have two grown children, one grandaughter, and one very small and temperamental Chihuahua.

 

 

Thanks to Carlino's photography   www.carlinosphotography.com

Lindsey Huseman - Child Care

Hi, my name is Lindsey Huseman.  I have been teaching in child care since 2010.  I am a published writer and I enjoy nurturing children's imaginations through books and playing "pretend".

I believe all children are amazing and unique.  I often find myself learning from them.  I look forward to each and every day, and getting to know you and your child.

Lauren Thieleman - Child Care
Hi, my name is Lauren Thielemann, and I work the afternoon child care.  I just graduated from Foster High School, and now I am a student at Wharton County Jr. College here in Rosenberg.  I live with my mom, dad, and brother on our family farm.  I came to school here when I was little.  I love working with kids and I'm so happy to be working here at St. John's.  I hope everyone has a great year.   God bless you!