Teachers

Meet Mrs. Fernandez:

Hi, my name is Jacquie Fernandez. I was raised in Kingsburg in a family of four, I have two older brothers and an older sister. I attended Windsor Christian Academy for elementary school. When I was in 6th grade, Windsor became Immanuel and I continued my education at Immanuel, graduating in 2011. After graduating from Immanuel I attended Fresno Pacific University and graduated in 2015 with a B.A. in Liberal Studies and a minor in Peacemaking and Conflict Resolution. Ever since I was a little girl I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I continued this dream of mine and completed the FPU credential program. Most of my experience is in kindergarten and I wouldn’t have it any other way. In 2019 I married my husband, Nick, who is also a teacher. We have been blessed with two sweet and loving little boys, Maverick and Jax.

I was so excited to hear about Immanuel’s expansion and even more excited to be hired to start in the fall of 2021. I can’t express how blessed and thrilled I am to become part of the Immanuel staff. Immanuel has always been a second home for me. The staff at Immanuel did so much for me as a student and I can’t wait to offer that same experience to my students.

Favorite Verse: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” - Proverbs 16:3

Meet Mrs. Friesen:

Hi, my name is Leeann (Pauls) Friesen. I was born into a family of six with one younger sister and two older brothers.  My father is a farmer and so naturally my family spent a lot of time working with him on the farm in the Reedley area. I grew up attending Reedley Mennonite Brethren Church and going to Reedley Schools (Washington & Riverview). For high school, I had the privilege of attending Immanuel. During this time, I decided that I wanted to be a teacher. After graduating high school, I continued my education at Reedley College and then Fresno Pacific University. I received my B.A. in liberal studies from FPU. I completed one more year of graduate studies and received my credentialing through FPU. Following my completion of the credential program, I was hired at Lincoln Elementary School in Reedley. I taught there for 11 years. Most of my experience is in Kindergarten and I love it! God opened a door for me to teach kindergarten at Immanuel Elementary. Step by step I followed his lead and I was hired to teach here in the fall of 2016. I feel so blessed to be a part of the IES staff. Immanuel is truly a special place. It is not just a school. It is a family, a strong community bound together by our faith in Jesus Christ. 

My husband, Scott, and I reside in Reedley. We have been blessed with two spirited boys, Peyton and Carson. I enjoy physical actives such as biking, swimming, and running. I also like drinking coffee and reading a good book. My family enjoys taking trips to Shaver Lake and camping in our travel trailer. 

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 

Meet Mrs. Turner:

Hello, my name is Ashlee Turner.  I grew up in Dinuba and attended Dinuba schools.  Dinuba is also where I began my teaching career and taught kindergarten, third grade, and fourth grade for a total of 10 ½ years.  

I attended Fresno State where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in criminology with an option in victimology.  In my last semester of college I began substitute teaching and knew my heart was with children. Upon graduation, I earned my teaching credential through CalStateTEACH Fresno.  

My husband Jared and I live in Kingsburg where we are raising our two daughters, Lia and Carly. I love being a part of the Immanuel community.

Favorite verse:  “Let all that you do be done in love.” - 1 Corinthians 16:14

Meet Mrs. Asman:

Hello, My name is Suzanne Asman and I would like to welcome you to first grade!

I am delighted that God has led me to Immanuel Elementary School. My journey to Immanuel began in Visalia, where I was born and raised. My husband and I moved to Reedley in 2004 after we were married. We have been happily married for seventeen years. In that time, God has blessed us with three little ones. 

My teaching career began after I graduated from St. Mary’s College of California in 2001. I decided to continue my education at Fresno Pacific University and earned my multiple subject teaching credential along with a Master’s Degree in Reading and Language Arts. I have had the opportunity to teach kindergarten and first grade during my twenty years in the classroom.

My passion is to teach young readers the fundamentals of the reading process and watching them grow into confident readers.  I am thrilled to be part of the Immanuel First Grade team and truly enjoy the energy that our first grade students bring to school every day.

I am inspired by the words in Matthew 19:14.  Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

Meet Mrs. Langstraat:

Hi, my name is Lindsey Langstraat. I am beyond blessed and excited to become a part of the Immanuel family as both a teacher and a parent.  My heart has always been with children. I enjoyed babysitting, teaching swimming lessons, and coaching when I was younger. I was born and raised in the Bay Area. After graduating high school, I attended Holy Names University and played volleyball there for two years. I transferred to Fresno State and earned my B.A. in Liberal Studies, with a concentration in children's art.

After graduating, I earned my Teaching Credential. This will be my 17th year of teaching. I started as an elementary teacher in Lemoore Union Elementary School District for seven years, then taught in Clovis Unified for nine years.  My husband Jason is an Immanuel alumni. We live in Fresno and have 3 children. When God put Immanuel on our hearts for our own family, we really leaned into him and trusted his guidance. We are thrilled for this new journey he has led us to.

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." - Romans 12:12

Meet Mrs. Martens:

There is definitely something special about this campus and community!  Having lived in Reedley most of my life, I am accustomed to small town living, but there is nothing like the warm and comforting feeling you get from being a part of the Immanuel family.  As an Immanuel Alumni, I am excited to teach here and also to have my two children attending the school. Go Eagles!!

I earned my BA and teaching credential at Fresno State. Throughout my career in education I have been fortunate enough to experience teaching many different grade levels.  Each grade and age has its special characteristics.  They are all unique and exciting in their own way.

As a young student, I really struggled with reading, but I excelled in mathematics, so I was able to keep afloat through my school years.  As I ventured through my liberal studies courses, my eyes were opened as I learned all these fantastic phonics rules that I had, somehow, never been taught. It was a late bloom… but I blossomed into a reading fanatic!  Because of my own experience, I have developed a passion for teaching young students to read and decode.  We work hard everyday, striving to become confident readers, cultivating a love and desire for knowledge through the power of reading.  And!!  We get to do that with the Lord’s help.  We get to talk and discuss and learn how our God is a part of everything we do, from learning sounds, to interacting with our classmates, to discussing His plan for our lives.  We have the privilege to walk with Jesus together as we learn and grow!

Special verse: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:15-17‬ ‭

Meet Mrs. Groom:

Hello, my name is Kelly Groom, and I am so excited to be a part of the Immanuel Family as a second grade teacher! I was born and raised in Visalia and attended Fresno State University. While at Fresno State I earned my B.A. in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in History. I then went on to earn my multiple subject teaching credential and have previously taught third grade.

In 2012 I married my high school sweetheart, Tyler, and over the years God has blessed us with our three miracles, Kaylee, Mason, and Dylan. Together we love to spend time as a family, especially camping in our trailer.

I feel so blessed for this life and path that God has given me.  I am excited for this school year and to see what God has planned for my classroom and students.

"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." - Jeremiah 29:11

Meet Mrs. Jensen:

Hello,  My name is Kristie Jensen and I was born and raised in the beautiful foothills east of Clovis.  I attended the sweet little mountain schools in Tollhouse California and graduated from  Sierra High School.  I obtained my Liberal Studies degree from Fresno State University and my teaching certification through Cal State Teach.  This will be my 5th year of teaching. I previously taught  3 years in 2nd grade at Pine Ridge Elementary and 1 year at Spring Valley Elementary in the 6th grade.  I am so excited to be here at Immanuel and back in 2nd grade, which I love!  

I am married to my amazing husband Erik and we have two amazing kids Emma 19 and Lane 13, who will also be attending Immanuel.  In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family on our ranch in Prather, riding and training horses and working cattle with my husband.  I have a strong love for Christ and am so excited to get to share that with my students and coworkers.  I look forward to getting to know everyone here at Immanuel and being a part of this amazing school!

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

Meet Mrs. Wilker:

Hi! My name is Brittany Wilker. I was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas in a family of four. From early on, my parents instilled in my older brother and I the importance of having a relationship with Jesus and being active members of our church. It didn’t take long for First MB Church to feel like my second home and I looked forward to any opportunity given to be there. As I grew older, I quickly grew aware of the Lord’s very near presence in my life and desired to know what His call on my life would look like.

After graduating from high school in 2010, I chose to attend Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kansas. It was there that I met my husband, Trent Wilker, who is a Reedley native and Immanuel alumni. In 2014, I graduated with a double major in Elementary Education and Biblical and Religious Studies. After getting married, we felt the Lord calling us to Reedley and moved out here in the summer of 2015. In October of that year, we were blessed with our first daughter, Ellie, and I found myself adjusting to life in California as a new mom and aspiring teacher. After a season of substitute teaching in a variety of schools, the Lord opened a door for me to begin teaching in KCUSD. I’ve taught for seven years at Silas Bartsch School, one year in kindergarten and six years in second grade. In 2020, I earned my Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University. Along the way, Trent and I were blessed with our second daughter, Kenna, born in 2019 and our son, Caleb, born in 2022.

I’ve learned through the different seasons and experiences in my life that the Lord has faithfully been walking alongside me through it all and He will continue to lead and guide me. I am thrilled to begin this new chapter at Immanuel as a second grade teacher. I desire to build relationships and walk alongside students as they not only grow in understanding of who the Lord is calling them to be, but also as they learn to understand how the Lord has been faithful in their lives, too. I know that the Lord is raising up this next generation to know and follow Him and I feel so blessed that I get to be a part of that. One of my favorite things about teaching is how impressionable children are. What a gift to help shape and mold their minds and hearts to become more like Christ!

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.” - Romans 12:1-2

Meet Mrs. Farinelli:

Hi, my name is Brittany Farinelli and I am so excited to be a part of Immanuel Schools! I was born in Fresno and have lived in the Central Valley my entire life. As a student, I attended Clovis schools and was very involved in athletics. In 2004, I graduated high school and began my college journey as a Fresno Pacific Sunbird. I was blessed to attend Fresno Pacific on a Cross Country and Track Scholarship for all four years and enter into the Multiple Subjects Credential program in 2008. In 2009, I took my first teaching position in 8th grade in Selma Unified and then in 2012 was able to return back to my hometown of Clovis. I spent 6 years teaching 7th/8th Grade Academic Block at Granite Ridge Intermediate, which is located within the Clovis North Educational Center. During my time in Clovis, I decided to further my education and returned to Fresno Pacific as a student in the Master in Arts of Teaching program.

I met my wonderful husband, Dominic Farinelli, at Fresno Pacific and we have been married since 2009. We have two beautiful girls: Giuliana and Capri. We moved to the Sanger area in 2015, and love living out in the country. We had been praying for guidance as to where the Lord wanted us to send our girls to school, and the Lord put Immanuel on our hearts. Immanuel is such a special place and we knew that this is where we wanted to connect as a family. We are so excited to be part of the Immanuel Family and we feel so blessed to be a part of this community.

“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.“ Jeremiah 29:11

Meet Ms. Goertzen:

Hi, my name is Grace Goertzen and I am so excited to be at Immanuel Schools. I grew up in Reedley in a family of seven, I have three younger brothers and one younger sister. I had the privilege of attending Immanuel starting in second grade and then graduating in 2019. From there, I attended Grand Canyon University where I graduated in 2022 with a B.A. in Elementary Education.

I completed my student teaching at Clay Elementary followed by a substitute teacher position at Immanuel Elementary, Spring of 2023, where I gained valuable experience teaching in all grades and positions. This is my second year teaching and I am so blessed to experience that in the Immanuel community. I am thrilled to be a part of what Immanuel stands for, an opportunity in not only helping students to learn, but also in displaying the love of Jesus.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." - Isaiah 41:10 

Meet Mrs. James:

My name is Pamela James. I am thrilled to be at Immanuel Schools as a teacher and as a parent. I was born and raised in New Jersey. I attended Nyack College in New York where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education.

For the first 11 years of my teaching career, I taught in public schools in New Jersey and New York. In 2001, God called my family into full-time ministry in Buffalo, New York. Following this move, I home schooled my children for 11 years. God then opened the door for me to teach in a private Christian school for 2 years.

In August of 2014, my husband had a job opportunity in Fresno, and we made the big move to California! I have been teaching at Immanuel since 2015, and I am so thankful for this school and its warm community. I love educating young minds and sharing the love of Jesus with them! My husband, Joel, and I have three awesome children: Eden, Hannah, and Josiah.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:5

Meet Mrs. Efird:

Hello, my name is Melanie Efird. My husband, Adam, and I moved to Kingsburg 15 years ago. We have three children, Addison (16), Camdyn (14), Luke (11) and they all attended Immanuel since 2020. When we had our tour of the school we felt a sense of peace and home instantly and are so blessed to be here. I grew up in Caruthers and I am the middle of three girls. I grew up attending Calvary Christian Fellowship in Caruthers. After we moved to Kingsburg we started attending Kingsburg First Baptist Church where we have been members now for the past 12 years.

I attended California State University, Fresno where I earned my BA in Communicative Disorders with an option in Deaf Education. I continued at Fresno State to pursue my multiple subject teaching credential with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. My first teaching job was in Riverdale at Fipps Primary School where I taught Kindergarten. I continued teaching Kindergarten for seven years, until I decided to stay at home with our young children. Six years ago I started working part-time at Kings River Elementary as a Reading Intervention Teacher for 1st-5th graders who struggle with reading.  At Kings River, I shared a classroom and worked alongside Katie Ferreira who is now my job-share teaching partner in the 4th grade at Immanuel. We have attended church together and have been friends for over 10 years and are very excited to be teaching together at Immanuel.

In my free time, I love to watch my children play sports, relax at Shaver Lake, bake, and spend time with our extended family.

"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

Meet Mrs. Ferreira:

Hello, my name is Katie Ferreira. My husband, Rob, and I have lived in the Kingsburg area for almost 20 years. We have 2 boys, Cole and Carson, and they both attend Immanuel. I grew up in San Luis Obispo and I am the oldest of 7 in my family. I attended Grace SLO Church from birth until I left for college when I was 20. I became a Christian in my grandmother's Good News Club at the age of 4 and thank the Lord for my godly grandparents and my mom who loved me like Jesus would and modeled how to live a life serving the Lord.

I earned a BA in Liberal Studies at CSU Fullerton and returned to school 2 years later to pursue a teaching credential at CSU Fresno. My first teaching job was in Hanford at Lincoln Elementary School where I taught 2nd grade. I taught for three years before deciding to stay home and raise my boys. Eight years later, I started working part-time at Kings River Elementary as a Reading Intervention Teacher for 1st-5th graders who struggle in their reading. At Kings River, I shared a classroom and worked alongside Melanie Efird who is now my job-share teaching partner in this 4th grade position at Immanuel. We have been friends for years and we are excited about this opportunity to teach together.

Our family currently attends First Baptist Kingburg where I have volunteered for many years in Sunday School, AWANA and Mom's Time Out. The local church has been such a blessing in my life over the years and has helped me grow as a follower of Jesus. I look forward to the opportunities that Immanuel will provide for me to continue growing as an educator and as a Christian. I look forward to meeting many Immanuel families this year and trust that God has amazing things planned for our school and our students!

"Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying."  -  Romans 12:12

Meet Mrs. Roberts:

My name is Emily Roberts.  I grew up in Reedley and attended local schools.  It was when I was in 1st grade that I knew I wanted to become a teacher.  After high school I went to Fresno State and earned my Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Studies and my Multiple Subjects teaching credential.  After a few years of teaching I continued my education and received my Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and earned my Administrative Services credential.

I taught for 10 years in a local public school and have been teaching at Immanuel since 2018.  I am teaching 4th grade again this year and loving it.  I am so blessed for the opportunity to teach at Immanuel helping students learn about God’s truth and developing their Biblical Worldview.  The Immanuel community is such a special place to be a part of as a teacher and as a parent. It has been a wonderful experience and I am so thankful the Lord made it happen and He deserves all the Glory for it.

When I am not in school, my husband and I along with our kids love traveling to new places seeing God’s wonderful creations.  

My favorite verses are from 1 Peter 5: 7 - Cast all of your anxiety on him because he cares for you and from Exodus 14:14 -  The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.  

Meet Mr. Smith:

Hello, my name is Elijah Smith. I grew up in Dinuba where I attended the Dinuba Mennonite Brethren Church. My educational journey includes having attended Roosevelt Elementary School, Immanuel Jr. High, and graduating from Immanuel High School. I went to San Diego Christian College where I earned my BA in Biblical Studies. I have gone through Fresno Pacific to earn my teaching credential, have taught for three years in Fresno, and am excited to join the team here at Immanuel.

When I am not teaching, I love spending time with my wife Vanessa, playing any type of game, traveling, and watching a good show.

Favorite Verse:
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave his life for me." - Galatians 2:20

Meet Mr. Hoover:

My name is Corey Hoover, and I am extremely pleased to be part of the Immanuel family. I am a graduate of Fresno Pacific University and am currently completing my Master’s of Arts in Teaching. I live in Hanford with my wife Elaine and our youngest son Gavin. Our oldest son Christopher lives in San Diego, and attends Point Loma Nazarene University. 

I was guided to Immanuel by The Lord after working three years in alternative education. While I was blessed to be a part of that mission field, I longed to share the Gospel openly with my students. I am thankful to The Lord for providing me an opportunity to do so, and I am mindful not to take this blessing for granted. 

I am passionate about raising up a godly generation, who can stand firm in the Truth. Teaching through a Biblical perspective is important to me, as it helps our students understand the depth and scope of our God’s sovereignty, power, and faithfulness. It is my hope that each student under my care will grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ, and realize the awesome potential their Creator has endowed them with. 

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” - Romans 8:28

Meet Mrs. Schletewitz:

Hi, my name is Teri Schletewitz. I grew up in Reedley and attended Reedley schools. After graduating from Immanuel High School, I attended Fresno State where I earned my teaching credential.

My husband Jeff and I live in Reedley and have 4 children.

Favorite verse: “Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4

Meet Mrs Sorensen:

My name is Emily Sorensen and I am thrilled to be teaching 5th grade at Immanuel. I grew up in Kingsburg California and got my B.A. in Liberal Studies at Fresno Pacific University. I am married to my husband Cole who teaches at Immanuel High School. A few of my favorite things include chocolate, coffee, fall weather, and camping.

One of my all time favorite Bible verses is Joshua 1:9: "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.”

Meet Mrs. O'Neal:

Hello, my name is Bailee O’Neal, and I am excited to be a part of the Immanuel teaching staff! I grew up on a family ranch in Clovis and attended Sanger schools. After graduating high school in 2019, I was blessed to attend Fresno Pacific uUniversity on both academic and athletic scholarships, and I competed on both the swim team and women’s water polo team.

During my time at Fresno Pacific, I completed my B.A. in Liberal Studies, followed by my teaching credential. I have known that I wanted to be a teacher since I was in elementary school, and I am excited to continue teaching 6th grade this year. In 2022 I married my husband, Austin, and last August we welcomed our beautiful daughter, Halle, into the world. Together we enjoy camping and riding dirtbikes, spending time with family, and watching our daughter grow. I feel so blessed to be part of the Immanuel family, and I am confident in God’s plans for my classroom and students in this coming year!

“The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.” - Isaiah 40:8

Meet Mr. Villarreal:

Hi, my name is Anthony Villarreal. I am the eldest brother of four. My family and I grew up in Reedley. I attended Jefferson, Alta, Navelencia, and Reedley High School. After my freshman year at Reedley High, my family moved to Dinuba. I have always had a strong passion for God, baseball, math, and science. After I graduated from Dinuba High School, I continued my educational journey by attending Reedley College then Fresno Pacific University. While attending FPU, I received my B.A. in Liberal Studies and my teaching credentials in Teacher Education. 

Most importantly, I have attended Orange Cove Christian Center since 2012 and shortly after dedicating myself to the Lord. He has given me a calling towards teaching. I am extremely grateful for receiving this opportunity to teach at Immanuel Elementary. I am excited to be in an environment that loves God, family, and community. 

My wife, Samantha, and I are blessed with three wonderful children; Serenity, Anthony Jr., and Andre. We enjoy camping with family and friends. 

Favorite verse: Isaiah 41:10 - "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
 

Meet Mrs. Visser:

Hi, my name is Joni Visser and I am honored to join the wonderful Immanuel community as both a teacher and a parent. I grew up in a small town in New Mexico where I enjoyed playing basketball and rodeoing. I was introduced to Jesus at a young age and my faith was nurtured in our local Baptist church as well as through Cowboy Church ministry. After graduating high school, I was awarded a rodeo scholarship to Eastern New Mexico University where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. It was in my first year of college when I really discovered my love for teaching and desire to work with children. I accepted my first teaching position at a public school in Clovis, NM where I taught 5th grade.

I married my husband, Brian, in 2010 and welcomed home our first baby boy in 2011. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that God would ever call our family to California, but in the summer of 2013, we made the move to Fresno. My husband manages Bar 20 Dairy in Kerman and over the last 11 years our family has doubled in size. We have 4 of the most wonderful children: Colton (7th grade), Audrey (5th grade), Evelyn (4 years), and Wyatt (2 years). In 2016 I accepted a position at Kerman Christian School where I taught a combined class of 5/6th graders for 5 years. As Kerman Christian grew, so did their desire to add a middle school program. I helped develop and direct the middle school program for the last 2 years. Christian education is very important to our family, and I was blessed to have been part of such an incredible program. My husband is IHS alumni and with our kids now supporting blue, I was pretty excited to get a chance to jump in on all the fun too! If I'm not in the classroom, you will very likely find me with my family horseback or on another adventure. I am looking forward to a great school year!

"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." - Proverbs 3:5-6 
 

Meet Mrs. Suttles:

Hello! My name is Andrea Suttles and I was born and raised in Dinuba. My mother was an elementary school teacher, my dad was a full-time law enforcement officer and a part-time farmer. Our family was actively involved in the Dinuba First Assembly of God Church, as were my grandparents and great-grandparents. My mother taught at Monson-Sultana School, so my brother and I spent our elementary and middle school years there.

At Dinuba High School I was active in band and choir and volunteered at the local hospital. After high school I attended College of the Sequoias in Visalia and graduated from Fresno State.  I soon married my husband, Tom and lived in multiple states during his career with Ford Motor Company.  We have two sons, our oldest is employed in Kingsburg, our youngest is working on finishing his degree at the University of Arizona.  

My husband has taken an early retirement and we are back in the valley after living and working a number of years in southern California. After many years of substitute teaching, I am thrilled to have my own music classroom in a private, Christian setting.  God has been so good to our family and I am thankful for this opportunity to worship Him through music!

Favorite verse:  Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.”  Psalm 126:2

Meet Mr. ElaGarza:

My name is José M. ElaGarza, and I teach kindergarten through second grade music here at Immanuel. I am on campus Tuesdays and Thursdays.

I grew up in a small farm town near Monterey, called Salinas. Growing up I could always find joy in music. I gravitated towards music very young, and in the fifth grade I took up the saxophone. Music came somewhat naturally to me and in high school I discovered I can pick up most instruments and quickly learn them. I have an A.A. in Music, and a B.A. in Media Production from Fresno State. 

I married my gorgeous wife, Alexandra in 2011 and have 3 amazing children. Graham(10), Calvin(8), and Miles(5). We have one lovable goldendoodle, Cocoa(2). We live near the Clovis area and have a nice community of friends and family nearby. 

I work professionally as a Production Manager for the Fresno State Music Department. I’ve been there for a little over 12 years. I work with professors, students, and award winning guest artists from all over the world. I also record various ensembles, instruments, and concerts throughout the academic year. The eclecticness of different cultures and music has brought me even more appreciation of God’s amazing gift of music. It’s a very enjoyable job, but God has been stirring in me the desire to teach music since my wife and I started having kids.

While working for Fresno State I have had endless resources through professors and have sat in many music education classes, tutorials, and have taken workshops on elementary school teaching. I am fascinated by how kids learn through movement and music. I am constantly learning new ways to teach elementary music in this approach. I have recently been captivated by the Orff-Schulwerk teaching techniques and am using them in our classrooms today. 

I am beyond blessed that I’ve been given this opportunity to teach and happy to be a part of the Immanuel campus. My hope is to instill your children with God’s truths through music, using lyrics or scriptures, and of course having fun.

In my free time, I enjoy watching, coaching, and playing sports with my family. We dabble with a little bit of everything, such as, hockey, basketball, baseball, soccer, football, and pickleball. Our family enjoys the Shaver Lake and Dinkey Creek area. We are very hopeful to one day catch a fish.

Favorite Verse: Matthew 6:26 - “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”

Meet Mrs. Bondurant:

Hello my name is Michelle (Fernandez) Bondurant. I was born and raised in Reedley, and grew up attending Reedley First Baptist Church. My childhood was filled with music, and art. My father (Steve) worked for a printing company, and my mother (Connie) was an Art and Computer Design teacher for Reedley High School. Growing up, my sister and I enjoyed listening to my father play piano for our church on Sunday mornings.

I attended Reedley schools: Great Western Elementary, Grant Middle School, and Reedley High School. I continued my education through Reedley College, and Fresno State; where I graduated with a BA in liberal studies. After college, I accepted a job at Chapter One Preschool as a Preschool Teacher. Throughout my time at Chapter One, I worked with many students with exceptional needs, and became passionate about working with exceptional children. During that time, I received my Masters in Special Education.

God has blessed me with the opportunity to be a part of the SOAR team for Immanuel Elementary School. I will be working as the teacher for the SOAR Program. God has brought together an amazing group of teachers to reach every child's learning needs on the Immanuel campus. I am truly blessed to be a part of the IES staff.

I currently live in Reedley with my husband Drew. We have two dogs Kuiper and Minnie. I enjoy a good cup of coffee, a Disney movie, and snuggling with my dogs. I love spending time with my husband at the beach and Disneyland.

"Be still and know that I am God." -  Psalm 46:10

Meet Mr. Bennett:

Hello, my name is Sean Bennett. I grew up on the East Coast and moved to the Central Coast of California my senior year of high school. It was there that I met and married my beautiful wife as well as graduated from Cuesta College. I then transferred and completed my studies at San Francisco State with the goal of becoming a physical education teacher. After obtaining my Bachelor’s I moved to Clovis and did my student teaching in Clovis while getting my teaching credential.

My desire to become a P.E teacher flows from the love for sports and the valuable lessons about life that God can teach us through sports and fitness. I participated in football for two years in high school, as well as track and field in high school and college. My passion and belief about physical education is that it is incredibly important in developing the skills and knowledge needed to build and maintain a healthy and active life at any age. I also believe physical education provides a wonderful opportunity to build respect, responsibility, and a excellent work ethic. I am so excited to be teaching at Immanuel Elementary School, and I feel so blessed that the Lord has given me the opportunity to be a light to so many children’s minds and hearts.

My wife, Savanah, and I currently live in Clovis but are hoping to relocate closer to Reedley. The Lord has gifted us with a wonderfully energetic and joyful boy named Parker. My favorite sports and activities are exercising and just about any sport or physical game. Our family enjoys spending time in with family and friends whether that is out in nature or in the city.

Special verse:
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Meet Mrs. Huerta:

Hello families and friends! My name is Cheyenne Huerta and I am excited to be part of Immanuel Schools to share my love and passion for health, wellness and physical activity in a God centered environment. I grew up in the Madera Ranchos attending middle school and high school in the mountains. Throughout my educational experience grew my desire to teach and make sure others are blessed with a positive educational experience as I was.

I was a three sport athlete playing volleyball, soccer and softball all four years. I also played softball in college so needless to say I’m competitive. I have a background in Broadcasting (radio, television, newspaper) as well as Criminology and Recreation. I began my teaching profession in 2014 and have taught TK-12th grades. I have taught in the classroom in addition to my physical education experience. I’m blessed to have had the opportunity to coach volleyball, soccer, softball, wrestling and cross country. I love coaching as it gives me an opportunity to really pour into my athletes and love them and guide them just as God guides us daily.

I am proud to say that I have served in the United States Army as Military Police.  I am blessed with two incredible sons. I love being physically active and am up for most challenges or adventures. The kids and I love sports whether it’s playing or watching. We are huge baseball fans as we are on a quest to go to every MLB field...we are half way there to accomplishing that dream...Go Giants!

My family stands on Faith, Family, Freedom where we believe that God is first and foremost, Family is second to God followed by love for country with the freedoms and blessings God has provided. We accompany this with 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”.

Favorite Verse: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength”. - Philippians 4:13

Meet Mrs. Renney:

My name is Amanda Renney.  I was born and raised in Orosi, California.  As an Immanuel student I was active in the Immanuel Community, sports, and music. 

After graduating from Immanuel High School,  I attended Fresno Pacific University where I received my BA and my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.  My first teaching job was at Immanuel Elementary School as the 4th grade teacher.  I have experience teaching a variety of grades in both private and public school. 

My husband and I live in Reedley with our three girls, Ella, Adeline, and Marjorie.  I love being outdoors, working in my rose garden, sports, coffee, and spending time with family.  I am so excited that the Lord directed me back to Immanuel in 2020.  Being a part of the Immanuel staff and community has been such a blessing to me and to my family.  
 

Philippians 3:14 is a favorite bible verse:  "I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."