Marlene Allen, Director
I have been working with young children for the last 29 years. It is all I have every wanted to do! I am passionate about providing an environment for children and families that is loving, caring, and allows children to learn and grow in a fun and meaningful way that has a lasting impact. My husband and I have two teenage daughters and we love living in Willow Glen with our two spunky dogs! On a weekend you'll find me spending time with my family or traveling.
Jennifer Schnabel, Assistant Director/Kinder
"Hi, I’m Ms. Jennifer! I graduated magna cum laude in May 2013 with a Degree in Child and Adolescent Development and a minor in Psychology. I taught PreK for 7 years before becoming the LGCS Director in January 2021. I’ve also had the privilege of working with children from all different backgrounds, whether it was through spending time with children in third world countries on mission or volunteering with children who have special needs. I love working with this age as they grow in their perception of themselves and the world around them. I’m so excited to be at Hillside and partner with each of you for a great year J Looking forward to getting to know you, your precious little, and to see all God has in store!
A few favorite things: The beach, Caramel Lattes, Flowers, Pizza, Cooking/Baking, Music, Verse: Rev 21:3-4
Megan Cerrato, Leaping lizard Teacher
This is my first experience working at a preschool, although I have been volunteering with preschool aged children for the last 5 years. Watching them learn, grow and stretch their creative minds has made me realize that teaching young children is my passion and brings such joy to my life. I am currently working toward a Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education. My husband and I have two growing girls, our oldest is 15 and our youngest is 12, and we love to travel. When I am not with my family, you will find me out running or reading a book with a giant iced coffee, three of my very favorite things.
Gizi Lee, Leaping Lizard Teacher Assistant
I found the love and joy of teaching children through having my own children. During the last 10 years I have worked with children in Sunday school, Bible Study Fellowship, and preschools. My favorite part of working with preschoolers is their enthusiasm for learning. I love to see how much they grow throughout the school year. I am passionate about sensory bins, reading books aloud, and hugs!
My husband and I have 2 teenagers. My time outside of school is mostly spent as an unpaid chauffeur and cook. As a family we love to travel. Our favorite places are Hawaii, Las Vegas, and Seoul. Eating delicious food is always our priority!
Sarah Wills, Terrific Turtle Teacher Assistant
Hello! I’m Sarah Wills, I've been working with children for over 12 years. I have had the privilege of caring for children in home environments, in public and private schools, and preschools in the Bay Area. My experience includes working with children and adults with special needs and as an "Integration Specialist". I love learning about how children think and enjoy engaging with neurodivergent children. I became a fully qualified teacher in 2024 and my favorite part of being a teacher involves creating artistic, social, and sensory play opportunities!
I'm the wife of Hillside's Worship Director and (soon-to-be!) Mama of 2 sweet girls. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with our church community and family, cooking, writing, listening to podcasts, and playing music.
Alisa Carr, Terrific Turtle Teacher Assistant
Hello my name is Alisa! I am new this year to Hillside Preschool. I am married to my high school sweetheart and celebrating 17 years this year. We have two amazing daughters ages 13 & 15! I have a Bachelor’s in Business but have decided to pursue teaching as I have always enjoyed being around children. I am currently enrolled in college classes to become a fully qualified preschool teacher. I am looking forward to applying what I am learning in school, along with many years of raising children, to the classroom environment. With my family I love to play board games, cook with my youngest daughter, try new restaurants, and watch my oldest perform in theater. I love the color purple, a great view (sunset, mountains, oceans) and DIY home projects. Looking forward to getting to know each family this year.
Brenda Ramirez, Terrific Turtle Teacher Assistant
Hi , My name is Brenda. I am a college student working towards a bachelor degree in child and adolescent development with a focus in early childhood education. I’ve been working with preschool age children for the past two years. I I love seeing young children reach their milestones . Caring for children is something that I love doing .My hobbies are reading ,dancing ,traveling , and drinking iced matcha.
Jen Cortez, Terrific Turtle Teacher Assistant
My name is Jen Cortez and I’m thrilled to be a new addition at Hillside Preschool as an aid. I’ve loved learning the ins and outs of the school and getting to know the precious children. I’m a wife and mother to 6 children. I love coffee, the beach, and hiking with my family.
Dawn Escobedo, Fabulous Frog teacher
Hello! My name is Dawn and I am so thrilled to be a fabulous frog teacher! Even though I am new to Hillside Preschool, I am not new to teaching as I have been teaching preschool for 38 years. I absolutely love preschoolers and I love to be able to tell children about Jesus! In my free time I like to crochet baby blankets and volunteer at a silent movie museum In Niles.
Karyn Kikuta, Fabulous Frog Teacher Assistant
leticia Martinez, Fabulous Frog Teacher
Growing up I have always wanted to be a teacher. I began by volunteering with both public schools and church ministries caring for children ranging in age from infants to middle school. My greatest love is the preschool years. I enjoy watching them grow and learn. Watching their imagination and seeing them explore brings joy to my heart. My husband and I have 3 girls and a granddaughter. My hobbies are dancing, reading, hiking, and arts/crafts.
