Our Team
Kara Pingel
Alexa Carmona
Nataly Takla
Director & Learning Coach - 5th
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Education from Concordia University Wisconsin and a Master's in Curriculum and Education, and have taught several grade levels throughout my career from toddler/preschool to middle school. I have served as the director of the Learning Center since 2018 and consider it a pri
Director & Learning Coach - 5th
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Education from Concordia University Wisconsin and a Master's in Curriculum and Education, and have taught several grade levels throughout my career from toddler/preschool to middle school. I have served as the director of the Learning Center since 2018 and consider it a privilege to partner with families in their homeschool/educational journey. It is a blessing to share my experiences raising my own six boys and work with them in ministry at Zion.
Nataly Takla
Alexa Carmona
Nataly Takla
Assistant Director
With a B.A. in Elementary Education and an M.A. in Christian Apologetics, God called me to Zion six years ago with a heart for Bible, theater, and building up children in the Kingdom of God with knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. I have loved how Zion has welcomed the opportunity for me to do more than fill a student
Assistant Director
With a B.A. in Elementary Education and an M.A. in Christian Apologetics, God called me to Zion six years ago with a heart for Bible, theater, and building up children in the Kingdom of God with knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. I have loved how Zion has welcomed the opportunity for me to do more than fill a student’s head with knowledge, but to participate in a community where they can grow as people.
Alexa Carmona
Alexa Carmona
Alexa Carmona
Front Office Admin
With a background in pediatric care and child advocacy, I am dedicated to supporting children and families with compassion and excellence. I am honored to be part of a community where every child is encouraged to grow and succeed at Zion.
Zaida Higinio
Zaida Higinio
Alexa Carmona
Learning Coach - 1st
I have earned my Liberal Studies degree from Biola University and have over ten years of experience in education. I am passionate about teaching and dedicated to creating a fun, engaging classroom where students love to learn.
Sadie Wilson
Zaida Higinio
Sadie Wilson
Learning Coach - 1st
I have been part of the Zion family for five years and love being part of a community where strong relationships and faith centered learning are at the heart of what we do. My goal is to create a classroom environment that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and character in every student.
Stacy Griger
Zaida Higinio
Sadie Wilson
Learning Coach - 2nd
I joined Zion three years ago with over two decades of teaching experience from a homeschooling background, so I am ready to help parents on their own homeschooling journeys. I love to bring hands-on opportunities and imagination-stimulating education to my students.
Hilary Smith
Jennifer Cervantes
Jennifer Cervantes
Instructional Aide - 2nd
Joining Zion for my second year, after several years of homeschooling my own kids, I am so thankful to be part of a learning center that really feels like one big family. Second grade is my happy place, but I love subbing in all the grades and getting to know all of the students.
Jennifer Cervantes
Jennifer Cervantes
Jennifer Cervantes
Learning Coach - 3rd
With eleven years at Zion, I am thankful to be part of a community that values faith, academic excellence, and strong partnerships with families. Holding a Bachelor’s degree and teaching credential, I am committed to providing a structured, engaging classroom where students are challenged, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Amanda Hawkins
Jennifer Cervantes
Amanda Hawkins
Instructional Aide - 3rd
I have a passion for working with children that dates back to my own time as a Zion student. Now, in my 14th year as a staff member, I am honored to continue Zion’s legacy of excellence.
Sonja Theobald
Kathryn Montejano
Amanda Hawkins
Learning Coach - Elementary Resources
With 25 years of classroom experience in Elementary and Early Childhood Education, I enjoy bringing my love of hands-on learning and creativity to the many roles I play at Zion. From Kindergarten - 5th grade STEAM & PE classes to resources, I enjoy engaging kids' curiosity and helping them find their own joy for learning.
Kathryn Montejano
Kathryn Montejano
Kathryn Montejano
Learning Coach - 4th
Zion helped shape both my education and my faith during my own time as a student here. After several years, God called me back “home” to be part of this community once again—this time as a member of the staff. It is a true blessing to pour into the lives of students at the same place that poured so much into mine.
Anna Curran
Stephanie Kline
Stephanie Kline
Learning Coach - 6/7th
Entering into my fifth year at Zion, I am passionate about creating a positive, engaging learning environment where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to grow academically and personally.
Stephanie Kline
Stephanie Kline
Stephanie Kline
Learning Coach - Middle/High School
I have been teaching at Zion for eight years and truly believe in the strength of this program and the growth it encourages in students. My goal is to help students develop independence and confidence while also caring for the whole student—academically, socially, and spiritually. I work to create a cl
Learning Coach - Middle/High School
I have been teaching at Zion for eight years and truly believe in the strength of this program and the growth it encourages in students. My goal is to help students develop independence and confidence while also caring for the whole student—academically, socially, and spiritually. I work to create a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and respected. In that space, they are encouraged to ask questions, try new ideas, and express their creativity so they can grow not only as learners, but as thoughtful and capable individuals.