Faculty and Staff
Michelle Fischer
Principal
I am honored to serve as Principal at Immanuel Lutheran School. I have worked in Education since 1994, serving in Lutheran Schools for more than15 years. Through the years I have been blessed to work in a variety of educational settings. I love to read, go hiking and spend time with my family.
My favorite Bible verse is Matthew 5:16:
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Julie Bobbitt
Office Manager
My son, Jesse, has been in school at ILS since PK 4 and is a proud member of ILS class of 2023. For more than a decade, I was a logistics specialist (office manager for hospital units) at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital for multiple cost centers. I left LBCH to focus more on my family. In 2003, I married Blake, who is a critical care paramedic at Le Bonheur. I enjoy singing, cleaning, reading, and hanging out with family.
One of my favorite Bible verses is:
James 1:2-3 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.
Heather Medlin
Preschool Instructor
I'm so excited for this new chapter God has in store for me here at Immanuel! I have been at ILS for over 10 years starting with after-school care and then transitioned into teaching assistant for both PK3 and PK4. My husband, sister-in-law and daughter attended ILS as students. In my free time I love reading, crafting (Pinterest) and spending quality time with my family.
My favorite Bible verse is 1 Corinthians 13:4-8:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.”
Jenny Swanson
Preschool Instructor, Librarian, Computers
I have worked at Immanuel since May 2007. I have 2 daughters. My oldest is a graduate of Immanuel and my youngest is a current student. I started out as a teacher’s assistant and have grown in my years here. I teach PK4 each morning and also lead computer, library and extended care. I am also looking forward to sharing my love of reading and research with the students and cannot wait to see how far they grow. I have a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and God led me to Immanuel to show me my love for teaching. Seeing students grow in their love of God and each other is one of my favorite things about teaching.
One of my favorite Bible verses is 1 Corinthians 13:4:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”
Lee Ann Harris
Kindergarten Instructor
I am so excited to be teaching kindergarten this year at Immanuel Lutheran School. I moved to Memphis shortly after graduating from the University of Alabama. It has been my great pleasure to teach kindergarten and first grade in Memphis for the past 31 years. I feel that the Lord called me to teach all those years ago, and is calling me now to a new adventure here!
My favorite Bible verse is Ephesians 3:20-21:
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
Jennifer McLellan
First Grade Instructor
I have a bachelors degree in Early Childhood education from the University of Memphis. I taught kindergarten for 10 years before becoming a stay at home mom. My daughter graduated from ILS in 2023. In my free time, I love sewing, crafting and running.
One of my favorite Bible verses is 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.”
Stephanie Glanzer
Second Grade, Music Instructor
I have been teaching second grade for most of my 20 years of teaching. I have been the 2nd grade teacher at Immanuel for the past 12 years. I love teaching second and third graders about the world that God has created for us through reading, experiencing, watching, listening, and discussing. I received a Bachelors in Education from Concordia University Nebraska and a Masters in reading from Walden University. In my free time I love to read, visit my family in Nebraska and Ohio, and spend time volunteering with Literacy Mid-South. Each summer gives me the opportunity to spend 3 weeks in Guatemala teaching English, music, and Bible stories. God has truly blessed me to be a part of the Immanuel family.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Proverbs 3:5-6:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Jenifer Haller
Third Grade Instructor
Mrs. Haller comes to ILS from California and says she just loves the people here. Mrs. Haller brings a wealth of experience and shares the love of Christ with her 3rd graders every day.
My favorite Bible verse is Matthew 28:18 - 20:
“Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Kasharri Hence
Fourth Grade Instructor
I’m Kasharri Hence, I’m from Memphis, TN. I used to live in Arkansas where I attended Arkansas State University (ASU). After attending ASU, I moved back to Memphis and continued my education at GCU. I worked for Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) with sixth, seventh and eighth graders. After working for MSCS for several years, I decided to take a journey into management and lead a team at Lowe’s as an Assistant Store Manager of operations. After two years of leadership with Lowe’s, I decided that I wanted to spend more time with my family and returned to MSCS as a first-grade teacher. My goal as an educator is to make all of my students feel like they have the ability to succeed. Most of my spare time is spent with my children, Nekko and Narrell, who both attend school at ILS. We enjoy sports and go to basketball, soccer, baseball games. Narrell wants to be a soccer player when he grows up, and Nekko wants to be a baseball player. I do my best to encourage them and show them what they’re capable of!
My favorite Bible verse is Joshua 1:9:
“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”
April Jones
Fifth Grade Instructor
I love teaching! I am constantly amazed at the path which God as led me. I am so pleased that it led me back to Immanuel. I am a Memphis native and a graduate from Immanuel Lutheran School. I received my teaching degree from Concordia Nebraska. I taught 4th grade in Denison, Iowa and returned to Memphis and Immanuel in 2012. I have previously taught 3rd and 5th grades at ILS, I am very excited to move to seventh grade. I look forward to new challenges and learning experiences. I enjoy movies, reading, and being outside. I love animals- big and small. God has blessed me with a wonderful, supportive family. My son is currently serving in the United States Army. I am a proud Army Mom!
My favorite Bible verse is Deuteronomy 31:6:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Tracy Young
Sixth Grade Instructor, 6-8 English Language Arts
I have lived in many different states, and taught grades K-9 both regular education and special education. I have three daughters, Emma who is getting married in October, Rachel who will be starting at the University of Memphis in the fall, and Molly who is a Senior at Bartlett High School. I have been married to my husband Larry for 29 years this July. We have lived in Memphis for two years, moving here from Nebraska-Go Huskers! In my "free time", I follow the Bartlett High School Marching Band to competitions, and will be attending Memphis football games to watch Rachel perform with the Mighty Sound of the South Marching Band. I like to read and browse antiques stores as well.
My favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Robert Duncanson
Seventh Grade Homeroom
Middle School Math & Science
I am proud to say that I am an Immanuel Alumni. I have a Bachelors in Mathematical Science from the University of Memphis and I have been teaching math since 2019. I am an outdoor enthusiast and when I'm not at school my family can be found seeking a new adventure in the mountains.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Psalm 95:4-5:
“In his hand are the depths of the earth,and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land.”
Becki Pollan
Eighth Grade Home Room, Middle School, Art (K-8)
I graduated from Michigan State University and completed the colloquy program through Concordia University. I relocated to Memphis, where I met my husband (a native Memphian) and have taught for 29 years (19 at ILS). My own children, a recent graduate of Mississippi State University and a senior at the University of Memphis, attended ILS from preschool through 8th grade. In my free time I enjoy cheering for “our” school’s teams, reading, gardening, and creating art. Throughout my time at Immanuel I have held various positions. My current position allows me the opportunity to share the subjects I am most passionate about: Art and Science. God is a focal point in both. I believe science is the understanding of the world God created, how to use it wisely, and how to care for it. Art is the development of our God given talents to share the beauty of that world with others.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Romans 8:28:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Amy Moore
STEMM Lab Facilitator
Mrs. Moore is excited to begin a new adventure in education here at ILS. She will serve as the STEMM facilitator, engaging learners from K-8th grade. Mrs. Moore also teaches science for 6th grade, PK computer, and 8th grade foreign language.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Joshua 1:9:
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."
Zach Croom
Physical Education Instructor, Athletic Director
I am a 2023 graduate from the University of Kentucky with a bachelors degree in Kinesiology (Exercise Science) and Health Promotion in the Teacher Education Program. I am so excited to help promote growth in Christ and lifelong physical activity for all students at Immanuel. In my free time, I love playing and watching sports, outdoor activities, and spending time with family and friends.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Romans 8:28:
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Molly Young
Second Grade Assistant, Morning Care
I am a recent graduate of Bartlett high school and currently major in mechanical engineering at Nashville State Community College. In addition to aiding for the second grade class, I am also a gymnastics coach at Wimbleton gymnastics in Bartlett.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Romans 10:9:
“If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Jenny Johnson
First Grade Assistant, Floater
I have been married to Mike for 22 years. I have two sons, Ethan (17) and Logan (14). I worked in preschool, for 4 years, in Texas. I love to hike and enjoy God's wonderful creations.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Phillipians 4:6:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Shawn Henry
Kindergarten Aide
I love working with our students because of all the smiles and hugs. My favorite time of the day is hearing the kids sing about their love for Jesus. My three kids are ILS graduates and I’ve been a part of the family ever since.
One of my favorite Bible verses is John 3:16 (my confirmation verse):
For God so loved the world, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Bessie Pitcher
Preschool Aide, AfterCare
I love playing and having fun with my pre-K friends. I joined the ILS family in 2005. I enjoy spending time with my family. Purple is my favorite color. I love singing in the choir at my church.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Psalm 121:1-2:
“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From whence does my help come?
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”
Jennifer Sandiford
Preschool Aide
I am happy to be part of the preschool team at Immanuel. I've worked with children and enjoyed teaching them the majority of my adult life. While in New York, some of my roles were the positions of children's director for birth-5th grade students, special needs foster parent, and co-op teacher. I've been married to my husband Zac since 1996. We have 4 children and one grandchild. Our youngest son, Isaiah, is currently a student at Immanuel.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Matthew 6:26-27:
“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?”
Ryan Pudwell
Facilities and IT Director
I attended Immanuel from preschool through 8th grade and have been working here since 2016. I work with volunteers to keep up our buildings and grounds as well as serving as onsite tech support for both the church and school. When I’m not working at Immanuel I enjoy spending time in nature; hiking, exploring, and documenting wildlife along the Wolf River and Nonconnah Creek.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Proverbs 3:5-6:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.