At SOTV, we are blessed with an amazing staff that is passionate about their faith, children, and education. They are each equipped with different talents and we are thankful for their dedication to SOTV over the many years that they have served.
All of our staff meet or exceed the educational requirements to work with young children. We value continuing our education in the field of Early Childhood Education as it gives us an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding on how to use a variety of learning techniques and strategies in our classrooms, connect with educators, and support best practices for early childhood growth and development.
Some of the continuing education courses we have completed include:
Tania Kennedy, DirectorTania has served at Shepherd of the Valley since 2000 and has been in the field of Early Childhood education since 1997. She has a degree in Early Child Education and a Site Supervisor permit through the State of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. She is on the Director Advisory Team for the CNH group of preschools in California, Nevada, and Hawaii and has served on an accreditation team for WASC and ACSI. She also provides early intervention for young children under the age of 3 years old that have developmental delays or are at risk for delays. Tania continues to grow in the ECE field through observation, collaboration, and training courses.
"It is my passion to share the love of the Lord with our staff, families, and children. I am honored to partner with them in creating a learning environment that is nurturing, fun, safe, and significant to each child. My children are SOTV alumni and I am thankful for the sweet experiences they had. I love to see the joy and experiences continue on with each child at our school.”
In her free time, she enjoys her family, the beach, bike riding, hiking, bible study, and going on vacation!
Her favorite children’s book is: "The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle as it is a reminder that "God makes all things beautiful in His timing” Ecclesiastes 3:11
Pastor WellerPastor Weller has served as the pastor of the church and preschool since August of 2000. He is a native of Michigan where he received his Bachelor of Arts in biblical languages. He then received a Masters in Sacred Theology in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Before coming to San Jose, he served as a pastor in Logan, Utah for 6 years.
"I have been blessed to be the pastor for the SOTV preschool for over 21 years now. In that time I have enjoyed telling the staff, the children, and their families about the amazing God we have who has loved us through His Son, Jesus Christ. Both of my children are alumni of the preschool and I get such a joy when I run into our alumni all over the community.”
In his spare time Pastor Weller enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and following his favorite sports teams.
His favorite children’s book is "The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear” by Don and Audrey Wood because it was his children’s favorite growing up.
Luna McManus"I love working at SOTV because of how loving our staff is. I also love being around the children, they are so excited to learn each and every day!”.
Luna enjoys cooking and baking, hanging out with friends and family, playing worship with her guitar, and spending time with the Lord.
Her favorite children’s book is "Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown.
Reiko Dunne "I love working at Shepherd of the Valley Preschool because of the amazing and wonderful staff as well as the loving environment provided for the children.”
Reiko enjoys spending time with her family and her children are SOTV alumni.
Her favorite children’s book is "The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn
Parnaz Kakhbod
Shelby McManus"I love working at SOTV because of the amazing and supportive staff and the sweet children, they love you and bring a smile to my face each and every day.”
Shelby enjoys riding horses, reading her bible, working out, singing to music in her car and being around family.
Her favorite children’s book is "Fancy Nancy” by Jane O’Connor
Dawna Marie Meyers"I love working with children and seeing their excitement as they learn and grow”.
Dawna Marie loves to bake all kinds of desserts and cook for her family.
Her favorite children’s book is "The Very Quiet Cricket” by Eric Carle.
"Working with the little ones fills my heart with so much joy and love. This age is priceless as their minds are curious, creative, and full of happiness. I am thankful to help guide and shape them at a young age”.
Nicole enjoys taking adventures with her two boys, creating home projects, and working out. Her son is an alumni SOTV student!
Her favorite children’s book is "The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein
"It feels great to give back to our community, making a difference at this school
and ensuring each child has the best experience!”
Isa enjoys watching her daughters play water polo and swim as well as traveling with her husband. She loves hiking, working out and crafting.
Her favorite children’s book is "The Best Nest” by P.D. Eastman.
"I am so blessed to be working at SOTV with a wonderful staff. My own children are SOTV alumni and I am thankful to be part of a wonderful program that nurtures the growth of children through academics, play, self-confidence, and a love for God."
Amy is an outdoor enthusiast! She loves to be outdoors, camping, backpacking, and exploring with others. She also enjoys tennis, reading, watching movies and snuggling with family.
Her favorite children’s book is "Because God Gave Us You” by Lisa Tawn Bergren
Kelly Quast"I enjoy teaching children because I know how important it is to have a loving teacher that helps inspire children to want to learn and develop a love for school. I love watching the excitement of children when they try something new. SOTV is a great place to be able to teach because we share ideas, support, love, and pray for each other."
Kelly likes to spend time with family and friends, hike, travel and watch movies.
Her favorite children’s book is "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” By Bill Martin Jr.
"I love the children and seeing their sweet smiles. They are full of smiles and happy to explore the classroom. The school feels like home since my children are alumni.
Susie enjoys spending time with her family and visiting her 7 grandchildren in Arizona.
Her favorite children's book is "Love You Forever" By Robert Munsch
