Our seven teachers bring over 80 years of experience in early childhood education–not even including their own families!
Suzanne Schneider
Preschool Director
Suzanne Schneider has been the Director of Westminster Preschool since January 2010. She brings over 20 years of experience directing preschool programs, as well as a strong knowledge of N.A.E.Y.C. accreditation and quality early childhood education. Originally from San Jose, California, Suzanne relocated to Lincoln in 2000. Suzanne and her husband Mark have three children–Megan, Nick, and Drake. Suzanne enjoys boating and spending time with her family, gardening and photography. Suzanne is a member of N.A.E.Y.C., Ne.A.E.Y.C., L.A.E.Y.C., President of Nebraska Directors Association (N.C.C.D.A.), as well as being an advisor for the Child Development Associate program through the Council for Professional Recognition. Suzanne’s passion and dedication to her work and the children are what make our program experience for children extraordinary.
Ashley Drysdale
Ashley joined the Westminster family in February of 2012. She has lived in Lincoln since 2004 and has three daughters: Lily, Poppy, and Sweet Pea. Ashley has a Child Development Associate’s Degree and is working on a degree in Early Childhood Education. She enjoys sports and spending time with her family. Ashley’s dedication to children and families as well as her bubbly personality are what make her a valuable member of the team.
Jenna Lempka
Jenna began teaching in November 2009. She graduated in March 2010 from Southeast Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood. She was a practicum student here at Westminster Preschool, and the children and staff all really enjoyed her. Jenna grew up in Northeast Lincoln in a family with five brothers! She enjoys shopping, playing with her nephews and nieces, and spending time with her family and friends. Jenna’s bright and friendly personality is what makes her such a great part of our team.
Allison Heins
Allison Heins joined our program in 2012. Allie is from the small Nebraska town of Osceola. She married her high school sweetheart and has been married for almost 10 years. Allie and Justin have three children; Avery, Breckin, and Harlow. Allie has an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and over 10 years of working in an NAEYC Accredited program. Allie’s hobbies include running and spending time with her family at the lake. Allie’s spiritual strength and kind heart make her an instant attraction to the children.
Judy Nyhof
Judy began teaching at Westminster in 2000. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. She was born in Michigan and has been married to Ed for over 40 years. They have 3 children and 9 grandchildren. Judy has lived in Lincoln for over 20 years and enjoys scrap booking, reading and doing activities with her family. She enjoys watching all sporting activities her grandchildren are involved in–it keeps her very busy! She is also a big Michigan football fan!
Rachel Pickard
Rachel began her career with Westminster through an internship program with Iowa State. Upon completion of her Bachelor’s Degree in Child, Adult and Family Services in December 2010, she joined our staff full time. Rachel grew up in West Des Moines, Iowa. She enjoys baking, spending time with family and friends, and playing sand volleyball. The relationships Rachel has built with the children and families show her commitment to our belief that families are our partners.
Melissa Killingsworth
Melissa began teaching at Westminster Preschool in June 2010. She has fifteen plus years of past teaching experience and holds a CDA degree in Early Childhood Education, as well as a degree in Culinary Arts. Melissa has been married to Kory for over 20 years and they have 3 boys: Justice, and twins Noah and Titus. All of her children attend Sheridan Elementary. Melissa enjoys baking, and spending time with her family. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our program.
Betsy Guyer
Betsy grew up in Iowa City Iowa and graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in German (BA). Betsy and her husband Shayne celebrated 20 years of marriage in July and have 5 children; Nathan, Sam, Blythe, Charlotte and Max. Along with her degree in German, Betsy has completed 20 credit hours of Elementary and Early Childhood Education. Not only is Betsy a teacher in our preschool program, but she is also the Director of Children’s Ministries for Westminster Presbyterian and has been leading the children in that program since 2005. One of Betsy’s highlights in working with the preschool children is leading Chapel Chat! Betsy is an avid runner, cyclist, and cook. She loves to read and travel.
Dalyn Powell
Dalyn began her career with Westminster Preschool in August of 2011 filling in for teachers and doing art preperation for teh classrooms. In august 2012 Dalyn took on more of an administrative role with the school. You will find her in the office completing many administrative tasks or subbing in the classrooms. Dalyn has a diploma in secretary science and a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration from UNK. Dalyn is married to Jeremy and together they have 3 children; Jackson, Taylor, and Brody. All three of Dalyn’s children attended Westminster Preschool. Dalyn enjoys making crafts, going to movies, shopping, and spending time with her children. Dalyn’s dedication and willing spirit make her an asset to Westminster Preschool.
Kelly Rabenhorst
Kelly began teaching at Westminster Preschool in 2012. Kelly taught preschool in California at a Presbyterian Preschool for 5 years before coming to Lincoln. Kelly attended Doan College in Crete, N.E. as well as Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, A.Z. Kelly’s background is in Art and Interior Design with a minor in Early Childhood Education. Kelly has worked in Early Childhood Education for over 11 years. She has one son, Zachary. Kelly enjoys attei\nding sporting events, painting, and children. Working with children is truly a passion of hers, she enjoys each and every opportunity she has to grow along with them.
