Our Preschool Director

Mrs. Brooke De Anda is a Bethlehem Lutheran parent and current member of Bethlehem Lutheran church. She has a double major in Elementary and Secondary Education (Spanish). She began her teaching career in the WELS high schools teaching Spanish. Her love of children has grown from raising her own 4 (about to be 5!) young kiddos that she currently homeschools. Brooke and her husband have been residents of Richland Center since the launch of Bethlehem Lutheran Academy in 2020 and are passionate about its mission and service to the community. Her faith is a big influence in her life, guiding the beginning of her working career as an Army Religious Affairs Specialist to teaching in the Lutheran Schools of the Wisconsin Synod. When not busy with work and school, Brooke loves to train for races, read, and camp with her family. Brooke and her husband Angel will be celebrating 10 years of marriage this December.

Part-time Teacher

Miss Katherine has resided in Gillingham for 8 years. She is the mother of 2 adult daughters. Currently, she is the Clerk for the Town of Marshall and a Substitute Teacher for Ithaca School District. On Sundays, she teaches the Children's Sunday School class at her church. Katherine has over 15 years of experience working with children in church, school, and 4-H settings. Some of her pastimes include gardening, hiking, reading, and building puzzles, as well as spending time with her family. She has an AS degree in Interior Design and is a US Navy Veteran.

Ms. Anna serves as a part-time classroom teacher at Bethlehem Lutheran Academy and has been a valued member of our team for the past year. She brings with her not only a background in early childhood education, but also a deep sense of kindness and dedication that shines through in her work with young learners. Anna holds an associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Southwest Wisconsin Technical College and has made a lifelong commitment to working in the field. With experience in both childcare and 4K programs within the school district, she is passionate about nurturing each child’s growth and curiosity. Creative and encouraging by nature, Mrs. Anna especially enjoys connecting with children through hands-on art…

Mr. Ethan Bilek comes with several years of experience in early childcare and more recently served as a classroom aid in elementary school. He holds an associates degree in ECE. He is excited to begin his career at BLA and grow as a Lead Teacher. He loves watching the Brewers, coaching baseball, and golfing. On occasion you can also find him enjoying a day off at the racetrack.

New staff member Olivia Rodriguez-Golner. I’m a new area resident. I’m usually on the farm when I’m not at work! I have seen many years of WELS schooling both as a student and as a volunteer throughout high school and college and I’m very excited to be apart of another one! I get my passion for the littles from my 2 adorable little siblings. Im excited to learn more about the Pre-K students through full time working with them, time spent playing with them, and time in the books furthering my knowledge about early childhood education! My favorite things: My Faith My Family Baby calves Photography Volunteering for Agricultural Organizations

Miss Martina is excited to be joining the team this year! She brings experience as a full-time nanny and summer camp assistant, where she supported kids through fun, hands-on activities. She’s passionate about creating a welcoming space for children to grow and explore. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with her kittens—or relaxing by the lake and trying new restaurants with friends.