Our Team

Our team brings a wealth of education, experience, and diverse perspectives to Mount Olive Lutheran Preschool. While each teacher brings their own unique strengths and gifts, we share a common philosophy and commitment to nurturing the whole child. Together, we create an incomparable learning environment where children feel known, valued, and inspired to grow. We are proud to work as a team to provide your child with the very best in early childhood education.

heather fangon

Preschool Director

In 2007, my husband, JR, and I were searching for a preschool for our son. We wanted a place that felt warm and inviting. We wanted a school where children could explore, learn, play, and simply be kids. At the suggestion of a neighbor, I toured Mount Olive Preschool, and I immediately found so much of what we had been looking for; intentional teaching, a beautiful campus with plenty of outdoor space to explore, and family events that made us feel like we were part of a community.

A few years later, when my daughter attended Mount Olive, my interest in early childhood education continued to grow. I began volunteering at the school and eventually became a teacher, all while earning my degree in Early Childhood Administration.

Today, many years after first walking through Mount Olive's doors as a parent, I am honored to serve my fifth year as Director.

I love this preschool with all of my heart. Mount Olive is more than a school to me, it is a place that has been part of my own family's story for nearly two decades. I have experienced this community as a parent, a volunteer, a teacher, and now as its Director. Each role has given me a deeper appreciation for the children, families, and teachers who make Mount Olive such a special place.

My goal as Director is to create a preschool where every child feels known, loved, and valued; where children have the freedom to explore and discover through play; where families find friendship and community; and where the memories made here become a cherished part of childhood.

QUINCY KOLL

I’m blessed to serve as the pastor of Mount Olive Lutheran Church and Christ the Cornerstone Lutheran Church here in San Diego County. I grew up in Lincoln, Nebraska, and from a young age felt God leading me toward ministry. I studied Theology at Concordia University Irvine, CA and earned my Master of Divinity from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO. I have been serving here since 2021.

One of my favorite parts of ministry is preschool chapel. My goal with chapel is that every child will learn that God knows them, loves them, and is always with them. I enjoy sharing Bible stories, singing songs, praying together, and helping children learn about Jesus and His love for them.

My wife, Courtney, and I live in Poway with our daughter, Eleanor, and our dog, Otis. I look forward to the day when Eleanor can attend Mount Olive and be part of this wonderful preschool community!

Pastor
Lead Teacher - Kinder Prep

JamIE ALTMAN

Lead Teacher - Preschoolers

VERENA KARAM

Lead Teacher - Preschoolers

JENNAFER KYZER

Hello! My name is Jenna Kyzer and I am so excited to be a part of the Mt. Olive Preschool family this year. I have been an early childhood teacher for over fifteen years in Arizona, Idaho and France!

What I cherish most about working with children is witnessing their genuine wonder, continuous growth, and the pure joy they bring to everyday moments. I love their energy and natural curiosity, and that no two days are ever the same. What a true blessing that is!

My family is new to Poway, but we already feel at home. I have a wonderful husband named Josh and three beautiful children, Vera (12), Miles and Theo (both 7). I love to travel, read, knit, swim at the beach and spend lots of time with my family and friends.

Lead Teacher - Youngest Preschoolers

Cory Harper

Hi, I’m Cory, and I’m so excited to be part of the Mt. Olive team! I’ve been working in early childhood education since 2011, when I earned my bachelor’s degree in Child Development. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with children of all ages, from infants through TK, as well as serve as an Assistant Director.

A few years ago, I took some time away from the classroom to stay home with my two children, Avery, who is five, and Emmy, who is four. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had that time with them during their early years.

I moved to San Diego in 2016 and have proudly called it home ever since. My husband and I were married in Temecula in 2019 and now live in Rancho Bernardo. We love spending our weekends as a family exploring everything San Diego has to offer.

Working with children has always been a passion of mine, beginning when I volunteered in elementary classrooms in high school. There’s something so special about seeing children walk into the classroom excited and ready for their day. These early years are filled with incredible growth, and development, and I feel so fortunate to be a part of that journey.

Lead Teacher / Assistant Teacher

MARIA GARCIA

My name is Maria Garcia, and I am honored to be your child’s Assistant Teacher this year. I have been part of the Mount Olive Preschool community since 2017, and I am so grateful to continue being a part of this wonderful school family.

In 2008, my husband and I moved from Spain to the United States with our two sons. It has been a rewarding journey for our family, and we are incredibly grateful for the home, friendships, and community we have found here.

Before joining Mount Olive, I spent eight years as a lead teacher in a bilingual Spanish-English preschool program in Corvallis, Oregon. Since becoming part of the Mount Olive family, I have had the privilege of teaching in several classrooms as both a Lead Teacher and Teaching Assistant. Each classroom and each child has taught me something new, and I truly enjoy watching young children learn, grow, and discover the world around them.

I hold a Preschool and Kindergarten Teacher Certificate from Spain and have continued my education at Mesa College, further developing my skills and knowledge in early childhood education.

I enjoy teaching and getting to know each child, working with families to support their learning and helping children come to know Jesus. Sharing in their education is both a joy and a responsibility I take to heart. I look forward to getting to know your child and family and sharing a wonderful year of learning, laughter, and growth together at Mount Olive

Assistant Teacher

ANICIya ALVARADO

Church Administrative Assistant

Mikki TRUSHEIM

My connection to Mount Olive began exactly where many of our families start—as a parent. All three of my children attended preschool here, and they still carry such happy memories from those early years. The program truly set a wonderful foundation for them, making the transition into kindergarten and beyond a seamless one. Because my connection to this community has been such a gift, I knew I wasn't ready to leave it behind when my youngest started school. I jumped at the opportunity to join the team as the Administrative Assistant for the church, and sometimes the preschool, throughout my years here.

Today, I am blessed to support our incredible staff, church, and families at Mount Olive. I love being a part of the Mount Olive community and helping to welcome new families here. I know your children will thrive, make lifelong friends, and experience the same joy my own kids did!