Renee Heckler, Christian Ed Director
Renee has been employed in the Early Childhood field since 1993 after receiving her Bachelor’s degree from California University of Pa. and The Director’s Credential from Northampton University. She has had various roles such as Program Coordinator, Regional Trainer, Team Leader, Mentor, and Center Director. In addition, she has been active as a Sunday School and Junior Church Teacher, Parent Committee Coordinator, member of various church committees, and a member of the choir. Renee is truly excited about her journey here at Grace and the opportunity to serve the children and the families of the church and the surrounding communities.
Sherry Hixenbaugh
Preschool Teacher
Miss Sherry is our Preschool Teacher. She has been with us since 2018. She graduated from Point Park University in 2013 with an early childhood education degree. She has been working with Grace Christian Education Center since its opening in 2018. Before working for Grace Christian, she worked for KinderCare Learning Center for five years as their preschool teacher. Miss Sherry is a mother to her son Domanic and has a dog named Layla. She likes to read, listen to music, and watch movies in her free time. Miss Sherry loves teaching and hopes to teach your children in the future.
Katie Gosney
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Miss Katie is our Pre-Kindergarten teacher. She has been with us since 2018. She graduated from California Universityof PA with a Bachelor's degree in Spanish. She has also completed Master's level coursework in Community/Agency Counseling. Katie has worked in a variety of fields, but now, she has found her true calling - working with children at Grace Christian Education Center. She continues to further her education to better serve our preschoolers towards her Child Development Associate.
Katie her husband Jim live in Stockdale with their two boys, Connor and Cole. In her spare time, Katie enjoys being outdoors with her family - camping, hiking, and fishing. She also plays flute and ukulele, crochets, sews, and enjoys doing crafts.
Miss Claire is our Department of Ed Teacher in our K-2 classroom. Claire graduated from California University of PA with a degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. She worked as a Substitute Teacher for 3 years in the Bentworth School District. Claire also helps with Children’s Ministries at her home church. Claire is also an asset in our DHS Classrooms.
Claire and her husband Jay live in Bentleyville with their two daughters Kaydence and Chloe. Miss Claire is a Cheerleading Coach and enjoys camping, dancing and spending time with her family. Miss Claire continues to add to her Professional Development and maintaining her certification.
Sammy Shutterly
After School Program Coordinator
Miss Sammy is our After School Program Coordinator and assists in other classrooms as needed. She attended Westmoreland Community College and graduated with an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts. She has worked with the Children’s Choir at her church. She sings in the choir and plays piano.
Sammy and her husband, Brandon, live in California with their two daughters, Charlotte and Bailee. She enjoys being outdoors with her family, cooking, and cleaning.
