Learn More about the FPCS Teaching Staff

3rd- 5th GRADE TEACHER

Amy Sherman

Ms. Sherman holds degrees in Applied Science and Elementary Education. After 11 successful years in leadership at Shriners Children's Hospital, she felt called to return to school at Whitworth University to earn her teaching certification. She brings strong experience in third through fifth grade and loves nurturing the thoughtful curiosity and growing independence that define upper elementary students.

Mrs. Sowers is our longest-serving teacher and a highly experienced elementary educator. She spent much of her career teaching in Memphis before joining First Presbyterian Christian School. Step into her classroom and you are surrounded by books. Mrs. Sowers has a special heart for kindergarten families, and her warmth, wisdom, and experience help each child grow emotionally, spiritually, and academically. Former students often return to visit, a true testament to the lasting impact she makes.

KINDERGARTEN TEACHER

Jennifer Sowers

1st-2nd GRADE TEACHER

Kelsey Overstreet

Mrs. Overstreet is an experienced and certified elementary teacher. Before arriving in Spokane, she taught in Georgia and in Massachusetts. She's taught first grade for several years, and she loves this magic transitional age between younger kids and bigger kids. We are blown away by her ability to engage students with creativity and clear expectations, which cultivates a classroom environment where everyone can thrive.

INTERVENTION
SPECIALIST

Kay Meager

PRESCHOOL 4s TEACHER

Sam Somes

A long-standing member of First Presbyterian Church, Mrs. Somes served as a teacher assistant for over 15 years before becoming a preschool teacher. She knows our families and students better than anyone, and children of all ages stop by each morning for hugs and exciting updates on the big adventures in little lives. In her 5-day 4s classroom, she brings creativity, experience, and thoughtful classroom management to create a community where every child is loved and growing.

PRESCHOOL 4s TEACHER

Lori Sawyer

Mrs. Sawyer taught elementary school in Seattle for many years before her family returned to their roots in Spokane. She's taught nearly every age at some point, but preschool is her very favorite! Mrs. Sawyer's classroom is a wonderful blend of structure, integrated music and art, academic preparation, and fun sensory exploration. She also loves to get her students outside and try new things, making her the perfect fit for all types of busy preschoolers. Mrs. Sawyer teaches our 3-day 4’s class and will also serve as our Assistant Principal, beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.

PRESCHOOL 3s TEACHER

Katie Bradley

ASSISTANT OFFICE MANAGER

Jennifer Smetana

Mrs. Bradley is known for her gentle and encouraging presence, guiding preschoolers in movement, music, social-emotional learning, academics, and spiritual growth. Even the most hesitant students feel at home in her classroom. She has taught Irish dance at the Haran School since 2011 and held a variety of teaching roles in the Spokane area. Mrs. Bradley holds a B.A. in Elementary Education and has experience teaching kindergarten science, art, dance, and technology.

Mrs. Meager brings a strong and varied background in education to our school community. She has served as a classroom teacher, resource specialist, and elementary principal, giving her a broad perspective on student learning and growth. She holds teaching credentials in New York, California, and Washington and earned her Master’s Degree in Education with a concentration in Reading from SUNY Fredonia. She loves helping each child build confidence, strengthen skills, and experience success through personalized support.

Mrs. Holliday brings 18 years of business experience and 13 years of teaching experience to the FPCS office. Working as the Office Manager allows her to continue interacting with students, which very much appeals to her teacher side, and gives her the chance to utilize her clerical skills, making this her perfect job. She loves coming to work and helping the day run smoothly for students, families, and staff.

Mrs. Smetana is excited to join the FPCS community as Assistant Office Manager. With over 10 years of experience supporting schools, educators, and families, she enjoys helping things run smoothly behind the scenes through organization, clear communication, and teamwork. Jennifer brings experience from both classrooms and school offices, including work in international school settings. She’s passionate about creating a welcoming, supportive environment for students, families, and staff.

OFFICE MANAGER

Kim Holliday

MUSIC TEACHER

Ryan Childers

Mr. Childers holds an MFA in Acting from the University of Idaho and spent over 20 years performing professionally in Seattle. He has taught students of all ages and loves helping children at First Presbyterian Christian School discover the joy of music. For him, arts education builds skills that last a lifetime.

PHYSICAL ED TEACHER

Coach Jess

Coach Jess makes every P.E. class an energetic and engaging experience for our elementary students. The individual attention she’s able to give allows her to build strong foundational skills across a variety of sports while also helping each child discover joy and confidence in how they move their body. In her class, there truly is space for every student to thrive in P.E.

ART TEACHER

Kelly Koberstine

Mrs. Koberstine has always known she wanted to be an artist. She honed her skills and teaching approach at Walla Walla University’s Fine Arts program and brings 19 years of experience teaching art to young students to FPCS. Her favorite part of teaching is seeing each child have that “aha!” moment - when thought and creativity come together, and they discover how to express themselves through art.

SCHOOL NURSE

Emily Warila

Emily attended nursing school at George Fox University and has enjoyed specializing in school nursing. She has two children, one of whom attends preschool at FPCS! During free time she likes  cooking, knitting, and spending time in the great outdoors.