Meet the Team

Dedicated & Certified

Kristi Olterman

Director

I have proudly served as the director of Mt. Zion UMC Preschool since 2010. Prior to that time, I taught preschool for 6 years and at the elementary school level for 6 years, as well. I attended Furman University where I received a degree in Early Childhood Education, and then Oglethorpe University where I earned a Masters in Early Childhood Education.

I have been married to my husband, Rob, for 29 years and we are entering the realm of "empty nesters". We have two awesome boys, Nathan (24), who graduated from Clemson University and is now a productive member of society living in D.C., and Cameron (21), who is a senior at University of Tennessee.

I am very proud to lead such an incredibly qualified staff and the fantastic families of Mt. Zion Preschool, the loving school in the heart of East Cobb!

Lory Pruitt

Assistant Director

I have been at Mt. Zion UMC Preschool, the best preschool in East Cobb, since 2008. The first two years, I was the resource Manager and then became the Assistant Director in 2010.

I graduated from the University of South Carolina with a teaching degree in grades Pre-K through 8. I met my wonderful husband there,
and we have three children. My daughter Kelsey graduated from UGA and now lives in Washington DC and works for Morning Consult. My son Tyler graduated from Auburn and lives here in Atlanta. He works for JM Wilkerson Construction Company. My youngest, Brandon, is a Junior at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga and is majoring in Religious Studies.

I am so incredibly blessed to be part of this wonderful Mt. Zion Preschool family! Come join our preschool because I know you will love it as much as I do!

Meryl Mims

Teacher

I’m honored to be part of the Mount Zion Preschool community as the assistant teacher in the 4’s Foxy Loxy class. I have a background in ABA therapy and over seven years of experience working with children with Autism. Originally from Johns Creek, I now live in East Cobb with my husband of ten years, our eight-year-old twin boys, three-year-old daughter (who also attends Mount Zion), and our lab-beagle mix. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, hiking, learning new things, and traveling. I feel truly blessed to be part of this community and look forward to a wonderful year!

Allison Redhead

Teacher

This is my fourth year at Mt. Zion and I am so excited to be in my second year as Lead Teacher of the Beach Buddies M-F 4’s class! Prior to joining the staff at Mt. Zion, I was a Paraprofessional at Murdock Elementary for 13 years in the areas of Special Education, P.E., Kindergarten and Reading Intervention.

Mt. Zion Preschool holds a special place in my heart as both my daughters went here! Olivia is a rising Senior and Studio Art major at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Natalie graduated from Georgia College in 2023 with a degree in Psychology and is pursuing a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is currently a Counseling Intern at a faith-based counseling facility in Kennesaw. Our family lived in East Cobb for 17 years and in 2023 my husband and I moved to Acworth to be closer to Lake Allatoona.

I enjoy traveling, decorating my home, lake activities, learning to play golf, true crime podcasts and spending time with family and friends.

Bekah O'Toole Crosby

Teacher

I am beyond thankful for the privilege to teach at Mt. Zion for a fifth year. After growing up in Fayette County, I moved to Kennesaw where I received my undergrad from Kennesaw State University. I worked in private child care for several years before joining the Mt. Zion UMC Preschool staff. While I have worked with children of all ages for several years, I find my true passion in teaching the preschool age group. It's a treasure to watch children grow, learn and create, all while having fun!

My husband Brian and I have a 2 year old son. My little one is returning for his second year at Mt. Zion! As a family we enjoy spending time with friends & family, being outdoors and cuddling our two cats, Link & Lyra

Marlo Giamou

Teacher

I am thrilled to be joining the Mt. Zion team as Assistant Movement Teacher and bring with me a passion for health, wellness, and community.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology, and I am also a Registered Holistic Nutritionist.

Originally from Toronto, Canada, my family and I made the exciting move to Marietta two years ago—and we haven’t looked back. My husband, Mike, and I have three amazing kids, and our youngest is a proud Mt. Zion student, which makes this new role even more special for me.

I am genuinely excited to get to know all of the kids and families and look forward to a great year ahead.

Julie Pass

Teacher

I’m excited to join Mt. Zion Preschool as the Tuesday/Thursday 2 year old teacher. I was born and raised in Cobb County and spent many years living away in Murfreesboro and Chattanooga, Tennessee. My undergraduate degree is from The University of West Georgia and I have a masters degree in education from Georgia State University. Prior to having my children I was an elementary special education teacher.
My husband Stephen and I have a 9 year old son and 5 year old daughter. As a family we love to travel, hike, camp, and ride bikes together. I love to play tennis, walk and bake in my spare time. It is an honor to watch your child grow and learn this school year!

Christine Fritsch

Teacher

Christine was born and raised in New York and moved to Marietta, Georgia with her husband David in 1991. They have two children. Christine has a degree in Biological/Chemical sciences and has been a part of the Mt. Zion family since 2004 when her son attended the program. Since being a parent of a Mt. Zion preschooler, Christine has been a substitute teacher, an assistant classroom teacher and continues as the lead science teacher which she began in 2006. Christine is extremely proud of the entire preschool program at Mt. Zion and looks forward to each new day with everyone. Christine enjoys sharing her love of science and working to enhance the outdoor classroom area known as the “Gathering Place”. Christine and her family are members of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Christy Luttrell

Teacher

I am excited to be a lead teacher for the 4's Monday- Friday class. Mt. Zion is a great learning experience as we were fortunate to have two children graduate from here.

My past experience has included being a kindergarten/ first grade teacher, and elementary school counselor.

My educational background includes being an alumni of Emory University, Primary/Elementary education from Rollins College, and a Masters in School Counseling from Stetson University.

On a personal level, I like being outdoors,walking, beach activities, reading and being with my family and friends.

Looking forward to a great year!

Cindy Nekrasas

Teacher

I have been teaching for over 23 years both in the US and internationally and have an undergrad degree in International Studies and Russian, and a Masters in Elementary Ed. Mt. Zion is my happy place! I have spent the last 19 years teaching the 4 day 4’s class ever since I walked in the door as a parent of my own 4 year old. Ironically, the girl who always said, “I am never going to be a teacher,” is now teaching High School Special Ed in Florida. My husband of 29 years and I love traveling, hiking and Thai food.

Jen O'Daniel

Teacher

I am thrilled to be joining Mt. Zion Preschool this year! I grew up in Athens, Georgia, and attended college at Furman University, where I met my husband, Clay. After graduating, I received my Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education at Georgia State University. I taught Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade for 7 years before moving to East Cobb and staying home with our two children, both teenagers now at Pope High School. In more recent years, I have been a preschool substitute teacher, and I am thrilled to join Ms. Holly in the 3's class this school year! I love being outdoors with my family, spending time with friends, playing games, and traveling - especially to the beach! I can't wait for a fun year full of learning and growing!

Jamie Crawford

Teacher

I am the Monday- Friday three year old teacher. This will be my fourth year at Mt Zion. I have taught both preschool and elementary school in NC, SC, and FL. I graduated form Appalachian State University with a degree in Elementary Education. I relocated to the Marietta area eight years with ago my husband and two daughters. My oldest is going to be a freshman in college and my youngest will be a junior at Walton. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, going to the beach, and reading a great book. I am looking forward to a great year with everyone.

Anne Bridges

Teacher

I am super excited to be starting this year at Mt. Zion Preschool! I have been a substitute teacher in Cobb county for 5 years and have been involved in the Smart Art after school art club. I transitioned into teaching after a 19 year career in property and casualty insurance. I have an associates degree from Young Harris college and a BBA from the University of Georgia. I am married to a wonderful guy, Phil, and have two children. Libby is a senior at Pope High School, and an avid swimmer and coach. My son is at High Tower Middle in 7th grade and his hobby is baseball. My hobbies include tennis, yoga, audio books, being outdoors, and being with my 3 cats, two of which are Maine Coons. I'm very excited to be serving in this capacity!

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Alicia Snyder

Teacher

I am the Lead Teacher for the MWF three year old class, the Fabulous Fishies. My son attended Mt. Zion for 5 years and I really loved what the school had to offer. After subbing at Mt. Zion for a couple of years, I decided to join this wonderful staff. I attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where I received a degree in Elementary Education. I taught 5th grade for 4 years and also earned a Masters in Educational Administration from Kent State University. I have been happily married for over 20 years and have a daughter in high school and a son in elementary school. In my free time, I enjoy exercising, photography, traveling and spending time with friends and family. Looking forward to a wonderful year of learning and exploring together! Let’s Dive In!

Gabriella Boyle

Teacher

I am the lead teacher for our Young Fives Program. This will be my fourteenth year at Mt. Zion UMC Preschool. I learned about the preschool while my youngest son attended, fell in love and have been here ever since! I treasure the journey that I get to take with these wonderful young students year after year. I'm married to a great man for thirty-five years and we have three fantastic adult children and three dogs, a cat and a turtle..

Hannah Slocum

Teacher

This is my sixth year teaching at Mt. Zion. I am an East Cobb native and received my teaching degree from Kennesaw State. I have experience in primary grades at a local East Cobb school prior to staying home with my kids. I have 2 children that have gone through Mt. Zion and I fell in love with the school and the staff. During my free time I enjoy reading, exercising and going to the beach with my family. I’m excited for another great year!

Holly Hugh

Teacher

I’ve been a part of Mt Zion preschool since 2009–first as a parent and since 2016 as a staff member. I love it here, and I’m thankful everyday for the opportunity to be a part of this community!
My wonderful husband and I have 4 awesome kids—three of whom are Mt Zion alumni. As a family we love to travel and have adventures, play games, and cheer for one another—whether it’s at a soccer, lacrosse, or rugby game, a dance recital, or a stage production! Never a dull moment!

Maria Schwartz

Teacher

I’m so excited to be joining the Mt. Zion UMC Preschool team as an assistant teacher in the 18–24 month class. I grew up in Maryland and moved to Georgia in 2013. I’m married and a proud mom of three wonderful children—all of whom have been a part of the Mt. Zion Preschool family. My youngest is currently enrolled, and it brings me so much joy to now be part of the team that has meant so much to our family.

I hold a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland and a master’s degree from the University of Southern Denmark. In my free time, I love fitness, hiking, reading, baking with my kids, and traveling whenever I can.

Being part of the Mt. Zion community as a parent has been such a meaningful and positive experience, and I’m truly looking forward to supporting and nurturing your little ones as they grow, learn, and thrive each day.

Julie Taylor

Teacher

I am happy to be on staff at Mt. Zion Preschool. I grew up in South Carolina and attended Clemson University. I taught 4th grade for 9 years before moving to Marietta and staying home with my children. I have 4 kids who all attended Mt. Zion Preschool. I love reading and spending time with my family!

Loli Nicola

Teacher

My name is Maria Dolores Nicola and I’m originally from Argentina. In 2020, my husband Rodolfo, our daughters Sofia (12) and Amalia (7), and I moved to the United States, making East Cobb our new home. A few months ago, our sweet dog “Maia” joined the family team.

I hold a degree in Music Therapy from the School of Medicine at Universidad del Salvador in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and bring over 15 years of experience working in healthcare and education.

I truly believe in the power of curiosity, creativity, and collaborative activities as the driving force behind meaningful learning.

I’m grateful to support the Science class alongside Ms. Christine and proud to be part of the Mt. Zion Preschool community.

In my free time, you'll find me reading, singing, enjoying time with my family and friends, practicing yoga, doing pottery, and exploring nature.

Kay Morgan

Teacher

Both of our children attended Mt. Zion Preschool. I fell in love with the preschool and started working as an assistant in 2011. I have a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) . I am the lead teacher in the 18-24 year old class "Little Bears", and I have also taught three year olds for eight year. Starting in 2024 I will be the Science assistant on Monday and Wednesdays. I have been happily married since 2003. We have two children, a daughter, and a son. We enjoy music, traveling, and spending time with family.

Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world. We at Mt. Zion love them too.

Latta Patel

Teacher

I have been teaching at Mt. Zion since 2018, I am a lead teacher in music.

I have a background in dentistry, and I have also done my child development association from ashworth college.

I have been married to my wonderful husband for 15 years, we have 2 lovely daughters, and 1 fur baby.

When I’m not teaching at Mt. Zion, I like to spend time with family and friends, going on trips, and taking our dog for a hike.

Jody Clickner

Teacher

I'm very excited to be joining the Mt Zion family! I grew up in metro Atlanta and graduated with my Bachelors in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University. My husband and I have lived in Marietta since 2012. We have 3 boys who have all attended Mt Zion! I love to read, bake, and spend time with our friends and family. I'm really looking forward to a wonderful school year with the Top Dogs!

Angie Hall

Teacher

I am so happy to be working at Mt Zion with the 4's. I graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Child Development and Family Studies. I've worked as a Child Life Specialist and spent 11 years at Lekotek of GA, working with children with disabilities and their families. I taught a 4's class at Roswell United Methodist for 6 years and then started a preschool pod with 3 and 4 year olds during Covid.

My husband, Gavin, and I have 3 children - Lindsey(26), Ethan(18) and Alex(16). We recently welcomed an amazing son-in-law, Joe, into our family. We also have 2 dogs, Lucy and Dash.

I love to travel, exercise and read. What a blessing it is to be here!

Luba Abounassar

Teacher

I have been a 12-18 month assistant teacher at Mt.Zion Preschool since 2015 and a 2 years old assistant teacher since 2018. Taking great care of small children is my biggest passion.

I live with my husband of 21 years in Roswell and we have three sons. I hold a master degree in early childhood education and have taught in elementary schools in Europe for 4years.

My hobbies are healthy cooking and baking,hiking and reading.

Marisa Carter

Teacher

I am the lead teacher in the 4 day 4's Tiger class. Born and raised in Georgia, I received my Early Childhood degree from Georgia College. I began my teaching career in grades kindergarten and first for 8 years. I have been at Mt. Zion since 2011. Teaching is my passion and I love Mt. Zion!

I am married to my high school sweetheart (Rob) with two boys (Mason and Hudson) and two dogs (Hank and Bo). When I am not in the classroom I love spending time with family and friends at our lake home, playing tennis and mahjong, and cheering on Auburn athletics!

Marlene Asensio

Teacher

I taught at Mt Zion from 2004 to 2015 and am so excited to be returning as an Assistant Teacher for the 4-year old class. I have also taught Spanish in After School Programs at different East Cobb elementary schools. I have a degree in Marketing from Georgia State. I am from Panama. I have been married for 30 years and have three children Melissa, Cristina and Charlie. I love to spend time with my family and going to the beach.

Missy Ayele

Teacher

I have been a member of the Mt. Zion staff since 2006. I have worked with in the fours class throughout that time. I was born in Ethiopia, but moved to the United States in 1992. I have two wonderful children, Mathew and Elaine. In my spare time I love catching up with them and spending time together.

Paulina Gomez

Teacher

I am very excited to be assisting in the Spanish class with Mrs Suzy Viera and joining Mt Zion Team!
I was born in Mexico City. I am married and have 3 children (2 boys and 1 girl). My daughter Andrea attended Mt Zion preschool and we love everything about it!
We moved to the US in 2021 from Mexico, it has been a great experience living here.
I enjoy excercising and traveling. I love spending time with my family and friends.

Desiree Lewis

Teacher

Hello Everyone! I am very excited to be assisting Mrs. Gabriella Boyle with her 5 year old class this year and joinng the Mt. Zion team.

Karla Turnbull

Teacher

I recently graduated (Dec 2024) from the University of Houston with a B.S. in Biology. I am originally from South Africa. We moved to Texas when I was 5 years old, where I grew up and went to college. My family moved to Marietta in 2021, and I have moved back home with them to save money before medical school. I have many years of childcare and teaching experience in a variety of settings as I love kids and the joy they bring. Most notably, I worked as a kids’ yoga instructor for Zen Kidz at schools and summer camps across Houston teaching mindfulness, confidence, strength, and focus. My role as a yoga instructor for kids has also shown me the value of creating a positive environment with intentional and meaningful relationships. Although my teaching responsibilities evolved, my passion for uplifting kids and helping develop the future generation has remained consistent throughout.

Neha Marfatia

Teacher

I am happy to be on the staff at Mt.Zion. I was born and raised in Mumbai, India and have a Bachelors in History and Economics from the University of Mumbai. I have been in Georgia since 2017 and love it here. I have a background in banking and have been married to my husband for 16 years and we have a son in middle school. When I am not teaching I love to spend time with my family, travel, and read. I love being the music teacher because we get to see all the kids from 1 year old class to the young fives.

Annie Williams

Teacher

It is a pleasure to be coming back to this wonderful school in a new position this upcoming year as
the assistant in the Tuesday/Thursday 2’s class. I’m excited to be in a classroom working with the children and am looking forward to a year of fun and creative learning!

I am a Northern transplant (Wisconsin, Ohio & Minnesota), have been happily married to my husband for 13 years and have three boys (9, 7 & 5) who all attended this incredible school. In my free time I love to bake cookies, decorate my house, plan trips to Disney and train for marathons!

Susan Kaye

Teacher

I am the lead teacher for the 2 1/2yro classes. I have been teaching at Mt. Zion since 2009. I have a degree in teaching. I love sharing my excitement of books and crafts with my students! I have loved Mt. Zion Preschool since both of my children went to the school.

I have a wonderful husband, Rod and 2 amazing children, Amelia and Justin. We are members of Mt. Zion church. I love doing crafts, exercising, going for walks and spending time with family.

Suzanne Viera

Teacher

I am the Spanish teacher. I was born in Venezuela. I got married in 1990 and we moved to the United States to pursue a Masters degree in Civil Engineering at Georgia Tech. I have two children, Juan and Susy. I started working at Mt Zion in January 2003. I began as an assistant teacher and, after a few years I started the Spanish program at the preschool. I also teach Spanish in the after school programs in some of the public schools in East Cobb. I love teaching Spanish! I also enjoy spending my time with family and friends.

Alyse Simon

Teacher

I am thrilled to be joining the Mt. Zion Preschool as the assistant art teacher! Born and raised in Marietta, I am a Georgia peach through and through. I attended Valdosta State University to receive my Bachelors in Fine Arts and a minor in Women and Gender studies. I continued my education at CW Post Long Island University receiving my Master’s degree in Clinical Art Therapy. I have been happily married to my husband for 10 years and we have two amazing little boys ( 5 & almost 2). I am so excited to meet and get to know your amazing children this year! I can not wait to share my passion for art and creativity!

Angela Burton

Teacher

Our family has been a part of Mt. Zion Preschool since 2018 and I am so excited to be starting my second year as the assistant art teacher! My husband and I met while attending Valdosta State University and have loved raising our 2 girls here in East Cobb. I loved being a preschool parent of Mt. Zion and I am now so delighted to be able to work here too!

Amy Campbell

Teacher

I am very excited to be joining the Mt. Zion family as the Monday-Friday 3 year old assistant teacher! My nephew graduated from Mt.Zion this year and I have experienced first hand what a magical place it is. I have a degree in English from Hobart and William Smith College and adore working with children.
I lived in London for 10 years with my British husband Simon, and both our sons were born there. In my spare time I love traveling with my family, cooking, reading and walking my two dogs. I am looking forward to a great year ahead!

Tara Bretl

Teacher

I am so excited to join the MWF 2’s class as their Assistant Teacher! My daughter Lexi, 16 and my son Zac, 13 are both Mt Zion alum and this preschool has always held a special place in my heart.
After many opportunities to substitute in various classrooms last year I am so honored to rejoin the Mt Zion Family as an assistant in my most favorite class. This is such a precious age and it truly is a happy place to be a child!
My other joys are spending time with my husband of almost 20 years, my children, exercising, reading, traveling, being outdoors, and shopping (except for groceries!!)

Kelsey McMullen

Teacher

I am excited to join the 3's team as an assistant on Monday/Wednesday/Friday!

Melissa Buffin

Occupational Therapist

Hi! I’m Melissa Buffin, and this is my third year partnering with Mt. Zion to provide on-site pediatric occupational therapy services. I’m the owner of Milestone Solutions, a private practice offering pediatric OT and parent consultation services, as well as MelissaBuffin.com, a national consulting business where I work as an inclusive design specialist helping create sensory-friendly spaces for children and families across the country.