Our Teachers

At Tree of Life Christian Preschool, our teachers are the heart of who we are. Each one brings creativity, experience, and a deep love for nurturing children in a safe, faith-centered environment.

Mrs. Kari Nau

Director & Teacher (2s – Sunshine Room)

Mrs. Nau (pronounced Gnaw) holds a B.A. in Education from Cardinal Stritch University and has over 15 years of early childhood teaching experience. She believes in the education of the whole child and values learning through play. As Director, she fosters a warm, supportive environment for every child and family — helping parents feel confident and children feel safe, seen, and loved.

Mrs. Elaine Wilcox

Teacher (2s – Sunshine Room)

Mrs. Wilcox earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and business from Ripon College and her master’s degree in business from UW–Madison. After a successful career in marketing and years as a stay-at-home mom, she found her passion in early childhood education. With experience at several local preschools, she delights in discovering each child’s personality and learning style.

Mrs. Laura Fischer

Teacher (3s – Rainbow Room)

Mrs. Fischer received her B.A. from Virginia Tech and completed her teacher licensure in birth through 6th grade at the University of Richmond. Before starting her family, she taught 5th grade and junior kindergarten. A proud Tree of Life parent and former board member, she’s thrilled to now be part of the teaching team.

“I believe play is a child’s most important work. My goal is to create an environment where children can grow and thrive while exploring the world around them.”

Ms. Stacy Knab

Teacher (3s – Rainbow Room)

Mrs. Knab holds a graduate certificate in Education and spent many years working as a middle and high school special education teacher. After stepping out of the classroom to stay home with her three children, she remained deeply involved in education and community by serving as both vice president and president of the parent board. These experiences strengthened her appreciation for the many ways children learn and grow. She is excited to return to the classroom and teach in the Rainbow Room, a space that celebrates curiosity and joyful learning. She values creativity, play, exploration, and creating a nurturing environment that honors each child’s individuality while fostering confidence and independence. Her goal is to help every child feel seen, supported, and inspired.

Mrs. Jessica McDonald

Teacher (2s – Sunshine Room)

Jessica McDonald received her BA in Elementary Education and spent five years teaching before staying home with her first child. She then dedicated the next eight years to raising her three children, now ages 8, 7, and 4. Jessica brings warmth, patience, and a deep understanding of early childhood development to her classroom. She fosters a welcoming learning environment where every child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn and grow through play.

Mrs. Christine Schultz

Teacher (2s – Sunshine Room)

Mrs. Schultz holds a BA in early childhood education from the university of Milwaukee. She lives in Whitefish Bay, raising her four children. She has over 5 years of experience in a preschool classroom. Mrs. Schultz is committed to helping young children grow, learn through play and feel confident in a positive and fun classroom.

Ms. Tina Sanfilippo

Teacher (2s – Sunshine Room)

Ms. Sanfilippo is a proud mom of four energetic boys and has always dreamed of being a mother, which naturally led her to a career working with young children. She values kindness and love while creating a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, loved and encouraged to grow. Her life outside of TOL, she loves cheering on the Green Bay Packers, taking care of her cat, dog and chickens, and spending time with her family. She brings outside experience as a postpartum doula and event planner as well!