Memorial PDS Director  

Ms. Beth has served as the Director of Memorial Presbyterian Day School since the fall of 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education. Originally from Georgia, she began her career in the field in 2004 and has been dedicated to nurturing young learners ever since.

Beth holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, combining her love for teaching with strong leadership and organizational skills. Her warm and approachable nature makes her a beloved leader among staff, students, and families alike.

She has been happily married for 29 years and is the proud mother of three adult children—two daughters and one son—including a Sailor currently serving in the U.S. Navy. Her family also includes two cherished Shih Tzus, Winston and Willow, who bring plenty of joy and personality to her home.

Outside of school, Beth enjoys attending concerts, playing Pickleball, and spending quality time with her family. A lifelong Georgia Bulldogs fan, she proudly cheers, “Go Dawgs!” wherever she goes.

Her favorite children’s book is Love You Forever by Robert Munsch.

Her favorite quote is “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years” Abraham Lincoln.

Assistant Director

Ms. Kerry brings a wealth of experience and a heart for education to her role at Memorial Presbyterian Day School. After a distinguished career with the St. Johns County School District as both a general education and special education teacher, she officially retired—but quickly realized her passion for teaching was far from over.

In 2017, she joined the PDS team as a VPK teacher, and her role has since grown into that of Mentor Teacher and Instructional Coach. In this position, Ms. Kerry supports and guides fellow educators, helping them grow and thrive in the classroom. She also assists the director, oversees student assessments, and is always ready to step into a classroom when needed. Her presence is a steady and encouraging force throughout the school.

Ms. Kerry holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Specific Learning Disabilities. Her deep commitment to early education is also personal—she currently has a granddaughter in VPK at PDS, and she’s proudly watched several of her grandchildren learn and grow within the school’s nurturing environment.

Outside of work, Ms. Kerry enjoys reading, relaxing at the beach, listening to live music, and spending time with her family and friends.

Her favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein.

Her favorite scripture is Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”

Infant / Young Toddlers Guppies Lead Teacher

Ms. Megan is originally from Hamilton Square, New Jersey, and has three years of experience working in education. She moved to Florida from New Jersey a few years ago and quickly fell in love with the Sunshine State.

Megan and her husband, Les, have been married for 16 years and have been together for 19 years. They are proud parents of three children: Scott, 16, Alaina, 13, and Emily, 11.

Outside of the classroom, Megan enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and going on cruises.

One of her favorite children’s books is Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, a fun favorite that reflects her love of working with young children.

Megan is excited to be part of our school community and looks forward to creating a warm, caring, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and have fun.

Infant / Young Toddlers Guppies Assistant Teacher

Ms. Tammy was born in Olympia, Washington, and has five years of experience in education. She moved to Florida recently to be closer to her fiancé and she is excited to now call Florida home.

Tammy is a proud mom to her 12-year-old son and loves spending time with her family. She is also an aunt to 12 nieces and three nephews. Tammy has a unique and meaningful story, having been adopted from foster care at the age of nine.

Outside of the classroom, Tamera enjoys reading, crocheting, and coloring.

Favorite children’s book: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, a fun classic that brings plenty of energy and excitement to story time.

Favorite Bible verse:  Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

2PK Otters Lead Teacher

Ms. Jessica Gilkerson began her teaching journey at Memorial Presbyterian Day School in the fall of 2024. She brings over 24 years of experience in early childhood education to her role. Before joining PDS, she spent more than 15 years teaching at Crosswater Christian Academy, where she developed a deep passion for nurturing young learners and helping them grow socially, emotionally, and academically. Ms. Jessica is dedicated to creating a warm, engaging classroom environment where children feel loved, confident, and excited to learn each day.

Otters 2PK Teacher

Ms. Elizabeth began her teaching journey at Memorial Presbyterian Day School in the fall of 2020 and has been a valued part of the community ever since. After taking a year off in 2024 to spend time with her youngest child, Rhett, she joyfully returned to the classroom in 2025. Rhett, now two years old, proudly joins his mom each day at PDS. Elizabeth is also the loving mother of two other children—Matthew, age 12, and Isabella, age 8.

With over six years of experience in child care, Ms. Elizabeth brings a nurturing spirit and deep commitment to early childhood education. Born and raised in St. Augustine, she takes pride in her local roots and enjoys sharing that sense of community with her students and their families.

Outside of the classroom, Elizabeth loves spending time with her friends and family, relaxing at the beach, exploring new places through travel, and attending concerts.

Her favorite children’s book is Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown.

Her favorite scripture is I Corinthians 16:13-14, “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love.”

3PK Seahorses Teacher

Ms. Brooklyn has been a teacher at Memorial Presbyterian Day School since the fall of 2023. She is a native Floridian from here in St. Johns County. She has always had a passion for teaching young children.  She holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and has over 14 years experience working in the early care and education field.  Ms. Brooklyn is married and she and her husband have two children who also attend PDS.  In her spare time she enjoys scrapbooking, crafting, spending time with family and being outdoors.

Her favorite scripture is Proverbs 19:21, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

3PK Seahorses Teacher

Ms. Lily Croteau rejoined our PDS family in the fall of 2025. She previously worked with us in the VPK Sharks program while attending Flagler College, where she discovered her passion for early childhood education. Ms. Lily is thrilled to return to PDS and continue fostering a love of learning in her students through creativity, exploration, and play. Her warm and caring nature helps children feel comfortable, confident, and eager to learn each day.

VPK Sharks Lead Teacher & Movement Enrichment Teacher

Ms. Nancy has been a dedicated member of Memorial Presbyterian Day School since 2011. Originally from Long Island, she moved to St. Augustine to attend Flagler College. Like many Flagler graduates, she and her husband chose to make St. Augustine their home.

They have one daughter, a proud Memorial PDS alumna and current sophomore at Flagler College, who also works part-time as a teaching assistant at PDS—continuing the family’s connection to the school community.

Nancy’s own positive experience as a PDS parent inspired her to join the school as an assistant teacher in VPK, eventually becoming the lead teacher in 3PK. A few years ago, she returned to the VPK classroom, which remains her first love.

Committed to growth and learning, Ms. Nancy regularly attends preschool trainings to discover new ideas and best practices, bringing fresh energy and creativity to her classroom every day.

VPK Sharks Assistant Teacher

Ms. Julie joined Memorial Presbyterian Day School in the fall 2023, bringing with her over 12 years of experience in early childhood education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Penn State and has a deep passion for helping young children grow, learn, and thrive.

Julie is the proud mom of two daughters, Nora and Claire, as well as a devoted dog mom to three furry friends. Her love for nurturing extends beyond the classroom into her home life.

In her free time, she enjoys baking, cooking, reading, organizing, and spending time outdoors—especially near the water. Her warm, approachable nature and love for early learning make her a wonderful part of the PDS team.

Her favorite children’s book is I Love You This Much by Lynn Hodges & Sue Buchanan.

Her favorite quote is “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” Eleanor Roosevelt

VPK Dolphins Lead Teacher

Ms. Gina joined Memorial Presbyterian Day School in the fall of 2022. She is our dedicated 5-day VPK lead teacher, bringing her National Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and many years of experience teaching preschool students. She and her late husband played a significant role in planting a church in Melbourne, Florida, where he served as the teaching pastor for 19 years.

Ms. Gina relocated from Palm Bay, Florida to St. Augustine to be closer to her son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter—who also attends PDS. We are truly blessed to have her as part of our staff, and she has quickly become an integral member of our school family.

Outside of work, Ms. Gina enjoys traveling, hiking, running, and spending time with her three beloved cats. Her warmth and experience make her a cherished teacher at PDS.

Her favorite children’s book is The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams.

Her favorite scripture is Psalm 91

VPK Dolphins Assistant Teacher

Ms. Deana joined Memorial Presbyterian Day School in the fall of 2022. She is originally from Racine, Wisconsin, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. She and her husband relocated to Florida for the sunny weather and, inspired by a desire to work with children, she began teaching VPK at Mason Elementary School before joining Memorial Presbyterian Day School.

Ms. Deana now teaches the Dolphins class, where her passion and energy are deeply appreciated. Fluent in Spanish, she enriches her students’ experience by incorporating daily Spanish lessons, giving them a wonderful early introduction to a second language.

When she’s not in the classroom, Ms. Deana enjoys traveling, shopping, and exploring new foods. We’re thrilled to have her as part of the PDS family!

Her favorite children’s book is Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by John Archambault & Bill Martin.

Her favorite quote is “If you can dream it, you can do it.” Walt Disney

Extended Day Teacher and Enrichments Teacher

Ms. Gia was born and raised in Coral Springs, Florida, and has one year of experience in education. She holds a high school diploma and is CPR/BLS and EKG certified. Ga is currently pursuing a pre-med path and is excited to look forward to her future achievements in the healthcare field.

Outside of the classroom, Giovanna enjoys reading, swimming, going to the gym, and taking car rides while listening to music. Her favorite color is pink!

Favorite children’s book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, a beloved classic that makes story time fun and engaging for young children.

Favorite quote: “I won’t just be a rock star. I will be a legend.”

Extended Day Teacher

Ms. Sharon was born and raised in St. Augustine, Florida, and has six years of experience in education. She has a background as a Medical Assistant and previously worked with the St. Johns County School System in their Extended Day program. Her experience in both healthcare and education brings a caring and nurturing perspective to her work with children.

Ms. Sharon is a proud mom of three children—triplets! She truly enjoys spending time with her family. She loves reading, horseback riding, and hunting for treasures at thrift stores.

Her favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Ms. Sharon is excited to be part of our school community and looks forward to creating a loving, fun, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.