About Us

Mary Kennelley

Lead Teacher for Pumpkin Patch Pre-K

My husband and I have been married for 42 years. We have 3 daughters and 7 granddaughters. My husband “retired” last year after teaching in the JBU business department for 15 years. He currently teaches as an adjunct professor for JBU. We have lived in Siloam Springs for 16 years and plan on staying here.

I have a Master’s degree in elementary education. I taught 1st and 3rd grades for 4 years, then stayed home for 13 years with our daughters. When I returned to work, I spent 10 years substitute teaching and worked full time for 2 years teaching toddlers and 4 year olds at a church preschool. I taught pre-k for 10 years at Northside Elementary. My heart’s desire is to continue to provide a high quality developmentally appropriate education for all pre-k students.

 

 

My name is Mikkiela Rodriguez, and I have been happily married to my husband, Mr. Rodriguez for 18 years. Together we have a beautiful teenage daughter. My favorite thing in the world is spending time with them and making memories. Besides family time, I love to read and to travel (especially to beaches), and I LOVE teaching!

I have been a teacher with Pumpkin Patch Pre-K and Kindergarten since 2018. First as a Pre-K teacher, and now a Kindergarten teacher. I feel so very blessed to be a part of such an incredible school family! Before Pumpkin Patch Pre-K, I taught 5^th grade math and was a substitute teacher for the SSSD and another local preschool, working in the education field since 2012.

I graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. I am certified both in Missouri and Arkansas with Educator License Birth-6^th grade. Teaching and working with children is my passion and it brings me so much joy!

 

My name is Hannah Eason and I recently graduated from college and got married! I also am a Siloam Springs High School Alumni. I love teaching young children and enjoy observing their progress!

I have a Bachelor degree from Arkansas State University, Cum Laude with emphasis areas in Preschool, Elementary Education and Sociology. I have enjoyed working with school age children in after school programs at a Montessori and private pre-k prior to becoming a lead teacher.

 

 

 

My name is Valeria Gonzalez, I have enjoyed living in the Siloam Springs community and I am a Siloam Springs High School Alumni. I have over thirteen years’ experience working with infants, toddlers, and preschool age children.

I have a CDA certificate and am continuing my education at NWACC in Early Childhood Education. I believe in the importance of quality early childhood education. As a pre-k para I support the development of children’s growth in all areas including social and emotional skills. I strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all children each day!

 

 

 

 

My name is Emma Smart. My husband and I have been married for 15 years and we have two children.

I have an Associate degree in Early Child Care and Development. I count it an honor and privilege to work in the classroom alongside the teacher. Watching students learn and grow brings me great joy!