Beth grew up in Missouri. After high school, Beth attended Central Methodist College where she met her husband, Brian. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 1983. After graduation, she worked in the public school system for 7 years as an elementary teacher before staying home to raise their children. After their youngest child began Kindergarten in 2000, Beth began teaching preschool at Big Apple in Havana, IL. In 2022, Beth completed a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Western Illinois University. 

In 2008, Beth founded Apple Ducklings Preschool in Havana, IL.  She retired from Apple Ducklings in May 2025. Over the many years, she enjoyed providing play-based education, inquiry based learning, and creative learning to so many children and creating relationships with so many wonderful families. 

Beth’s experience as a teacher has also proven how well Inquiry Based Learning works to create curious independent thinkers. She is excited to be involved with this type of learning at the elementary and middle school levels as well. Beth has a natural talent for working with children, especially through her gentleness and creativity.

Beth is a mother of three grown children, the grandmother of two children, and the wife of a pastor. She is also a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bath, IL and has been involved with the Sunday School and VBS programs as a teacher for over 30 years. She is looking forward to being able to share her faith with students in an educational setting. 

Her hobbies include sewing, crafting, and watching HGTV. More than anything Beth enjoys time with her family.