Rooted in Faith, Growing Together

We’re more than a preschool—we’re a family that learns and plays…together in God’s love.

Kids playing in sandbox with plastic toys and sand playset at outdoor playground.

At Appleseeds Preschool, we believe that play is the work of childhood. Our program encourages exploration, independence, and cooperation through hands-on learning, guided by Christian values.

As a ministry of Abiding Presence Lutheran Church, we partner with families to nurture children’s hearts, minds, and spirits. Our staff is passionate about early education and creating a joyful, safe environment where every child is known and loved.

“When children play, they learn how to be in the world with others.”

— Magda Gerber

  • “To thrive, children need both freedom and support.”

    — Vygotsky-inspired principles

Meet Our Staff

  • A woman smiling in front of a green leafy bush, wearing a pink and white striped shirt and blue pants.

    Ms Bria, Director

    Originally from Akron, OH I have called NC home for 10 years. I am forever thankful to work alongside my staff in creating a welcoming, secure environment for all children.

    Favorite Children’s Book: Corduroy

  • An older woman with short brown hair, wearing a blue V-neck T-shirt, standing outdoors in front of a lush green leafy bush, smiling at the camera.

    Ms Beth, RM 1

    I grew up in Ohio and have lived in several states as an adult due to my husband’s job. I have been in North Carolina and at Appleseeds since 2005. My main goal in teaching preschoolers is for them to have fun while they learn.

  • A woman with blond hair, green glasses, and a septum and lip piercing standing outdoors in front of green foliage.

    Ms Kara, RM 3

    I was born and raised in South Carolina before calling NC home. Teaching young children is my passion, and I strive to create a warm, welcoming classroom where every child feels valued. I love teaching art because it allows children to express themselves freely and explore their creativity in meaningful ways. My goal is to inspire kindness, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. Outside the classroom, I enjoy traveling and discovering new stories through reading.

    Favorite Children’s Book: Corduroy

  • A woman with gray hair smiling outdoors in front of green bushes, wearing a lime green blouse with ruffled sleeves and a necklace.

    Ms Shauna, RM 8

    My family and I recently relocated from Virginia to North Carolina. I have my Masters in Education and love to incorporate physical fitness and routines into my curriculum. My daughter Mavis, attends Appleseeds and we are looking forward to a great year together.

    Favorite Children’s Book: The Lorax

  • A woman with blonde hair in a ponytail, wearing a turquoise top, standing in front of green bushes, smiling at the camera.

    Ms Leigh Ellen, RM 4 T/TH

    Originally from North Carolina, I am married and have two wonderful children. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree and have experience teaching in the public school system. I have always loved working with young children and watching their curiosity and confidence grow. My goal is to create a joyful, nurturing classroom where every child feels loved, valued, and excited to explore and learn through play each day.

  • Young woman with blond hair and blue eyes, smiling, wearing a red sweater over a white top, standing in front of a leafy green hedge.

    Ms Mary Ann, RM 4 MWF

    I have subbed with Appleseeds before joining as a staff member this year. I enjoy teaching the 3-year-olds and most enjoy the transformation that takes place from September to May. My favorite activity is doing crafts with the children.

    Favorite Children’s Book: Goodnight Moon

  • A woman with shoulder-length dark hair smiling outdoors in front of a lush green bush, wearing a black V-neck T-shirt and light-colored pants.

    Ms Rose

    I have worked at Appleseeds for over 10 years, and young children have always been my passion. I grew up in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, and graduated from the University of New Brunswick. I am married and have two adult children. My husband’s job with Nortel moved our family from Canada to the UK in 1998 and then to Holly Springs in 1999. We lived abroad again from 2005–2009 before returning to Holly Springs, where we have lived since.

  • A woman with long brown hair smiling in front of a green leafy hedge.

    Ms Teresa

    I began my career in early childhood education after earning an Associate of Science in Social Science in 2019. I started working in a daycare in 2020, where my passion for teaching quickly led to a promotion to assistant teacher. I began pursuing my degree in Elementary Education at Old Dominion University and will be completing my degree at a local college in North Carolina. With experience as an assistant, co-teacher, and now lead teacher, I am dedicated to helping young learners grow through curiosity, creativity, and care.

  • A young woman with long dark hair, smiling, wearing a red dress with white polka dots, standing in front of a green leafy hedge.

    Ms Whitney

    Hello! I am thrilled to be teaching at Appleseeds again this year. This has been a dream of mine for years. Building confidence and watching kind hearts grow are true passions of mine. I have lived in Fuquay and the surrounding areas for 21 years. I graduated from Wake Christian High School and attended Meredith College and Wake Tech. I love to travel or spend rainy days at home cuddling my cats. My hobbies include film, painting, and mini golf. Teaching at Appleseeds feels like home, and I can’t wait to share this special year with your children.

  • Ms Brittany, RM 7

    Hey y’all! I’m so thrilled to be teaching your children! I started my teaching career back in 2018 and have loved the journey that led me to Appleseeds. I consider myself a true Southener as I’ve lived in NC most of my life and I love supporting local businesses. I am passionate about art and sensory learning. Teaching young children is such a joy and honor!

    Favorite Children’s Book: The Poky Little Puppy

  • Ms. Shelby, Left Wing TA

  • Ms. Faye

    Bio coming soon…

Our Classes

Two young children standing on either side of an easel, painting. They are wearing colorful smocks, and the easel has paint cups attached. The background features a yellow wall and some decorated posters.
Explore Our Classes

Contact Us

Two young boys standing at a table with white basins, playing with water and bottles in a classroom.
Contact Us

Registration

Two young boys playing on a red playground structure that looks like a train, one sitting inside the tunnel and the other standing on the ground holding the bars, at a playground with leaves on the ground and a chain-link fence with bushes behind.
Register Now

Our Values

We learn about God’s world when we play!

We are safe, supported, and encouraged every day.

Play helps us grow with friends.

We show love when we play together.

We learn about God’s world when we play!

Play helps us make good choices.