Christi Navarrette became Foothill's Preschool Director in June of 2024. She came with a long list of qualifications and the organization was thrilled to welcome her. She is a well-known name throughout the southern California network of ACSI preschool directors, a respected leader, and an early education expert. She holds her degrees in Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and has over 20 years of experience in a Director's position. She actually began her early-childhood career right here at Foothill Christian Preschool as a teacher!

Christi notes that throughout her career, she has prayed for God's guidance and is confident that this is the path He has chosen for her... as are we! She said "I feel blessed to have the best career in the world - teaching young children that they were created for a purpose by a God who loves them. As an advocate for early childhood education, I believe in laying the foundation for a love of learning at this crucial stage of brain development. It is a great honor to be a part of our students' journey."

Vicky Gutzwiller, Foothill's previous director of 30 years, stated "I am delighted to endorse the hiring of Christi Navarrette as the next preschool director. Having begun her career at our preschool and now returning home, Christi not only brings a wealth of experience and leadership but also a deep understanding of our unique community and values. I am confident that her passion for early childhood education and familiarity with our preschool will contribute to a seamless and successful transition."

Some fun facts about Christi: She is married with four grown children. She met her husband at the same high school where her parents also met. She was raised as a vegetarian. She loves watching documentaries. And she is a trained dancer and teaches Zumba classes!

Jennifer Whiteside was promoted to Half-Day Preschool Director in September 2019. Prior to being director she was a teacher in our 2-year old class. However she has been in the field of early education since 1981 and was an assistant director at a preschool in Covina before moving to Foothill Christian Preschool. She knew at an early age that she loved working with children and where God wanted to use her. She attended Mt. Sac, Citrus, and Vanguard where she received the education needed to become a preschool teacher and director. However she attributes most of the knowledge she gained from her daily walks with God and the experiences that went on inside the classroom.

Jennifer believes that children learn best through play and experiences. She claims that she herself learns best by hearing, seeing, and doing so was very happy to discover that her philosophy closely aligns with Foothill's. She loves that FCP is a place where children LEARN, EXPLORE and GROW! One of her favorite quotes is, "The best teachers are those who show you where to look, but don't tell you what to see!"

Jennifer is married to her husband Garth. They have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. Her prayer is to see her grandchildren grow in their passion for Christ so they can share the Good News with their friends and begin the ripple effect. She is passionate about planting little seeds so that the Word of God can reach the far ends of our earth! She is thrilled see the plans God has for her at Foothill, she writes, "One thing I know for sure is that decisions become easier when your will to please God outweighs your will to please the world!"

Martha Perez came to FCP in 2005 initially starting as a three-year old teacher then moving her way up to Pre-K teacher, Supervisor and now, Assistant Director. She is grateful for the hands-on learning experience that she has acquired in the 15 plus years working for FCP, leading her to the current position. Martha graduated from Pasadena City College with an AA in Early Childhood Education and a BA in Human Development from Azusa Pacific University. Martha has a clear understanding that working for FCP is not only a job but a ministry in which she can help lead children and their families in spiritual formation in order to build a relationship with Christ. Her desire is to pursue God-honoring excellence and creativity in all aspects of life, but specifically at school.