Our Staff

The staff at Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool are experienced, well trained, and have all required certifications. All teachers have college degrees, participate in continuing education through the school year, and are committed Christians.

Sarah Brazell - Preschool Director

I’ve been an early childhood educator for over 10 years and have my degree in Education. I'm very passionate about providing quality education to our youngest learners, as well as supporting our amazing teachers! I have two children, Benjamin (8 years old) and Melody (5 years old). We live in Ashburn with my husband, Matt and our cat, Suds. I love music and play clarinet in the Loudoun Symphonic Winds. 

Barbara Fay - Lead Teacher

Mrs. Fay graduated from Saint Bonaventure University with a degree in Economics. While raising her family of four sons, she found a new career at Good Shepherd. She has been a member of the staff since September 2001 serving first as an assistant and then lead teacher for the Dinosaurs. Mrs. Fay finds Joy in serving God's children. In her free time she loves to be active outdoors-running, hiking, gardening,


Nicki Balentine - Lead Teacher and Teacher’s Assistant

Mrs. Balentine graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Biomedical Sciences. She has taught children from ages 2 years to 1st grade at four different schools. She loves seeing children learn and thrive in a Christian environment. Mrs. Balentine, her husband, and their three children recently returned from a three-year adventure living in England. In her free time, she is a coffee enthusiast who enjoys reading, board games, hiking, and traveling the world.

Kristi Nickerson - Extended Care Lead Staff

Mrs. Nickerson attended Park University in Parkville, Missouri majoring in elementary education.  She is a mother of five adult children and has twelve grandchildren.  She ran her own licensed daycare for 35 years.  She always loves being with children.  She and her husband have been members at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church for forty plus years.


Judy Kurak - Assistant Teacher

Mrs. Kurak graduated from American University with degrees in Journalism and Economics.   She is a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church where she serves on the Sunday school teaching team, and is involved with Vacation Bible School.  A native Washingtonian, Mrs. Kurak also spent time in Scotland where her daughter started school while the family was stationed in the UK.  Spending time with children is a joy pursuit for her.  She is a trainer, a dedicated student of the Bible, and a lifetime learner.   Most of the last 20 years she has served as a customer service leader and trainer in the retail industry.  She is Grandmother to three, ages 10, 8, and 5.