This spring, we have been acknowledging our staff and all the wonderful things they do to help our church home run smoothly! We want them to know they have our appreciation!
Elizabeth Tigue, Preschool Director & Teacher
Elizabeth has been the Preschool Director for the past 9 years and has taught for 19 years here at Bethesda. As Director, she facilitates the daily running of the preschool administratively, gets to know students and their families, and manages tuition among other duties. She also teaches 4/5 yr; olds in the 
mornings 4 days per week. What she likes best about her job is teaching kids academics as well as about God. She also helps build foundational skills for success as they grow.
Elizabeth says, “Kids this age LOVE to learn. The joy they feel when accomplishments are made is huge.” Adults don’t realize (or remember) how difficult it can be to master these early tasks like writing a name or identifying letters. During the school year she is at Bethesda daily. She also volunteers at Vacation Bible School each summer.
Her interests include outdoor activities like hiking, biking, gardening, and shooting her bow. She also loves to read. Elizabeth and her husband Scott have a blended family of 8 children. Five are grown and they have 2 teenagers and a 5 yr. old at home.
Thank you Elizabeth for your faithful service to Bethesda and the children of our community, our appreciation is huge.
Bethesda Members: You can drop Elizabeth a note at preschool@bethesdalutheranchurch.com or in her mailbox.
Bethesda Preschool
Bethesda has offered school for young children since 1964. 55 years!! Kindergarten classes were offered until the public schools began their own program. At that time, Bethesda transitioned to a preschool. 5 classes are offered each year with spots for 80 children. Typically 75-80 students attend each year.
Bethesda’s Preschool has an excellent reputation in the Eugene area. Part of that can be attributed to the caring atmosphere and the continuity of the staff members. In the fall, Elizabeth Tigue will start her 20th year of teaching 4 & 5 yr. olds, Linda Bruce, teaching ages 3 & 4 yr. olds, will be in her 26th year and plans to retire at the end of next year. Phyllis Gray will be in her 24th year with 4 & 5 yr. olds. The three Assistant Teachers are Alicen Houghten, 3 & 4 yr. olds, starting her 12th and final year in the fall; Leanne Hubbel, 4 & 5 yr. olds, starting her 15th year; and Patti Lohr, starting her 20th year helping 4 & 5 yr. olds.
Thank you to each of these dedicated teachers who have made a positive difference in the lives of so many children. You deserve all the appreciation in the world.