Shepherd's Little Hearts Academy Staff
Marla Whittaker - Executive Director
My name is Marla Whittaker, and I am delighted to be here. I have been married to Gerard since 2021, and I have three children aged 22, 20, and 18, as well as an 18-year-old stepdaughter. My professional experience includes teaching in a private school and working within the local school district. Additionally, I have spent over 10 years serving as a Children’s Ministry Director. I am deeply passionate about children's education and believe that a strong foundation in faith, academics, and play is essential for their future learning. In my free time, I enjoy watching football, shopping on Amazon, and spending quality time with my family.
Maria Andrade -
My name is Maria, and I am originally from Ecuador. I have two daughters, aged 2 and 6. I have lived in several countries, including Canada, Argentina, Brazil, Australia, and the USA. I am fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and English. My favorite color is white, and in my free time, I enjoy dancing and spending time with my family.
Felicia Rocha -
Hello, my name is Felicia. I am proud to be a part of the Shepherd's Little Hearts Academy! I am from Dallas but moved to the Houston area in 2023. I'm happily married to my best friend and have a beautiful daughter and a super energetic fur baby. I love to sing, play guitar and spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy trying new things and exploring new places. This will be my seventh year in childcare, and I have absolutely loved every second. I have a true passion for working with the little learners and really helping them progress in their early development-academic, social language and motor. I strive to help create a classroom that will nurture growth in a positive, fun and loving environment.
Susie Morales - Pre-K 4
My name is Susie Morales, and I am incredibly excited for this new school year. I am looking forward to getting to know you. I know we will have a fun, educational and overall fantastic year here at Shepherd's Little Hearts Academy.
I recently moved here from Corpus Christi, where I taught at Seashore Early Childhood Academy for 16 years and Montessori school for 2 years. This will be my 19th year teaching. I am committed to creating a fun, safe and inclusive learning environment for all students. I believe that each child is an individual and as an educator, I will value and develop each child's strengths, interests, skills, abilities and knowledge to advance their learning.
My husband, Cesar and I have been married for over 27 years. We have a 23-year-old son, Marcus. We also have three silly dogs, Snowball, Gizmo and Lucky. In my free time I like to spend time with family and friends, watch football, movies and go on walks.
Ashley howard -
Hi my name is Ashley Howard, I have been a childcare provider with 15 years of experience. I have numerous training hours and certificates over the past few years of experience. In my free time , I enjoy spending time with my family and my "me time" I love baking, make up and designing nails . I'm originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Me and my two handsome boys relocated back in 2016 to Texas and now we call it home. See y'all soon at Shepherd's Little Hearts - ❤️ teaching little humans
Michelle thompson-
Hey parents, I’m Michelle, born and raised in Houston. Texas is my home, and I’m a family person- mom, three kids, and a 1yr old granddaughter. I love seafood! I’ve worked with kids since 2006. I subbed at Shepherd’s Little Hearts last year and got hired in November. I’ve worked in every classroom, helping out wherever needed.
Thanks again for trusting me with your kiddos!
Lillian Vereen -
Bio coming soon...
SHEPHERD OF THE HEART CHURCH
Come join us on Sunday Mornings in Worship at 10am.