At First Lutheran School, our care for children goes beyond simple or programmed techniques. Our caring stems wholeheartedly from our commitment to model Jesus Christ. We teach joyfully by words and deeds, and central to every caring act of every day is Christ’s love. When children learn they are loved by God and by others, they learn to love Him and each other.

Administration | K-8 Teachers | ECE Teachers | Staff | Pastors

Administration

	Tim Wolfram, Principal/Eighth Tim Wolfram has taught and served as principal at First Lutheran School in three stints from 1971-78, 1986-90, and from 2000-present. FLS was his first teaching assignment out of college in 1971, and he returned twice after teaching in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and New Orleans, Louisiana. Mr. Wolfram is married to Shirley and has four children, ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He enjoys coaching and working with athletics at First Lutheran School. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
	Penny Wright, ECE Director Penny Wright is a native Knoxvillian who first came to First Lutheran Church and School in 1993 in search of a Christian school for her son that was also strong in academics and extracurricular activities. She was later hired to teach in ECE and later served First Lutheran as Curriculum Support Specialist. In 2008, she returned to her passion in ECE, this time as Director. She attended Roane State, majoring in Behavioral Sciences with an emphasis on Early Childhood Education. She later earned her CDA and her TECPAC Administrator Credential. Mrs. Wright is a member of child advocacy groups including the National Association for the Education of Young Children. When not at school, she enjoys spending time with her husband Roger and her son, Roger. She also enjoys art, sketching, music and reading. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
	Kim Smith, Office Manager/Tuition and Billing Kim Smith joined the staff of First Lutheran School in 2008. Born and raised in Wisconsin, she settled in her husband’s hometown of Knoxville. She has two children, both alumni of First Lutheran, and a four-legged child named Lucky Dog. A member of First Lutheran Church, she has served on the Board of Christian Day School and was a member of the church choir. Mrs. Smith is genuinely eager to serve First Lutheran School by sharing the love of Christ and promoting a superior educational and spiritual experience for all of God’s children. But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. Jeremiah 17:7

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K-8 Teachers

	Ann Bushur, Kindergarten Ann Bushur has taught kindergarten at First Lutheran School since 1998. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Concordia, River Forest. Before coming to First Lutheran, Mrs. Bushur taught in several Lutheran and public schools in Illinois and Indiana. She is married to Paul, and they have four children: Bethany, Meghan, Thomas, and Abigail, all of whom have graduated from FLS. When she’s not teaching, Mrs. Bushur loves to sing and play the piano and take long hikes with her family. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
	Lindsey Hofman, First Lindsey Hofman joined the First Lutheran staff in 2009 as the first grade teacher. She has an associate of arts degree from Kaskaskia College and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Concordia University, Chicago, and is originally from a small town in southern Illinois, where her parents still live. Mrs. Hofman is married to John and has a younger brother who plays football at Eastern Illinois University. She loves to coach volleyball and basketball, and she enjoys the theater, the outdoors, and spending time with family and friends. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
	Julie Haynes, Second and Third Julie Haynes has been teaching at First Lutheran School since 2007. Mrs. Haynes taught in the public school system for ten years prior to joining FLS. She has a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville. Her experience includes Reading Recovery, as well as first, second, third, and fourth grade. She thoroughly enjoys being able to share her love of Jesus with her students here at First. She is blessed with husband, Howard, and son, Jackson, who attends First Lutheran School. When she is not teaching, Mrs. Haynes enjoys painting, working on her scrapbook, and spending time with her family and friends. The LORD is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made. Psalm 145:13
	Kay Irwin, Fourth and Fifth Kay Irwin has been teaching since 1980. She has a bachelor’s degree from Concordia University in River Forest, IL, and has taught at Lutheran schools in Drayton Plains, Michigan, Dallas, Texas, and Nampa, Idaho, before coming to First Lutheran School in 2000. She is married to Michael, and they have two children: Jessica, a graduate of UT, and Joshua, enlisted in the Army. When she’s not teaching, Mrs. Irwin raises, trains, and shows English cocker spaniels, Afghans, and miniature horses. But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. Psalm 59:16
	Erin Rodgers, Sixth Erin Rodgers came to First Lutheran School in 2009. She has a bachelor's degree in Lutheran Elementary Education from Concordia University, Chicago, and is originally from Illinois. She has one sister and two wonderful parents who are also Lutheran educators. When she's not busy teaching, Miss Rodgers likes to play volleyball or anything active, knit, scrapbook, and spend time with family and friends. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
	Katie Kloess, Seventh Katie Kloess began teaching at First Lutheran School in 2011. She has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Human Services Exercise Science from Concordia University, Chicago. Before coming to First Lutheran, Miss Kloess was a graduate assistant for the Men’s and Women’s track and field teams at CU Chicago. In her free time, Miss Kloess loves to stay active. She enjoys running and traveling. Miss Kloess can also often be found watching one of her favorite sports teams, the Chicago Bears, Blackhawks, Cubs, and Bulls, play. The Lord always keeps his promises.... Psalm 145:13b
	Tim Wolfram, Eighth Tim Wolfram has taught and served as principal at First Lutheran School in three stints from 1971-78, 1986-90, and from 2000-present. FLS was his first teaching assignment out of college in 1971, and he returned twice after teaching in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and New Orleans, Louisiana. Mr. Wolfram is married to Shirley and has four children, ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He enjoys coaching and working with athletics at First Lutheran School. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
	Amanda Hillard, Library, Art, Band, and Choirs Amanda Hillard has taught at First Lutheran School since 2007. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN and her Master's degree in Library and Information Science from Texas Woman's University in Denton, TX. Before coming to First Lutheran, Mrs. Hillard taught middle school band at Lascassas and Kittrell Elementary schools in Rutherford County in Tennessee. She is married to husband BJ and has a son, Austin. When she’s not teaching, Mrs. Hillard scrapbooks, decorates cakes, and is involved with many of her son’s extracurricular activities. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
	Traci Roth, Computers Traci Roth teaches computer and technology skills in the middle school. She has a Bachelor's in elementary education and a master's in education and professional development. She taught elementary school for seven years, then worked for five years for a state service agency in Wisconsin as a curriculum and technology staff development specialist. After moving to Tennessee in 2004, she continued to facilitate professional development activities locally and for PBS TeacherLine. Traci is married to husband, Phil, and has two children. In addition to teaching computer skills, she is a full-time mom, volunteers at her children's schools and her church, takes adult karate lessons, and helps teach women's self-defense classes. We have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. Colossians 1:9-10

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ECE Teachers

	Shirley Eimmerman, ECE 3 Shirley Eimmerman has been working with children at First Lutheran School since 2002, first as a classroom aide and then as an ECE teacher. Originally from Maryland, Mrs. Eimmerman was raised in the Lutheran church and attended Lutheran schools through high school. She attended Broward Community College and the University of Mississippi, majoring in journalism/communications and working as the director of children’s ministries at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church before moving to Tennessee in 1996. She has earned her CDA from Roane State Community College and still attends classes there. Mrs. Eimmerman is married to Scott, and they have three children, three dogs, and one cat. She enjoys camping and hiking, gardening, reading, music, and going to the movies. I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
	Melanie Lelle, ECE 4/5 Melanie Lelle volunteered at First Lutheran ECE for more than a year before she began teaching here. In 2000, she served as aid in Kindergarten, then returned to ECE to teach three-year-olds. Her family attends First Lutheran Church, where she serves as chairperson of the Youth Board. Four of Mrs. Lelle’s children have graduated from First Lutheran, and her youngest is still a student here. Mrs. Lelle is married to John and she enjoys being with her family, reading, and swimming. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
	Marion Samuel, ECE 4/5 Marion Samuel has served at FLS since 1989, and her family has been longstanding members of First Lutheran Church. She has worked in the Child Care program, aided in ECE and progressed to her current status as ECE Teacher, as well as teaching in the Summer Day Camp program. She attended Pellissippi State and Roane State, majoring in Early Childhood Education and has earned her CDA. Mrs. Samuel is married to husband Ben, and they have three children, all of whom graduated from FLS, and four grandchildren. Mrs. Samuel enjoys spending time with her family, reading and gardening. The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
	Christina Boatman, ECE 4/5 Christina Boatman has served at First Lutheran ECE since 1999, first as a teaching aide and advancing to teacher. She attended Berea College, where she majored in economics, but later found that she enjoyed teaching preschool-aged children more than analyzing data. She is an active member of First Lutheran Church and lives in Knoxville with her husband, Gary, and her sons Robert and Jonathan. Mrs. Boatman enjoys gardening and doing crossword puzzles. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
	Meghan Bushur, ECE Teaching Assistant Meghan Bushur has worked at First Lutheran Early Childhood Education Center and First Lutheran Summer Day Camp since 2006. She is an active member of First Lutheran Church and Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of Tennessee. Meghan is an FLS alumna and a senior at the University of Tennessee, where she is pursuing her degree in Elementary Education and Special Education. Meghan enjoys singing, playing guitar and piano, as well as outdoor activities and volleyball. Meghan feels that the focus and center of everything is Jesus, and that she is living her “dream serving children and the Lord.” Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:39
	Kari Williamson, ECE Teaching Assistant/FLS Athletic Director Kari Williamson has served at First Lutheran School as an ECE teaching assistant and director of athletics since 2009. She is a member of First Lutheran Church and an alumna of First Lutheran School. When she's not at FLS (where she spends a lot of her "time off" working with athletics), Kari loves going to the lake, Neyland Stadium in the fall, basketball, football, and baseball, and spending time with family and friends. I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
	Kara Eimmerman, ECE Teaching Assistant Kara Eimmerman has served at First Lutheran School since August 2011. She attended the University of Evansville and Walter State University, majoring in Elementary Education. Kara is a First Lutheran alumna and a member of First Lutheran Church. When not at First Lutheran ECE, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and hiking. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long. Psalm 25:5
	Caroline Perez, ECE Teaching Assistant Caroline Perez began working in the ECE as a teaching assistant in June 2011, during Summer Day Camp. Previously she was a counselor at Florida Atlantic University for fourth- and fifth-grade band students. Caroline attends Fulton High School, and plays in the concert band. When she's not in school or working with the kids in ECE, Caroline enjoys playing the clarinet and reading. There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. Ecclesiastes 3:1
	Megan Walker, ECE Teaching Assistant Megan is a Knoxville native and a senior at Gibbs High School. She is looking forward to entering the University of Tennessee in the Spring to pursue a degree in Pediatric Kinesiology. Megan has served at First Lutheran Summer Day Camp and ECE for two years. In her free time she enjoys zip sliding, reading, gymnastics and NASCAR. She currently holds the title of Miss Teen East Tennessee Motor Speedway; her service platform is called “Feed the Need.” She has logged well over 100 hours of community service supporting this program. She has also volunteered at the University of Tennessee Hospital. She grows in her faith learning God’s word serving at First Lutheran and worshiping at Loveland Church. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. I Corinthians 1:13
	Luz Perez, ECE Teaching Assistant/Spanish Luz Perez has served as assistant cook at First Lutheran School since 2010, after working as a substitute teacher at Belle Morris Elementary school. Beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, she teaches Spanish to ECE students. Previously, she worked for ten years in various positions at an elementary school in Florida before moving to Knoxville. Luz has two daughters. She likes to sew, read, and walk in her spare time. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7

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Staff

	Joy Witt, Head Cook Joy Witt has served as cook at First Lutheran School since 2001, and as head cook since 2002. She and her husband, Randy, have been married since 1987. They have a son and daughter, both of whom attended FLS. Joy enjoys reading, watching movies, and cooking. She enjoys preparing lunches and serving the children at First as they come to the cafeteria for their mid-day break and nutrition. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. Revelation 21:4
	Luz Perez, Cafeteria Assistant/ECE Spanish Luz Perez has served as assistant cook at First Lutheran School since 2010, after working as a substitute teacher at Belle Morris Elementary school. Beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, she teaches Spanish to ECE students. Previously, she worked for ten years in various positions at an elementary school in Florida before moving to Knoxville. Luz has two daughters. She likes to sew, read, and walk in her spare time. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7
	Laura Dudley, Kindergarten Aide and School Nurse Mrs.Dudley has been the kindergarten assistant at First Lutheran School since 2008.She has a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University and is a registered nurse with more than 25 years experience. Her educational experience includes substitute teaching in high school and an instructor at a community college in Tennessee. Mrs. Dudley is married to Jim, and they are blessed with one child. When not in the classroom,she enjoys outdoor activities, reading, baking, and spending time with family and friends. Be joyful always, pray continuously, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1Thessalonians 5:16-18

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Pastors

Rev. Paul Bushur, Superintendent Rev. Paul Bushur has served at First Lutheran Church and School since 1998. He is the school superintendent, teaches 8th grade religious confirmation, and leads chapel services in rotation with Pastor Roberts and the teachers. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Concordia River Forest and an M. Div. from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He and his wife, Ann, have four children: Bethany, Meghan, Thomas, and Abigail, all of whom have graduated from FLS. What then shall we say to this? If God is for us, who is against us? Romans 8:31

Rev. Derek Roberts, Associate Pastor Rev. Derek Roberts has served at First Lutheran Church and School since 2006. He teaches religion to the middle grades and prepares chapel worship on rotation with Pastor Bushur and the teachers. Born in Aberdeen, SD, Pastor Roberts completed his degree in kinesiology and biology at the University of Minnesota, and his M. Div. at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He and his wife, Gretchen, have three children: Kate and Sophia, both FLS students, and Jonathan..Pastor Roberts is also the campus pastor for Lutheran students at the University of Tennessee. Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. Jude 24-25

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