Chrissy Mensing, Site-Director / Lead Kinderstart Teacher
Chrissy has a BS in Psychology and Early Childhood/K-6 Education and an MN Teaching License. She joined the team at St. John the Baptist Discovery Center in 2024. Chrissy brings a wealth of knowledge and resources through her many experiences teaching in early childhood and elementary within Catholic schools.
Kristen Shadis, Regional Director / Lead Kinderstart Teacher
Kristen graduated from Northwestern College with a degree in Elementary Education / Early Childhood emphasis and MN Teaching License. In addition to teaching Kinderstart at St. John’s, Kristen is Regional Director of four Discovery Center locations in the Savage, Minneapolis and Eagan area. She enjoys spending time with her husband and four children, cheering at sporting events and making memories.
“The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He takes great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing.” – Zephaniah 3:17
Top 5 Strengths * Communication * Achiever * Responsibility * Harmony * Empathy
Kristine Bruce, Lead Discovery Teacher
Kristine has a degree in Elementary Education from the University of MN. She has been with the Discovery Center since 2021. Kristine’s favorite part of teaching is the building of relationships with the children and families.
“Love is patient and kind…” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Becky Gangelhoff, Lead Explorer Toddler Teacher
Becky joined the Teaching Team in 2021. She has her Associates Degree in Child Development and studied at MN State University in Moorhead MN. Her favorite part of teaching is building a foundation of her classroom being Christ-centered. She enjoys exploring, learning and growing together with the children!
“Trust in the Lord always.” -Isaiah 26:4
Mary VanLeeuwen, Lead Young Explorer Teacher
Mary VanLeeuwen has been teaching with St. John’s Discovery Center since 2022, starting as an Assistant Teacher before becoming a Lead Teacher of Explorers. Mary has a BS in Psychology from Mankato State University, and has worked in early childhood education for the past 10 years.
“Never give up.”