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Meet the Team

Niki Tellechea
Director
I have had a passion to work with children since I was a child. I started working with children in the church nursery in elementary school, and from that early age, I knew that I wanted a career in childcare and development. I went to college and got my degree in Liberal Studies and from there I continued on into the child development certificate program and ended up working my way to achieve the top certificate, site supervisor. Since 2005, I have been the director at Lighthouse, and absolutely love the privilege of helping children grow, learn, and know more about God's love for them.

Alicia Gonzales
Delightful Dolphins Teacher
I am passionate about faith, family and community. From a very early age I felt a calling on my life to serve families and young children. I started teaching preschool in 2007 and became a lead teacher at Lighthouse Christian Preschool in 2012. I am very involved in the church and serve in multiple ministries. I consider it an honor to be able to share the love of Jesus with my students and their families.

Megan Moffett
Pre-K Otters Teacher
I am the lead teacher of the Pre-Kindergarten classroom. I am so thankful that I am able to speak into the lives of the 4 &5 year olds. I love being able to spread the love of Jesus to each and every one of my students in my classroom. I have two big brothers and one little sister. I currently reside in Escondido with my husband and dog Maurice. Some of my favorite things to do are going to the beach, crafting and spending time with Jesus.

Jessie Phillips
Jumping Jellies Teacher
Hello Lighthouse families! My name is Mrs. Jessie, and I feel so blessed to walk alongside your family at Lighthouse! My journey with children began as one of the eldest of a big family of children. I began working with children as a cheer coach and facilitator at a children’s gym, later leading to over 15 years in business development and accounting, then returning to school to pursue early childhood education. While my time in business strengthened my leadership and communication skills, it confirmed what I’ve always believed—that healthy families and strong relationships are the foundation of any thriving community. I also serve in our Children’s ministry here at Beach Chapel and believe every child is uniquely created by God and experiences His wonder in everyday moments. I’m grateful to bring this blend of experience into the classroom as an everyday encourager for your families and children. Outside of the classroom, I’m a wife and mom of four, and I homeschool two of my children, which has deepened my appreciation for individualized learning and partnering with families. In my free time you’ll find me enjoying quality time with my husband and children, cheering on my teenage athletes, reading, exploring the great outdoors, and growing in my relationship with God. Thank you for trusting me with your children. I am committed to building strong foundations in faith, healthy relationships, and joyful learning. My hope is that every family leaves our classroom feeling inspired and encouraged!

Grace Keyes
Jumping Jellies Teacher
I am so thankful to be a part of the Lighthouse family and to serve as a preschool teacher. Teaching young children is one of my greatest joys. I am passionate about creating a nurturing, Christ-centered environment where children feel seen, valued, and loved. I love watching each child’s personality and strengths shine as they grow socially, emotionally, and spiritually. It is an honor to be part of their early learning journey and to share the love of Jesus with my students and their families each day. In my free time, I enjoy spending time at church and being actively involved in the church community, it is a core part of who I am and my personal journey with God. I also enjoy spending time with animals and family is very important to me. I am deeply rooted in the importance of strong family and community relationships.

Elizabeth Butler
Assistant Teacher
I am so excited to meet you all this year! I have been a teacher at Lighthouse since 2020 and I’ve loved every second of it! I have always known since I was a child myself that I would be working with children so this is definitely my calling! When I was younger, I lived in lots of cool places and have seen lots of awesome things all around the country. I can’t wait to have more experiences with you all this year!

Kathy Wildermuth
Assistant Teacher
Coming soon

Osil Pistole
Assistant Teacher
I am so excited to meet you all this year! I’ve been helping at Lighthouse since 2021, and in 2024 I stepped into the role of class aid and it has become such a gift in my life. I truly love getting to invest in children and watch them grow. I grew up in Norway and moved to the United States as an adult. I’m a mom to five amazing grown children, and being their mom has shaped me in the best ways. It’s taught me patience, strength, and how important it is to encourage the next generation. Outside of school, I’m a leader at Beach Chapel. I love to sing and play guitar and piano, and I’m passionate about teaching both young and old about Jesus and helping people discover who they’re created to be. I’m really looking forward to this year and to getting to know each of you.

Camille Eaton
Assistant Teacher
I am so excited about all the ways I get to interact with and minister to your children this school year! I am currently in the ordination process at Beach Chapel and have been since 2022, where I also operate as an assistant pastor. I am super passionate about empowering people in the ways of God and helping them become who He has called them to be, and I look forward to helping your children do the same!