My name is Teri Ellwanger, and I am excited to be working here at ACA! I was married to a wonderful husband, Gary, for almost 23 years. He passed away in March, 2014. In April of 2023, I married a wonderful, God-fearing man, Dave. I have three adult children, Brittany, Kaleigh and Daniel, two amazing grandsons, Myles and Izaac, and one adorable granddaughter, Vivi Lou. When I am not working, I enjoy walking, biking, and jet skiing. I am an avid sports lover and am very opinionated about my sports teams! GO HAWKS!
As a preschool teacher, I have been reflecting on all God has done at the school and in my life as well. I am reminded that, just as the school has changed dramatically over the many years with multiple buildings, administrators, and board and staff members, God has remained faithful and continues to prove Himself faithful each and every year. God truly cares about the details not only of the school, but of our lives as well.
At age seven, I recognized the fact that I was a sinner in need of a Savior. So, one evening at Good News Club, I accepted Christ. I am so thankful for what Christ did on the cross for me! My favorite verse has always been Philippians 4:13, which says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” All through life I have focused on that verse but on the wrong part of that verse. I was focused on the beginning of the verse where it says, “I can,” when, in fact, I can do NOTHING in and of myself! Through various life events my understanding of this verse has changed. It is still one of my favorite verses, but I now realize it is only because of God’s grace and love that I am able to do anything. I can do nothing apart from Christ but can do all things with His help. As I continue to seek His face daily and grow in my walk with the Lord, it is my prayer that I would show the kids He has entrusted to me the same love, patience, and grace my Savior shows me.