Jill Lehe

3rd Grade Teacher

For Jill Lehe, the desire to become a teacher began in the same grade she now teaches at Heritage.

“My passion for teaching truly began in the 3rd grade,” Jill shared. “My own 3rd grade teacher was a massive influence. She made learning so engaging, and because we attended the same church, I felt a special connection to her.”

Jill later had the opportunity to serve as that teacher’s aide during high school, an experience that solidified her decision to pursue education. She was also inspired by her father, an agriculture teacher whose dedication left a lasting impression on her.

“Education has always felt like a calling, and it is a joy to follow in those footsteps here at Heritage, where I can pay forward the same care and encouragement I received as a student,” she said.

Jill earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Purdue University and now serves as a 3rd grade teacher at Heritage. At the heart of her approach is a commitment to knowing and caring for each student individually.

“In my classroom at HCS, I strive to know my students well because meaningful relationships are the foundation for a successful year of learning,” Jill shared. “When students know they are seen, valued, and loved, they are more willing to take risks, ask questions, and persevere through challenges.”

By understanding each child’s unique strengths and needs, Jill seeks to provide the instruction and encouragement students need to reach their God-given potential. Her goal is to cultivate a classroom where students feel safe, respected, and inspired to grow in knowledge, character, confidence, and faith.

Jill views her classroom as a ministry where faith is woven into every subject. Inspired by Matthew 5:16, she encourages her students to “be the light” by reflecting God’s love, truth, and excellence in everything they do.

“Beyond our daily rhythms of prayer, Bible study, and worship, I strive to teach my students how to see God’s hand in all of creation, helping them connect their academic learning to their identity as children of God,” she explained.

Jill also shares a special family connection with Heritage. Her daughter, Ellen Kuhne, serves as a high school guidance counselor, giving them the opportunity to work together on the same campus.

Outside the classroom, Jill enjoys spending time with her husband, Steve, and their two daughters, Ellen and Emma. Jill and Steve met at Purdue and enjoy taking road trips, especially when those trips allow them to watch Emma perform on the sousaphone and tuba with the marching and concert bands at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire.

Jill is also a passionate crafter who enjoys fiber arts, including sewing, quilting, knitting, wool rug hooking, punch needle, and appliqué. She plays the dulcimer and enjoys spending time with the family’s rescued black Lab, Quill.

We are grateful to have Jill as part of the Heritage faculty and for the intentional care, encouragement, and Christ-centered instruction she provides to her 3rd grade students.