Shari Wilhite

Middle School Educational Support Services (ESS) Teacher

For Shari Wilhite, teaching isn’t just a career path. It’s part of who she is.

“Teaching is part of my DNA. Both my mom and my grandma were teachers,” she shares. “Watching the impact they had on their students inspired me early on, and I’ve always felt drawn to working with kids and helping them experience success and confidence in their learning.”

Shari earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Spring Arbor University in Michigan. She also played collegiate softball there, combining her love for teamwork and competition with her calling to serve students.

Now in her third year as part of the Heritage community, Shari serves as a Middle School Educational Support Services (ESS) Teacher.

“In my classroom, I work intentionally to make sure my students feel seen, heard, and valued each day,” she says. “Being part of a community that truly cares about its students is incredibly powerful.”

Her faith shapes the way she approaches her role every day. “I try to incorporate my faith in my classroom by seeing each student as a child of God who is fearfully and wonderfully made,” she explains. “I also seek to be respectful, kind, and understanding while holding my students to the same expectations.”

For Shari, the heart of her role goes beyond academics. “One of the most rewarding parts of working at HCS is building trust and strong relationships with my students,” she shares. “They feel comfortable sharing funny stories, personal challenges, steps in their faith like baptisms, family adventures, and both the highs and lows of their after-school activities.”

Outside the classroom, Shari has been married to her husband, Dave, for nearly 25 years. She loves cheering on her boys, walking their dog Piper, gardening, reading, and spending time outdoors. A Michigan native and proud pastor’s kid, she brings both warmth and steadiness to the middle school community.

We’re grateful for the intentional care and encouragement she brings to our students each day.