Our Elementary Team

1st Grade Teacher: Kelli Silaski

Mrs. Silaski has worked in Early Childhood Education for over 25 years. She earned her teaching degree from George Fox University, graduating with honors. She worked in the Beaverton School District for five years before coming to Pilgrim . 

She believes that children learn in multiple and unique ways and wants her students to be able to express their learning through art, music, social interactions and play. Her focus in kindergarten will be that her students will develop a strong foundation in reading, writing and math to build on as they grow and learn in their future schooling. She is a partner with families to teach and support her students in becoming the person God created them to be. 

God has chosen you and made you his holy people. He loves you. So always do these things: Show mercy to others; be kind, humble, gentle, and patient. - Colossians 3:12

2nd Grade Teacher: Jill Davitt

Jill Davitt joined Pilgrim Lutheran School in 2020 year as a teacher in one of the 1st and 2nd grade split classrooms.  Jill first taught at Pilgrim in 1995 as the 2nd grade teacher before taking time to help raise her family in 2001, at which time she became Pilgrim’s librarian until 2005.  In addition to her service at Pilgrim, Jill brings 18 years of experience as an elementary teacher at both Pilgrim Lutheran and the Beaverton School District. 

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. - Isaiah, 40:31

3rd & 4th Grade Teacher: Alisa Benson

Alisa Benson joined Pilgrim’s teaching staff in 2014. Alisa graduated from Pacific Lutheran University in 1993 with a BA degree in Japanese Language and Culture. In 1996 she was hired by the JET program to teach English in Japan for one year. Upon returning to the states, Alisa returned to school to receive her Masters Degree in Education from George Fox University where she also completed her ESOL endorsement. Alisa spent four years as a substitute teacher in the Beaverton School District before accepting her position at Pilgrim. Alisa enjoys sports and is currently also the Athletics Director. Alisa has three children: Kyle, Julia and Payton. Her son Kyle was both a student and athlete while attending Pilgrim until he was promoted in 2016. Her youngest daughter Payton, also graduated from Pilgrim and was a volleyball player on our champion team.

You may not understand NOW what I am doing BUT SOMEDAY, you will. - John 13:7

Art Program Director : Sarah Olson

Sarah Olson was born in Invercargill, New Zealand, one of the southernmost cities in the world. Her travel-enthusiast parents took her to many locations abroad, ultimately settling in the United States. She has had the privilege of studying at Parsons School of Design as well as the Art Institute of Portland. An accomplished designer who started out in fashion design and children’s illustration, she transitioned to structural interior design to focus primarily on residential remodels. She has been recognized by the Building Industry Association of Washington and received the 2008 Building Excellence Award for Residential Exterior. Sarah came to Pilgrim Lutheran Christian School by way of her youngest daughter attending Preschool. Shortly after enrolling her daughter it was her love of cooking and her enthusiasm to be a part of the school that she took over the role of “Chef” for the hot lunch program.  Her drive and passion for the school ultimately led to developing a robust Art curriculum. As a creative educator, Sarah’s goal is to continue to expose students to various mediums and techniques to further their growth within the Arts.

Librarian: Lois Linnemann 

Lois has been a Lutheran educator for 32 years. After earning her Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Concordia University, Chicago; she began her teaching ministry as second grade teacher at a Lutheran school in Ogden, Utah.  In 1987, she was called to teach fifth and sixth grade at Pilgrim and was a classroom teacher, both full time and part time, for 9 more years before becoming school librarian in 2005.  Lois finds joy in working with children and helping them find pleasure in reading. She and her husband, Mark, were married at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in 1988, and together have three children. All three were baptized at Pilgrim and received excellent preschool, elementary and middle school educations at Pilgrim Lutheran School. She says that the teachers at PLCS gave each of her children a strong foundation academically and in their faith, and prepared them for the rigors of high school and college.

“But BLESSED is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8

Music Program Director: Julie Bedard

Julie has served as a classroom teacher and Early Childhood Director for over 20 years, the last 3 at Pilgrim. She has a Masters of Education in Early Childhood Curriculum and Instruction.

Her education and experience has taught her that young children learn best through direct experience with objects and people. It is the job of the teacher to set up the learning environment and schedule in ways that lead the children to learning outcomes. She prefers the term "intellectual" to "academic" in that children not only learn facts but also how to think on their own and solve problems. 

As a lifetime church musician, she has taught elementary music and conducted adult and children's choirs in addition to serving as an organist, currently at Pilgrim. She loves teaching children the many ways to praise the Lord with their voices and instruments.

In her spare time, Julie enjoys reading, doing puzzles, hiking and traveling to visit her children and grandchildren. 

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9