Agritopia Staff

Shue, Jolina

Ehlers, Rachel

Mrs. Ehlers has served as the Agritopia Campus Vice Principal since 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and a Master’s degree from Grand Canyon University. Mrs. Ehlers attends Emmanuel Church with her husband and has a deep passion for education, reading, and serving others. She also enjoys staying active and living a healthy lifestyle. Having grown up in Christian schools here in the Valley, Mrs. Ehlers has a strong desire to see children come to know Jesus from a young age and walk with Him throughout their lives.

Abbott, Michelle

Mrs. Abbott has been teaching second grade at the Agritopia campus since 2014.  She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Music History from Baylor University and a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University.  Mrs. Abbott attends Christ Church, loves serving at City Hope with her family, and is the proud mother of two daughters.  In her spare time, Mrs. Abbott enjoys experimenting in the kitchen and is an avid reader.  She loves partnering with parents in the education of their children – helping students grow spiritually, academically, and socially for God’s glory.

Adams, Laurel

Ms. Adams has enjoyed teaching fourth grade at the Agritopia Campus since 2023. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism in 1998 from the University of Minnesota, and her Master of Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University in 2014. Ms. Adams enjoys spending time with her two beloved sons, Joey and Alex, and attends Redeemer Bible Church. In her spare time, she can often be found tending to her plants and her yard, enjoying a round of golf, or reading a book while sipping coffee on the patio. Ms. Adams is a strong advocate for students to reach their full potential by stewarding their time to the best of their abilities, while using the gifts and talents that the Lord has bestowed upon them. She is committed to challenging her students to think critically, offer them opportunities to make connections between learning and their own lives, and walk alongside them as they shape their Biblical worldview.

Anderson ’17, Claudia

Mrs. Anderson has been teaching at Gilbert Christian since 2021. She attended Grand Canyon University where she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Anderson attends and serves at Mission Bible Church of the East Valley with her husband. In her free time, Mrs. Anderson enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and friends, gardening, and going on outdoor adventures. She loves partnering with GCS parents in shepherding the hearts of their child and shaping them into who Christ calls them to be. She loves cultivating a comfortable environment that encourages growth, community, and Christ-likeness. 

Avery, Susie

Mrs. Avery has been a 3rd grade teacher at the Agritopia campus since 2016. She has been teaching since graduating from Western Baptist College in 1991 where she earned her Bachelors of Science Teaching Degree. She attends church at Sun Valley with her husband, and she loves spending time with her adult twins. She enjoys Christian music and concerts, reading, and traveling. Getting to know the students well, so they know they are loved is of utmost importance to her. She loves teaching biblical truths every day and explaining how they apply to a 3rd grader. She enjoys helping students reach their highest academic potential.

Beauford, Jess

Mrs. Beauford has been a teacher at the Agritopia Campus since 2025 teaching 8th grade English and middle school Gear English. She is a Colorado Native and earned her bachelor’s degree in teaching from the University of Northern Colorado and has been teaching since 2010. Mrs. Beauford lives with her husband and two young daughters. Her family attends Rock Point Church, where they often serve in various ministries. Mrs. Beauford has a love for camping, animals, coffee, and staying active by running and attending her favorite crossfit gym. By far, her biggest passion is building relationships with her students and helping them grow in their faith and become the men and women God has created them to be. 

Betz, Teresa

Brown, Kareena

Mrs. Brown has been teaching third grade at the Agritopia campus since 2015. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. She is an active member of 2911 Church in Tempe, Arizona. Her greatest earthly treasures are her husband and two boys. When not teaching, Mrs. Brown enjoys cooking nutritious meals for her family, taking long walks around the neighborhood, cheering on the Phoenix Suns, getting lost in a good book, and traveling anywhere close to water. She is passionate about seeing her students grow spiritually, socially, and academically as they learn to apply God’s Word to every aspect of their lives.

Brown, Kristin

Brown, Riley

Mrs. Brown has been a fourth-grade teacher in Arkansas since 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from John Brown University. She and her husband look forward to finding a church to join after relocating to Arizona this summer. Mrs. Brown is passionate about teaching, exploring new places, and traveling. She is committed to education as a means of discipleship, striving to encourage and equip her students for the glory of God. 

Butler, Nicole

Mrs. Butler has a heart for serving others and brings joy and energy to her work with children. She attends Calvary East Valley Church, where she serves in both the children’s ministry and hospitality team. At Gilbert Christian Schools Agritopia, Mrs. Butler loves singing with the students, sharing jokes, and creating a joyful atmosphere wherever she goes. She and her husband, Joe, have three wonderful children: Emma, John, and Adam. She considers it a blessing to invest in the lives of children and help make their school days a little brighter.

Carver, Jamie

Clark, Desiree

Ms. Clark has served as a math teacher at the Agritopia campus since 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Arizona State University. Ms. Clark attends Echos Church and loves spending time with her daughters, Abby and Katelyn. Her passions include education, faith, and gardening. She is deeply committed to supporting students as they grow stronger in their Biblical worldview and in the core subject of mathematics.

Clayton, Donna

Mrs. Clayton has served as an aide at Gilbert Christian School Agritopia since 2023. She has many years experience teaching private preschool and has also been a paraprofessional for Chandler Public Schools. Mrs. Clayton attends Redeemer Bible Church with her husband. She enjoys playing the piano, reading, long walks and pilates. She loves serving our GCS community and watching students as they come to know the Lord and grow in their relationship with Him.  

Clouatre, Marnie

Mrs. Clouatre has served as a fourth grade teacher at the Agritopia Campus since 2014. She earned her degree from New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, near her hometown of Ruidoso, New Mexico. She attends Sun Valley Community Church at the Gilbert Campus and is discovering the joys and challenges of life as an empty nester. Outside of school, she enjoys the great outdoors, pickleball, and playing tennis. Mrs. Clouatre is passionate about helping students grow in self-responsibility and giving God the glory for their accomplishments as they learn to push beyond what they thought possible.

Cox, Amy

Mrs. Cox began working with Gilbert Christian schools on the Agritopia campus in 2022 as a fifth grade teacher, before moving into teaching 3rd grade. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from University of Phoenix and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University. Mrs. Cox attends Red Mountain Community Church. She is married to Casey and they have four incredible kids. Her deepest calling is to serve the Lord and to teach her children and students to do the same. She loves spending time with her husband and children, teaching, cooking, baking, reading, hiking, paddle boarding, and playing pickleball. Her favorite part of teaching is the connection she builds with her students. 

Dyer, Hannah

Mrs. Dyer has been serving as a Kindergarten Aide at the Agritopia campus since 2023. She is currently pursuing her degree in Elementary Education and brings nearly a decade of experience working with children. Mrs. Dyer attends Sun Valley Community Church, South Gilbert Campus, with her husband. She enjoys traveling, spending time with their labradoodle Daisy, cheering on their favorite sports teams, and making memories with friends and family. Mrs. Dyer feels incredibly grateful for the opportunity to support and witness little minds as they grow, discover, and develop in their own unique ways. She loves being part of the GCS community – a family where Christ is truly at the center.

Espinoza, Yuridia

Mrs. Espinoza has been serving as a playground aide and classroom support at Gilbert Christian School Agritopia since 2023. Originally from Tamaulipas, Mexico, she has called Arizona home since 2013. Mrs. Espinoza holds a degree in Psychopedagogy in Education from a university in Mexico. She finds joy in working with children and sees it as a blessing to learn from them and point them to Jesus at every opportunity. Mrs. Espinoza and her family attend Redemption Mesa Church, where they actively serve in various ministries. As a playground aide, Mrs. Espinoza loves making recess a safe and fun time for students, where they can put their faith into practice through play and fellowship. When she’s not serving at GCS, Mrs. Espinoza enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, photography, and decorating events. She is grateful to be part of the GCS Family!

Gerber, Kathy

Ghena, Caleb

Mr. Ghena has been a teacher at the Agritopia Campus since 2023. He is a 6th grade homeroom teacher and the 6th grade English teacher. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Communications from Azusa Pacific University. He also studied abroad at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. Mr. Ghena attends Foothills Baptist Church in Ahwatukee along with his family, who also live in the Valley. His passions include watching Michigan sports, exploring history documentaries, trips to the cinema, and traveling internationally. A former reporter, Mr. Ghena left the news business and now works at GCS because he is deeply committed to exalting God’s truths through Christian worldview building. He feels called to help equip young people to be beacons of God’s love in a chaotic and confusing world. 

Gill, Heather

Mrs. Gill has been teaching 4th through 8th grade Orchestra at Gilbert Christian since 2023. She began teaching string instruments in 2003. She has a Bachelor of Music Education with Orchestral Instrument Emphasis from Arizona State University. In addition to her passion for teaching, Mrs. Gill also performs violin professionally in a variety of musical tastes including pop and modern, classical, wedding, religious and within orchestras for world-renowned musicians. Mrs.Gill and her family attend and serve at Rock Point Church. Her family enjoys all things music, movie nights, games and swimming. Mrs.Gill considers it a joy to help young musicians grow in their God-given skills.

Gonzalez, Michelle

Mrs. Gonzalez has been a teacher at the Agritopia Campus since 2013, where she has taught 4th grade and 5th grade. She is currently a 6th grade homeroom teacher and the 6th grade math teacher. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from The King’s College. Originally from the East Coast, Mrs. Gonzalez enjoys traveling back to New Jersey to visit family and experience the beauty of the four seasons. Outside of the classroom, she attends Sun Valley Community Church with her husband and son. In her free time, Mrs. Gonzalez enjoys reading, watching movies, working on projects around the house, and cheering on her favorite baseball teams. Mrs. Gonzalez has a strong passion for Christian Education and helping students to seek God’s truth in all areas as they navigate the middle school years. 

Gorecki, Tracie

Mrs. Gorecki has served at the Agritopia campus since 2019 as a kindergarten academic aide. She began her career as an aide in 2012 in special education at a Chandler area charter school. Mrs. Gorecki attends Redeemer Bible Church. She and her husband have been married since 1990 and have three adult children. Mrs. Gorecki loves working at GCS and especially loves working with the kindergarten children. She loves sharing Christ with them and helping them have a strong successful start to their education.

Hoppal, Breanna

Mrs. Hoppal has been a teacher at Agritopia since 2010. Her educational background includes an Associate’s degree in Bible and Elementary Education from Ozark Christian College, a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Missouri Southern State University, and a Master’s degree in Educational Technology from Northern Arizona University. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Hoppal is a member of Central Christian Church in Gilbert and enjoys embarking on summer road trips across the United States with her husband and 4 children, having visited all 50 states. She is a Missouri native and has been a passionate football fan since she was in elementary school. She cheers enthusiastically for the KC Chiefs. Mrs. Hoppal is deeply committed to working at GCS because it provides a unique environment where students can cultivate essential technology skills and knowledge through a Christian lens, preparing them to flourish in today’s digital world.

Hunt, Kristy

Mrs. Hunt has joyfully served as a 5th grade teacher at GCS since 2021. Mrs. Hunt holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University and maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K–6) Certification. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, paddleboarding, hiking, hunting, and crafting of all kinds. She and her family are active members of Echoes Church. Teaching has been Mrs. Hunt’s lifelong dream, and she is incredibly thankful for the opportunity to use the gifts and talents God has given her to partner with parents in helping students grow both spiritually and academically. She finds great joy in placing the truth of God’s Word at the heart of every lesson and feels truly blessed to be part of the GCS community.

Hurtado, Jamie

Mr. Hurtado is the PE teacher for 5th through 8th grade at GCS, where he has been joyfully serving since joining the team in 2021. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University and brings both energy and heart to his role on campus. Mr. Hurtado is married to his lovely wife, and together they have three children. Their family attends Compass Christian Church. In his free time, he enjoys coaching baseball and spending quality time with his family. He is passionate about mentoring students and takes great joy in pouring into their lives to help them grow in their faith and come to know Jesus.

Jarrett, Mindy

Mrs. Jarrett has been teaching at Gilbert Christian School since 2022. She obtained a Bachelor’s degree from Harding University in Child Development. She has experience teaching Kindergarten for over 18 years. Mrs. Jarrett attends Sun Valley Church of Christ with her husband and two children. She enjoys cooking with her family, growing by reading new books and listening to live music. Mrs. Jarrett loves to walk with families in their child’s first year of school. She is passionate about instilling a love of learning in all of her students academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.

Josephson, Angela

Mrs. Josephson has been in the Pre-K classroom since 2023. She obtained a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix and has over a decade of experience in early childhood education. Mrs. Josephson attends CCV Church with her husband along with her two children. She enjoys being out on the lake with her family and exploring new places. Mrs. Josephson feels truly blessed to be able to share God’s love with her students and create a faith-filled classroom where every child feels loved and valued.

King, Carrie

Kirby, Kristen

Mrs. Kirby has been serving as the 2nd/3rd grade math specialist at Agritopia since 2024. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. She enjoys growing in her faith and serving at Compass Christian Church. Married since 2003, she is a proud mom of three. She loves spending time with her family and being outdoors. Her passion lies in helping children reach their fullest potential in a Christ-centered environment. Her hope is to inspire students to one day use their gifts – including their understanding of mathematics – for God’s glory.

Knop, Isabella

Lamberth, Mandy

Mrs. Lamberth has been teaching middle school choir at Gilbert Christian since 2023.  She has been teaching music and choir since 2001. She has a Bachelor of Music Education with a Choral Emphasis from the University of Missouri-Kansas City-Conservatory of Music and a Master of Music in Music Education from the University of Florida. She holds both Kodaly and Orff-Schulwerk certifications. Mrs. Lamberth attends the Oasis Church where she and her husband, Nathan both serve on the worship team. They have two sons, Max and Tate.  Mrs. Lamberth has a deep passion for teaching choir and helping young people use their God-given gifts to make music.

LeBlanc, Anna

Ms. LeBlanc began teaching Kindergarten at Gilbert Christian School in 2025. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education & Special Education from Arizona State University in 2014. Ms. LeBlanc is passionate about Jesus and believes that it’s her calling to be a part of discipling the next generation, at school, in her home, and also within her church community. Ms. LeBlanc especially enjoys the beauty of God’s creation, spending quality time with the people she loves, and singing worship music wherever and whenever she can. Her greatest joy in teaching is cultivating a love for the Word of God and prayer, and her hope is that the seeds planted in children’s hearts will yield a harvest for years to come. 

Lilly, Michelle

Ms. Lilly has been teaching second grade at the Agritopia campus since 2024. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University with a Structured English Immersion endorsement. Ms. Lilly attends Shepherd’s House Bible Church, loves spending time with her family, and enjoys finding new picture books to read to her class. She enjoys watching her students’ personalities flourish and loves to encourage them as they grow in their walk with the Lord.

Lottes, Mandie

Mrs. Lottes has been teaching K-6 General Music at GCS since 2023. She has been a Music and Theatre arts teacher since 2005, and earned her BA in Multi-Age Music Education from Cedarville University in Ohio (Go, Yellowjackets!). She is also the assistant and music director for the GCHS Knights Theatre program with Mrs. Maranatha Burgess. Mrs. Lottes and her husband have two young children, one of whom attends the Agritopia campus. They are members of Christ Church Gilbert, and Mrs. Lottes serves on the Students team, helping to lead worship for the high school group. She enjoys fishing and playing board games with her kids, and spending time with her extended family. She grew up in Michigan, and goes back whenever possible, especially to enjoy her favorite season, Fall. Mrs. Lottes loves that she can use her passion for the arts, and her love of children to teach students about worshipping their Creator with the gifts they have been given. Her goal is to make music and theatre fun, and to help her students grow into confident and engaged worshippers. 

Manley, Valerie

Ms. Manley began teaching at Gilbert Christian School in 2011. She has experience in kindergarten and first grade. She has her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Ms. Manley attends and serves at RockPoint Church with her family. She is the proud mother of 3 children who have all attended GCS. She enjoys traveling, staying active, making memories with family and friends and teaching littles to love learning. She loves serving our GCS community by partnering with parents each year to help their child flourish spiritually, academically, and socially. 

Matthias, Andrea

Mrs. Matthias began serving as the 1st grade math specialist at Agritopia in 2024. She obtained a degree in Elementary Education from Wartburg College in her hometown of Waverly, Iowa.  She and her husband are members of Christ Church Gilbert where they find joy in serving together in children’s ministry.  With her three children now grown, Mrs. Matthias treasures every opportunity to spend time with her family. In her free time, Mrs. Matthias enjoys sharing her love of astronomy through outreach events and can often be found star hopping under dark skies. She is passionate about helping students explore God’s world through mathematics and encourages her first graders to work joyfully and persevere, as she equips  them to use their math skills to be faithful servants of God.

Medina, Susan

Miller 21′, Ramzee

Ms. Miller has been working in facilities since the 2024 school year and became a part of the aide team for the fourth quarter. She attended Gilbert Christian School from 6th grade through 12th grade and graduated in 2021. Ramzee has a love for working with children and being hands on for the facilities side setting up for events and sports! She has been involved in church her whole life and has a very strong christian family who are her best friends. Mr. Miller, who is the facilities director, is her father and she has enjoyed working side by side with him and learning the ropes to see how the school runs behind the scenes. Ms. Miller has a passion for mentoring the younger generation for God’s kingdom and speaking life into them.

Miller, Ron

Miller, Tamera

Mrs. Miller has served as the Athletic Coordinator at the GCS Agritopia campus since 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Arizona State University and is passionate about athletics and faith-based education. She is married and a proud mom of four children, all of whom attend Gilbert Christian Schools. Mrs. Miller enjoys spending time with her family, going on adventures, staying active, and cheering on her kids in their athletic pursuits. She loves serving the Agritopia campus community and is committed to instilling a strong foundation in students to grow as Christian athletes – on and off the field (or court!).

Moore, Susan

Ms. Moore has been teaching second grade at the Agritopia campus since 2016. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University. She is an active member of Sun Valley Community Church and the proud mother of four children. Ms. Moore is passionate about teaching children to read and cultivating a lifelong love of literacy. She values the opportunity to partner with GCS parents in helping students grow both academically and spiritually.

Murray, Jeanne

Jeanne Murray has served as a teacher on the Agritopia campus since 2010.  She began as an elementary teacher but has found her passion in middle school. She is a native of Santa Cruz, CA and holds an BA in Elementary Education from Westmont College and a MS in Sports Management from San Jose State University.  After moving to Arizona, she obtained a MA in Cross Categorical Special Education from the University of Phoenix and was fortunate to be offered a position at Gilbert Christian.  She attends Central Christian Church and loves traveling, spending time outdoors, visiting family in California, and playing frisbee with Ben, her Border Collie.  Mrs. Murray is married to Joel and they have a daughter named Hailey. She considers teaching at Gilbert Christian Schools a great blessing and is committed to providing a classroom full of laughter, love, grace, hard work, and success…all which bring glory to the Lord!

Newcomb, Stacey

Mrs. Newcomb has been teaching 4th/5th grade math at the Agritopia Campus since 2021. Mrs. Newcomb and her husband have two children, London and Grayson, and attend Echoes Church in Mesa. Her family loves baseball and Jesus – both require perseverance, humility and lots of grace. Mrs. Newcomb enjoys guiding students through what is obviously everyone’s favorite subject – math! (Yes, fractions can be fun… eventually.). Most of all she greatly values the community of parents that she gets to partner with and pray over daily. 

Oletzke, Melodee

Mrs. Oletzke has been serving as an aide at Gilbert Christian School Agritopia since 2022. Mrs ‘O’ attended Trinity Bible College completing her AA in Biblical Studies. Melodee and her husband Jon have served in pastoral ministry since 1980. Currently they attend Generations Church in Mesa. They have 2 married children and 8 grandchildren. When Melodee moved to AZ in 2022 she was interested in working at a Christian school. Melodee loves being around young people. Her hobbies include walking, gardening, Hallmark movies and creating a welcoming environment in her home. Mrs ‘O’ loves being part of the GCS Agritopia family. It’s an honor to serve alongside committed teachers, staff and developing students. 

Otto, Bri

Mrs. Otto has been teaching PE at Agritopia since 2023. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University. She maintains an Arizona Education Certificate with a focus in Physical Education (PreK-12) as well as a Structured English Immersion (PreK-12) endorsement. She loves partnering with GCS parents in ensuring the health and physical fitness of their children, is often found instilling the importance and enjoyment of being active and taking care of the bodies that God has gifted them, and specializes in teaching the skills and components of fitness in a fun and engaging way! Mrs. Otto and her family attend Ironwood Church. Her hobbies include being outdoors, fishing, weekend trips up north, and spending time with her family. 

Pallan, Kate

Mrs. Pallan began teaching at the Agritopia campus in 2024. Before joining GCS, she spent over a decade as a special education teacher in both California and Arizona. She earned her undergraduate degree in Cross-Categorical Education from the University of Arizona and holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University. Mrs. Pallan and her husband have three children who also attend the Agritopia campus. Their family enjoys spending time outdoors, especially at their cabin in Pinetop during the summer. She loves to cook and run, though she avoids running in the summer heat! Her family attends Rockpoint Church. Mrs. Pallan is deeply committed to the field of education and finds great joy in watching students grow academically, socially, and spiritually. She also values strong school-home connections and loves partnering with parents to support their child’s growth throughout the year.

Pasquariello, Cassie

Mrs. Pasquariello has been teaching elementary science at GCS since 2017. She holds a degree in Health Education with a minor in Science and Theology from Lee University. Mrs. Pasquariello has a deep love for children and has been drawn to their joy, enthusiasm, and wonder since she was a little girl. Her entire family is part of the GCS community – her husband Jason works at the high school, and their three boys, Tate, Bryton, and Leo, keep their home full of energy and laughter. The Pasquariellos love their Ironwood church family, spending time outdoors, watching movies, and cheering on their favorite sports – especially basketball. Mrs. Pasquariello considers it a joy and calling to be a vassal in God’s kingdom, seeking daily to be salt and light in the lives of her students.

Patterson, Jackie

Mrs. Patterson has been teaching 7th/8th grade Social Studies at the Agritopia campus since 2006. She is a Wisconsin native and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Her family attends Shepherd’s House in Tempe under the teaching of Costi Hinn. Mrs. Patterson loves to cook, enjoys quality time with her husband as empty nesters, and babysits her grandchildren whenever she gets the opportunity.  She is deeply committed to GCS with her husband, who serves as the head of security. Loving and walking alongside students in their “middle” years, sharing “His-Story” is her greatest joy. 

Paul, Justine

Mrs. Paul has served at the Gilbert Christian Agritopia campus since 2020. She is currently the 7th grade ELA and middle school Gear English teacher. She received her Bachelor’s Degree at Illinois State University in English Secondary Education with an endorsement in Middle School. She attends church at Antioch Community Church in Central Phoenix. In her freetime, she loves to go camping, paddleboarding, hiking, and spending time with her family and friends. She loves working at GCS and is passionate about helping kids grow in their walk with the Lord. In addition, she also loves to help kids grow in their reading and writing skills and to help them grow in their academic potential.

Pireh, Kelly

Mrs. Pireh has been working with 7th and 8th grade students on the Agritopia Campus in Science since 2022, but has been an educator since 2003 when she graduated from Northland University with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education for Science and Bible.  She attends Compass Church in Chandler and loves using her spiritual gift of teaching the Word in ladies and youth ministries.  She enjoys hiking, traveling, writing poetry, and playing basketball.  Her greatest joy in the classroom is illuminating Spiritual truths throughout the science lessons and guiding her students to see the Creator in the midst of His spectacular creation. 

Poweleit, Nancy

Mrs. Poweleit has been serving the Gilbert Christian Schools Agritopia since 2007, formerly as a classroom teacher and presently as a playground aide and classroom support.  She received her BA in French and MA in Romance Language and Literature.  Mrs. Poweleit attends Holy Cross Church and is the proud mother of her two beloved sons, Christian and Drew. Her passions include family and friends, cooking, reading and sharing the joy of Jesus with others!

Ramos, Anthony

Mr. Ramos has taught MS mathematics in both public and charter school environments. He believes the junior high years are some of the most important years in a student’s education, so it is a blessing to teach students during these important years. Mr. Ramos is a veteran of the United States Air Force and holds a B.A. in Education with an endorsement in mathematics from Boise State University and is certified by the state of Arizona in science. Mr. Ramos and his family attend Sun Valley Community Church, South Gilbert Campus. He wants families to know, “My faith in Christ is of the utmost importance in my life, followed next by family. I consider it a privilege to serve Christ in and through Gilbert Christian Schools. Mr. Ramos has been a part of GCS staff since 2018.

Roberts, Kendall

Miss Roberts has been teaching at Gilbert Christian since 2021. She obtained a Bachelor’s degree from Grand Canyon University in Elementary Education. She attends and serves at New Valley Church. She loves partnering with GCS parents in shepherding their children to love God and others by stewarding their God-given gifts and talents. Her passions include outdoor activities, weight-lifting, swing dancing, and spending time with friends and family. She also has the privilege of coaching the GCHS cheer team. She is passionate about making every student feel seen and valued in the classroom, and watching them grow in their relationship with the Lord.

Romes, Mona

Mrs. Romes has been the reading interventionist at the Agritopia campus since 2022. She is a Colorado native and holds a Psychology degree from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. She holds a teaching license in the state of Colorado as well as an Arizona Department of Education Certificate with endorsements in Structured English Immersion, PreK – 12, and Early Childhood, Birth – Age 8. Mrs. Romes attends Christ Greenfield with her husband. They love spending time with their adult children, attending various sporting events, and hiking. Mrs. Romes has a passion for teaching reading, is an avid reader, and is a collector of books. She is deeply committed to building strong relationships with students and teaching children to love reading and learning.

Samp, Tammy

Mrs. Samp joined the GCS Education team in 2012. She earned a Bachelor of Elementary Education and Master of Elementary Education (K-8) from (NAU) Northern Arizona University. Mrs. Samp and her husband attend Sun Valley Community Church. Her hobbies include spending time and playing games with her grown children and 14 grandchildren. She loves partnering with GCS parents in helping students hide God’s Word in their hearts through music. She is often found singing and dancing in the classroom to enhance learning and make it enjoyable. Mrs. Samp specializes in teaching students to pray and love God’s Word!

Scheina, Athena

Shue, Allison

Shue, Chris

Mr. Shue has been teaching at the Agritopia Campus since 2018, and was a certified instructor in the United States Navy for seventeen years. He holds a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University. Mr. Shue is a 6th grade homeroom teacher and the 6th grade science teacher. Mr. Shue attends Christ Church and is the proud father of three adult children. His passions include physical training and nutrition, gunsmithing and shooting, and vehicle restoration. He is deeply committed to faith-based education, and helping middle school students to mature into highly effective members within the Body of Christ.

Stansberry, Russell

Thompson, Nicole

Mrs. Thompson has been teaching at the Agritopia campus since 2021. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Arizona State University and maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-6) Certification with an ESL (English as a Second Language) endorsement. Mrs. Thompson and her family attend Rock Point Community Church. She enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, spending time in her backyard with her daughters, and dinner dates with her husband. She loves partnering with GCS parents to help students develop a Biblical worldview and deepen their love for the Lord. In addition, she finds joy in creating a warm, nurturing class community where every student feels known and loved. 

Vaught, Sarah

Mrs. Vaught has been teaching at Gilbert Christian School since 2022. She is currently furthering her early childhood education through Liberty University. She has experience in teaching Pre-k since 2017. Mrs. Vaught attends Sun Valley Church with her husband and her three children, two of whom are now adults. She loves taking trips with her family and enjoys the outdoors. Mrs. Vaught loves helping young children grow and learn with love, patience and faith as the foundation while partnering with parents along the way.

Wilhelmsen, Catharina

Mrs. Wilhelmsen has served as the Agritopia Art Teacher since 2021. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from University of AZ and Master’s degree from University of Phoenix. Mrs. Wilhelmsen attends Redeemer Church and is also the proud mother of four children. Her passions include enjoying God’s creation while landscaping, reading, photographing, and sipping coffee. She is grateful to teach at a faith based school where art can be appreciated and taught through a biblical worldview; after all, Genesis 1:1 reads ” In the beginning God created…”. Being made in His image, we are creative too.