Agritopia Staff

Abbott, Michelle

Michelle Abbott enjoys engaging with students at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Music in Music History and a Master of Music in Music History from Baylor University, as well as a Master of Education in Early Childhood from Arizona State University. Michelle maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things reading, is often found collaborating with teammates to gain new skills, and specializes in encouraging students as they gain confidence as readers and learners. Michelle and her family attend Christ Church of Gilbert. Her hobbies include include reading, trying new recipes, crafting, and spending time with her family. Michelle joined the GCS Education team in 2014. Their favorite Bible verse is: “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17

Adams, Laurel

Laurel Adams enjoys teaching fourth graders at the Agritopia campus. 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. Laurel maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification and has additional training in Gifted education, ESL (English as a Second Language), and has taught kindergarten through fifth grade. She loves partnering with GCS parents to prepare children to glorify God in all they do. She is a strong advocate in each student reaching his or her full potential by stewarding their time to the best of their abilities, while using the gifts and talents the Lord has bestowed upon them, is often found  challenging her students to critically think, shape their Biblical worldview, and make connections between learning and their own lives, and specializes in writing and everything figurative language! Laurel and her family attend Redeemer Bible Church. Her hobbies include serving on Redeemer’s greeting team and singing in the choir, spending time with her beloved sons, Joey and Alex, and recreational hiking, golfing and tennis, along with tending to her plants and her yard. Laurel joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Their favorite Bible verse is: “Be joyful in hope; be patient in affliction, be persistent in prayer.” Romans 12:12

Avery, Susie

Susie Avery enjoys teaching 3rd grade at the Agritopia campus. She earned a bachelor’s of science degree in Elementary Education from Western Baptist College (now Corban Univ.). Susie has taught Pre-K, grades 1-3 since 1991 and presented dozens of teacher seminars every year for Rocket Math while staying home with twins for 5 years. She loves partnering with GCS parents in growing students to their fullest potential both spiritually and academically, is often found giving hugs to current students and former students who are still considered family, and specializes in helping students to solve problems amongst their peers and building a class of encouragement where everyone gets what they need to learn and grow. Susie and her family attend the Grace City in Mesa (former pastor of Spring of Life). Her hobbies include Christian music listening and concerts, singing, traveling, movies, reading. Susie joined the GCS Education team in 2015. Her favorite Bible verse is: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5,6

Betz ’17, Claudia

Claudia Betz enjoys pointing her first graders towards Christ at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education Degree from Grand Canyon University. Claudia maintains an Arizona Early Childhood Education (PreK-3rd) Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in shepherding the hearts of their child and shaping them into who Christ calls them to be, is often found playing kickball at recess, reading fun and meaningful books, and playing word games with students, and specializes in cultivating a comfortable environment that encourages growth, community, and Christ-likeness. Claudia and her family attend Redemption Gilbert. Her hobbies include spending time with her family and friends, traveling, pickleball, and outdoor adventures. Claudia joined the GCS Education team in 2021. Her favorite Bible verse is: “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Romans 8:37

Betz, Teresa

Boggs, Kelly

Kelly Boggs enjoys teaching 5th graders on the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Middle School Education with an emphasis in Language Arts and Social Studies from Asbury University. Kelly holds a current Arizona teaching certificate and has taught English and history to 5th through 9th grade students in Arizona, Ohio, and West Virginia. She loves partnering with GCS parents in helping shape students in academics, behavior, and organizational skills as well as working with parents to build up students spiritually by praying with them, and talking to them about her relationship with Jesus, and challenging them in their journeys. Kelly is often found collaborating with her amazing teaching team, and specializes in talking books with students – giving and taking recommendations and encouraging a love of reading. Kelly and her family attend Life Link Church where they are heavily involved. Her hobbies include spending time with family playing cards and board games, being a part of a Life Group, and doing anything that has to do with books – searching book reviews, browsing bookshops, buying and selling books, and of course, reading. Kelly joined the GCS Education team in 2018. Her favorite Bible verse is: Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Psalm 37:4-6

Brown, Kareena

Kareena Brown enjoys building strong relationships with parents and students that last well beyond their time in my classroom at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Kareena maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in guiding students to grow academically, spiritually, and socially, is often found inspiring students to love reading, write beautifully, and apply the Word to their daily lives, and specializes in classroom management, helping students become their own problem solvers, and developing lessons that give students the opportunity to move, work together, and enjoy learning. Kareena and her family attend 29:11 church in Tempe. Her hobbies include taking long walks, meeting with her book club, movie nights with family, and traveling. Kareena joined the GCS Education team in 2015. Her favorite Bible verse is: You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. Isaiah 26:3-4

Brown, Kristin

Butler, Nicole

Carver, Jamie

Christy, Annie

Annie Christy enjoys teaching kindergarten at the Agritopia campus. She earned her Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations and Masters of Education in Elementary Education from Liberty University. Annie maintains her teacher certificate for elementary education. She loves partnering with GCS parents in students’ character growth and development, is often found is often found reminding students how known and loved they are by God, and specializes in encouraging students to grow in confidence in the classroom and school environment. Annie and her family attend Mission Community Church. Her hobbies include spending time with her family, hiking, working out, and traveling. Annie joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10

Clark, Desiree

Desiree Clark enjoys teaching our mathematicians at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University. Desiree holds an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification complete with an SEI (Structured English Immersion, PreK-12) endorsement.  She loves partnering with GCS parents in “all things math”, and is often found traveling from one classroom to the next. She specializes in encouraging her students to feel confident in the classroom. Desiree and her family attend Sun Valley Community Church. Her hobbies include hiking, reading, writing, trying new recipes, and spending time with her family. Desiree joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Clayton, Donna

Clouatre, Marnie

Marnie Clouatre delights to make learning interesting and see God glorified in each lesson and God-glorifying at the Agritopia campus. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from New Mexico State University. Marnie Holds an ACSI Biblical Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in educating her students in knowing who Christ is and encouraging the use of their gifts and talents in acknowledging their true purpose of children of the Lord, is often found building relationships with parents to foster a team-approach, unity, and a community to best support her students, and specializes in connecting Christian-worldview to each academic subject-matter. Marnie and her family attend Sun Valley Community Church. Her hobbies include the great outdoors–especially playing tennis and pickleball, camping, and biking. Marnie joined the GCS Education team in 2014. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” is a Bible verse from Proverbs 3:5. It instructs people to put their trust in God, not in their own knowledge or strength.

Cowan, Allison

Dyer, Hannah

Ehlers, Rachel

Rachel attended ASU for her undergrad, receiving her B.S. in Elementary Education with an ESL endorsement. Later, she went through GCU for her Master’s degree in TESOL (Teachers of English to Students of Other Languages). She’s been so fortunate to have spent the last 12 years in Mesa Public Schools for both student teaching and her educational career. Rachel started in 2nd grade, but has taught 1st through 4th grade, with 3rd grade being her absolute favorite! This next year will be her 11th year of teaching. Being raised in private Christian education, Rachel is so excited to be coming back now as a teacher – having the privilege to combine her passions of faith and education. She LOVES working with kids and sees it as God’s calling in her life! When not working with kids or on school-related things, reading, cooking, and watching baseball (Go Red Sox) are some of her favorites. She’s a morning person and can usually be found working out around 5 am and finding ways to stay active and healthy. In the winter months, this involves snowboarding and hiking with her husband. Rachel married her amazing husband, Nathaniel, in the fall of 2020. They just finished building their “forever home” and share it with their rescue dachshund-pug, Lolli. They love exploring Arizona, finding new restaurants, traveling to new places, and spending time together. Rachel and Nathaniel attend Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Tempe. She has been a part of the GCS team since 2022.

Philippians 4:6-7 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Espinoza, Yuridia

Gerber, Kathy

Ghena, Caleb

Caleb Ghena enjoys teaching ELA, Bible, and History at the Agritopia campus. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Communications from Azusa Pacific University, and studied abroad at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. Caleb has taught at Christian, charter, private, and public schools. He maintains a PreK-12 Substitute Certification through the Arizona Department of Education. He loves partnering with GCS parents in cultivating a love for reading, writing, and storytelling, is often found narrating vivid tales inside the classroom, and specializes in encouraging each student to maximize their potential and work diligently unto the Lord. Caleb and his family attend Foothills Baptist Church in Ahwatukee. His hobbies include watching Michigan sports, playing golf, exploring history documentaries, and traveling internationally. Caleb joined the GCS Education team in 2023. His favorite Bible verse is: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Gill, Heather

Heather Gill enjoys teaching orchestra at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Music Education, specializing in string instruments, from Arizona State University. Heather’s teaching degree spans orchestral music at the k-12 level. She performs professionally throughout the valley for events, weddings, church services, small and large ensembles and well-known artists. She loves partnering with GCS parents musically to help students excel on their string instruments, is often found fixing/tuning instruments, tutoring students before the school day, and helping students with auditions for honor orchestras, and specializes in encouraging students to gain confidence through various performing opportunities, and helping students reach their full potential musically. Heather and her family attend Rock Point Church. Her hobbies include coffee dates with her husband, Chris, family game nights with their four children, playing professionally and being active. Heather joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Gonzalez, Michelle

Michelle Gonzalez enjoys teaching our 6th graders math at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education from The King’s College. Michelle maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification and has over 25 years experience in Christian Education. She loves partnering with GCS parents in helping students grow in their knowledge and understanding of the math and the world around them, is often found engaging students in challenging tasks to develop the tools they need for a lifetime of learning, and specializes in assisting students in developing a Biblical worldview in all areas. Michelle and her family attend Sun Valley Community Church – Gilbert Campus. Her hobbies include reading, attending baseball games, watching movies, spending time with her family, friends, and two dogs, and relaxing at home. Michelle joined the GCS Education team in 2013. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” Jeremiah 33:3

Gorecki, Tracie

Hoppal, Breanna

Breanna Hoppal enjoys challenging students to think outside the box, encouraging perseverance when problem-solving, and be wise stewards of technology as Christians at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Associates in Bible and Education from Ozark Christian College, Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Missouri Southern State University, and a Master of Education in Educational Technology from Northern Arizona University. Breanna maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification complete with a middle school English endorsement. She loves partnering with GCS parents in helping students to develop knowledge and skills to thrive in a technology-drive society from a Christian worldview, is often found aiding students to become innovative, collaborative creators and ethical, responsible users of computing technology, and specializes in developing a foundation of computer science knowledge. Breanna and her family attend the Central Christian Church Gilbert Campus. Her hobbies include reading, traveling with family, playing games, trying new restaurants. Breanna joined the GCS Education team in 2010. Their favorite Bible verse is: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34

Hunt, Kristy

Kristy Hunt enjoys teaching and engaging with students at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Northern Arizona University. Kristy maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in preparing 5th graders to become middle schoolers, is often found promoting student responsibility and encouraging a passion for God’s Word, and specializes in engaging students in a love for reading and learning. Kristy and her family attend Calvary East Valley Church. Her hobbies include paddle boarding, reading, crafting, and cooking. Kristy joined the GCS Education team in 2021. Her favorite Bible verse is: My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26

Hurtado, Jamie

Jamie Hurtado enjoys teaching PE at the Agritopia campus. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Management from Northern Arizona University. Jamie has served as Middle School PE Teacher since the 2021-2022 school year. He loves partnering with GCS parents to create an overall encouraging learning environment where students feel confident within any situation, and specializes in coaching baseball. It’s been a passion of his to fellowship and mentor students on campus. Jamie and his family attend Compass Christian Church. His hobbies include spending quality time with family, coaching/watching baseball and being active. Jamie joined the GCS Education team in 2021. His favorite Bible verse is: John 14:6.

James, Justine

Justine James enjoys forming relationships with her students and teaching them how to grow in their reading and writing skills at the Agritopia campus. She earned a teaching degree from Illinois State University. Justine holds a teaching license through the Arizona Department of Education and the State of Illinois for 6-12th grade. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things related to reading and writing, is often found through reading and analyzing books, writing in-depth essays, and connecting ELA to a biblical worldview, and specializes in encouraging and connecting with students on a deeper level. Justine and her family attend Antioch Community Church. Her hobbies include camping, paddleboarding, hiking, and reading. Justine joined GCS in 2020. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2

Jarrett, Mindy

Mindy Jarrett enjoys teaching Kindergarteners how to read and watching them thrive in their first year of school at the Agritopia campus. She earned a bachelors in Child Development from Harding University in Arkansas. She has hours towards her Masters in Education at Grand Canyon University. After graduation, she came back to Arizona to teach Kindergarten in Phoenix for 1 year. She then taught Kindergarten at Bright Beginnings charter school in Chandler for 4 years. After that she then moved over to teach Kindergarten at Archway Chandler, she worked in Great Hearts for 10 years. She loves partnering with GCS parents in their child’s first year of school, create a joyful engagement in her classroom and is often found encouraging creativity in her students while helping them reach new academic heights. She specializes in creating a classroom that has a warm and loving atmosphere and helping each student obtain substantial growth by maintaining a strong consistent classroom culture. Mindy and her family attend Sun Valley Church of Christ. Her hobbies include baking, home organization, and traveling with her husband and kids. Mindy joined GCS in 2022. Their favorite Bible verse is: Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”

Josephson, Angela

Kaiser, Ken

King, Carrie

Kirby, Kristen

Kristen Kirby enjoys serving God through teaching students at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University. Kristen maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification complete with an ESL (English as a Second Language) endorsement. She loves partnering with GCS parents in building up and encouraging their student to gain confidence in mathematics, is often found traveling from class to class, and specializes in helping students connect mathematics to their everyday world! Kristen and her family attend Compass Christian Church. Her hobbies include walking, reading, cooking, baking and spending time with Jesus and family. Kristen joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her favorite Bible verse is: Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen

Knight, Alisa

Knop, Isabella

Lamberth, Mandy

Mandy Lamberth enjoys teaching choir at the Agritopia campus. They earned 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. Mandy is certified in Kodaly Level 1 and Orff Level 1. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things music, is often found singing, conducting, and moving to music, and specializes in encouraging students to use their best singing voices. Mandy and her family attend the The Oasis Church in Gilbert. Her hobbies include hiking, reading, and spending time with her family. Mandy joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!” Psalm 100:4

Lilly, Michelle

Michelle Lilly enjoys teaching Bible, Reading, and History at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Michelle holds an Arizona Elementary Education K-8 Certification with an SEI (Structured English Immersion) endorsement. She taught 1st grade for four years and 3rd grade for one year before coming to Gilbert Christian. She loves partnering with GCS parents in their child’s growth as readers, is often found reading picture books to her class, and specializes in nurturing a love for learning. Michelle and her family attend Shepherd’s House Bible Church. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, photography, and spending time with her family. Michelle joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her favorite Bible verse is: “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11

Lottes, Mandie

Mandie Lottes enjoys teaching young musicians at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Multi-Age Music Education, with a minor in Bible, from Cedarville University in Ohio. Mandie is a certified music teacher in the state of Arizona, and has taught General Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre Arts, Choir and Drumline. She loves partnering with GCS parents in raising young people to use their gifts and talents to honor God, is often found creating engaging music lessons, and specializes in making music fun, while still learning the essential concepts needed for future success in the arts. Mandie and her family attend the Christ Church Gilbert. Her hobbies include hiking, camping, writing Christian YA novels, exploring AZ with her family, and participating in local musical theatre. Mandie joined the GCS Education team in 2023.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Manley, Valerie

Valerie Manley enjoys sharing the love of Jesus with her students and partnering with parents at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Valerie has 14 years of experience in early elementary education. She loves partnering with GCS parents by encouraging her students to develop a lifelong love of learning and enjoys partnering with parents to teach and train her students to follow Christ in their actions, speech, character, and classroom work ethics. Valerie and her family attend Rock Point Church. Her hobbies include working out, reading, hiking, shopping, and spending quality time with her family and friends. Valerie joined GCS in 2011. Their favorite Bible verse is: The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you with His love; he will exult over you with loud singing. Zephaniah 3:17

Mathews, Dave

Mr. Mathews began working for GCS in 2023. He has a Bachelors in Anthropology and is currently in pursuit of a Masters of Divinity from The Master’s Seminary. He has worked in college and young adult ministry both for the church and parachurch staff for over 10 years, with a focus in discipleship and inductive Bible study. He loves hiking, climbing, golf, snowboarding, kayaking, mountain biking, exercising, traveling, Jeopardy, and board games. He has been married to his wife Adrienne since 2019 and they have a son. They attend Shepherd’s House Bible Church and serve in discipleship ministry.

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!“For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?”Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?”For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.
Romans 11:33-36

Matthias, Andrea

Medina, Susan

Milchman, Amy

Amy graduated from California State University, Long Beach in 2006 with my Bachelor’s Degree and Teaching Certificate for K-8th grade. Then, she graduated from Azuza Pacific University in 2009 with my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. Amy also holds my Standard Arizona Teaching Certificate for PreK-12th grade and Arizona Principal’s Certificate for PreK-12th grade. She began teaching in 2003 at a Christ Lutheran Preschool in California. In 2006 Amy moved on to teaching elementary school first in California and now in Arizona. She taught all grades preschool through 5th grade and have been an Instructional Coach as well. Amy loves to exercise and take Zumba and Hip-Hop classes. She was in competitive dance as a child (for 18 years actually) which lead me to my first job working at Disneyland in the character department. Disneyland was a magical place to work. She and her family currently attend and serve at Rockpoint Church in Queen Creek and love it! She is married to her high school sweetheart in 2004. They have three beautiful children and two fur babies. Amy became part of the GCS staff in 2019.

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

Miller, Ron

Miller, Tamera

Moore, Susan

Susan Moore enjoys teaching children to love reading at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University. Susan has over 13 years of classroom teaching experience, in addition to home-educating her own children for 9 years. She loves partnering with GCS parents in helping students grow academically and spiritually, is often found encouraging students to be problem solvers, and specializes in sharing and discussing books with budding second-grade readers. Susan and her family attend Sun Valley Community Church. Her hobbies include reading, sourcing new and old books, and spending time with her family. Susan joined the GCS Education team in 2016. Their favorite Bible verse is: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:16

Murray, Jeanne

Jeanne Murray enjoys teaching middle school mathematics at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education at Wesmont College, and a Master of Science in Sports Management from San Jose State University. Jeanne received her Master of Arts in Cross Categorical Special Education from the University of Phoenix. She loves partnering with GCS parents to foster a work ethic of excellence, is often found laughing and joking with her students, and specializes in developing meaningful teacher/student relationships. Jeanne and her family attend Central Christian Church. Her hobbies include travelling, running, hiking, taking long walks with her Border Collie (Ben), and spending time with her husband Joel and her daughter Hailey. Jeanne joined the GCS Education team in 2009. Her favorite Bible verse is: For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Newcomb, Stacey

Oletzke, Melodee

Otto, Bri

Bri Otto enjoys coming alongside fellow believers to serve the students, families, & staff at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University. Bri 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 insuring 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! Bri and her family attend the Ironwood Church. Her hobbies include being outdoors, fishing, weekend trips up north, and spending time with her family. Bri joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Ozbun, Victoria

Victoria Ozbun enjoys teaching English at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Grand Canyon University. Victoria is certified in elementary education (K-8) with an SEI (Structure English Immersion) endorsement. She loves partnering with GCS parents in inspiring a love or reading and writing, especially for students who don’t consider it their forte, is often found asking questions about the deep things in life, and specializes in telling stories. Victoria and her family attend Sun Valley Community Church where her husband works full time. Her hobbies include going on long hikes, reading long books, and hanging out with her big family. Victoria joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Their favorite Bible verse is: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1

Pallan, Kate

Kate Pallan enjoys helping students reach their greatest potential at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelors in Special Education from the University of Arizona and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University. Kate holds an Arizona Special Education Certificate complete with an ESL (English as a Second Language) endorsement. She loves partnering with GCS parents in to help their child reach their greatest potential , is often found working with students one on one or in small groups, and specializes in meeting students’ individual needs. Kate and her family attend the Grove Church. Her hobbies include cooking, gardening, running, and spending time with her family at their cabin in Pinetop. Kate joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

Pasquariello, Cassie

Cassie Pasquariello enjoys exploring God’s amazing creation at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Education from Lee University. Cassie maintains a K-12 Health Education certification with an ESL endorsement. She loves partnering with GCS parents in inspiring awe and wonder in God’s beautiful world, is often found providing hands-on experiences, and specializes in engaging all students in science. Cassie and her family attend the Ironwood Church. Her hobbies include watching and playing any sport, especially basketball, being outdoors, playing board games and watching movies, and spending time with all her boys. Cassie joined the GCS Education team in 2017. Her favorite Bible verse is Philippians 3:13-14 “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Patterson, Jacqueline

Jackie Patterson enjoys teaching “His-Story” through a Christian worldview at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication/Business from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Jackie loves partnering with GCS parents to prepare the next generation to impact the world for Christ, cultivating a love for our country, and specializing in providing a warm environment where students know they are loved.  She is often found partnering with GCS parents in “all things history”, and encouraging her students to feel confident in the classroom.  Jackie and her family attend Shepherd’s House Bible Church. Her hobbies include reading, cooking, walking, and spending time with her children and grandchild. She joined the GCS Education team in 2006. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Perry, Melody

Ms. Perry is an accompanist with over 30 years experience. She studied piano performance at Western Oregon State University. She taught music at Eastside Christian School for fourteen years and was the accompanist at Central Christian Church (Mesa) for twenty-three years. She currently performs with various groups around the valley and teaches private piano lessons. She has accompanied all of the Gilbert Christian Schools choirs since 2007.

Pireh, Kelly

Kelly Pireh enjoys teaching middle school students about their Creator God as they study His amazing creation at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Science and Bible from Northland University. Kelly has taught at the elementary, middle, and high school level and loves working with students of all ages. She loves partnering with GCS parents in assisting students with academic growth, study skills, and character development, is often found in the science classroom working on the next exciting lab or preparing projects for the Science Expo, and specializes in Biblical integration and is passionate about teaching science from a Biblical worldview so students see relevance and logic behind all of God’s creation. Kelly and her family attend Compass Church in Chandler. Her hobbies include going on hikes or bike rides, writing devotionals or poetry, and playing games with her family. Kelly joined the GCS Education team in 2022. Her favorite Bible verse is: Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”

Poweleit, Nancy

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 attends Christ Church in Gilbert with his daughter. 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

Kendall Roberts enjoys helping first graders grow academically and in their knowledge of God at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with Minor in Christian Studies from Grand Canyon University. Kendall maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in discipling their children to love God anqd others by stewarding their God-given gifts and talents, is often found playing recess games with students, using different accents during lessons, and creating memory motions for weekly Bible verses, and specializes in making every student feel seen and valued in the classroom. Kendall and her family attend the New Valley Church in Chandler. Her hobbies include coaching cheerleading, weight lifting, fishing, golfing, skiing, listening to live music, and spending time with my family and friends. Kendall joined the GCS Education team in 2021. Her favorite Bible verse is: Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. Psalm 139: 7-10

Romes, Mona

Mona Romes enjoys teaching phonics and reading at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and TEP (Teacher’s Education Program) at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. Mona holds an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification with ESI and Early Childhood Endorsements, as well as a Colorado Elementary Teaching License (K-6). She loves partnering with GCS parents in encouraging students to do their best, work hard, persevere, and learn to love reading, is often found in her room or around the school, and specializes in supporting students and teachers in all things reading. Mona and her family attend Christ Greenfield Church. Her hobbies include reading, hiking, spending time with family, watching sports. Mona joined the GCS Education team in 2022. Her favorite Bible verse is: “For I am crucified with Christ, yet I live. But not I, but Christ who lives within me. The life I now live I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave his life for me. Galatians 2:20

Samp, Tammy

Tammy Samp enjoys incorporating music and worship into daily class activities that focus on the word of God at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Elementary Education and Master of Elementary Education (K-8) from (NAU) Northern Arizona University. Tammy maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in helping students hide God’s word in their hearts through music, is often found singing and dancing in the classroom to enhance learning and making it enjoyable, and specializes in teaching students to pray and love God’s word! Tammy and her husband attend Sun Valley Community Church. Her hobbies include spending time and playing games with family. Tammy joined the GCS Education team in 2012. Her favorite Bible verse is: Phil. 4:13 – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Scheina, Athena

Shue, Chris

Chris Shue enjoys teaching science at the Agritopia campus. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education at Grand Canyon University. Chris maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification and was a certified military instructor for seventeen years. He loves partnering with GCS parents by shepherding and mentoring students spiritually and academically as they transition into middle school, is often found creating interactive science labs, lesson plans, and learning games, and specializes in explaining how God’s creation scientifically impacts students’ lives on a daily basis. Chris and his family attend Christ Church in Gilbert. His hobbies include physical fitness and spending time with family. He joined the GCS education team in 2018. His favorite Bible verses are Luke 17:26-27, “Just as it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of Man. They were eating and drinking and marrying and being given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.”

Shue, Jolina

Smith, Madison

Madison Smith enjoys teaching, loving and guiding third-graders at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with a minor in mathematics from the University of Southern Indiana. Madison maintains an Arizona Elementary Education Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in helping their child grow spiritually and academically, is often found pointing students to the truth and goodness of God’s Word, and specializes in helping students cultivate a love of reading. Madison and her family attend Redemption Church in Gilbert. Her hobbies include reading new books, laying out by the pool, taking workout classes, and spending time with friends and family.. Madison joined the GCS Education team in 2021. Their favorite Bible verse is: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Thompson, Nicole

Nicole Thompson enjoys teaching 5th grade at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Nicole maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-6) Certification complete with an ESL (English as a Second Language) endorsement. She loves partnering with GCS parents to help children develop a Biblical worldview and deepen their love for the Lord, is often found discipling students in the Word through heart talks, and specializes in creating a warm nurturing environment to facilitate building a tight knit class community. Nicole and her family attend Rock Point Community Church. Her hobbies include decorating, listening to podcasts, spending time in her backyard with her girls, and fellowshipping with friends over coffee. Nicole joined the GCS Education team in 2021. Her favorite Bible verse is: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Vaught, Sarah

Sarah Vaught enjoys teaching and pouring into the youngest ones at the Agritopia campus. Furthering her education in early childhood with a degree from Liberty University, Sarah has over 8 years experience in early childhood and PreK. She loves partnering with GCS parents in the success of their child in my classroom and preparing them for Kindergarten through open communication at all times. She is often found learning about Jesus and learning all the things to get her students well equipped for Kindergarten. She specializes in making sure all students know how much God loves them and that even when things get hard to never give up and to keep trying their best. Sarah and her family attend the Christ Church of Gilbert. Her hobbies include spending time with my family, traveling to new places, biking and going to the movies. Sarah joined GCS in 2019. Her favorite Bible verse is: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

Wilhelmsen, Catharina

Catharina Wilhelmsen enjoys teaching creativity, courage, and problem-solving through a biblical worldview of art at the Agritopia campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UofA, and a MBA in Human Resource Management from University of Phoenix. Catharina has 15 years of experience owning her own photography business before teaching art. She loves partnering with parents in reaching her students’ full potential in the area of art, and is often found in the hallways displaying the many wonderful creations students have learned and applied.  She is excited watching as the students learn the elements and principles of art, about art history, and grow into confident artists who move into creating and designing independently. Catharina and her family attend the Redeemer Bible Church. Her hobbies include photography, bible study, and yard work. Catharina joined the GCS Education team in 2021. Her favorite Bible verse is: Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness,[a] and to walk humbly with your God?

Wise, Matt