Greenfield Staff

Majeski, Amy

My name is Amy Majeski, and I have been a part of the Gilbert Christian community since 2013. I feel very privileged to work in a school where the Lord is the foundation and focus. I know that God specifically called me to Gilbert Christian Schools, a responsibility I do not take lightly. It is my goal as an administrator to cultivate a trusting and productive relationship between parents, students, and staff through a Biblically centered worldview, where students can gain an understanding of the world we live in, interpret life situations and apply Biblical truths in all areas of life. I earned a BA in Social and Behavioral Science and Elementary Education from Seattle Pacific University with endorsements in K-12 Social Studies and History in 1995, and MS of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University in 2019. God truly directed me to Christian Education where my philosophy of education is firmly founded in my love for Christ. Living out 1 Corinthians 13:4 “Love is patient, love is kind….” gives me strength every single day to share this love with others around me.

Chisum, Derek

Mr. Chisum has been working in the schools since 1996 and been a teacher since 1999.  He has a Master’s in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University.  He is a 3rd generation Arizona teacher as both his father and grandmother were teachers at ASU and Globe respectively. Mr. Chisum’s wife has also been working in schools since 1996 in varying positions.  He has two daughters who attended Gilbert Christian Schools and has been a part of our teaching staff since 2016.

Bailey, Julie

Mrs. Bailey received her Bachelors in Education from the Pennsylvania State University. She taught second grade for one year and fourth grade for 7 years. She has also led fencing and gymnastics clubs over the years. Mrs. Bailey loves to listen to music, walk her dog every morning, and hang out with her family. She has been married to her husband, Brian, for 20 years and has three teenage children. Mrs. Bailey currently attends Redemption Gateway Church with her family. She loves serving in the nursery with her eldest daughter. Her first year at GCS was in 2023 but her fourth year teaching in a Christian school.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” -Isaiah 41:10

Baker, Melissa

Melissa Baker thrives on creating a classroom environment where students can learn and express their God given creativity in a way that pleases the Lord at the Greenfield campus. She has obtained a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education, and a Master of Arts in Reading from Grand Canyon University. Melissa maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification with a Reading endorsement. She takes pleasure in collaborating with GCS parents in academics and helping to shape their child’s Biblical worldview. She is consistently seeking opportunities to learn from other colleagues and through continuing education courses. She is honored and blessed to be partnering with GCS parents in developing critical thinking skills and fostering a genuine love for learning in her students, and specializes in instilling within her students courage, kindness, loyalty, and truth in building one another up. Melissa and her family attend Queen Creek Bible Church. Her hobbies include camping, writing, reading, learning how to play the guitar, and spending quality time with her family. Melissa joined the GCS Education team in 2017. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.” Deuteronomy 32:2

Banghart, Melissa

Bauslaugh, Joy

In 2018, Joy graduated from Spring Arbor University with a degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood. She student taught in a second-grade classroom and preschool classroom after graduation. She has been working in preschool centers since then. Joy is from Michigan! She loves being outside especially near the ocean or the mountains. She loves listening to music, watching movies, being alive outside, and being with her friends and family. Joy currently attends Mission Community Church. Joy comes from a family of educators. Both her parents taught at the Christian school she attended from preschool to senior year. She has a brother who lives in Virginia and a sister who is a teacher here in the chandler school district. Joy has 5 nephews–3 of the 5 live in Virginia and the other 2 live here in Gilbert. Joy started at GCS in the fall of 2020.

“Do you send the lightning bolts on their way? Do they report to you, ‘Here we are’? Who gives the ibis wisdom or gives ibis wisdom or gives the rooster understanding? Who has the wisdom to count the clouds? Who can tip over the water jars of the heavens?” Job 38:35-37

Bostaph, Tammy

Tammy Bostaph enjoys teaching our second graders at the Greenfield campus. She holds a BA and an MEd in elementary education and curriculum and instruction. She has been in education for over 20 years teaching various grades, as well as serving in administration. Tammy has experience working with gifted children and specialized curriculum, as well as working with young children with deficits as an early interventionist. Tammy finds much joy in coaching and encouraging others in the field by supervising and mentoring student teachers in their clinical practice training. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things school! She loves to share innovative ideas with others and create fun and memorable learning experiences for her students and their families. She is intentional in forming strong individual relationships with each and every student. You will often see her at sport events or after school activities cheering on past and present students, and she specializes in building joy in learning as her students engage, learn, question, and ultimately become lifelong learners. Her goal is that her enthusiasm is contagious and spurs her students on to do great things and all that God has planned for them. Tammy and her husband attend Rock Point Church. Her hobbies include baking, attending the theater, and spending time with her family, especially her two grandchildren. Tammy joined the GCS Education team in 2022. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:4-5

Branton, Cindy

Cindy Branton’s mission is to create memorable, engaging experiences for her GEAR students while sharing the joy of Jesus. Mrs. Branton teaches math and ELA in the 5th and 6th grade GEAR program at the Greenfield campus.  She graduated from Arizona State University, earning a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in German (all while fitting in as many ballroom dance classes as possible). Cindy Branton taught in Gilbert Public schools for seven years, homeschooled her children for four years, and has called the GCS Greenfield campus her home-away-from-home for six years. It is her honor to point students to Christ with each interaction. Her desire as an educator is to breathe new life into her students’ educational experience. She wants to challenge them to new levels of excellence as a result of them recognizing the gifts and abilities that God has placed in them. Mrs. Branton is often found standing on her desk singing or filling her white board with giant illustrations – whatever it takes to make learning fun and therefore memorable for her students! She specializes in making sure that every student is seen, known, and loved. Cindy and her family attend Sun Valley Community Church, where her husband serves as the Pastor of Student Ministries. Her hobbies include writing books, unashamedly cheering for her daughters from the bleachers, assisting with the theater program, and planning vacations! Cindy joined the GCS Education team in 2019. Her favorite Bible verse is: 1 COR 11:1 Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.

Burgess, Jennifer

Jennifer Burgess enjoys teaching reading skills and strategies at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Memphis, and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Middle Tennessee State University. Jennifer maintains a Tennessee Elementary Education (K-8) Certification since 2006 and an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification since 2023. She loves partnering with GCS parents in growing readers, is often found working with small groups of students, and specializes in building confidence by identifying each student’s specific reading needs. Jennifer and her family attend Christ Church Gilbert. Her hobbies include swimming, reading, cooking, traveling to new places, and spending time with her family. Jennifer joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” 1 John 4:16

Burgess, Kaylie

Kaylie Burgess enjoys teaching our 2nd and 3rd grade mathematicians at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Lipscomb University. Kaylie maintains an Elementary Education (K-5) Certification with an ESL (English as a Second Language) endorsement. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things math, is often found traveling between classrooms and planning engaging math activities, and specializes in empowering students to not just understand math, but to love it. Kaylie and her family attend Christ Church. Her hobbies include painting, pickleball, baking and spending time with her friends and family. Kaylie joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her favorite Bible verse is: “neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭39‬ ‭

Burke, Maggie

Mrs. Burke received her Bachelor’s in K-6 Elementary Education from Grove City College in 2019. She taught 3rd grade at an English Immersion school in Xela, Guatemala for her first year of teaching. She then taught 5th and 6th grade Math and Science for 3 years in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Burke is going into her fifth year of teaching! Mrs. Burke loves to run! She ran cross country in college and usually trains for races throughout the year. She recently got married to her husband Justin this past June!  She began working at GCS in 2023.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” – Romans 15:13

Clements, Tyffany

Tyffany Clements enjoys teaching 3rd grade at the Greenfield campus. She has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Prior to teaching at Gilbert Christian, Tyffany taught Kindergarten before raising and homeschooling her 3 boys for the next 14 years. She loves partnering with GCS parents in fostering a love for and confidence in reading, is often found often found loving students the way Jesus would by greeting them with a smile and making sure they are seen each day they enter the classroom, and specializes in encouraging students to have fun and feel confident in the classroom. Tyffany and her family are currently helping launch Echoes Church. Her hobbies include hiking, kayaking, games, and spending time with her family. Tyffany joined the GCS Education team in 2019. Her favorite Bible verse is: I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Emery, Cory

Cory earned a bachelor’s degree from Eugene Bible College in 2005. He has been a pastor for many years and has served as a graphic design, Bible, & theology teacher as well. Cory plays guitar in a band based here in Gilbert, and writes and records worship songs. He and his wonderful wife Rebekah have two sons Caleb and Ezekiel who both attend GCS. Cory pastors Heritage Chapel here in Gilbert. He began working at GCS in 2021.

“Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, To the house of the God of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, And we shall walk in His paths.” Isaiah 2:3

Farrish, Karen

Gorski, Daniel

Hafdal, BreAnna

BreAnna Hafdal enjoys teaching the young math students at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University. BreAnna has taught both in the classroom and as a Math Specialist here at the Greenfield Campus. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things math, is often found rolling through the hallways with her math cart, and specializes in making the subject enjoyable and engaging for her students. BreAnna and her family attend Rock Point Church in Queen Creek. Her hobbies include reading, spending time outdoors, and keeping up with her energetic one-year-old son. BreAnna joined the GCS Education team in 2023. 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 hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Halaby, Christina

Hallaran, Angel

Angel Hallaran is very excited to begin her 8th year at GCS, and enjoys sharing the love of Jesus with little ones, as they learn, play and grow in Pre-K 4’s at the Greenfield campus. An Arizona native, Mrs.Hallaran earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. Angel served as an elementary substitute teacher and Aide before establishing the Greenfield Pre-K 4’s classroom in 2017. She loves partnering with GCS parents in their child’s early education, is often found Children learn with their whole bodies; exploring, discovering, and moving, and we enjoy incorporating this into every aspect of our day; Circle Time, Building Time, Structured Learning Time and Outdoor Time, and specializes in providing meaningful interactions and encouragement for students to think and learn in creative ways. Angel and her family attend Christ Church. Her hobbies include reading, baking and family time. Angel joined the GCS Education team in 2017. Her favorite Bible verse is: Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Henderson, Mark

Mr. Henderson teaches 6th grade at the Greenfield campus.  He has the privilege of teaching all of the students at this grade level for English Language Arts along with his homeroom class for Bible and History.  He enjoys seeing the natural progression of students’ growth as they enter Middle School and watching their skills improve in responsibility, study skills, their academics and, most importantly, their spiritual development.  Mr. Henderson received his B.S. in Elementary Education from ASU along with his B.S. in Public Relations from NAU.  He spent 15 years in the school fundraising industry and worked with over 300 Arizona schools in that capacity.  He loves to connect with the students and mentor them in their walk with Jesus.  He does so on campus by leading a weekly prayer gathering for middle school boys, assisting with chapels and daily announcements/devotions, and coaching the boys’ basketball team.  His wife, Mrs. Henderson teaches 1st grade on campus and they enjoy seeing students progress through the years that they both have or had the opportunity to teach.  Free time is spent involved with sports, traveling and being with his family.  He and his wife attend Shepherd’s House Bible Church in Chandler and love opportunities to be with their daughter, son-in-law and 2 young granddaughters. 

Henderson, Trinka

Mrs. Henderson teaches 1st grade at the Greenfield campus where she loves pouring into the young lives of children and their families with the love of Jesus.  Her nearly 4 decades of teaching give her the ability to connect with these children in this pivotal year to set them on their academic and spiritual journey.  Her homelike atmosphere in the classroom makes it easy for the students to grow their love of learning, especially reading and writing.  She specializes in creativity and consistency with students that they remember for years to come, especially the daily ritual of reciting the Armor of God!  She earned her B.A. in Early Childhood Education and her Master’s Degree in Curriculum & Instruction from NAU.  Mrs. Henderson organizes the Literacy Week celebration on campus in the spring along with Grandparent’s Day each November.  She and her husband (Mr. Henderson – 6th Grade) attend Shepherd’s House Bible Church.  In her free time, she enjoys cooking, traveling and spending time with family.  She and Mr. Henderson, especially love the opportunities to be with their daughter, son-in-law and two young granddaughters.  

Holly, Kelly

Kelly Holly enjoys encouraging, guiding and teaching kindergarten students at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Long Beach State University in California. Kelly has been working with PreK and kindergarten students for 7 years, and continues to pursue education in early childhood development. She loves partnering with GCS parents in raising generations that know and follow God, is often found eager to assist and serve the GCS families, and specializes in helping kindergarteners increase their spiritual, social-emotional and academic development. Kelly and her family attend Sun Valley Community Church. Her hobbies include being active, watercolor painting and being with family and friends. Kelly joined the GCS Education team in 2017. Her favorite Bible verse is: 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Hoyle, Jenn

Mrs. Hoyle teaches all-day kindergarten.  She received her B.A. in elementary education from Westmont College. She began teaching elementary school in Colorado in 1993.  She taught second and third grade in Colorado, and then she stepped away from teaching to be home with her children. She is enjoying being back in the classroom.  Her favorite things to do are spend time with her family, read, and explore the outdoors. Mrs. Hoyle loves to teach and feels honored to be able to share the love of God with her students.  Her family attends Christ Church. Mrs. Hoyle and her husband have been married for over 25 years and have four wonderful children. Three of her children have the privilege of attending GCS. She has been a part of the GCS staff since 2018.

Mrs. Hoyle’s favorite verse is Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans that 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.”

Imel, Rachel

Jabeck, Katie

Johnson ’17, Faith

Faith Johnson enjoys getting the opportunity to connect every single lesson back to Scripture each day at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Colorado Christian University and holds an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in cultivating a love for God and learning more about His word in academics, is often found encouraging and cheering her students on to be the best that they can be, and specializes in creating a classroom environment that is welcoming and inviting to all that enter. Faith and her family attend Christ Church Gilbert. Her hobbies include painting, traveling with her family, playing at recess with her students, and serving at her church. Faith joined the GCS Education team in 2021. Her favorite Bible verse is: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

Johnson, Bethany

Bethany Johnson enjoys teaching middle school math and engaging with the students at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Arizona. Bethany has tutored in elementary and middle school math for seven years before becoming a teacher. She loves partnering with GCS parents in determining the best way for their students to learn, is often found tutoring students in her classroom, and specializes in teaching students that no one is “bad” at math, we just have to find the way that the student best understands. Bethany and her family attend the The Oasis Church in Gilbert. Her hobbies include reading, baking, singing, and spending time with her husband and two daughters. Bethany joined the GCS Education team in 2023. 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 hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.'” Jeremiah 29:11-13

Johnson, Meghan

Meghan Johnson enjoys teaching English to middle schoolers at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Middle School English from Judson University and a Master of Arts Degree in Teaching from Aurora University. Meghan previously taught 4th, 5th, and 6th grades in the suburbs of Chicago. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things English and faith, is often found reading a book or grading papers, and specializes in teaching her students the wonder of reading, the art of writing, and the importance of language, all while encouraging their God-created individualities. Meghan and her family attend Christ Church in Gilbert. Her hobbies include cheering on her four kids at their activities, reading, playing games, and spending time with her family. Meghan joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her 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

Johnston, Taryn

Taryn Johnston enjoys teaching our first grade mathematicians foundational math skills while fostering a love for learning at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Masters degree in elementary education. Taryn 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 all things math, is often found traveling from one classroom to the next, and specializes in encouraging their students to feel confident in the classroom. Taryn and her family attend Central Christian Church – Gilbert Campus. Her hobbies include spending time with family and friends, traveling, home DIY projects, and reading. Taryn joined the GCS Education team in 2022. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Then he said to them all: Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.” Luke 9:23-24

Jones, Toni

Kaemmerer, Rachel

Kailey, Kristena

Kehmeier, Marilyn

Marilyn Kehmeier enjoys teaching and impacting our 5th graders for Christ at the Greenfield Campus. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northwest University, as well as a Masters degree in Educational Leadership from Ottawa University. Marilyn holds an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) certificate, as well as a Principal’s certificate. She loves partnering with GCS parents to bring out the best qualities and God-given talents of their students, is often found reading a great book, and specializes in helping students learn to love reading. Marilyn and her family attend Scottsdale Bible Church. Her hobbies include reading, going to the movies, and hanging out in the pool with her husband. Marilyn joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her favorite Bible verse is: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 4

Koch, Jennifer

Jennifer Koch enjoys fostering creativity and teaching art at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Jennifer is a practicing artist who loves to integrate her Bible knowledge into the creative process. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things creative and prays that together we can help grow every student in their love for Jesus, is often found spending time with her family playing games, swimming, and hiking, and specializes in painting and drawing. Jennifer and her family attend Christ Church. Her hobbies include painting, photography, cooking, spending time outdoors with her family. Jennifer joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: Philippians 4:4-9 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”

Landis, Vanessa

Lopez, Mayra

One of Mayra’s passions is being able to teach this beautiful language in a fun way to her students at the Greenfield campus. She earned a bachelor’s degree in International Business from Kino University in her hometown of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. This will be her eighth year teaching at GCS. Mayra loves partnering with GCS parents to prepare their students to love not only our own culture but also the diversity that God has created in other cultures that continue to make us one body in Christ. She also looks for all students to remain engaged and motivated in learning. Mayra loves to remind her students that part of the learning process is making mistakes, so she makes her classroom a judgment-free zone so everyone is willing to always do their best. Mayra and her family attend Redemption Church Mesa. She has two children; her son just graduated from ASU last spring and her daughter attends Gilbert Christian as a senior. She loves to cook for her family and friends, to go to the movies and to travel to new and old places. Mayra joined the GCS Education team in 2016. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8

Lyon, Jennifer

Majeski, Karissa

Martin, Kim

McGuigan, Karen

Karen McGuigan enjoys instilling a love for our country and it’s history in students at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Developmental Psychology at George Mason University, and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University. Karen received an Arizona Teaching Certification in 2012, and has also spent time as a Preschool Director and Children’s Ministry Director. She loves partnering with GCS parents to raise up students who know how to engage in meaningful conversations about their faith and the world around them, is often found leading discussions or debates, and specializes in creating an environment where everyone feels known, welcome, and cared for. Karen and her family attend Grace Community Church. Her hobbies include traveling to new places, reading, and home decor projects. Karen joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her favorite Bible verse is: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” Romans 15:13

McIntire, Tara

Medina, Enrique

Monaco, Frank

Nelson, Becca

Becca Nelson enjoys teaching first grade at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from Arizona State University. She loves partnering with GCS parents by combining her love for the Lord with her passion for teaching. Her hobbies include reading, travelling, and spending time with family and friends. Becca joined the GCS Education team in 2017. Her favorite Bible verse is: “For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.” John 1:16

Nelson, Tammy

Pallesen, Rachel

Rachel Pallesen’s goal is for her students to become thinkers and problem solvers at the Greenfield campus. She has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Iowa State University and a Master of Education in Special Education from St. Cloud State University. Rachel has taught in Illinois, Iowa, North Dakota, Minnesota, and now Arizona. Rachel has teaching experience at every grade level, K-12, and was an adjunct at St. Cloud State and Hamline University (MN). She, along with her husband, also taught at an international school in Seoul, Korea from 2012 to 2019. She loves partnering with GCS parents to educate students in a way that increases their learning potential by strengthening the brain. Rachel and her husband Terry have 4 adult children. Three of them live in San Diego and one lives in Gilbert. When we are not in town, we are most likely in San Diego visiting our kids and their families. Rachel and her husband attend Christ Church, Gilbert campus. Her hobbies include spending time with her grandchildren (and their parents), biking with her hubby, and chillin’ by the pool with a good book. Rachel joined the GCS Education team in 2023. 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

Pensyl, Deb

Perry, Brittney

Peters, April

April Peters enjoys teaching her class fun and creative lessons through activities and songs at the Greenfield campus. She earned a A Bachelors of Science degree in Education and a Masters of Arts degree in Speech Performance. April has taught for 13 years. She loves partnering with GCS parents in pointing their children to Christ, is often found worshiping with her students and her guitar, and specializes in loving each student as her own. April and her family attend the Christ Church Gilbert. Her hobbies include renovating, interior design, traveling, exploring National Parks with her family, and attending her kids’ sports activities . April joined the GCS Education team in 2019. Her favorite Bible verse is: For you are my hope, O Lord God; you are my trust from my youth. Psalm 71:5

Phillips, Shelly

Shelly Phillips enjoys inspiring students to advance in their knowledge and love of literature and writing at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Barrett, The Honors College from Arizona State University, and a Master of Education in Secondary Education from University of Phoenix. Shelly maintains an Arizona Department of Education (6-12) Certificate. She loves facilitating project-based activities and motivating students to dig-deeper with how they connect the literature to Biblical applications as well as to their own lives. Shelly and her family attend Redeemer Bible Church. Her hobbies include reading, attending the theater, exercising, trying new recipes, and hanging out with her family. Shelly joined the GCS Education team in 2020. Her favorite Bible verse is: “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” (Eccl 3:1).

Pichler, Sarah

Sarah Pichler enjoys teaching fifth graders at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Loyola University in Baltimore, Maryland. She holds an Elementary Education Certification in both Arizona and Maryland. She loves partnering with GCS parents to promote a classroom community where students feel loved, confident, and learn and grow in their relationship with Jesus. Mrs. Pichler taught fifth grade for several years in Maryland’s public school system before her family relocated to Arizona and she stepped away from teaching to stay at home with her children. She specializes in differentiating and adapting instruction to support the variety of needs and learning styles of the students in an engaging way. Sarah and her family attend Rockpoint Church. Her hobbies include reading, listening to podcasts, spending time with friends and family, and watching her kids’ activities. Sarah joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Ruggiero, Christine

Christine Ruggiero enjoys encouraging students to honor God by giving their best effort each day at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania. Christine has taught second grade for thirteen years including seven years at the Greenfield campus. She loves partnering with GCS parents in by welcoming them into the classroom to assist with literacy centers and special projects, is often found helping students grow spiritually through daily worship, prayer, and Bible lessons, and specializes in working with students to set goals and provide support and encouragement to grow and meet their goals.. Christine and her family attend Rock Point Church where she volunteers in the children’s ministry. Her hobbies include hiking, game nights, and bowling. Christine joined the GCS Education team in 2017. Her favorite Bible verse is: Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21

Ryan, Tamara

Schmersahl, Susan

Susan Schmersahl enjoys teaching 5th grade students at the Greenfield campus. Susan is particularly passionate about teaching students how to read and study the Bible on their own, how to be critical thinkers who can make connections across disciplines, and how to be proficient, clear writers. Susan earned her bachelor of science in elementary and special education from John Brown University, a Master of Arts in educational studies from St. Louis University and a certificate in assessment from Maryville University. She also completed the Eunice Initiative, a program offered by Phoenix Seminary in partnership with The Gospel Coalition. Susan is certified in Missouri in elementary and special education and taught 7th and 8th grade special education at a private Christian school in Missouri for 10 years. In Arizona, Susan has taught 2nd grade, developed a response to intervention program for a charter school district, and taught in the teacher preparation program at Arizona State University. This is her second year teaching at Gilbert Christian Schools. She values her partnership with parents who understand their children better than anyone. As she grows to know each child, she is able to tailor lessons, assessment, and discipleship to fit their needs and personalities. As a mother herself, she can relate well to parents and the values they hold dear for their children, and specializes in differentiated instruction, creating assignments that differ from student to student based on their interests, needs and learning profiles. Susan and her family attend Christ Church in Gilbert. Her hobbies include theology, coffee with friends, exploring nature (hiking, kayaking), reading, cooking, journaling, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. Susan joined the GCS Education team in 2023. She has many favorite verses; among them is Philippians 2:9-11, “Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Sharp, Grace

Smith, Kristin

Kristin Smith enjoys teaching sixth grade science at the Greenfield campus.  She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education with a Specialization in Early Childhood Education at Arizona State University. Kristin maintains an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification with an ESL endorsement and an Early Childhood Endorsement. She truly loves partnering with GCS parents. She loves to help students become confident learners in the classroom and to grow in their faith and relationship with Jesus, is often found working with students with all things science and encouraging students to take chances in the classroom, and specializes in delivering instruction effectively by building relationships with students. Kristin and her family attend Rock Point Church in Queen Creek. Her hobbies include reading, listening to worship music and spending time with her girls. Kristin joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her favorite Bible verse is: “But now, this is what the Lord says-he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead. Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life. Do not be afraid, because I am with you.” Isaiah 43:1-5

Soenen, Brittney

Brittney Soenen is thrilled to teach 4th grade at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning and Development, Early Childhood-4 Generalist at the University of Texas in 2008. Brittney maintains an Arizona teaching certificate. She has experience teaching in Texas and in the Chandler Unified School District at the elementary level. She loves partnering with GCS parents to instill knowledge and foster academic growth, while pointing children to a deeper relationship with Christ, is often found giving students tools and encouragement to excel, and specializes in helping each child feel seen and loved. Brittney and her family attend Compass Christian Church in Chandler. Her hobbies include running, hiking, reading, golfing, and spending time with family and friends. Brittney joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Her favorite Bible verse is: “May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalms 19:14

Stenhoff, Mathea

Stow, Jay

Mr. Stow has a B.S. in Physical Education from Southeastern Oklahoma State University, an M.A in Christian Education from Southwestern Seminary, and an M.A. in Organizational Leadership from Biola University. He has over 15 years of teaching experience and also has experience working in a church and non-profit settings. From 2015-2017, Mr. Stow and his family lived and served on a University campus in east Asia. He loves to travel and experience new cultures. Mr. Stow has traveled to six of the seven continents (Antarctica is on his bucket list). Jay and his family enjoy serving International students at ASU. Jay is thankful for his family, his wife Jennifer and daughter Landry. Mr. Stow joined our Gilbert Christian Schools staff in 2018.

“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.” Philippians 2:2

Talmadge, Crystal

Crystal Talmadge enjoys teaching our G.E.A.R. Gifted Program at the Val Vista, Greenfield and Agritopia Campuses. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from Northern Arizona University. Crystal has successfully maintained an Arizona Elementary Education (K-8) Certification complete with a PreK-12 Gifted Endorsement and PreK-12 SEI (Structured English Immersion) Endorsement since 2003. She loves partnering with GCS parents in “challenging the minds of gifted students,” is often found traveling from one school to the next, and specializes in higher level thinking and teamwork to build confidence in each student. Crystal and her family attend Central Christian Church. Her hobbies include game nights, pickleball, traveling, being a cheer mom and spending time with family. Crystal joined the GCS Education team in 2024. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.” Matthew 22:37

Tolson, Linda

Mrs. Tolson is the Preschool Director at the Greenfield Campus and provides Aide support in the Pre-K 4’s class.  She has a degree in Early Childhood Education and also attended Northern Arizona University majoring in Business Administration.  She has taught preschool for more than 30 years and has been the Director at previous Christian Preschools.  Mrs. Tolson is enthusiastic about teaching and brings extensive experience and knowledge to the classroom.  She is active in the Children’s Ministry at Sun Valley Community Church and believes it is critically important to provide a Christ-inspired classroom environment and to instill moral values in our children.  Her goal is to help the children learn the educational basics and to understand that all of our blessings come from God.  Mrs. Tolson has been a part of the GCS teaching staff since 2017.

“Always give thanks to God.”  Ephesians 5:20

Tutty, Kandis

Kandis Tutty enjoys teaching our singers and pianists at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music & Speech Communication from the University of Washington and a Master of Music from Boise State University as well as her Arizona Teaching Certificate. Kandis served as Assistant Director and Accompanist for the award-winning Phoenix Girls Chorus, sang professionally with the Phoenix Chorale, and performs as a freelance accompanist. She loves partnering with GCS parents in guiding students to sense and experience God in unique ways through music, is often found organizing performance opportunities for her students, and specializes in encouraging every student to grow in their knowledge and love of music. Kandis and her family attend Redeemer Bible Church. Her hobbies include hiking, jogging, listening to her favorite podcasts, Boise State Football, and Starbucks dates with her husband and three teenagers. Kandis joined the GCS Education team in 2018. Her favorite Bible verse is: 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety upon Him because He cares for you.

Underwood, Cathy

Van Den Top, Anna

Van Den Top, Emma

Vilhauer, Nicole

Nicole Vilhauer enjoys teaching 2nd graders at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Trinity Bible College and a Masters Degree in teaching from Grand Canyon University. Nicole maintains an Arizona Elementary Education Certification and ACSI Elementary Teaching Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all areas of the students’ lives, is often found praying with and talking to students, and specializes in helping students feel known and valued. Nicole and her family attend Generation Church. Her hobbies include cheering on her favorite basketball and football teams, reading, and spending time with family. Nicole joined the GCS Education team in 2023. Their 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 hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Wadekamper, Breena

Breena Wadekamper enjoys making connections for all students to feel seen and loved at the Greenfield campus. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northwest University in Kirkland Washington. Breena maintains an Elementary Education Certification. She loves partnering with GCS parents in all things 3rd grade, is often found creating fun and unique learning experiences, and specializes in teaching and showing students about the importance of knowing Christ. Breena attends Redemption Church in Gilbert. Her hobbies include include sports, DIY projects, all things outdoors, water activities, and spending time with family and friends. Breena joined the GCS Education team in 2022. Her favorite Bible verse is: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” ‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Wietzema, Christine

Woods, Jene

Mrs. Woods received her Bachelors in Education from Grand Canyon University. She has been teaching science for 8 years and also has led/taught peer-leadership clubs and classes. Mrs. Woods loves to be out in nature. Reading and baking are close seconds, but whether it is hiking or camping with her family, the outdoors is her favorite place to be. She has been married to her wonderful husband David for 11 great years. They have three young, amazing children Everly, Mila, and Noah. Mrs. Woods is a member of Redemption Gateway Church. She serves alongside her husband as a small-group leader. She began working at GCS in 2023.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” Psalm 23:1-3

Menon, Sam