Albert, Shannon

Shannon Albert received a Bachelors of Social Science at Azusa Pacific University in 2002. She began teaching in 2002, but took a long break and began subbing off and on again since 2013. She also loves the being at the beach with family, making homemade chocolate and reading. Shannon and her family attend Redemption Gilbert. Shannon has been married to Jared for 17 years and has two sons who attend GCS. Ethan who is in 9th grade and Brady is in 7th. She has been a part of GCS staff since 2015.

Philippians 4:8 has been one of her favorite verses since she was in high school. “Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think on these things.”

Anderson, Joanna

Joanna has her BAE in Elementary and in Special Education along with an ESL Endorsement. She is also C.L.I.P. Trained (Reading Recovery). Her experience involves 4 years of teaching Sp. Ed in Tempe, AZ, 5 years teaching Elementary Ed. (grades K-3) in Tempe, 1-year teaching 1st grade in Mansfield, TX, and 2 and a half years homeschooling her children in Queen Creek. Joanna is a native Arizonian and has spent the last 2 and a half years homeschooling so that the family could travel. Her favorite place is to be with family and friends at their cabin in the White Mountains. Joanna met her husband Mark in school and have been friends since 1975. They went to kindergarten together and have now been married for over 15 years. They have 3 children: Avery, Caden, and Tessa who all attend Gilbert Chrisitan Schools. The whole family worships at Sun Valley Community Church where Joanna and Mark have served as mentors for engaged/pre-engaged couples. Joanna became a part of our Gilbert Christian Schools staff in 2018.

“‘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

Andrews, Blair

Baker, Melissa

My name is Melissa Baker, and I am honored to be a part of the Gilbert Christian School family. I am from Ohio but have lived in Arizona for most of my life. I graduated from Grand Canyon University in 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education. I have been married for 15 years and have been blessed with two beautiful girls ages 18 and 12, one of which has special needs. This is my fourth year of teaching and I am very excited to be used by God in fulfilling my passion. In my spare time, I love to go camping and hiking and am an avid reader and writer. One day, I hope to be able to publish a book. My husband and I are members of  Family of Faith Fellowship in Queen Creek where I serve as the Children’s Ministry Director. I believe that academic excellence is an expression of worship of our Almighty God. Each child is an expression of God’s principle of individuality. Students are seen as individuals created in God’s image, unique and possessing certain gifts and qualities that set them apart from all others. My purpose in teaching is to creatively identify my students’ gifts and abilities and have them apply these for the Kingdom. I desire for my students to be immersed in modeling God’s love as they work diligently through each subject. It is my role as an educator to address the ‘whole child’ by providing instruction, opportunity, and setting an example in loving God, loving our neighbors, developing a prayer life, embracing the Great Commission, and walking in purity in our thoughts and actions.

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” I Timothy 4:12

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

Bidderman, Marissa

Bostaph, Tammy

Tammy received her B.A. in Elementary Education from Arizona State University and a Masters of Education with Distinction from Northern Arizona University emphasizing curriculum and instruction. She carries certifications in Structured English Immersion (SEI), Logic of English, Facilitative Leadership, and Gifted Education. Tammy has taught first, third and fifth grades in the Chandler Unified School District as well as BASIS.ed in Chandler. She has served in administration as the kindergarten through seventh-grade Director of Student Affairs for the past five years. Her responsibilities as the Director were to oversee the well-being of the student body, create and cultivate a positive school culture, mentor and professionally develop teachers, as well as lead the Student Support Department through academic, social/emotional, and behavioral support. In her spare time, Tammy enjoys baking. She is determined to perfect the tasty and delicate French Macaron, and she is getting pretty close! Tammy and her husband Joe have been married since 1990. They have two married children, Jessica and Joey, as well as one granddaughter, Blake. As a family, they love spending down time together, going to the beach, cruising, competing in board games, watching movies, baking, cooking, and playing with their dogs. Tammy and Joe attend Desert Springs Church in Gilbert. She joined the GCS team in 2022.

Proverbs 3:5-6 “TRUST in the Lord with all your heart; lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and he will direct your paths.”

Brandt, Tracy

Branton, Cindy

Carson, Sarah

Sarah Carson received her B.S. in Elementary Education from Millikin University. She holds a PK-3rd grade certification in Ohio and Arizona. Her teaching experience started in 1997 and involves years of teaching every grade from Kindergarten to 3rd grade. Sarah has lived in Illinois, Indiana, South Carolina, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Arizona. Arizona is her 5th state to be certified to teach in, and she has loved learning new things everywhere she has gone! Sarah has been married to her husband Derek since 2000 and they have two sons. Both David and Drew attend Gilbert Christian Schools. Sarah has been a part of our Gilbert Christian Schools staff since 2018.

“Be joyful always; pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Clements, Tyffany

Tyffany Clements received her B.A. in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Her experience includes 2 years of teaching kindergarten at Hull Elementary in Chandler, 2 years of teaching preschool in her home, and 8 years of homeschooling. She grew up in Salina, Kansas, but has lived in Arizona since 2001. Outside of teaching, Tyffany enjoys spending time doing large puzzles and camping, hiking, and biking with her family. Tyffany and her husband Kirby have been married since 2002 and have three boys, Keaton, Treyton, and Carsten, who all attend Gilbert Christian Schools. Tyffany has been a part of our Gilbert Christian Schools staff since 2019 and is excited to be a part of all that God is doing here. She is thrilled to be following her passion for teaching as well as leading her students to discover and follow God’s purpose for their lives. She and her family currently attend Desert Springs Church. Tyffany joined the GCS staff in 2020.

“The heart of a man heart plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Proverbs 16:9

Collier, Joshua

Conover ’16, Jillian

Jillian has her B.S. in Elementary Education with emphases in Science and Structured English Immersion. She has a year of experience teaching Kindergarten in Atlanta, Georgia before joining GCS in the fall of 2021. Jillian is a GCS alum and is grateful for the opportunity to return and invest in the next generation of Knights. Jillian married her high school sweetheart Tanner, and while they have no children they do have a 95 pound Doberman they treat like their baby. Jillian and her husband attended Christ Covenant in Buckhead, Georgia and are eager to find a new church home in the East Valley of Arizona.

“Simon Peter answered him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.’” John 6:68-69

Daily, Kate

Ms. Daily has been teaching in the elementary grade levels since 2009. Before teaching at GCS, Ms. Daily previously taught in Idaho where she completed both her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Education and Administration. Ms. Daily’s greatest joy is serving God; however, she feels very blessed and honored to serve the students and families at Gilbert Christian Schools, too. Ms. Daily currently resides in Gilbert, AZ with her two children and attends Sun Valley Community Church.

Doest, Tara

Mrs. Doest received her Bachelors of Arts in Liberal Studies from California State University, Fullerton in 1998, and in 2000 her teaching certification and Masters in Education from National University. She started teaching 6th grade in 2013 at Mesa Public Schools and, through an incredible God story, was placed at GCS in 2019.  The Doest Family attends Christ Church of the Valley-East Valley campus where they have the opportunity to serve God and others through various ministries. Her life is filled with the love from her husband and three boys. She enjoys running, cooking yummy meals, and her most treasured times are with her family around the dinner table or at the beach in Southern California.

Philippians 2:3 “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”

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

Fiedler, Ellie

Ellie graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Biblical Studies. Ellie has been teaching since 2020 and joined the GCS team in the fall of 2021. Ellie loves trying new restaurants and playing her ukulele. Ellie is married to her wonderful husband Cooper. Ellie and Cooper currently attend Christ’s Church Gilbert.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭41:10‬

Gall, Tanya

Gorski, Daniel

Hafdal, BreAnna

Halaby, Christina

Hallaran, Angel

Mrs. Hallaran served as an elementary substitute teacher and Pre-K aide at Gilbert Christian Schools and found herself genuinely enjoying loving, nurturing and guiding preschoolers in particular. She is thrilled for the opportunity to teach Pre-K at the Greenfield campus. Mrs. Hallaran is an Arizona native, married for almost 25 years to her husband Scott, and has three beautiful children, McKenna, Olivia, and Jameson. Having earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business, she is now pursuing an Early Education degree. She is passionate about learning and playing while sharing Christ and guiding our “littles” to know and love Jesus.

Harder, Natalie

Henderson, Mark

Mr. Henderson graduated from NAU in 1983 with a B.S. in Public Relations. In 1991, he completed his B.S. in Elementary Education. He worked as a classroom teacher at Shumway Elementary School in Chandler teaching 5th and 6th grade for nearly 8 years. He left the classroom and joined the school fundraising industry, and as a result,  worked with students in over 350 different schools and organizations all across the state of Arizona.  In 2015, he returned to the education field joining GCS at that time.  Mr. Henderson grew up in a Christian home and at age eleven he made a decision to follow Christ. He has been married to Trinka, a first-grade teacher with GCS, for 37 years. Their daughter, Mariah and husband, Luis, live in the valley with their new granddaughter, Kodi. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson currently attend Sun Valley Community Church, while serving in the area of missions. They previously attended Compass (Chandler) Christian Church where Mr. Henderson served as an elder for nine years and youth/children’s ministry leader for 19 years. He has a true heart for leading young people to understand God’s Word and looks forward to teaching Bible and ELA to students in his new GCS homeroom.

Mr. Henderson explained the call on his life during his interview, “I know God has given me a talent and gift to work with kids as a teacher. He has given me a passion to work with young people.”

Henderson, Trinka

Mrs. Trinka Henderson is a First Grade teacher at the Greenfield campus.  She received her B.S. in Early Childhood Education with a Special Ed. an emphasis in 1985 from NAU.  She began teaching in the Chandler School District that year as well.  In 2001 she received her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from NAU. She was called into teaching in Christian schools in 2002 where she taught at Hope Christian Academy for 13 years and 2 years at Bethany Christian School.  She joined GCS in 2016 and helped open the Greenfield campus the following year.  Mrs. Henderson’s husband, Mark is a 6th-grade teacher here as well, and they attend Sun Valley Church, where they serve in the missions area.  They previously attended Compass Christian Church where she served in youth ministry for 19 years.  Their daughter, Mariah, husband Luis, and new granddaughter, Kodi live in the valley.  Mrs. Henderson is looking forward to helping little Kodi learn to read and loves summer travels to the cool pines of northern Arizona and Colorado. Teaching is her passion and she says “it is a gift from God, to pour His life into young lives enabling them to grow spiritually, emotionally and academically.” Her students have a unique way of beginning each school day. “We recite Eph. 6:10-20 every day and the kids love to put on the full armor of God to begin our day of learning.”

Holly, Kelly

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.”

Hudson, Melissa

Melissa Hudson graduated from Arizona State University in 2017 with here Degree in music education and state certification in K-12 music. She finished her masters in Curriculum and Instruction in Applied Behavior Analysis in 2019. Mrs. Hudson taught middle and high school band and choir at ASU Preparatory Academy for three years. She worked with the Phoenix Girls Chorus for 2 years. She also teaches private piano and voice lessons. Melissa enjoys any sort of craft including scrapbooking, knitting, and sewing. She also enjoys playing sports like volleyball and basketball. Mrs. Hudson is the worship leader at CrossPoinTempe Church and lives with her husband Jaron. Melissa joined the GCS staff in 2020.

“Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day.” 1 Chronicles 16:23

Imel, Rachel

Johannsson, Allison

Allison attended Arizona State University and graduated in 2015 with a B.A. in Elementary Education. She has been teaching in Arizona since 2015. Outside of teaching she enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors and shopping. Allison currently attends Agros Reformed Baptist Church in Gilbert. She has been married to her husband since 2013 and has two children, Aaron and Harper. Allison joined the GCS staff in 2019.

Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Johnson, Faith

Faith attended Colorado Christian University where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Faith began teaching in the spring of 2021 and feels confident that this is the career that the Lord has called her to. Faith was born and raised in Gilbert, Arizona, and is a Gilbert Christian alum. She is so excited to be teaching at GCS and pour into her students as her teachers did for her. Although teaching is her main passion, Faith loves to be creative through painting and lettering. Faith has attended and served at Christ Church Central Phoenix since its launch in December 2020. Faith joined the GCS staff in 2021. She is excited to be able to point her students to Christ through teaching!

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

Johnston, Taryn

Taryn graduated from Arizona State University where she received her Master’s in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Structured English Immersion. She began her teaching career in 2017 as a 5th grade teacher at a small private school in San Tan Valley before joining the 5th grade team at CTA Independence in the Chandler Unified School District. She took a short break from full-time teaching when her daughter was born and feels excited and privileged to be getting back in the classroom and joining the GCS family. Outside of teaching, Taryn enjoys spending time with her family and friends, crafting, and traveling. She married her loving husband, Nathan, in 2015 and together they have two wonderful children, Kynsley and Levi. Taryn and her family attend Central Christian Church in Queen Creek. Taryn began attending Central, with her family, as a young child and she feels incredibly blessed to be raising her children in the same church/ministries that had such a profound impact on the daughter, wife, mother, and teacher she is today. Taryn began teaching at GCS in the Fall of 2022.

“This is my command – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Jones, Chris

Chris has received his B.A. in Pastoral Studies from Vanguard University, a Single Subject Teaching Credential (grades 8-12) in Social Science, and a Special Education Teaching Credential – Mild/Moderate for grades K-12. He has been teaching for over 15 years in private and public schools. Chris enjoys mountain and road biking, playing soccer, and enjoys being outside with his family. His wife Kelly, and children Asa and Gavin currently attend Redemption Gateway. Chris started working for GCS in 2019 teaching in the GEAR program. Starting the 2020-21 school year, Chris will be the Athletic Director at the Greenfield Campus.

Isaiah 55:8-9, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. For the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” NASB

Kailey, Kristena

Knop, Joe

Landis, Vanessa

Lawson, Deborah

Deborah Tennison received a Bachelors’s Degree from  Azusa Pacific University, followed by a fifth-year for her teaching credential in 1996. She taught a variety of ages over the next many years, followed by a long break to be a  stay-home mom with her two children.  She came back to work at Gilbert Christian in the 2019-2020 school year, teaching both 4th grade and now 7/8th grade Math and English in the GEAR program.   She enjoys hiking and paddle boarding,  playing piano and singing, spending time with her two children, and watching their many sporting events. Deborah and her two children attend Two Rivers Church in Gilbert, where she serves in the children’s ministry. Her twins, Blake and Brianna,  are currently juniors in high school at GCS this year.  She cherishes every student individually and loves the learning and laughter that takes place in her classroom.  She is passionate about teaching from a Christian worldview and considers her job an absolute blessing!

One of her favorite verses is Psalm 121:1-2, which says:  “I lift up my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from?  My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

Lawson, Ron

Lopez, Mayra

She studied International Commerce in her hometown Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, at Kino University, where she received her bachelor’s degree. She became part of our GCS family as a Spanish middle school teacher in 2016. In her school days, she had the privilege of attending a Christian high school. For her, those were the most meaningful years of her childhood. She loved how all her teachers taught her to approach every situation in her life with the Bible, and it was there that she learned to have a real relationship with Jesus. She also met her best friends there, and even over time, they still stayed close, like family. She married the love of her life, Josue Lopez, in 2001. He is now one of the pastors and the worship leader at their church: Redemption Church West Mesa. They have two children: Misael and Michelle, and both love to serve in their church as part of the worship team by playing drums and piano.

Her favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:8, and she would love to share it with you in Spanish: “Por lo demás, hermanos, todo lo que es verdadero, todo lo honesto, todo lo justo, todo lo puro, todo lo amable, todo lo que es de buen nombre; si hay virtud alguna, si algo digno de alabanza, en esto pensad.” Filipenses 4:8

Lyon, Jennifer

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.

Martin, Kim

Mrs. Martin has been part of Gilbert Christian Schools since 2000. She teaches all-day Kindergarten and feels blessed to partner with parents in the education of their children. Mrs. Martin grew up in Phoenix and attended college at Arizona Bible College, where she studied Elementary Education. She continued her education at NAU receiving a MA in Education.  Mrs. Martin and her husband have been married for over 30 years and have three children, Amanda, Nik, and Michael. Mrs. Martin’s favorite thing about teaching is sharing the love of Jesus with her students every day. Her prayer is that they will know they are loved with the everlasting love of God and will accept the free gift of salvation through Jesus.

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

Milchman, Jacob

Mosby, Kylie

Nelson, Becca

Miss Nelson is an Arizona native and recently graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Education for Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education. She feels blessed to be able to combine her love for the Lord with her passion for teaching and can’t wait to see what God has in store this school year! Miss Nelson has been teaching at Gilbert Christian Schools since 2017.

“For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.”  John 1:16

Nelson, Tammy

Pensyl, Deb

Perey, Sheila

Mrs. Perey has her Bachelor’s in Education and 28 years of experience. She is married to her husband Dale and has four children Lane, Allison, Sara, and Grant. She and her family currently worship at Reformation OPC. Mrs. Perey has been a part of GCS Staff since 2018.

“They who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Perry, Brittney

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.

Peters, April

Phillips, Shelly

Ribeiro, Rayom

Rayom has been teaching the Bible since 2015 both in the United States and in different countries around the world. Some interesting facts about Rayom– he speaks Portuguese, is a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, loves to read and learn, enjoys surfing, and traveling to different countries to witness and participate in the work God is doing around the world. Mr. Ribeiro and his family attend Redeemer Bible Church. He has been married to his wonderful wife, Brooke, since 2013. They have two sons, Benaiah Ackson, who was born in 2015, and Cedar Haddon, who was born in 2019. Mr. Ribeiro joined the GCS teaching staff in 2020.

“I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul will make its boast in the LORD; the humble will hear it and rejoice. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt HIs name together.” Psalm 34:1-3

“This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” John 17:3

Richmond, Jenny

Jenny received her Bachelors in Arts Degree from Western Governor’s University. She has been teaching since 2010 and was born and raised in Florida where she learned to swim in the Atlantic Ocean. She and her wonderful husband have been married since 1985 and have 4 wonderful sons and attend Rock Point Church. She enjoys swimming, reading, movies and hiking. Jenny became part of the GCS Staff in 2019.

“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

Ruggiero, Christine

Mrs. Ruggiero was born and raised in New York City. She earned a B.S. in Elementary Education from East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania. She taught in private schools until she and her husband, Will, and daughter, Jessica, relocated to Apache Junction, Arizona. As her husband built his horseshoeing business, she began teaching second grade in a small Christian school in Apache Junction and then in Chandler. Six years after moving to Arizona, her family was blessed with another little girl. With her husband’s business established, she stepped away from her teaching career to home-school their daughter, Janelle. Although it was an incredible blessing to home-school, they are thrilled that Janelle now attends Gilbert Christian. Mrs. Ruggiero has taught second grade at Gilbert Christian since 2017. As a family, they attend Rock Point Church and enjoy horseback riding, hiking and family game night. They continually praise and thank God for His faithfulness and provision as they look forward to another great year.

“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

Ryberg ’14, Carol

Carol Ryberg graduated from the University of Arizona in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in Linguistics, along with a certificate in teaching English as a second language. For the past two years, she has worked as an aide and tutor at the GCS Agritopia campus, where she also taught 7th/8th grade art. In her free time, she enjoys swing dancing, traveling with her husband, and reading. She and her husband, Elijah, attend San Tan Bible Church.

Psalm 119:65-66 “You have dealt well with your servant, O Lord, according to your promise. Teaching me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in your commandments.”

Sager, Sarah

Sena, Megan

Shumate, Joanna

Smith, Nicole

Nicole earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama from the University of Washington. She also earned her Bible & Theology Certificate from Emmaus Bible College in Dubuque, IA. Nicole has experience in nearly all grade levels of education. She has been a lead preschool teacher, high school substitute and most recently she worked on a 4th/5th grade team running remedial intervention groups. During her time working in Elementary school, she also worked as a paraeducator in the special education department as well as assisted in the highly capable/gifted program.  Nicole and her family moved from Washington State, trading the forest for the desert. She and her family love exploring the great outdoors! Nicole moved from Washington in 2022 with her husband Kelly, daughter Georgiana, son Levi, their quirky dog Irwin and a pet fish named Bob. The Smith family is excited to find their new church family in AZ. They are thankful for all of the wonderful churches in the area to choose from. She joined Gilbert Christian Schools in 2022.

Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

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

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

Mrs. Tutty received her B.A. in Music and Speech Communication from the University of Washington and her Masters in Music from Boise State University. She also holds an Arizona Teaching Certification for K-8. Her teaching experience includes 2 years as a 4th-grade teacher and Choral/Music faculty at Arizona School for the Arts, Rosie’s House, and Rolling Hills Charter School. As a performer, she has played piano for Opera Idaho and sung on 2 Grammy award-winning albums with a professional choir. Mrs. Tutty has served as Assistant Artistic Director and Accompanist with the Phoenix Girls Chorus since 2010. She loves family hiking, jogging, listening to her favorite podcasts, Boise State Football, and Starbucks dates with her husband. Jeremy and Kandis have three children; Kambry, Chaucer, and Ellerie, and currently worship and serve at Central Christian Church in both Children’s and Marriage Mentoring ministries. She has been a part of GCS Staff since 2018 and loves guiding students to sense and experience God in unique ways through music.

“Cast all your anxiety upon Him because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

Van Den Top, Anna

Vanni, Meredith

Mrs.Vanni was born in Florida, raised in Georgia, but found her home in Arizona. Her career began as a Designer of interior spaces and printed materials. She has a Bachelor of Science in Design from the College of Architecture at Arizona State University. Mrs. Vanni worked for 10 years in the Architecture field, then gave it up when she became a mom but God had another plan to use her gifts and talents in a different way. She is currently Greenfield’s Art teacher…teaching 2^nd – 8^th graders to tap into their creativity and to open their eyes to God’s beautiful artwork that surrounds us all. Mrs.Vanni enjoys quiet moments, paint on her hands, the smell of rain before a storm, the sound of waves on the beach, reading a good book, gazing at the stars, and helping someone in need. She is a visionary with her head in the clouds but her feet firmly planted in God’s word. Her life is a reflection of Christ inside of her and it is a masterpiece in the making.  She has been married to her husband, Steve, for over 20 years and has two children that attend GCS.

” For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”…Ephesians 2:10 NLT

Vaught, Aly

Aly has a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in English and has two years of teaching experience before becoming a full-time teacher at GCS in fall of 2021. Aly is married to JD and they have three children. She is a huge lover of cats! Their family attends Fresh Start Church.

“The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” Hebrews 1:3

Wadekamper, Breena

Breena graduated from Northwest University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She has experience in kindergarten classrooms but was also a student teacher in a 3rd grade class at an elementary school in Bothell Washington. Breena has taught swimming lessons for 3 years and tends to find herself outside or doing water activities. She loves spending her extra time traveling with her friends and family.  Most of her family is back in Oregon and Washington but she has two wonderful parents, an amazing older brother, and a great sister-in-law! Breena and her mom are currently attending Cornerstone Church in Chandler. She joined the GCS family in the Fall of 2022.

“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’, and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20

Wietzema, Christine

Zimmerman, Cheryl

Mrs. Zimmerman has a BA in Elementary Education, a MA in Bilingual/Multicultural Education, and is certified by the state of Arizona to teach grades K-8, with endorsements in middle grades (5th – 9th) and ESL. She has taught in public schools and private Christian schools for 20 years with experience teaching in elementary school, middle school, and behavior disorder classrooms. Much of her experience includes training in science and math, including the opportunity to train teachers to teach science through the D.E.S.E.R.T. Project, science conventions, and the Christian School Educators Science Academy. She currently attends Two Rivers Church in Gilbert. She has been married for 24 wonderful years of marriage. She and her husband have two children, a young adult and a student who attends GCHS.

“It is both an honor and a blessing for my family to be a part of Gilbert Christian School. Though I have been through a variety of trials, I am encouraged to “count it all joy” as it is Jesus that has transformed my life and I pray he does the same for all of the students I am blessed to work with!

James 1:2-4
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.