Teachers & Staff

Read More

Mr. Aaron Fitzgerald

Middle School & High School Choir

Mr. Aaron Fitzgerald

Middle School & High School Choir

Deep Hope: Bring Your Best

Storyline: My deep hope is that each purposefully created learner develops as an independent, literate, and expressive musician in order to praise God skillfully and serve confidently in His kingdom.

Aaron Fitzgerald currently serves as the middle school and high school vocal music director and high school chapel supervisor. This is Aaron’s eleventh year of teaching vocal music, and he has directed mixed choirs, uni-gender choirs, show choirs, jazz choirs, musicals, speech events, as well as teaching courses in Music Appreciation, Theatre, and Music Theory. When he is not teaching, Aaron enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons, watching exploration shows, playing tennis, grilling, and watching college football.

Read More

Mrs. Abbie Smith

High School Math

Mrs. Abbie Smith

High School Math

Boldly Step, Persevere, and Help.

My deep hope for you, my Brilliant students, is that you will each
|Boldly step into the complexity, order, and beauty of math that reflects our perfect Creator. [Ps 19:1-2, Rom 1:20]
|Persevere through trials and believe you can do difficult things. [Phil 4:13]
|Help others to see God’s design and creative genius displayed in math and in your story.[2 Cor 5:20]

Abbie Smith teaches Intro to Algebra, Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 at Pella Christian High School. She graduated from Dordt University and was hired at PC as her first teaching job in 2020. She lives in Pella and has been married to her husband, Levi, since January 2020. In her free time, Abbie enjoys teaching swing dance with her husband.

Read More

Ms. Alma Mendez

Fifth Grade

Ms. Alma Mendez

Fifth Grade

Storyline: Bendecidos para ser de bendicion. (Blessed to be a blessing)

Deep Hope: Mi anhelo profundo es que mis alumnos y yo podamos desarrollemos y utilicemos los dones y talentos que Dios nos dio paara servir a otros. (My deep hope is that students can use their gifts and talents that God gives us to serve others.)

Alma Mendez serves as fifth grade Spanish Immersion teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. She is in her first year teaching at Pella Christian Grade School. Alma enjoys spending time outside and walking with her dog.

Read More

Mrs. Amanda Johnston

Middle School Learning Support

Mrs. Amanda Johnston

Middle School Learning Support

Storyline: Brave-Kind-Love

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we will be… brave as we meet challenges, kind as we recognize brokenness, and love audaciously like Jesus, as we seek to understand God, others and the world around us.

Amanda Johnston is in her twenty-first year of teaching and serves as the Middle School Learning Resource Teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. Previously, Amanda had served as a middle school language arts teacher, Pre-K teacher, and as a learning specialist with students ranging from second through twelfth grades. Amanda and her husband Dan spend most of their time attending their children’s activities as they are the parents/step-parents of 8 children ages 17-27, and grandparents to a one-year old with another baby on the way! They also enjoy movies, traveling, cooking and home improvement projects

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Amy Roorda

Teacher Aide

PC Alum

Mrs. Amy Roorda

Teacher Aide

Amy Roorda serves as a teachers aide at Pella Christian Grade School.

Read More

Mrs. Ana Leticia Martinez

Third Grade

Mrs. Ana Leticia Martinez

Third Grade

Storyline: Aprendiendo a ser Luz (Learning to be a light)

Deep Hope: Que aprendamos, valoremos y seamos luz en todas las culturas. (That we learn about, value and be a light in all cultures.)

Ana Martinez serves as a third grade Spanish Immersion teacher. She is in her twentieth year of teaching, having worked in Paraguay and the United States. She has two children: Maximiliano (8) and Anna Victoria (4). Outside of school, she enjoys cooking, watching movies and being surrounded by family and friends.

Read More

Mrs. Andriz Melenciano

Middle School Bible & Language Arts

Mrs. Andriz Melenciano

Middle School Bible & Language Arts

Storyline: Ver, reconocer y ser fiel al regalo. (See, recognize, and be faithful to the gift.)

Deep Hope: Mi anhelo profundo es que los alumnos vean el milagro de Dios a travez del aprendizaje de idiomas y que lo reconozcan como un regalo divino a lo cual deben ser fieles. (That students see the miracle of God through the learning of the languages ​​and recognize it as a divine gift to which they have to be faithful.)

Andriz Melenciano serves as Spanish Immersion Middle School teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. This is Andriz’ twelfth year in education and, prior to her current role, she served as a teacher in the Dominican Republic in classrooms ranging from kindergarten through middle school, as well as teacher for adults. She is married to Isaias Del Jesus and has three beautiful girls, Adrielix (11 years old), Isandriz (3 years old) and my miracle baby, Faith, 2 months old .

Read More

Mrs. Ann Forrester

Assistant Preschool Teacher

Mrs. Ann Forrester

Assistant Preschool Teacher

Read More

Mrs. Anna Dykstra

Second Grade

Mrs. Anna Dykstra

Second Grade

Storyline: Learning to imitate Jesus!

Deep Hope: We will live abundantly in God’s grace, learning to imitate Jesus in all we think, say, and do.

Anna Dykstra serves as a second grade teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. This is her thirteenth year teaching in this role. While she was raising her four children, she worked as a substitute teacher. She enjoys walking, reading, biking, spending time with family, and volunteer activities. She and her husband, Mike, enjoy visiting their kids and grandkids in Minnesota and Colorado.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Anne Menninga

Food Service

PC Alum

Mrs. Anne Menninga

Food Service

Read More

Ms. Ashli Van Donselaar

Middle School Math

Ms. Ashli Van Donselaar

Middle School Math

Storyline: Catch a Glimpse

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we catch a glimpse of how intricate and beautiful God's creation is, and that we discover how to use math to serve God in His world.

Ashli Van Donselaar serves as the Middle School Math Teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. She graduated from University of Northern Iowa, and began teaching at Pella Christian Grade School in 2019. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outside, and playing games.

Read More

Mrs. Audra Faber

High School Science

Mrs. Audra Faber

High School Science

Storyline: Reverse the curse

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we will know God as the good creator and recognize the order, beauty, and chaos in creation and join Christ in creating shalom.

Audra Faber serves as the Life Science Teacher at Pella Christian High School. She began her teaching career in 1989 and at PCHS in 1999. She is passionate about pointing students to God using examples from the natural world. Audra enjoys going for nature walks, gardening, and spending time with her children Sydney and Sarah, and son-in-law Troy Davelaar.

Read More

Mr. Austin King

Middle School Language Arts

Mr. Austin King

Middle School Language Arts

Storyline: No Chains

Deep Hope: My Deep Hope is that we will be free to explore, share, and glorify God to the best of our abilities. It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.

Austin King serves as a middle school English and Science teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. He previously taught in Minnesota and earned his M.Ed. and undergraduate degrees from Northwestern College. In his free time, he enjoys reading to his kids, playing strategic board games, anything C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, disc golf, and photography. He and his wife, Hannah, have two children: Lauren and Leo.

Read More

Ms. Autumn Bennett

Middle School & High School Band

Ms. Autumn Bennett

Middle School & High School Band

Storyline: Praise Through Performance, Ministry Without Words

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that students will use their unique musical talents to bring glory to God, edify each other, towards good works, and minister God’s love to their world by performing, creating, and interpreting music.

Autumn Bennett serves as the band director at Pella Christian Grade School. This is her tenth year of teaching and her first year at Pella Christian Grade School. Autumn is a proud aunt to four nephews and one niece and enjoys spending time hiking and riding her bike.

Read More

Mr. Ben Dirksen

PK-8 Principal

Mr. Ben Dirksen

PK-8 Principal

Storyline: Seen, Known and Loved

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that the people at Pella Christian are seen, known and loved, thereby empowered to flourish in their identity as beautiful, gifted and purposed children of the King living out their diverse roles in God’s Story.

Ben Dirksen serves as the preschool-eighth grade Principal at Pella Christian Grade School. This is Ben’s second year at Pella Christian Grade School after spending the last 12 years teaching and coaching at Denver Christian School in Denver, Colorado. Ben is passionate about people and seeing them live out their identities as beautiful, gifted, and purposed children of the King.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Bev Schirz

High School Student Assistance, Student Council Leader

PC Alum

Mrs. Bev Schirz

High School Student Assistance, Student Council Leader

Read More

Mr. Bill Kimble

Instrument Lessons

Mr. Bill Kimble

Instrument Lessons

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Bonnie Van Wyngarden

PCHS Food Service Director

PC Alum

Mrs. Bonnie Van Wyngarden

PCHS Food Service Director

Read More

Mrs. Brenda Huisman

Preschool Teacher & Extended Care Director

Mrs. Brenda Huisman

Preschool Teacher & Extended Care Director

Storyline: Rooted in God

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that God will make a home in my students’ hearts and that they grow and become deeply rooted in who they are as they share God’s love with others. Ephesians 3:17

Brenda is in her thirtieth year of teaching and is currently the lead 5s Preschool Teacher as well as On Site Supervisor for Extended Care. Prior to her current role, she taught Kindergarten Prep at Yellow Iron Academy. Outside of school, she enjoys traveling with her family, spending time with friends, and having plenty of books to read.

Read More

Mr. Brian Newman

Bus Driver

Mr. Brian Newman

Bus Driver

Read More

Ms. Carolyn Brickley

Instrument Lessons

Ms. Carolyn Brickley

Instrument Lessons

Read More

Mrs. Carrie Veenstra

Kindergarten

Mrs. Carrie Veenstra

Kindergarten

Storyline: Love God. Love Others

Deep Hope: Love GOD and others as we learn to serve Him in all we do. Matthew 22:38-40

Carrie Veenstra teaches kindergarten at Pella Christian Grade School. Carrie has been serving at Pella Christian Grade School for six years after graduating from Dordt University, then stayed home with her two girls and got back into the classroom when they were both students. She loves to be outside, play games, read and spend time with her Grandson, Theo!

Read More

Mrs. Carrie Veenstra

Teacher Aide

Mrs. Carrie Veenstra

Teacher Aide

PC Alum
Read More

Mr. Chris Fynaardt

Transportation Director

PC Alum

Mr. Chris Fynaardt

Transportation Director

Chris Fynaardt serves as the Transportation Director at Pella Christian Schools. This is his fifth year in the position, having previously worked as the Maintenance Manager at a trucking company for sixteen years. He also serves as an assistant baseball coach at Pella Christian High School, enjoys watching the K.C. Royals and Chiefs and spending time with his wife, Angelisa, and their two sons, Drew (18) and Luke (16).

Read More

Mrs. Cindy Nikkel

International Student Program Coordinator

Mrs. Cindy Nikkel

International Student Program Coordinator

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Courtney Huebner

Middle School Science

PC Alum

Mrs. Courtney Huebner

Middle School Science

Storyline: Go Discover More

Deep Hope: We are a community of scientists desiring to go out and discover more about the Kingdom of God by asking questions, investigating problems, and creating solutions in hopes of bringing shalom to our chaos.

Courtney Huebner is in her eleventh year of teaching and is currently serving as the seventh grade science and STEM Design and Modeling teacher and middle school lead teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. Prior to her current role, she taught middle school science at Berg Middle School in Newton, Iowa. Outside of school, she enjoys being at home with her son Henry (2) as well as running, biking, being outdoors, coaching, and spending time with friends and family.

Read More

Mr. Craig Juffer

Director of Learning

Mr. Craig Juffer

Director of Learning

Storyline: Living God’s Story

Deep Hope: My Deep Hope is that people will be more fully formed to embody God’s collective and individual call for their lives.

Craig Juffer serves as the Director of Learning for Pella Christian Schools. Prior to his current role he served as the Head of Teaching and Learning at Pella Christian Grade School, as a teacher in classrooms ranging from second grade through middle school for fifteen years and as a principal for four years. Outside his schoolwork, Craig enjoys spending time attending his three children’s music, sports, and other activities with his wife, Amy.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Crystal Schreur

Fifth Grade

PC Alum

Mrs. Crystal Schreur

Fifth Grade

Storyline: Growing Together, Serving Others

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we are rooted in God’s infallible Word, grow strong in our relationships with others and branch out boldly in the world around us.

Crystal Schreur serves as a fifth grade teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. This is her seventeenth year at Pella Christian Grade School and her nineteenth year in education. Crystal enjoys reading, playing pickleball, and spending time with her husband, Dan, and their two boys, Rob (15) and Luke (12).

PC Alum
Read More

Mr. Dan Branderhorst

Activities Director

PC Alum

Mr. Dan Branderhorst

Activities Director

Storyline: Take Flight!

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that students become transformative servants by living God’s story through the discipline of athletics

Dan Branderhorst is the Activities Director at Pella Christian Schools. He has worked in education since 2011 and has served as the Activities Director since 2016. He and his wife, Amy, have been married since 2003 and have two children, Deacon and Lexi. Dan enjoys coaching basketball at Pella Christian High School and playing golf, pickleball and watching the Iowa State Cyclones.

PC Alum
Read More

Mr. Dan Vermeer

High School History

PC Alum

Mr. Dan Vermeer

High School History

Storyline: Baraka (Blessing) vs Babel (Sinful Selfishness)

My deep hope is for to see how we can be salt and light as we study history

Dan Vermeer started in Christian education in the fall of 1995. He served two years at Sunnyside Christian, three years at Iowa Christian Academy and has been at PCHS since the fall of 2002. He teaches United States and World History at PCHS. Dan is married to Tricia and they have four children: Brant, Isaac, Jack, & Ella.

Read More

Dr. Dan Zylstra

Head of Schools

Dr. Dan Zylstra

Head of Schools

Storyline: Serving Where Called

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that Pella Christian would be a spirit-filled and beautifully ordered learning community, from which all students depart equipped to serve their Heavenly Father where He calls them.

Dan Zylstra serves as the Head of Schools at Pella Christian Schools. Prior to this role he served as a music teacher, principal, and superintendent in Northwest Indiana. He lives in Pella with his wife, Lisa, and their four children.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Dana Sims

GS Special Education

PC Alum

Mrs. Dana Sims

GS Special Education

Storyline: See you how God sees you

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we will know we are loved and created in God’s image, see ourselves as part of God’s wonderful creation, and try to see others through God’s eyes.

Read More

Mrs. Darcy Ehlers

Teacher Aide

Mrs. Darcy Ehlers

Teacher Aide

Darcy Ehlers serves as an Educational Aide. This is Darcy’s first year in her role at PCGS. She enjoys spending time with her husband Brian and their twin daughters: Hannah and Abigail.

Read More

Mr. Dennis Roozeboom

Bus Driver

Mr. Dennis Roozeboom

Bus Driver

Dennis Roozeboom is a bus driver for Pella Christian Schools. This is his thirteenth year in that role and, prior to that, he worked in farming, as custodian at Pella Christian Grade School and also worked at Vermeer. He and his wife Tena enjoy spending time with their four children, ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Read More

Mrs. Donna De Vries

Food Service

Mrs. Donna De Vries

Food Service

Deep Hope: My deep hope, as a staff member in the food service program, is that the Pella Christian family will be fed both physical and spiritual nourishment and as willing servants we will strive to display God’s love as we live out His story in our lives through our actions of gratitude and service to Him.

Donna De Vries is in her third year as a Point-of-Sale person working part-time in the Pella Christian Grade School cafeteria. She and her husband Harlan have been blessed with five children; Brian (& Jean), Mark (& Sandi), Lisa (& Dan), Krista (& Eric), Derek (& Kate) and 16 grandchildren. Donna enjoys baking and spending time with the family.

Read More

Mr. Doug Van Wyk

PCHS Head Custodian

Mr. Doug Van Wyk

PCHS Head Custodian

Read More

Ms. Elizabeth Bos

Middle School Language Arts

Ms. Elizabeth Bos

Middle School Language Arts

Storyline: Steal Our Show

Deep Hope: As we listen to our Good Shepherd’s voice, we will redeem our thinking, speaking, reading, and writing for Jesus Christ. We will surrender the spotlight, and purposefully play the supporting roles we’ve been given in God’s epic Story.

Elizabeth Bos serves as a seventh and eighth grade language arts teacher and middle school theatre troupe director at Pella Christian Grade School. This is her twenty-fifth year in education, and her eleventh at Pella Christian. Prior to her current position, she served in various Christian schools in Michigan, earning a Master’s degree in curricular design from Calvin University. Beyond her calling as a teacher and director, Elizabeth enjoys writing poetry and plays, and spending time with her children.

Read More

Ms. Ellie Rethmeier

High School Vocational Agriculture

Ms. Ellie Rethmeier

High School Vocational Agriculture

Storyline: Growing Our Future

Deep Hope: That you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God.

My name is Ellie Rethmeier. I grew up on a farm north of Newton, Iowa and was home educated all through high school. In addition to the class work is did at home I dual enrolled at Newton High School to take Agricultural classes and participate in swim team. Growing up I was involved in 4H and FFA. Although working on the farm provided many unique experiences, these organizations helped me grow as a leader and discover my passion. As a result, I felt God calling me to pursue Agricultural Education as a career pathway. I graduated from Dordt College, now called Dordt University with a degree in Agricultural Education. In the fall of 2018, I started teaching at Pella Christian High and coordinating the new VO/Ag/FFA program. Currently, I live near Leighton, Iowa on an acreage caring for five head of cattle, 5 Guineans, (birds), and four cats.

Read More

Mrs. Elly Van Zee

Third Grade

Mrs. Elly Van Zee

Third Grade

Storyline: Learn, Love, Live God’s Story

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we are devoted to learn God’s story, joyfully love God and others, and together live out His story.

Elly Van Zee has served as a third grade teacher for over 30 years at Pella Christian Grade School. Prior to her current role, she taught in classrooms ranging from kindergarten to third grade and for four years at Newton Christian School. Elly and her husband, Doug, enjoy spending family time with their son, daughters, sons-in-law, and five grandchildren.

Read More

Ms. Evelyn Reinders

Middle School Math & History

Ms. Evelyn Reinders

Middle School Math & History

Storyline: Let’s Grow Together

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that my students GROW in their love & knowledge of the wondrous world God has created.

Evelyn Reinders serves as the sixth grade Math and History teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. This is her second year here at Pella Christian, having previously taught 2 years as a fifth grade teacher at Ontario Christian Elementary School in Ontario, CA. She enjoys reading, singing, exploring, coffee, games, cats, and spending time with loved ones.

Read More

Mr. Frank Vanden Bosch

Technology Coordinator

Mr. Frank Vanden Bosch

Technology Coordinator

Frank Vanden Bosch has been the Technology Coordinator at PCHS since February 2012. He and his wife, Mindi, have three children, Madeline, William and Sophia, and have lived in Pella since 2008. When he’s not running updates, he’s praying for more snow and trying to get his Jeep dirty. And, despite bad information spread by his friends, his internet connection at home is excellent.

Read More

Mrs. Gaby Suarez

High School Spanish Immersion

Mrs. Gaby Suarez

High School Spanish Immersion

Read More

Mrs. Gail Van Beek

Financial Secretary

Mrs. Gail Van Beek

Financial Secretary

Read More

Mr. Garth Godwin

Bus Driver

Mr. Garth Godwin

Bus Driver

Garth Godwin is in his third year as a bus driver at Pella Christian Schools. Garth was previously a business owner of a Manufacturers Representative Firm for 28 years. In his spare time he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling and visiting as many National Parks as possible.

Read More

Mrs. Giandra Gutíerrez

Kindergarten

Mrs. Giandra Gutíerrez

Kindergarten

Storyline: Love God. Love Others.

PC Alum
Read More

Mr. Greg Beekhuizen

High School Science

PC Alum

Mr. Greg Beekhuizen

High School Science

Storyline: He Holds All Things Together

My deep hope is that students will recognize the order and beauty of God’s Creation and use their knowledge to bring shalom to this world.

Greg Beekhuizen serves as the Physics and Chemistry teacher at PCHS. He is also the Winterim class coordinator. This is his 7th year at PCHS and his 22nd year of teaching. He and his wife Katie have 5 children, Graham, Aliza, Amelia, Callan, and Griffin. They enjoy attending sporting events and traveling.

Read More

Mrs. Helen Tukker

Food Service

Mrs. Helen Tukker

Food Service

Read More

Mrs. Jan Boender

Food Service

Mrs. Jan Boender

Food Service

Read More

Mrs. Jan Jungling

Athletic Dept Assistant

Mrs. Jan Jungling

Athletic Dept Assistant

Read More

Mr. JD Boer

High School Study Skills

Mr. JD Boer

High School Study Skills

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that, by the grace God, within this learning community, individuals are known, students express themselves freely, develop their gifts, and understand that they are fully known and loved by God.

JD Boer is entering his second year at Pella Christian High School. Along with serving as the Study Skills teacher, he is also the Head Boys Basketball Coach. Prior to Pella Christian, he had stops at Valley Christian High School in Chandler, AZ, and Dordt University in Sioux Center, IA, serving in teaching and coaching roles. JD and his wife, Erica, have three kids.

Read More

Mrs. Jeanetta Nieuwsma

School Counselor

Mrs. Jeanetta Nieuwsma

School Counselor

Jeanetta Nieuwsma serves as the School Counselor at Pella Christian Grade School. Prior to her current role, she was a full time therapist at Heartland Christian Counseling in Pella working with children, adolescents and families. Jeanetta enjoys traveling, going on walks and spending time with her husband and four children.

Read More

Dr. Joanna Settles

Middle School Science

Dr. Joanna Settles

Middle School Science

Storyline: Explore God’s Creation

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we develop a love of creation in all its goodness, intricate workings and beauty, are transformed by the renewing of our minds, and anchor everything we do in the word of God.

Joanna Settles serves as the teacher for 8th grade science, LEGO League and Automation and Robotics. She is in her fourth year at Pella Christian Grade School, and earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Iowa. Joanna and her husband, Jess, have three daughters and enjoy traveling and cycling.

Read More

Mrs. Jodi De Reus

Support Services

Mrs. Jodi De Reus

Support Services

Storyline: God’s Masterpiece

Deep Hope: Together, we will see ourselves as God’s masterpiece, designed to love God and love others.

Jodi De Reus serves as the 3-5 Learning Resource teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. This is Jodi’s second year at Pella Christian Schools, having previously, served as a special education teacher with the Prairie City-Monroe School District. Jodi enjoys spending time reading a good book, lunch with friends and time with family, including her husband, Kevin, five children and grandchildren.

Read More

Mrs. Jodi Van Arendonk

Food Service

Mrs. Jodi Van Arendonk

Food Service

Read More

Mrs. Jodi Vander Hart

Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Jodi Vander Hart

Administrative Assistant

Jodi Vander Hart is the Administrative Assistant. She has served with four administrators during her sixteen years at Pella Christian Grade School. Jodi and her husband, Randy, have three children who have all graduated from Pella Christian Grade School.

Read More

Mrs. Joni Vander Pol

High School Spanish & ESL Instructor

Mrs. Joni Vander Pol

High School Spanish & ESL Instructor

Storyline: Bridge the Gap

My deep hope is that we pursue the heart of God for the nations through building our Spanish language skills and cultural knowledge.

Joni Van Der Pol teaches Spanish 1, English As A Second Language and the support study hall for international students. She also teaches English Comp 3 and is the Yearbook Advisor. She has served in education since 1988 and is in her 10th year at PCHS. Her passion is to nurture students while connecting with them through the classroom, student travel abroad trips and extracurricular activities. When not working, Joni enjoys quality time with family, travel, antiques, thrifting, reading, flowers and her role as a pastor’s wife. She and her family have hosted three international daughters from Japan, Brazil and China.

Read More

Mr. Jordan Dyk

Middle School PE

Mr. Jordan Dyk

Middle School PE

Storyline: Curiosity Amongst Chaos

Deep Hope: Students grow in relationships with God and each other, while being investigators into all that creation has to offer.

Jordan Dyk teaches multiple courses including; middle school physical education, sports science elective, and an assistant in support services. This is Jordan’s second year at Pella Christian Grade School. In addition, Jordan is an assistant coach for Pella Christian High School football team and head coach for the girls varsity basketball team. His wife Kristin teaches Math at Pella Christian High School and their children Gavin (8) and Sienna (5) attend Oskaloosa Christian School.

Read More

Mrs. Karem Carballo

Preschool

Mrs. Karem Carballo

Preschool

Story Line:
SI Reading Support: Dios esta en control (God is in control)
SI Preschool: Imagina y crea (Imagine & Create)

Deep Hope:
SI Reading Support: Mi anhelo profundo es que los estudiantes confíen en que Dios esta en control de sus vidas y aprendizaje porque ellos forman parte esencial de la Hostoria de Dios. (My deep hope is for students to trust that God is in control of their lives and learning because they are an essential part of God’s story.)
SI Preschool: Mi anhelo Profundo es que los estudiantes usen su imaginación para reflejar la Creación de Dios  (My deep hope is that students will use their imagination to reflect God’s perfect creation.)

Karem Carballo serves as Spanish Immersion reading support teacher and preschool teacher. This is Karem’s tenth year as a Spanish Immersion Reading Support teacher and seventh year as Spanish Immersion preschool teacher. Prior to her current role, she has served as a preschool assistant and FLES teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. She enjoys spending time with her friends and family which includes her husband Jose and two children, Andrea (23) and Moises (22).

Read More

Mrs. Karla Hofman

Financial Secretary

Mrs. Karla Hofman

Financial Secretary

Deep Hope: My deep hope is to be the hands and feet of Jesus using my time & talents to serve, bless, and help others.

Karla serves as a financial secretary job-share with Karlene Vander Wilt.

Read More

Mrs. Karlene Vander Wilt

Financial Secretary

Mrs. Karlene Vander Wilt

Financial Secretary

Deep Hope: My deep hope is to be the hands and feet of Jesus using my time & talents to serve, bless, and help others.

Karlene Vander Wilt is in her first year at Pella Christian Grade School as a financial secretary job-share with Karla Hofman. Karlene is married to Tom and has three children; Alivia, Grant, and Jenna. In her free time she enjoys being with family, outdoor adventures, and photography.

Read More

Mrs. Kate Kingery

Assistant Preschool Teacher

Mrs. Kate Kingery

Assistant Preschool Teacher

Read More

Mrs. Kathy Deur

Food Service

Mrs. Kathy Deur

Food Service

Read More

Mrs. Katie Verhoef

Fourth Grade

Mrs. Katie Verhoef

Fourth Grade

Storyline: Walk by faith, not by sight

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we walk by faith in our daily living and learning together. II Corinthians 5:7

Katie Verhoef teaches fourth grade. Before moving to Pella, she taught for twelve years at Redlands Christian School in Redlands, California. Outside of school, Katie enjoys spending time with her husband Joel, their three children, and animals: two cats and many chickens.

Read More

Mrs. Kayla Vink

Custodian

Mrs. Kayla Vink

Custodian

Read More

Mr. Keith Anderson

High School Business

Mr. Keith Anderson

High School Business

Storyline: Live Like No One Else, So Later I Can Live Like No One Else

My deep hope is to help students develop their ability to apply the knowledge they gain through business classes to make personal and professional decisions that help them carry out the Great Commission.

Keith Anderson serves as the Business teacher at PCHS. This is his 11th year at PCHS and 12th year in education. He also serves as the head boys and girls track coach. He and his wife Jill have been married for over 20 years and have two daughters, Karlie and Jessa. The family are huge Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs fans and cheer on the Hawkeyes in all sports!</p>

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Kelly Nikkel

Fourth Grade

PC Alum

Mrs. Kelly Nikkel

Fourth Grade

Storyline: Growing Together, Serving Others

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we will be rooted in God’s Word, grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ and His Creation, and branch out to joyfully serve in His Kingdom.

Kelly Nikkel is a fourth grade teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. This is her sixth year teaching at Pella Christian Grade School, previously serving as a fifth grade teacher and fourth grade teacher at Oskaloosa Christian for two years. Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband Micah and attending the activities of their four children, Erica, Luke, Chloe, and Ava.

Read More

Mr. Ken Tukker

Bus Driver

Mr. Ken Tukker

Bus Driver

Ken Tukker is a bus driver for Pella Christian Schools. This is his ninth year in that role and, prior to that, he worked in accounting. He and his wife, Helene, enjoy spending time with their family and traveling.

Read More

Mr. Kevin Herdegen

9-12 Principal

Mr. Kevin Herdegen

9-12 Principal

Storyline: Serving in His World

Deep Hope: My deep hope is for us to understand God’s call for our lives and to live it out as serving in His world.

Kevin Herdegen is in his first year as principal. Prior to being principal, he taught mathematics for 16 years, of which 11 have been at PCHS. Kevin enjoys DIY projects around the house as well as spending time with his wife Amy and three kids, Alaina, Norah, and Micah. His favorite family activities include a variety of indoor and outdoor games, camping, fishing, and biking.

Read More

Mr. Kevin Stursma

PCGS Head Custodian

Mr. Kevin Stursma

PCGS Head Custodian

Kevin Stursma is in his thirteenth year as custodian of Pella Christian Grade School. He has been married to Brenda for thirty-three years, and they are blessed with three kids and four grandkids. Kevin enjoys outdoor activities, traveling and attending concerts.

Read More

Mrs. Kristi Kamerick

Food Service

Mrs. Kristi Kamerick

Food Service

Kristi Kamerick serves as a cook at Pella Christian Grade School. This is her eighth year in this position. Prior to working at the school she was a stay at home mom. When not at work she enjoys spending time with her family, husband Dan and children Kolten, Karsen and Kyra, baking and being outside.

Read More

Mrs. Kristin Bierma

Preschool

Mrs. Kristin Bierma

Preschool

Storyline: Explore and Grow In God’s World

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that students feel safe and excited to be at school, ready to explore God’s world and grow their identity as a piece of God’s story.

Kristin Bierma serves as the lead teacher for the preschool class and one section of Three School. This is her seventh year at Pella Christian’s Early Education and her fifteenth year in education, including teaching elementary, high school and college Spanish, support services in grade school and high school English and SI classes, and SI preschool. Kristin loves spending time with her family and friends, kayaking, traveling, and making quilts.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Kristin Dyk

High School Math

PC Alum

Mrs. Kristin Dyk

High School Math

Storyline: Kingdom Problem Solvers

My deep hope is that we have wonder and curiosity in the order and complexity of God’s creation. Even through the struggle, we can live boldly into our unique gifts, and grow as kingdom problem solvers.

This is my second year teaching at PC and 14th year overall. My husband and I moved with our family from Jenison, Michigan. We have two children Gavin and Sienna. When I’m not at school I like to be outside, ride the ranger, read, swim, and spend time with friends and family.

Read More

Mrs. Lauren Kahl

Kindergarten

Mrs. Lauren Kahl

Kindergarten

Storyline: Love God. Love Others.

Deep Hope: Love GOD and others as we learn to serve Him in all we do. Matthew 22:38-40

Lauren Kahl serves as a kindergarten teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. This is Lauren’s seventh year of teaching; having previously taught kindergarten, first, and second grade. Outside of school, Lauren enjoys running, cycling, reading, playing games, redoing furniture, and spending time with her husband Tim and their dog.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Laurie Terpstra

Support Services

PC Alum

Mrs. Laurie Terpstra

Support Services

Storyline: Kids in the Kingdom

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we will understand our King’s love for us and live out our role in His Kingdom by seeking to serve God and others.

Laurie Terpstra serves as the English Specific Skills teacher for Spanish Immersion students in third, fourth, and fifth grades. This is her fifth year in that role and previously she assisted in preschool, taught four years in special education, and was a stay-at-home mom for 17 years. She enjoys cooking, baking, traveling, fitness, boating, and spending time with her husband, Joel, and their daughters, Cailey & son-in-law, Levi, Annika (20), Joslyn (17), and Alexa (14).

Read More

Mrs. Leticia Gonzalez

Preschool Teacher and Teacher Aide

Mrs. Leticia Gonzalez

Preschool Teacher and Teacher Aide

Leticia González serves as the preschool teacher and teacher aide in the SI preschool and kindergarten. Leticia previously worked in Texas as a bilingual teacher aide. Leticia has been married for 19 years to Marco and they have two daughters, Mia (18) Marlet (12). Letty enjoys oil painting on canvas and arts and crafts.

Read More

Mrs. Libby Braafhart

Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Libby Braafhart

Administrative Assistant

Read More

Mrs. Lilly Lehr

Spanish Immersion Point Person

Mrs. Lilly Lehr

Spanish Immersion Point Person

Deep Hope: Mi anhelo profundo es que tengas una relaci&oacute;n con Jes&uacute;s, que &Eacute;l te revele los dones que te han sido dados y que mis acciones te animen a usarlos para la obra de Su Reino. (My deep hope is that you will have a relationship with Jesus, that He will reveal the gifts you have been given, and that my actions would encourage you to use them for the work of His Kingdom.)

Lilly is a native of Texas and has lived all over the world/US until settling with her husband and two children in Iowa in 2017. She is passionate about education and loves to learn. Outside of school, she enjoys playing guitar, piano, and ukulele, gardening, reading, hiking, kayaking and everything else outdoors with her family.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Lindsay De Vries

PCGS Reception

PC Alum

Mrs. Lindsay De Vries

PCGS Reception

Lindsay De Vries serves as a part-time receptionist, job-sharing the position with Melissa Zula. This is Lindsay’s fifth year in the role. In her free time she loves to go for walks, read, and spend time playing games with her husband Zach and four children; Holden, Emerson, Breckyn & Taityn.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Lisa De Ronde

Food Service

PC Alum

Mrs. Lisa De Ronde

Food Service

Lisa De Ronde is in her second year and serves as a part-time cook in the school kitchen at Pella Christian. She is married to John and they have a son Derek (5) in kindergarten. In her free time she loves playing games with her family, being outdoors, reading and swimming.

Read More

Mrs. Lisa Schelhaas

Reading Plus & Math Discovery Teacher

Mrs. Lisa Schelhaas

Reading Plus & Math Discovery Teacher

Storyline: Play Your Part in God’s Story

Deep Hope: My deep hope is to be the peculiar person God calls you to be and to Play Your Part in God’s story.

Lisa Schelhaas serves as the K-5 Title 1 Math/Reading Support at Pella Christian Grade School. This is her seventeenth year here at Pella Christian Grade School and her thirty-second year in Christian education. She has a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership and is a certified Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner. Lisa and her husband, Jay, enjoy their walks, biking, hiking, traveling, and spending quality time with their family.

Read More

Mrs. Lois Uitermarkt

Bus Driver and Teacher Aide

Mrs. Lois Uitermarkt

Bus Driver and Teacher Aide

Lois Uitermarkt is a bus driver for Pella Christian Schools. This is her seventeenth year in that role and, prior to that, she was a teacher for thirty-three years at various Christian schools. In her free time, she enjoys camping, kayaking and biking – basically anything outdoors.

Read More

Mrs. Lori Clark

Food Service

Mrs. Lori Clark

Food Service

Read More

Mrs. Lucilia Prado

Fourth Grade

Mrs. Lucilia Prado

Fourth Grade

Storyline: Crecemos para dar Fruto y servir a la comunidad! (Grow to bear fruit and to serve the community)

Deep Hope: Nuestro anhelo profuendo es crecer en sabiduria y conocimiento reflejando los frutos del Espiritu y sirviendo a Dios con todos nuestros dones asa como a nuestra comunidad en Espanol e Ingles. (My deep hope is to grow in learning and knowledge, reflecting the Fruit of the Spirit and serving God and our community with all our gifts in both Spanish and English.)

Lucy Prado serves as a fourth grade Spanish Immersion teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. Prior to her role, she taught English and Spanish as a second language for fourteen years in Monterrey, Mexico, ranging from elementary through college. She also worked as principal in a middle school and as a college administrator. She likes to spend time with her husband, Hector, and travel around Pella, visiting different places and taking photos.

Read More

Mrs. Marcy Agre

Student Council Leader

Mrs. Marcy Agre

Student Council Leader

Read More

Mrs. Maria Fynaardt

School Counselor

Mrs. Maria Fynaardt

School Counselor

Maria Fynaardt serves as the School Counselor at Pella Christian High School.

Read More

Mrs. Marilyn Vander Molen

Food Service

Mrs. Marilyn Vander Molen

Food Service

Marilyn Vander Molen serves as a part-time cook in the school kitchen at Pella Christian Grade School. This is Marilyn’s fourth year in this position but, she previously served as the Food Service Director for eighteen years. She enjoys time with her family, which includes 4 children and 6 grandchildren, gardening, hiking and reading.

Read More

Mr. Marlo Van Peursem

High School Language Arts, Speech & Theatre

Mr. Marlo Van Peursem

High School Language Arts, Speech & Theatre

Storyline: Bring Shalom to Chaos

My deep hope is that through the study of literature we are able to see how we can bring God’s Shalom to a broken world of Chaos

Marlo Van Peursem teaches American Lit and Speech at PCHS and also directs the school musical, the spring play, and Speech Forensics. He has taught for 39 years, the last 16 years at Pella Christian, and was Michigan’s 2002 Theatre Teacher of the Year. He enjoys swimming, boating, and skiing, attending professional theatre shows, researching family genealogy, and traveling–both in the States and abroad. He and his wife Sue have three daughters and 7 grandchildren.

Read More

Mrs. Mary Fopma

Middle School Choir Pianist

Mrs. Mary Fopma

Middle School Choir Pianist

Read More

Mrs. Mary Van Zee

Teacher Aide

Mrs. Mary Van Zee

Teacher Aide

Mary Van Zee has been serving as a special education teaching assistant at Pella Christian Grade School since the fall of 1999. Prior to this, she taught in several kindergarten through 8th grade classrooms in Christian schools in Iowa and New Mexico. Mary and her husband, Roland, enjoy teaching 1st grade Sunday school together in their church as well as spending time with their married children and their spouses, grandchildren, and foster grandchildren.

Read More

Mrs. Maryan De Haan

Media Specialist

Mrs. Maryan De Haan

Media Specialist

Read More

Ms. Megan Ho

Middle School History

Ms. Megan Ho

Middle School History

Storyline: Read, Remember, and Apply

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that students will read and remember God’s word and apply it in their daily life.

Megan Ho serves as the seventh and eighth grade History teacher. This is Megan’s fifteenth year in education. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Melanie Meinders

Music Teacher

PC Alum

Mrs. Melanie Meinders

Music Teacher

Storyline: Patterned for Praise

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that, as we learn the patterns that make up music, we will also discover more about how we have each been uniquely patterned to bring praise to God and harmony in our world.

Melanie Meinders serves as Pella Christian Grade School’s elementary music teacher. She has also taught fifth grade at Pella Christian Grade School, K-5 Music in Churchill, Montana, and first grade in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and spent time at home with her children when they were young. In her free time she loves to read, spend time in the sun, play cards and board games, and enjoy time with her husband Brad and their five children; Braden (21), Morgan (19), Brock (16), Maisy (15), and Beckett (10).

Read More

Mrs. Melissa Zula

PCGS Reception

Mrs. Melissa Zula

PCGS Reception

Melissa Zula serves as a part-time receptionist, job sharing with Lindsay De Vries. This is Melissa’s eighth year serving in this role. She enjoys traveling, reading historical fiction, anything outside and spending time with her family, which includes her husband, Roger, and their six children.

Read More

Mr. Michael Dykstra

Custodian

Mr. Michael Dykstra

Custodian

Read More

Mrs. Michelle Van Donselaar

Bus Driver

Mrs. Michelle Van Donselaar

Bus Driver

Michele Van Donselaar is a bus driver for Pella Christian Schools. She is in her sixteenth year in that role. She and her husband, Keith, have been married for twenty-seven years and have two daughters, Brianna and Emma.

Read More

Mrs. Miriam Toraya

High School Spanish Immersion

Mrs. Miriam Toraya

High School Spanish Immersion

Read More

Mr. Moises Sol

Middle School History and Band

Mr. Moises Sol

Middle School History and Band

Storyline: Se parte de la Historia (Be a part of History)

Deep Hope: Mi anhelo profundo es explorar la Historia utilizando las herramientas biblicas para cumplir las obras que Dios ha preparado para mi. (My deep hope is to explore History using biblical tools to fulfill the works that God has prepared for me. )

Moises Sol serves as the seventh and eighth grade Spanish Immersion teacher for History, sixth grade Geography, Bible, and fifth and sixth grade Band. This will be his sixteenth year in education in the United States. Moises enjoys listening to music and spending time with his wife and daughter.

Read More

Mr. Nolan Wiersma

High School Industrial Arts

Mr. Nolan Wiersma

High School Industrial Arts

Read More

Dr. Pam Vande Voort

High School Family & Consumer Sciences

Dr. Pam Vande Voort

High School Family & Consumer Sciences

Storyline: Choose Wisely

My deep hope is for us to understand that throughout our daily lives we will have opportunities to make many choices. Take time to prayerfully ask for God’s guidance and choose wisely.

Pamela Vande Voort teaches Family and Consumer Sciences courses (Child Development, Creative Living I and II, Digital Literacy, Health, Housing and Interior Design, and Nutritional Health) and Geography. She began her teaching career in 1982 and has taught and substituted at PCHS since 1988. She enjoys walking (5Ks), reading, working outside, sewing, cooking, golfing, bicycling, and traveling. She participates in various church activities and serves as a member of community and professional organizations. During the summer months she is a 4-H judge at county fairs and the Iowa State Fair. She is married to Lee who works at Vermeer.

Read More

Mrs. Penne Fox

Food Service

Mrs. Penne Fox

Food Service

Read More

Mr. Pete Lyon

Food Service

Mr. Pete Lyon

Food Service

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Rachel Renaud

High School Language Arts

PC Alum

Mrs. Rachel Renaud

High School Language Arts

My storyline is Micah 6:8:Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly

My deep hope is for us to use language and stories as a way to express, explore, and engage in God’s story.

I teach Introduction to Literature and College Composition. This is my 19th year in education, 13 of which have been at PCHS. Scott and I have been married for 13 years and have three boys. I enjoy reading, traveling, spending time with family, baking bread, and being outdoors.

Read More

Mr. Raul Pimentel

Second Grade

Mr. Raul Pimentel

Second Grade

Storyline: Sigo a Jesus en Palabra y obra (I follow Jesus in word and deed)

Deep Hope: Quiero mostrar el corazon amoroso de mi Se&ntilde;or a trav&eacute;s de mis buenos modales. (I want to show my Lord’s loving heart through my actions.)

Raul Pimentel serves as a second grade teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. Prior to his role, he taught high school, grade school, arts and a semester of mathematics at college level in Mexico. He enjoys reading, drawing, photography & traveling.

Read More

Mrs. Rayma Rozendaal

Food Service

Mrs. Rayma Rozendaal

Food Service

Read More

Mrs. Rebecca Disselkoen

Custodian

Mrs. Rebecca Disselkoen

Custodian

Rebecca Disselkoen is a custodian at Pella Christian Grade School in addition to being self-employed as a house cleaner. She and her husband Matt have three sons who attend Pella Christian Grade School. She enjoys painting, reading, walking with her dog, and camping trips to Michigan with her family.

Read More

Mr. Ron Swank

Bus Driver

Mr. Ron Swank

Bus Driver

Ron Swank is a bus driver for Pella Christian Schools. This is his thirteenth year in that role and, prior to that, he was a truck driver for forty-seven years. Ron and his wife, Nancy, enjoy spending time with their three children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Read More

Mrs. Sara Runner

Support Services

Mrs. Sara Runner

Support Services

Storyline: Loved by God

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we will know we are loved by God and will respond by loving Him and loving others.

Sara Runner serves as the K-2 learning resource teacher. This is her third year in this position, having served as an assistant librarian for 2 years at PCGS and also previously taught for 4 years at Timothy Christian Schools in Elmhurst, Illinois. Sara enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with her husband Steve and four children; Devan, Brynn, Kyla and Sydney.

Read More

Mrs. Sarah Vryhof

Middle School Bible

Mrs. Sarah Vryhof

Middle School Bible

Storyline: Beholding His Joy

My deep hope is that together we will become more fully alive by encountering and beholding Jesus in the pages of scripture and stories, as we will discover He’s where the joy is!

Sarah Vryhof teaches seventh and eighth grade Bible and Literature. Prior to coming to Pella, she taught for fourteen years in the Dominican Republic as well as two years in Indiana. She loves sharing a big cup of coffee with friends, traveling to different countries, as well as being with her husband and two boys, Hendrik (6) and Malachi (2).

PC Alum
Read More

Mr. Scott Roose

High School Religion

PC Alum

Mr. Scott Roose

High School Religion

Read More

Mrs. Shari Fox

Food Service

Mrs. Shari Fox

Food Service

Shari Fox serves as a part time cook in the kitchen at Pella Christian Grade School. This is Shari’s fifth year of service. Shari is married to Jeff and they have a son, Jarett (10). They enjoy family time together, being outdoors on the farm and playing games.

Read More

Mrs. Shery Lyon

Food Service

Mrs. Shery Lyon

Food Service

Read More

Mrs. Sonya Natelborg

First Grade

Mrs. Sonya Natelborg

First Grade

Storyline: Explore, Play, Grow

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that my students will explore God and his world, see how they play a unique part in his world, and then respond to Him with love, worship and service.

Sonya Natelborg serves as a first grade teacher at Pella Christian Grade School. Prior to her current role, she served as a teacher in classrooms ranging from second through fourth grade at other Christian schools, and substitute taught for fourteen years while staying home with her children. Sonya enjoys hiking, biking, reading and spending time with her three children, Brett (22), Kayla (20), and Ryan (17) and her husband of twenty-seven years, Tim.

Read More

Mrs. Stacy Boender

Food Service

Mrs. Stacy Boender

Food Service

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Steph Vander Molen

PE Teacher

PC Alum

Mrs. Steph Vander Molen

PE Teacher

Storyline: Delight, Encourage, Live

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we will DELIGHT in who God created us to be; ENCOURAGE one another; and LIVE in health and joy for Christ’s kingdom.

Steph Vander Molen teaches physical education to kindergarten through fifth grade students. Prior to teaching physical education, she taught first grade at both Pella Christian and Heritage Christian in North Liberty; she also served on staff at Third Church. Steph loves to walk, hike and enjoy creation with her husband Troy and their three children: Kade (22); Ty (18) and Claire (17).

Read More

Mrs. Tammie Andersen

HS Special Education

Mrs. Tammie Andersen

HS Special Education

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. Proverbs 18:15

My Deep Hope is that we allow God to awaken within us all the strengths and abilities that He has created in us so that we may glorify Him by serving in His Kingdom.

I’ve been married to my wonderful husband, Mike, for 36 years. We have one daughter, two sons, one daughter-in-law, and five grandchildren with a sixth one arriving in March.

PC Alum
Read More

Ms. Tammy Veenstra

STEM, SPARK and Writer’s Workshop Teacher

PC Alum

Ms. Tammy Veenstra

STEM, SPARK and Writer’s Workshop Teacher

Storyline: Infinitely loved, intentionally placed

Deep Hope: My deep hope for my students is to experience the love of God and to advance the Kingdom wherever God leads with the unique gifts He has given.

Tammy Veenstra teaches STEM, SPARK, and seventh grade Writers Workshop. This is Tammy’s first year at Pella Christian and twentieth year in Christian education. Before this role, Tammy was the middle school writing and math teacher at Heritage Christian School in North Liberty and for the past three years she served as Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment at Heritage. Outside of school, Tammy enjoys walking, kayaking, golfing, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Tara Fransman

Media Specialist

PC Alum

Mrs. Tara Fransman

Media Specialist

Storyline: Look, Learn, Live

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we can look for, learn about, and live out our place in God’s story.

Tara Fransman serves as the Lead Media Center Specialist at Pella Christian Grade School. Prior to her current role, she taught Kindergarten for two years at a parochial school in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and has done substitute teaching and part-time physical education at Pella Christian Grade School. She enjoys reading, sports, music, and being outside and spending time with her family, which includes her husband Mike and their four children; Adrianna (20), E.J. (18), Landon (16), and Levi (12).

Read More

Mrs. Taunya Van Maanen

PCGS Food Service Director

Mrs. Taunya Van Maanen

PCGS Food Service Director

Deep Hope: My deep hope is that we can set aside our troubles and worries, allowing God to feed and nourish our souls, giving us the strength to fully live our lives for his glory.

Taunya Van Maanen is in her fifth year serving as Food Service Director at Pella Christian Grade School. Previously, she served four years as a cook in the Pella Christian Grade School kitchen. Taunya enjoys spending time with her family and is married to Wes and has 6 children; Klaeton (& Holly), Paige (& Josiah), Jaed, Trae, Daiva and Kaesy and 3 grandchildren; Rosemary, Henri & Ivy.

Read More

Mrs. Teresa Beyer

Preschool Teacher & Early Education Director

Mrs. Teresa Beyer

Preschool Teacher & Early Education Director

Teresa Beyer serves as Director of Pella Christian Early Education and is also lead teacher for the 3s Preschool. This is Teresa’s twenty-fourth year at Pella Christian and her thirty-sixth year in education, which includes time as a reading specialist and teaching in a multi-age classroom. Teresa loves spending time with her family, reading, baking, walking, and being with friends.

Read More

Mrs. Teresa Ulferts

Admissions Director

Mrs. Teresa Ulferts

Admissions Director

Storyline: Welcome, Invite and Walk Alongside

Deep Hope: My Deep Hope is to invite, welcome and walk alongside families as they discover how God’s Story is unfolding at Pella Christian Schools.

Teresa Ulferts serves as the Admissions Director for Pella Christian Schools. She was born and raised in Christian Education from elementary school through secondary education and enjoys sharing how God is alive and moving at Pella Christian Schools. She enjoys traveling, reading and spending time outdoors with her husband, Kipp, and their boys, Gavin (13) and Isaac (10).

Read More

Mrs. Tessa Hilgerson

Art Teacher

Mrs. Tessa Hilgerson

Art Teacher

Storyline: Bringing the bright and beautiful into the dark world.

My Deep Hope is that we recognize we are image bearers of God. He is the ultimate Creator. I hope we, likewise will create to bring the bright and beautiful into this dark world.

Tessa Hilgerson serves as the Art Teacher at Pella Christian Schools. Tessa enjoys spending time with family, drawing, painting, reading, kayaking, and taking walks with her dog.

Read More

Mrs. Tracey Roose

Assistant Preschool Teacher

Mrs. Tracey Roose

Assistant Preschool Teacher

PC Alum
Read More

Mrs. Trixanna Wang

HS Academic Counselor and China Support

PC Alum

Mrs. Trixanna Wang

HS Academic Counselor and China Support

Read More

Mr. Verland Engle

Bus Driver

Mr. Verland Engle

Bus Driver

Verland Engle is a bus driver for Pella Christian Grade School for the past fifteen years. He retired from Pella Corp after forty years. Outside of work, Verland enjoys flying and building model airplanes, attending and competing in air shows around the country, church activities, and traveling to see family and God’s amazing world.

Read More

Mrs. Yanela Cordero

First Grade

Mrs. Yanela Cordero

First Grade