Kelly Volle

Pre-K Aide

S. Business Marketing Education from Murray State University

Kelly was raised on a family farm in rural western Kentucky. She began her career teaching in the public school system shortly after college. After a few years in education, she transitioned into the business and hospitality industry, where she worked until the birth of her son in 2014, when she embraced the role of a stay-at-home mom. In 2020, her son began first grade at WCA, where she quickly became an active parent volunteer and involved with the PTF.  She loves being involved and present in the school community which led her back to the classroom in 2021 as a substitute teacher at WCA.  In her free time, enjoys spending time with family, reading, hiking, exercising, church activities, and boating.  If the weather is warm you’ll likely find her outdoors!  Matthew 5:16  In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Rebekah Ellis

Special Education Aide

Miss Ellis studied Christian Education and Youth Ministry at Cedarville University and worked as a Kindergarten Aide at WCA two years ago. She recently got back from a year of serving in England at a charity that supports vulnerable and at-risk adults. She hopes to continue the passions and gifts she developed there to someday work at a homeless non-profit, to both care for the physical needs of others and share the love of Christ with them. Miss Ellis is excited to be back at WCA and further her ministry experience here by having a loving impact on those around her! In her free time, Miss Ellis loves traveling, hiking and creating art! One of her favorite Bible verses is Titus 3:4-5. 

Kathy Foldsey

Director of Curriculum & Instruction US
Math Department Chair
Math Teacher
Humanities Teacher

B.S. Education, Cleveland State University

Mrs. Foldesy is the Director of Curriculum & Instruction for the Upper School and teaches in the Upper School Mathematics and Humanities departments. Before coming to WCA in 2000, she began her career in public schools teaching grades 4, 5, and 6, middle school mathematics, English as a Second Language and even pre-school. She also has extensive background leading youth ministry and is currently teaching marriage classes for her church.

Julie Fenton

CPU Coordinator

Julie is passionate about helping parents understand the “why” behind Classical Christian Education. She believes that the more parents know, the more committed they will be to partnering with the school to support the “3-legged stool” of home, church, and school. This strong foundation enables children to grow in their faith and thrive in the plans God has for them. Julie looks forward to collaborating with WCA parents and staff to provide information and resources that will help everyone point children to Christ and deepen their understanding of Classical Christian Education. Additionally, she has worked part-time as a pediatric speech-language pathologist at Cleveland Clinic Therapy Services for nearly 20 years. In her spare time, Julie enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and three children, reading, and researching the impact of technology on child development.  Her favorite verse is Jeremiah 29:11- He is our hope!

Morgan Abbuhl

Upper School Math Teacher

B.A. in History and Classical Christian Education and Classical Studies Minors, Grove City College

A WCA alumna, Miss Zuccola has a great passion for Classical Christian Education, studying the Great Books, and pursuing Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. Along with her church and home, she acknowledges the integral role that her Classical Christian Education has had on the growth of her faith and desires to impart the same love for the Lord to her students. She is a member of Cornerstone Bible Fellowship church. Morgan enjoys spending time with family, tutoring, reading, babysitting, crafting, and baking. Her current favorite passage is Psalm 16:1-2.

Stacy Wanchick

GS Librarian

Bio Coming Soon

Linda Kuyper

Kindergarten Aide

Upon graduating from Cedarville University, Linda began teaching full time at WCA in 1998. She and her husband, Andy, then decided to raise a family and later enrolled their three daughters at WCA. Through the years, Linda has enjoyed being a WCA parent, substituting, and being a member of the Board of Trustees. She and her husband are active members at Providence Church in Avon. One of her favorite verses is Hebrews 4:20-21…”No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what He had promised.”

Jennifer Carrick

GS American Sign Language Teacher

Mrs. Carrick studied Deaf Education at University of Tennessee and holds a Deaf Interpretive Services Associate of Applied Science degree.  She worked as an Intervention Tutor at a Christian elementary school for 10 years until God called her into full-time Deaf ministry.  She currently has 16 years experience working as a professional sign language interpreter in educational, medical, and ministry settings and is passionate about reaching the Deaf community for Christ through friendship evangelism!  When she isn’t working, she loves connecting with friends, serving as a mentor, backpacking in the mountains with her husband, a pastor at Grace CMA Church, and traveling to visit her 4 grown children and 3 young grandchildren!

Teresa Gailey

Accounting Manager

MBA in General Management and B.S. in Healthcare Management at Westwood College Denver, Colorado
Associates in Applied Health and Science at LCCC

Prior to joining WCA I worked in the healthcare industry, owned and operated a business, and taught in education the past seven years. I have served in leadership roles in various ministries at church including V.B.S. Director, Children’s Church Director, Women’s Ministry Leader, and as a Sunday School teacher. I am currently serving, alongside my husband, as the Director of the Nursery and Director of our Drama Ministry at Grace Baptist church in Brunswick. I have 4 children and 4 grandchildren. My favorite pastime activities are serving the Lord, spending time with family and friends, going for walks, swimming, and working in my garden. My life scripture is Hebrews 11:1 but I hold Jeremiah 29:11 and Collosians 3 dear to my heart.

Kathy Church

5th Grade Teacher

B.S. in Elementary Education from Baldwin Wallace College

Before coming to WCA Mrs. Church taught third grade at another Christian school for twenty-seven years. Over the years she has been involved in her church’s children’s and ESL ministries. Mrs. Church enjoys spending time with her husband and son. She also likes to be with her large extended family and friends. One of her favorite Bible passages is Colossians 1:15-23.

Heather Croft

Admissions Director
Coordinator of Classical Parent University

Heather grew up with a mother and father who instilled in her from a very young age a deep love of learning. Her own education journey includes homeschool, classical Christian education, Christian education, and finally a public college education at the University of Georgia. Through these various experiences Heather has learned to value the deep well that is Classical Christian Education, not only for its influence on her own life but also for the influence it is having on her four children and Lord-willing on future generations. Heather enjoys hiking and being outdoors, reading, rich conversations with her husband and friends, and spending time with her family. Psalm 63:1-8 has been a recent treasured passage of scripture – His steadfast love is truly better than life.

Rachel Flury

GS Instructional Aide

Associates of Arts from Lorain County Community College

Miss Flury was a manager at a restaurant for two years and has previously worked at multiple preschools where she actively worked in classrooms with preschool and pre-k classrooms. She is currently working towards her Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education with a focus on Middle English. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, swimming, playing basketball, and hanging out with her family. Her favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 43:1, “But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”

Sarah Bennetch

Receptionist

B.A in Social Work, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
M.A. in Religion, Ashland Theological Seminary
TEFL Certificate

Mrs. Bennetch served for 27 years as a missionary in Brussels, Belgium, and Rome, Italy, where she focused on church-planting, discipleship, and mentoring. She started an anti-sex trafficking ministry and alongside her husband, organized English courses for refugees and immigrants. With a deep commitment to cross-cultural work, she successfully raised and educated three children in a foreign language and culture. Fluent in both French and Italian, Mrs. Bennetch continues her mission through volunteer teaching ESL at the Hope Center. Her passions include long walks, cooking, hospitality, and reading European and church history. Her heart remains dedicated to loving the stranger in Jesus’ name. A lifelong Scripture guiding her has been Rom. 12:9-15.

Andew Edgar

Physical Education Teacher

B.A. in Physical Education K-12, Anderson University

Mr. Edgar teaches Physical Education and also serves as Athletic Director. He is thrilled to be joining the WCA family this year! Mr. Edgar has taught physical education and health for over 20 years including 17 years most recently at Lake Ridge Academy and has coached a number of sports at various levels. He is the current head women’s golf coach at Baldwin Wallace University. He and his wife reside in Elyria along with their five children. Mr. Edgar enjoys spending time with his family, being outdoors and dabbling in calligraphy. A few personal favorite scripture passages are Isaiah 53 and Philippians 4:4-9.

Emma Fischer

1st Grade Teacher

Krista Formica

School Nurse
Contracted through PSI

RN, Diploma in Nursing, Mohawk College (Ontario, Canada)

Krista has been a WCA parent since 2017. After serving in various roles as a parent volunteer, she became the school nurse in 2021. Krista grew up in Ontario, Canada where she worked as a nurse for 16 years before moving to Ohio. Following that, she worked at the Cleveland Clinic, specializing in Hospice and Palliative Care. When she is not at school she enjoys running, hiking, camping and spending time outdoors with her family, and serves in the children’s ministry at her church. One of her favorite verses is Proverbs 3:5-6

Jill Gaitaniella

5th Grade Teacher

B.S. Elementary Education, Youngstown State; M.Education, Cleveland State University, Level 2 Classical Certification

Mrs. Gaitaniella teaches Grade 5 homeroom and all core subjects. She has experience teaching at two other Christian Schools as well as serving as director of two pre-schools. She is also actively involved in the childrens ministry at her church. Favorite verses for her include Isaiah 26:3 and Nehemiah 6:3.

Abigail Guevara Ponce

Upper School Spanish Teacher

B.S. Interpretation and translation English to Spanish, Universidad Evangelica de El Salvador

¡Hola! My students might know me as “Señorita Abi”.   As a native Spanish speaker, sharing my love for my language and culture has become my passion. I was born and raised in La Libertad, El Salvador. I attended college at the Universidad Evangelica de El Salvador, in San Salvador, El Salvador, and earned my Interpretation and translation English to Spanish degree. I love teaching Spanish and I try to bring as much of my culture into the classroom as possible. I believe that a good education shapes not only minds but hearts as well. And that by learning a different language and traditions, at a young age, can make students more culturally appreciative and incorporate that respect into their daily and future lives.

Learning a new language can be intimidating, but I believe that my enthusiastic, cultural approach to teaching Spanish enables students to acquire language skills in a manner that keeps them interested and motivated.

I feel very privileged to be joining this amazing team of teachers and to facilitate growth and learning for the students.

Lisa Halleland

Music Department Chair
Music Teacher Grades 6-12

B.A. Music Education, Nyack College

Mrs. Halleland has been at WCA since 2016 and has 10 years of teaching experience with K-12 music students. Prior to WCA and before having her 3 children, she taught in private schools teaching choir, band, and general music classes as well as teaching private music lessons and coaching High School and Club volleyball. When she’s not teaching music at WCA, Mrs. Halleland loves connecting with her family and friends, writing music, playing volleyball, being outside, reading, and leading worship and small groups alongside her husband.

Jordon Maynard

Kindergarten Teacher

Mrs. Maynard is a kindergarten teacher at Westside Christian Academy. With a heart for early childhood education, she is eager to nurture her students’ academic growth while instilling a strong foundation rooted in a biblical worldview. Her goal is to create a joyful, engaging classroom where children are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow in both knowledge and faith.

Sarah Flury

GS Instructional Aide

Sarah has always enjoyed helping children of all ages and being able to share Jesus with them.  She has an associate of Arts degree and has worked as a Preschool Teacher and as a therapist for children with autism. She lives with her family in Grafton, Ohio, and loves going outdoors and  being active. She also enjoys swimming, cooking, and organizing. Her favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 53:5, “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes we are healed.”

Alisha James

6th Grade Teacher

B.S. Education, Lorain County Community College & Ashland University Partnership

This is Alisha’s first year teaching since graduating through the University Partnership program with Ashland University and Lorain County Community College in the fall of 2022. During the spring, Alisha worked in 5 different school districts in Lorain and Cuyahoga County as a substitute teacher. Alisha completed her student teaching at North Ridgeville’s academic center working in 6th-grade math and 7th-grade science. Alisha is excited to partner with parents to assist her students to grow into the girls and boys God created them to be and to foster a healthy love for learning by viewing the world through a biblical perspective.

Outside the classroom, Alisha accepted the call to start a women’s Bible study with young women around the U.S. and Canada. Alisha delights in serving at her local church and worship team. She enjoys crafting and traveling to local, state, and national parks or any place involving mountains and waterfalls. In the summer, you can find Alisha camping with her large family or kayaking with her friends and probably eating lots of ice cream.

Amy Herr

School Counselor
Contracted through Daily Behavioral Health

B. A. Psychology, Miami University
M.S.S.A, Case Western Reserve University

Mrs. Herr has been providing individual and family counseling for kids and teens for most of her career. She is currently contracted through Daily Behavioral Health to provide in school counseling for WCA students. Mrs. Herr enjoys engaging with the kids during counseling and learning from each student. She looks to the Bible for truth and wisdom with a favorite verse being James 1:5.

Laurent Gloerfelt

Human Resources Director and State Programs Coordinator

MA in Philosophy, University of Lyon Jean Moulin, France
JD, Cleveland State University College of Law
MUPD, Cleveland State University College of Urban Affairs

Laurent is the Human Resources Director and State Programs Coordinator. Prior to joining the business office at WCA, Laurent taught Philosophy to high school students for nearly 20 years in France. A Lawyer by training, Laurent is also looking forward to putting his legal background to work. He has been married for 25 years and has two children. There are so many meaningful, life-giving, encouraging Scripture passages. Recently, Isaiah 58:6-14, which deals with “true fasting”, and Luke 19:11-26, the parable of the Ten Minas, have been particularly impactful.

Eileen Pompili

Reading Specialist

BS in Special Education, Kent State University

Mrs. Pompili has been an intervention specialist for over 15 years. Her experience includes teaching high school, middle school, and grammar school students. When Mrs. Pompili is not teaching, you can most likely find her playing family games with her grandchildren and children. In her free time, Mrs. Pompili and her husband enjoy taking weekend trips. She feels blessed to be at Westside Christian Academy, where she is able to share her faith with others.

Darlene Hess

Art Teacher Grades K-6

Darlene Hess studied Graphic Design at Kent State University and went on to work as an Advertising Art Director. Later, she taught Art in homeschool co-ops, afterschool programs and Christian schools including a classical Christian school where her daughter and son attended. After moving to Ohio with her husband Dave and their two children, she served at Christ Community Chapel for 10 years in the high school ministry. While there, she had the opportunity to use her love of Jesus and of Art to help build a Visual Arts Ministry. Six years ago Dave and Darlene moved to the Westside and discovered WCA, which brought her back to teaching in a Classical Christian school. Outside of the classroom Darlene can be found spending time with family and friends, serving the church, painting or teaching classes in the Twist Drill Building in Cleveland, reading, playing golf, hiking, or traveling.  Her favorite verse is Colossians 1:27-29.

Jason Hindall

Technology Coordinator
Math and Science Teacher

B.S. Physics, Cleveland State University

Mr. Hindall teaches Physics, Chemistry, Pre-Calculus, Geometry, Earth Science, Freshmen Logic, and Advanced Chemistry.  Before coming to WCA in 2009, he was in research and development with silicone and carbon based material.

Christy Bellamy

US Math Teacher

B.S. in Mathematics, with Secondary Education Certification, Grove City College

Mrs. Bellamy came to WCA in 2021 first as a parent, then as a PTF volunteer, and now as a part-time math teacher. She is excited to be back in the classroom after taking some time off while her two sons were little. She and her husband, BJ, are active members at Providence Church, where BJ helps teach membership classes and Christy serves on the worship team. Mrs. Bellamy enjoys spending time with her family and friends, as well as exploring new restaurants throughout the West Side – especially if they have live music! Her favorite Bible verse is Philippians 1:21.

Jackie Kohl

Academic Counselor

B.A. Systematic Theology, Moody Bible Institute

Mrs. Kohl and her family have been part of the WCA community since the fall of 2020 . Before moving to Cleveland, Mrs. Kohl taught secondary Bible and Church History at Trinity Oaks Christian Academy in Cary, IL for two years. Last year she taught library in the grammar school before joining the upper school facutly this fall.  At home you can find her reading, writing, watching Seinfeld, and laughing with her husband and four kids.

For God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of God’s glory in the face of Jesus Christ.

Rachel Kurak

Philanthropy Assistant

B.A. in Communication Studies, Grove City College

Ms. Kurak joined WCA in 2021. After taking both education and communication classes in college, she has been led to serve people through a combination of non-profit internships and education-related jobs. At home, Ms. Kurak can be found making music, drinking tea, playing games with her family, and talking with friends. Some of her favorite Bible passages include 1 John 2:1-2, Colossians 1:13-14, and Romans 5:8.

Lisa Lang

4th Grade Teacher

B.A. Psychology with a minor in Bible from Lee University in Cleveland, TN

Mrs. Lang has been teaching fourth grade for nine years.  This is her second year at WCA. She has many years experience in education and is deeply passionate about children and educating them from a Christian perspective. Mrs. Lang has served the Lord for the majority of her life and has been involved in women’s ministry as well as children’s ministry for a number of years. When she is not teaching, Mrs. Lang enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and running. Her favorite scripture verses are, Philippians 4:13, Psalm 19:14, and Proverbs 3:5-6

Marc Maddox

Director of Operations

B.S. Electrical Engineering, The Ohio State University
Certification in Christian Ministry and Leadership, Vineyard Leadership Institute

Mr. Maddox worked for 10 years in electrical and civil engineering, and in full time ministry for 18 years, serving as a director of a marriage and family ministry, and most recently, as an Associate Pastor, including management of church facilities. He is passionate about teaching God’s Word, discipleship, and leadership development. He has two sons who attend WCA and his wife is the Grammar School Latin teacher. Among his favorite Bible passages are Deuteronomy 31:8 and Ephesians 1:3-14.

Candace Maddox

Latin Teacher Grades 2-6
Typing Grade 6

B.S. Chemistry, Southwest Baptist University; TESOL Certification, Trinity College London

Mrs. Maddox teaches second through sixth grade Latin and GS typing at WCA. Right after college, she spent four years in the beautiful country of Bosnia and Herzegovina where she taught English as a Second Language and enjoyed learning the Bosnian language. She then spent ten years coaching and training with an international missions organization. Prior to coming to WCA, she taught ESOL for two years at Polaris Career Center. She has served in various leadership roles in women and children’s ministry in her church over the years. She is married and has two children who attend WCA.  She enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Brandi Mattingly

4th Grade Teacher

B.A. in English and a minor in Education from The College of Wooster

M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction & Gifted Intervention Specialist from Cleveland State University

This is Mrs. Mattingly’s second year at WCA.  She previously taught 13 years in public school as a Gifted Intervention co-teacher, the last 11 of which were across town in Westlake City Schools. Her three elementary-aged children all attend WCA. The Mattingly family is heavily involved in their church, Hope Christian Church in Avon, Ohio. This is also where Mrs. Mattingly’s husband, Mark Mattingly, works as one of the pastors on staff. Mrs. Mattingly is always working with children whether at school, as a Sunday school teacher at church or as a unit leader in American Heritage Girls. She desires to help children cultivate a love of learning through a biblical worldview and to invest in building strong Christian communities. Her heart is to raise up the next generation of God fearing, Bible believing, joyful men and women who are bold in their love of the Lord. Her interests are endless but include gardening, reading, crafting, hiking, camping, and having fun with her family. A passage of scripture she loves is Jeremiah 17:7-8 “The person who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence indeed is the Lord, is blessed. He will be like a tree planted by water: it sends its roots out toward a stream, it doesn’t fear when heat comes, and its foliage remains green. It will not worry in a year of drought or cease producing fruit.”

Michelle Maynard

Grammar School Music Teacher

B.A. from Hiram College in Music Education.

Mrs. Maynard previously taught Elementary Music for two years at the Vermilion Intermediate School. She then stayed home for 16 years to home school her four children.  During that time she has taught private piano and voice lessons in her home, taught music classes to homeschool groups and directed Christmas musicals at church.  Michelle is on her sixth year at WCA.  She has completed her certification in all three levels of Kodaly Musicianship.  She loves traveling and spending time with her husband and children.

Kaylee Hensley

Occupational Therapist
Contracted through Wraparound Services

Miss Kaylee pursued becoming a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant with one goal in mind, helping children thrive! She has experience in different pediatric settings, such as, schools, music centers, in home, and outpatient. Miss Kaylee strives to assist in meeting each child’s individual goals through play based sessions. In Miss Kaylee’s free time, she enjoys playing with her young son, attending live music events, and visiting local parks.

jamie Miller

Reading Specialist

B.A. – History Education, Lee University, Cleveland, Tennessee
M. Ed – Mild/Moderate Educational Needs, Baldwin Wallace, Berea, Ohio

Mrs. Miller joined WCA in the fall of 2022 as an interventionist focusing primarily on reading. Prior to joining the WCA team, she taught history at Solon High School. One of her favorite aspects of working at WCA is the opportunity to help her students grow in their faith as well as their academics. Mrs. Miller is a member of King’s Church where she leads the Generational Ministry Prayer team. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, working out and reading. Her favorite scriptures are Isaiah 26:3 and Ephesians 6:18.

Wes Moore

US Teacher
Dean of Men

 B.S., Austin Peay State University, M.Div. Christian Education, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Kathryn Murtha

First Grade Assistant

Mother of 10 and a home educator for 36 years, Kathryn also served 4 years as a missionary in Thailand, then as primary caregiver for a severely disabled child for 18 years followed by caregiving for two parents with Alzheimers. She taught middle school literature and preschool at HEARTS for Jesus Christ, has been involved in children’s ministry for over 40 years and with Joni and Friends ministry for 23 years. She loves the Lord Jesus, His Word, His people, and the simple pleasures of life, especially her 14 (so far) grandchildren. Special verse: Matthew 28:19-20

Stephanie Nath

Coordinator of Department of Education Programs

MS in Health Sciences from Indiana State University

Stephanie is formally trained as a public health professional with experience in higher education, grant writing, employer relations, and accounting. Outside of WCA, you can find her working on creative projects, watching reruns of sitcoms with her husband, or going on adventures with their three children, even if it’s just in the backyard. She is driven to support the mission of the Gospel and is honored to be a part of the WCA team.  A favorite verse is Daniel 3:18.

Dirk Russell

Head of School

MA Biblical Studies, Reformed Theological Seminary
BA Pastoral Theology, Moody Bible Institute

For the last 18 years, Mr. Russell has served in several positions at Geneva School of Boerne, including Teacher, Academic Dean, and Rhetoric School Headmaster. Prior to his full-time career in education, Mr. Russell served as Pastor of Covenant of Grace church for 10 years and most recently served as Elder at Trinity Presbyterian Church of Boerne. Dirk has been married to his wife, Aubrey, for 29 years and they have raised 6 children. Mr. Russell has a love for classical education, but more importantly, his love for the Word of God is evident in his life.

Eric Pfeiffer

6th Grade Teacher

B.A. Music Education, Iowa State University, M.A. Vocal Performance, Cleveland Institute of Music

Prior to joining WCA in 2018, he worked for 25 years in insurance sales and management.  He is involved at his church as an elder, choir member, and Bible study leader.  He enjoys spending time with his wife and 2 daughters, gardening, and reading.  One of his favorite verses is Philippians 1:6  “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

Tim Piazza

Grammar School Principal

B.S. Crown College
M.A. Northland International University
Ed. S. Liberty University

Mr. Piazza has been a 6th grade teacher, school counselor, soccer/basketball coach and principal over the past 16 years.  He holds an ACSI lifetime administrator’s license and a state principal’s license.  Mr. Piazza and his wife run a non-profit organization called Colors for Colette to support children diagnosed with cancer at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital.  His favorite scripture is Matthew 10:39.

Diane Piazza

Reception

Raised in the Cleveland area, Diane has spent 30+ years as an administrative professional for various organizations. Alongside her husband, she has been involved in church ministry, including serving as a Pastor’s wife, working in an addiction ministry, and children’s church instructor and counselor. Diane has three adult children and 10 grandchildren and enjoys spending time with family. Recently retired from the corporate world, Diane loves those special times with her grandchildren, as well as her newly acquired hobbies of sewing, quilting and machine embroidery. One of her favorite verses is Ephesians 2:8-10, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

Brigid Plummer

Foreign Language Department Chair
Upper School Latin Teacher

B.S Geology, University of Cincinnati., Catechist Certificate, Diocese of Cleveland

Mrs. Plummer homeschooled four children from 1997-2013. She worked for HEARTS FOR JESUS CHRIST on the Leadership Board and taught: Pre-k, Middle School, and High School classes, from 1998-2013. Brigid is an active member of St Clarence Church in North Olmsted, teaching Catechism to 2nd and 8th grades, chaperoning youth group activities and participating in adult Bible studies. She loves spending time with her family. Life Verse: Psalm 18:1-3, currently praying with Mt 14:28-29.

Emily Young

Office Manager

Born and raised in Southern California, Emily relocated to Ohio with her husband in August of 2023.  She studied Psychology and Child Development which led to her career as an Early Childhood Educator. Emily spent some time teaching in a Christian program before assuming a leadership position as Assistant Director. She is excited to join the WCA family in this new role. She enjoys being out in nature, whether it be camping or taking a relaxing walk with her husband. One of her favorite verses is Philippians 2:3 – Do nothing out of selfish ambition or deceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.

Megan Putnam

US Math Teacher

Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Services, BGSU 

Megan has been a WCA parent since 2016.  After serving in various parent volunteer roles, she started substitute teaching and helping in the Office as an Office Assistant. She loves getting a glimpse of different ways God is at work in the school.  When not at the school, you will find Megan spending time with International college students welcoming them to CLE and sharing the love of Jesus with them.   A favorite verse is Isaiah 55:5-6 “Surely you shall call a nation you do not know, and nations who do you know you shall run to you, because of the Lord your God. And the Holy One of Israel; for He has glorified you.” Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.” 

Brian Reid

Director of Finance

B.S., Financial/Managerial Accounting & M.B.A., Organizational Leadership – University of Findlay

Mr. Reid is the Director of Finance. Prior to joining WCA in 2019, he worked as an auditor for KeyBank and Deloitte & Touche. He enjoys all things active and spending time studying scripture, especially apologetics. His favorite sport is soccer and currently holds a U.S. Soccer coaching license.

Jessica Reiner

Pre-K Director

B.S. Child Life, East Carolina University

Jessica came to WCA in 2021 and served as the Pre-K Assistant before becoming the Director of our Pre-Kindergarten classes. Prior to joining the WCA community, she worked as a Certified Child Life Specialist at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in the PICU and Surgery. She also served as a ministry assistant for Youth for Christ, and has worked with children of all ages as a teacher, coach, nanny, and volunteer in various children’s ministries at church.
Jessica is a mother of twins who attend WCA and in her spare time she loves hiking, biking, reading, and spending time with her family. Her favorite Bible verses are Proverbs 3:5-6 and 1 Peter 1:6-7

Kasey Reis

Athletic Director
US PE Teacher

BS in Sports Management, University of Alabama
BS in Sports Administration, Mississippi State University

Kasey is entering her 2nd year at Westside Christian Academy as Athletic Director. Prior to WCA, Kasey was serving at her church, North Olmsted Assembly, where her husband Michael Reis is head pastor. Kasey also has been coaching high school softball for 17 years and collegiately for three years. Kasey played softball collegiately for University of Alabama, and Mississippi State University, and then Professionally in the National Pro Fastpitch League. Kasey and her husband Michael have been married for 17 years, and have four children, Mason, Michal Don, Lucy, and Johnwesley. She has a great love for serving others in sports, church, and most of all being a mom and wife.

Stephanie Rios

Pre-K Aide

I was born and raised in Germany and moved to the US when I was 14 years old. I am married and together my husband and I have two girls in 4th and 7th grade (both attend WCA). I have served in our church children’s ministry for the past 9 years, ages PreK-5th grade as well as help teach in our ladies Bible studies and Life Groups. Currently, I substitute teach at WCA and enjoy working with the teachers. It is my passion to see people of all ages build a firm foundation on the Lord and disciple them. In my free time, I love to spend time with my family and absolutely love to cook and bake. I am a licensed home baker. Some of my favorite Bible verses are John 3:16 and Philippians 4:13. I look forward to serving the Pre K families and teaching alongside Mrs. Smith.

Joseph Scibbe

Logic and Rhetoric Teacher

Mr. Scibbe is a Logic and Rhetoric Teacher for the Upper School. Prior to coming to Westside, he was a Physical Education Teacher and spent nearly 10 years in the Army. In his off time, he enjoys cooking, traveling, reading, and spending time outdoors. His favorite books in the Bible are Ecclesiastes and Philippians.

Luke Robins

Science Department Chair
Math and Science Teacher

B.A. Philosophy, American University of Beirut

Mr. Robins is the Upper School Science Department Chairman and teaches biology, health, introductory physics, and calculus. Before coming to WCA in 2020, he began his career as an ESL teacher working with many students from a variety of backgrounds. He has extensive experience teaching high school mathematics both as a tutor and classroom instructor.  He graduated from WCA in 2002, as an 8th grade student.

Amy Santos

2nd Grade Teacher

B.A. Elementary Education, John Carroll University; M.A. Educational Administration, Cleveland State University

Mrs. Santos came to WCA in 2018 and teaches second grade. Prior to WCA she taught at a classical school in Miami, Florida for two years and has over 20 years of teaching experience in grades two through eighth. She has served in various leadership roles in children’s and women’s ministry since 2011. Mrs. Santos loves the Lord, spending time with her family and friends, and photography. Her favorite verses are Isaiah 41:10 and Joshua 1:9.

Heather Murtha

Kindergarten Grade Teacher

B.S. Elementary Education, University of Central Florida

Mrs. Murtha was born and raised in Florida, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida.  Before getting married and starting a family, she taught second grade. 

She and her husband, Mike, have six children and have homeschooled the past twenty years. While homeschooling, she also taught children’s Sunday school, Awana, Missionettes, American Heritage Girls, and various classes at homeschool co-ops. In 2019, three of her children enrolled at WCA, and in 2024, she is thrilled that God is leading her back to the classroom.

Mrs. Murtha enjoys walks in nature, gardening, and spending time with her large extended family and friends.  She is passionate about parenting, strengthening marriage, and God’s Word.  Her favorite Bible verses are 1 Samuel 12:24 and Philippians  4:6-7.

Elena Smith

Pre-K Lead Teacher
US Graphic Arts Teacher

Miss Smith attended Westside Christian Academy from K through 8th grade and is so excited to once again be a part of the WCA family. She is thrilled to see this new path God is putting her on and where it leads. She has experience teaching and tutoring students of various ages on a one-on-one basis. Miss Smith is currently a youth leader at her church, The Gathering Church, and loves being actively a part of the kids lives. She has a strong desire to minister to children and to help them walk in their growth with Christ.

Rachel Flury

GS Instructional Aide

Associates of Arts from Lorain County Community College

Miss Flury was a manager at a restaurant for two years and has previously worked at multiple preschools where she actively worked in classrooms with preschool and pre-k classrooms. She is currently working towards her Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education with a focus on Middle English. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, swimming, playing basketball, and hanging out with her family. Her favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 43:1, “But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”

Caleb Sasser

Upper School Principal
Humanities Department Chair
Humanities Teacher

B.A. Classical Liberal Arts: Pedagogy from Patrick Henry College

Mr. Sasser the Upper School Principal and teaches upper school humanities. Prior to joining the WCA staff in 2017 he taught fourth grade at Ad Fontes Academy in Centreville, VA. While at Ad Fontes he earned his permanent teaching certification with the Association of Classical and Christian Schools (ACCS). Caleb enjoys spending time with his family, working in his garden and woodshop, taking long walks, and reading good books. He is excited to be serving and worshiping the Lord Jesus Christ with everyone at WCA.

Donna Saggio

1st Grade Teacher

B.S. in Elementary Education from Evangel University

Raised in southwest Tennessee, Donna has spent 36 years living in Ohio with her husband, John and her 2 children. Mrs. Saggio has taught elementary education, most of it in second grade, for the past 30 years.  She is returning to the classroom to teach first grade.  She loves to take walks, read books, and spend time with her extended family in Ohio. One of her favorite chapters in the bible is Psalm 91.

Kate Hill

Grant Research Assistant & US Receptionist

B.A. International Studies, Cedarville University
M.A. Intercultural Studies, Trinity International University

Kate’s prior work experience includes seven years of serving in various administrative positions and seven years of working with international students. She loves learning from and getting to know people of other cultures and backgrounds. She also loves being part of and investing in community and is excited about the opportunity to do so at WCA. Other favorite things include spending time outside, having coffee or tea with friends, and enjoying cozy times at home with her family. A favorite Scripture verse is Romans 8:35-39  Mrs. Hill, a native of greater Cleveland, is excited to be back in the area and near her extended family after 14 years away. She and her husband Erik have two children, the oldest of whom enjoys attending WCA.

Sarah Shackelford

Recess Supervisor

B.A. in American Studies from Hillsdale College

Sarah has loved babies, books, bugs, and birds since she was a child and even while majoring in American Studies she worked for the biology department helping care for an arboretum. Sarah and her husband John live in Bay Village with their seven children. Their children have attended WCA for the past eleven years. Previously Sarah homeschooled and taught nature study classes in a homeschool coop. Sarah also works in children’s ministry for her church, Christ Church Westshore.

Maddy Shaffer

2nd Grade Teacher

B.A. in Early Childhood Education, Cleveland State University

Miss Shaffer grew up homeschooled in classical education. Hearts for Jesus Christ Alum., she has a passion for encouraging and walking alongside students in helping them pursue an education rooted in Christ. She is a member of Grace Church, Bath and serves in the Young Adult ministry leading a Woman’s Bible study. Miss Shaffer enjoys spending time outside, hunting for fun coffee shops and spending time with family and friends. Her current favorite passage is Psalm 34.

Kourtney Wright

Director of Teacher Development
Grammar School Director of Curriculum & Instruction
Logic Teacher

B.S. Early Childhood Education, Baldwin-Wallace University

Mrs. Wright serves as the Director of Teacher Development, Grammar School Director of Curriculum & Instruction, and teaches in the Upper School.  She attends Providence Church with her husband and two children and volunteers with Cornerstone Pregnancy Center.  Mrs. Wright is currently finishing a Masters degree in Advanced Teaching with an emphasis in Secondary Level Education.  A favorite passage of scripture is Deuteronomy 6:4-9.

John Speer

Upper School Humanities Teacher

B.A. History, Hillsdale College; M.A. History, Liberty University

Mr. Speer teaches Upper School humanities. Prior to joining the staff at WCA he taught American history, world history, economics/personal finance, world geography, government, photography, Bible, and various college credit classes in Mansfield, Ohio for one year and Dayton, Virginia for three years. He enjoys reading, traveling, hiking, camping, and spending
time with his family. He is also involved in Parkside Church Westside.

Robin Siedel

Director of Semper Crescente

B.A. Christian Studies, Hillsdale College.

Ms. Somers has taught in various public, private, and Christian schools, as well as worked with special needs students.  Her favorite Bible verses are Jeremiah 29:11 and Philippians 4:6-8.  When she’s not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her three children, working out, running, and being active in her church.

Jamie Smith

Speech Language Pathologist
Contracted through Wraparound Services

BA in Communication Disorders, University of Toledo 
MA in Speech-Language Pathology, Baldwin Wallace University 

Jamie graduated in the spring of 2024 from Baldwin Wallace University. She has experience working with children of all ages with differing levels of communication needs in several settings (e.g., public schools, pediatric daycares, private clinics, etc.). Ms. Smith is so excited to begin her career at Westside Christian Academy. When she is not working she enjoys spending quality time with her fiancé, traveling, running, and trying new coffee shops. Ms. Smith is looking forward to a great school year ahead full of learning and collaboration with students, staff, and parents!

Madeline Mulhall

Intervention Specialist
Contracted through Wraparound Services

Ms. Mulhall is a proud Ohio State graduate (Go Bucks!) with extensive experience working with children and families. She brings three years of dedicated service as an intervention specialist in a self contained classroom setting. In her free time, Ms. Mulhall enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, being outside, and traveling! She is very excited to join the WCA team this fall!

Wendy Thompson

Kindergarten Teacher

B.A. Elementary Education, Calvin College; M.A. Education/Reading Diagnosis, John Carroll University

Mrs. Thompson loves teaching kindergarten at WCA and is currently in her 9th year. After graduating from college, she taught for 1 year in West Chicago, 2nd grade and then 7 years in 3rd grade in Mayfield, Ohio. She has 5 children who she home schooled for 12 years. Mrs. Thompson was the Junior Church Director at Scranton Road Bible Church in Cleveland for 17 years and also taught writing and poetry classes to children ages 5-12 at Hearts for Jesus Christ for 7 years before coming to WCA.

Rebecca Walker

Intervention Support Teacher

B.A.S. Early Childhood Education, John Carroll University; M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction, Liberty University

Miss Urry is excited to be a part of the WCA community once again. During her elementary years, Miss Urry attended Westside Christian Academy for grades: K thru 8th. WCA has greatly impacted her life and she is thrilled the Lord has called her to serve at this school as a 3rd grade teacher. When Miss Urry is not teaching, she is serving in the Children’s Ministry at Providence Church or coaching volleyball for the 5th & 6th graders at WCA.  One of Miss Urry’s favorite Bible verses is Proverbs 16:3.

Madison Austermiller

Director of Development

Madison is excited to be joining WCA as she is transitioning her extensive Medical Device Sales background to now serving as the Director of Development. Growing up on Cleveland’s East Side, Madison feels grateful for parents who stressed the importance of education, discipleship, and missions from a young age. Having an opportunity to pair her business background with love for ministry, education, and missions is something she feels truly privileged to be executing. Madison is married to her husband, Aaron, and mom to Lily. As a family they love all things Cleveland sports, spending time outdoors, and playing with their two dogs, Rosie and Piper.The Lord gave Madison this encouragement from Paul’s prayer as her life verse. Ephesians 3:20-21 “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,  to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!”

Danielle Wolff

3rd Grade Teacher

B.S. Inclusive Early Childhood Education from Bowling Green State University

Mrs. Wolff truly enjoys teaching children and has served in various ways, such as serving in children’s ministries, working for community and public schools, and being a parent of two children, who attend WCA. She is grateful and honored to be a part of the WCA family, first as a parent and then as a staff member. Mrs. Wolff and her family are a part of Providence Church in Avon. In her free time she enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends. Her favorite Bible passage is Romans 12:1-2.

Rosalia Kalvitz

GS Instructional Aide

I am originally from Sicily, Italy and moved to Cleveland, Ohio with my family when I was eight years old. I graduated from Hiram College in 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a double minor in Sociology and Educational Studies. I have experience working with children in different settings such as summer camps, daycares, and I also serve in the children’s ministry at Parkside Church Westside, which is the church I currently attend. In my free time, I enjoy reading, taking walks, and trying out new coffee shops. One of my current favorite verses is Isaiah 43:1.

Zay Ziegler

Art Department Chair
Art Teacher

Zay Ziegler has a Bachelor in Fine Arts from The Cleveland Institute of Art, and has taught art for more than twenty years. She started by teaching arts and crafts to students in organizations such as The YMCA, Head Start and NASA’s preschool. Before she started a family she was an Admissions Counselor and recruiter for The Cleveland Institute of Art. Prior to joining WCA, she taught K-8 Art six years at Bethel Christian Academy and 15 years at Hearts for Jesus Christ. Zay and her husband Tom have three adult children.  The youngest graduated from WCA in 2020.

Kristen Zuccola

Rhetoric Department Chair
Dean of Women
Rhetoric, English, and Composition Teacher

B.S. Education/English, Ohio University; M.A. English, Cleveland State University

Mrs. Zuccola teaches Junior and Senior Thesis,  and Rhetoric. Prior to coming to WCA in 2015, she taught English to students from 8th grade to college freshmen.  She enjoys spending time with her husband, four children, and extended family, serving at church, reading, cooking, and hiking.  Her favorite verse is Luke 10:27 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”

Anne Douglas

US Math & Science Teacher

B.S. Westminster College, chemistry; M.S., Ph.D. Case Western Reserve University; organic chemistry

Dr. Douglas is an upper school chemistry, science and math teacher. Prior to joining WCA in 2025 she was a chemistry professor at Baldwin Wallace University.

Anne enjoys running, hiking, long walks and long talks, exploring nature, knitting, reading, crafting, singing and spending time with her children. She finds wonder and worship in trees, birds, flowers, mountains, snowflakes, sunsets, starry nights and motherhood. She has been married to Scott for 29 years and is blessed with 5 children on this earth. Anne is excited to begin her next adventure teaching at WCA and share her enthusiasm for the Lord and the wonders of science and nature as they reveal God’s glory. A favorite verse is Jeremiah 33:3- Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.

Victoria Gyerman

US Math Teacher

Mrs. Gyerman is a first-year Upper School math and personal finance/economics teacher. She graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in the fall of 2023 with a major in Finance and a minor in Christian Faith and Global Citizenship. During her studies, she worked at Ernst & Young, and after graduation, she took a position in underwriting at Starr Insurance. In 2024, Victoria moved from the Toronto area to Northeast Ohio to marry her husband, and together they began attending Providence Church in Avon. She spent time substituting at two private Christian schools—one of which was WCA—to explore whether teaching was a path she wanted to pursue. After a wonderful year, she is thrilled to now have her own classes and to share her love for finance, math, and ultimately, God’s Word with the students at WCA.Outside of school, you’ll find her hosting dinner parties and Bible studies, working out, reading, and honing her skills in the kitchen. Victoria’s favorite verse is Psalm 119:11: “Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You.”

Rachel Mann

US Humanities & Rhetoric Teacher

BS, Secondary Education, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
MS, Educational Administration, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, Illinois
MSc, Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Mrs. Mann teaches Humanities and Rhetoric. Prior to joining WCA in 2025, she taught English in a public high school and co-led a middle and high school youth ministry. She has also enjoyed various forms of teaching in an urban kindergarten, an immigration agency,  a nursing home, and a prison. She is looking forward to meeting and working with the students, parents, and staff of WCA. One of her current favorite Bible verses is Ephesians 2:10 (NIV), “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared  in advance for us to do.”

Steven Ribeiro

US Humanities Teacher

A.A. Liberal Arts, Essex County College 
B.A. Bible Studies, The Master’s University

After Steven came to Christ in his home state of New Jersey, he moved to LA to attend The Master’s University where he met his wife, Katherine. He graduated with a Bachelors in Biblical Studies with an emphasis in Theology and has a passion for sharing and thinking on God’s Word, reading, playing guitar, hiking, landscaping, and woodworking. He and Katherine enjoy serving at church, hosting, creating music, coffee, and working on their home together.

Samantha Menzing

3rd Grade Teacher

B.S. Middle Childhood Education, Kent State University
M.S. Curriculum and Instruction, Western Governors University

Mrs. Menzing is thrilled to join the WCA family this year as a 3rd Grade Teacher. She brings 11 years of experience teaching 4th and 5th grade in public education and is eager to share her love for Christ in the classroom. She lives in Avon Lake with her husband and their two children. In her free time, Mrs. Menzing enjoys being outdoors, reading, listening to music, and has a lifelong passion for gymnastics. She is an active member of Hope Christian Church in Avon, where she serves in the children’s ministry. Her favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

Marie Cox

GS Music Teacher

MMusic degree in Orchestral Studies, Stellenbosch University, SA
BMusic degree in Music Performance, Stellenbosch University, SA

Marie Cronje-Cox was born in Cape Town, South Africa, a country famous for its extremely rich choral culture. Marie has sung in multiple world-renowned choral groups, competing on national and international stages. 

Marie was Principal Percussionist/Associate Timpanist and alternate keyboardist of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. After moving to the US in Dec 1998 Marie served in the music faculty of the Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood and during that time furthered her percussion studies at CSU with Tom Freer of the Cleveland Orchestra. 

Marie currently serves as Traditional Music Director of Avon United Methodist Church (organist and choir director), teaches private music lessons at her home studio and enjoys a side career as collaborative pianist.

Marie was choir director at HEARTS for Jesus Christ for 6 years and directed the festival choir at the OMEA Middle School Music Festival in 2024.

She is currently the director of Cantate Musica at Oberlin Choristers.

Marie enjoys hiking and anything to do with music. She has been married to her musician husband for 27 years. They have raised two children and have 4 cats.

Marie’s life verse is Psalm 121:1-2.

Addie Pana

GS Art Teacher

Addie Pana holds a BS in Art and Social Work with further training in Art Therapy. Her fine arts specialty is watercolor. She has been a WCA parent since 2022. Since beginning as a substitute teacher in the art room in October, Addie has a passion for incorporating the WCA mission to challenge the students to develop an understanding of God’s hand in all of creation.