Faculty & Staff Directory

Department

Administration

Kathryn Bremner

Executive Director,
Head of School

Kathryn Bremner

Executive Director,
Head of School

Mrs. Bremner is the Executive Director and Head of School at Grace Christian School. A Virginia educator who has worked with over a hundred schools across the country in the area of curriculum development and classroom instruction, she is a former math and science middle school teacher. During her ten years at the middle grades level, Mrs. Bremner was a member of a collaborative team working extensively with gifted learning, special needs, and English as second language students. In addition to her role as a classroom teacher, she served as a clinical faculty member to James Madison University’s middle grades program, co-teaching pre-service education classes. Mrs. Bremner has served as the Associate Executive Director for the Virginia Middle School Association and as a board member for the Virginia Schools to Watch program. She has served as an education consultant and curriculum specialist for Modern Red School House and for Nancy Larson Publishers. Mrs. Bremner received a B.S. degree in Sociology from Bridgewater College, an M.Ed degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in middle grades curriculum and an endorsement in Educational Leadership from James Madison University. Mrs. Bremner, her husband, David, and their two children reside in Mechanicsville where they are active members of Mechanicsville Christian Center.

Jennifer Britton

Principal,
Academic Advisor

Jennifer Britton

Principal and Academic Advisor

Mrs. Britton is the Principal and Academic Advisor at Grace Christian School. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, with distinction, from the University of Virginia and her Masters of Teaching from the Curry School of Education at the University of Virginia. Mrs. Britton has over 20 years of experience in education. She is a former Hanover County classroom teacher and Math and Reading SOL Support Coach. She has worked extensively with both gifted and remedial students specializing in developing individualized academic student success plans. Mrs. Britton has been a member of the Hanover community for over 30 years. She and and her family are active members of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Mechanicsville.

Ginger Jamara

Vice Principal

Ginger Jamara

Vice Principal

Mrs. Jamara is the Vice Principal of Grace Christian School. She received her undergraduate degree from Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, NY in Secondary Math Education. She later earned her Master's degree in Special Education from Boise State University in Boise, ID. Mrs. Jamara has her Virginia certification in Secondary Mathematics, grades 6-12 and received the Praxis Recognition of Excellence. She served as Math Department Chair during her employment with Richmond City Public Schools. Mrs. Jamara, her husband Tom, and their children are active members of Hanover Evangelical Friends church.

Cathy Danko

School Counselor

Cathy Danko

School Counselor

Mrs. Danko is the School Counselor at Grace Christian School. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Special Education from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA and her Master's degree in Counseling from Oakland University in Rochester Hills, MI. Mrs. Danko has over 30 years of experience in both school and community settings, having served in teaching, counseling, and administrative roles. Her work in Christian education began in Northwest Arkansas where she served as the Director/Principal for a new school start-up at Life Way Christian School. Over the course of her career, she has worked extensively in many areas of administration from program development, accreditation, academic and student support services, crisis management, and student life. She also serves as an assistant coach with RVA Thrive Cheerleading, a member of the Fellowship of Christian Cheerleaders Impact Cheer program. Mrs. Danko, her husband, Larry, and their two adult children reside in Midlothian where they attend Journey Church.

Scott McCulley

Athletic Director

Scott McCulley

Athletic Director

Coach McCulley is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Teaching. Upon graduating, Coach McCulley taught high school English and coached wrestling at Thomas Dale and King William High Schools before arriving at Grace. Coach McCulley grew up in Hanover County and currently resides there with his wife and two children. They are active members of Fairmount Christian Church.

Directors

Heather Ferguson

Director of Student Ministries

Heather Ferguson

Director of Student Ministries

Heather Ferguson is the Director of Student Ministry at Compass Christian Church. She has a passion for teen ministry, and considers it an honor and privilege to stand beside students as they navigate those tricky transitional years. She enjoys wake-boarding, snowboarding, competing in OCR (obstacle course races) and living for Christ! She is married to her high school sweetheart, Brandon and together they are raising their beautiful daughter, Zoey. She is looking forward to motivating our Kings to dig deeper, trust God more fervently and push harder to pursue God's will in their lives.

Rachel Gooding

Director of Giving

Rachel Gooding

Director of Giving

Mrs. Gooding graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University's School of Education with a Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation and a minor in Health Education. She began her career as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist at The Virginia Home and later transitioned to the County of Henrico Division of Recreation and Parks as a Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator where she planned and implemented programs for children and adults with disabilities. For 16 years she has enjoyed being home with her children, supporting her husband in his Marine Corps career, homeschooling, and being an active member of their church, Harvest Christian Fellowship. She joins the family at GCS with excitement to grow together in the knowledge and worship of King Jesus!

Dave Henry

Director of Facilities and Security

Dave Henry

Director of Facilities and Security

David Lee Henry recently retired after 25 years of law enforcement service. Currently, working part time as a School Resource Officer. He is a U. S. Army Veteran, serving as an Intelligence Analyst stationed in Germany and Savannah, GA. David served Louisa County and Hanover County Sheriff's offices as a Deputy Sheriff, then became part of the United Nations Mission to Liberia, in West Africa as an International Police Officer, working with over 26 different countries police contingencies. Returning from Liberia, he received his B.S. of Interdisciplinary Studies, Cum Laude with a focus on Homeland Security. He then returned to local law enforcement and retired from Henrico Police as the Sergeant of Police Personnel. He enjoys gardening, mountain biking, and kayaking with his family. David and his wife Dorothea have 3 children, Gabe, Spencer, and Matthew. Gabe currently attends Grace Christian School. Spencer and Matthew are looking forward to attending Grace Christian School in 2023. The Henry family attends Truth Baptist Church in Mechanicsville.

Stephanie Harbalioğlu

Director of Technology

Stephanie Harbalioğlu

Director of Technology

Mrs. Harbalioğlu received her undergraduate degree from Liberty University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Global Studies with a minor in Special Education. She later went on to earn her Master of Theological Studies. Before coming to Grace, Mrs. Harbalioğlu spent six years living abroad - she enjoys learning languages, meeting people from other cultures, traveling to new places, and trying local cuisines. Mrs. Harbalioğlu and her husband Mert attend The Way Church.

Brandy Hogue

Director of Instructional Support

Brandy Hogue

Director of Instructional Support

Mrs. Hogue is a graduate of Liberty University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Sciences and her Virginia Teacher Licensure. Hanover raised and educated, this will be Mrs. Hogue's seventh year teaching at Grace. She will continue to teach her favorite subject, history, to both middle school and high school students. Mrs. Hogue and her husband, Robert, and their two sons attend Hanover Evangelical Friends Church.

John Loge

Director of Biblical Studies

John Loge

Director of Biblical Studies

John, and his wife of 34 years, Audrey, are moving from Northern Canada to teach Bible at GCS. John's first career was as a physician, most recently working in rural emergency departments. He felt the call to teach Bible formally, so earned a master's in Biblical studies from the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary. Since then, he has taught in several colleges as an adjunct, and spent 3 years at Nipawin Bible College. He loves to travel and has done mission work in six countries as well as visiting Israel twice. He loves to teach and preach God's Word wherever and whenever he can. You will frequently find him with his wife working or exercising outside, traveling, or fishing. They will be searching for a home church in the Mechanicsville area and are looking for opportunities to provide pulpit supply for churches.

Doris Ramirez de Soto

Director of Custodial Services

Doris Ramirez de Soto

Director of Custodial Services

info

Teachers

Cassandra Arthur

Middle School Art

Cassandra Arthur

Middle School Art

Mrs. Arthur is a graduate of James Madison University where she earned her bachelor's degree of Fine Arts, concentrating on drawing and painting. She also minored in both art history and business. While attending JMU she was very active in Intervarsity, an on-campus ministry and Artworks gallery, a student run gallery. Prior to college, she traveled for a year with Experience Missions and served in the mission field in South Africa and Belize. Currently, she lives in Richmond and attends Mount Vernon Baptist Church. Her and her husband both serve in the youth ministry as small group leaders. She enjoys working in her art studio, learning and talking about art, playing games with her family, and thrifting.

Greg Baker

Academic Support Coach

Greg Baker

Academic Support Coach

Mr. Greg Baker graduated from Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with a Bachelor of Arts in History. He earned an MA in Organizational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University and an M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University. Mr. Baker was raised in Richmond, Virginia, and has been involved in Christian education for over 25 years as a classroom teacher and administrator. He taught on the mission field in Bolivia, the Philippines, Paraguay, and Haiti, and returned to the United States in 2019. Mr. Baker has experience with MAPS testing, curriculum mapping, accreditation, and online education. Mr. Baker is passionate about Christian education and seeing students grow in their knowledge of Christ and becoming lifelong learners. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, reading, and writing.

Krista Barnes

Middle & High School English

Krista Barnes

Middle & High School English

Mrs. Barnes is a graduate of Georgia College & State University with a degree in Education. She found her passion of teaching at a very young age and has pursued it for the past 20 years in both education and youth ministry. Mrs. Barnes has a heart for teaching and ministering to middle and high school students, as she believes it is a critical time when values, identity, and beliefs begin to form. In her spare time, Mrs. Barnes enjoys reading, shopping, traveling with her family, and all things cheer! Mrs. Barnes and her husband, Anthony, are the parents of three children and several pets. They are active members of Fairmount Chrisitan Church, where they serve with the youth.

Delcarmen Benjamin-Worsley

High School Math

Delcarmen Benjamin-Worsley

High School Math

Mrs. Benjamin Worsley is honored to join the Grace Christian School family. She brings with her a strong background in education, having previously served as an Algebra teacher at Armstrong High School where she was passionate about building student confidence and making math more approachable and meaningful. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Benjamin Worsley is a licensed hairstylist and the devoted choir director at her church. She is also a committed leader at New Life Harvest Church, where she serves under the leadership of her father. Her role at the church reflects her dedication to ministry, service, and spiritual growth within her community. With a heart for excellence and a love for both education and worship, Mrs. Benjamin Worsley is truly excited to be a part of the Grace Christian team. She looks forward to inspiring her students and being part of a school community that uplifts both faith and learning.

Amy Bleach

High School Electives

Amy Bleach

High School Electives

Mrs. Bleach is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, where she earned both her undergraduate in English and Master's in Teaching. She spent 15 years in the Chesterfield County Public School System. Mrs. Bleach was a member of the iTech and Anti-Bullying focus teams at her previous school. Hailing from Louisa County, Mrs. Bleach loves a long walk in the country, reading a good book, and relaxing at the beach. She is a member of the praise team at the Bonnie Brae Church of Christ where she and her husband, Justin, and two sons, Ethan and Elliot, are members.

Sarah Brightwell

High School English

Sarah Brightwell

High School English

Mrs. Brightwell graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. For 16 years she has enjoyed being at home with her children and has served as a foster parent for the past 10 years. Mrs. Brightwell and her husband, along with their 4 teenagers, reside in Hanover County and attend Mechanicsville Christian Center. She enjoys watching her kids participate in sports and relaxing at the beach.

David Brown

High School Government & Art

David Brown

Art & High School Government

Coming from Honolulu, Hawaii, Chaplain David Brown, Commander, U.S. Navy (Ret). Mr. Brown received an undergraduate degree in Art from Virginia State University, a Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Union School of Theology, and a Masters Degree in Education from Hawaii Pacific University. Following his retirement, Mr. Brown joined the teaching staff of Christian Academy of Honolulu, teaching Art and High School History for four years. Mr. Brown, his wife Rayna, and children, Jonathan and Joanna are excited to return to the Richmond area and begin looking for a new church home.

Jeremy Conrad

Media Arts

Jeremy Conrad

Media Arts

Mr. Conrad is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University where he earned a BFA in Communication Arts and Design with a concentration in Digital Imaging. Mr. Conrad has worked in both the corporate and non-profit world as a graphic designer. Early in his career he made TV commercials for a Richmond-based automotive advertising agency. With endless curiosity of all things creative, Mr. Conrad considers himself a life-long student of design, cinema, photography, visual art, marketing, advertising and more. In 2021 he started his own video production business and has created videos for corporate and non-profit clients, many for the purposes of education or fundraising. Mr. Conrad is a member of Mechanicsville Christian Center, where he has attended since 2013. Since 2020 he has been deeply involved in the production of their multi-camera video live stream on Sunday mornings. He also produces long-form video content for MCC on a regular basis. Mr. Conrad loves the outdoors, hiking, mountain biking, and just walking in the woods when there isn't time to get to the mountains or the ocean. When the weather is horrible or it's dark outside, Mr. Conrad likes reading non-fiction, watching movies and Formula One racing.

Carla Cox

High School English

Carla Cox

High School English

Mrs. Cox is a graduate of Bluefield University with a degree in Leadership and Managment. After several years of working with elementary aged students in reading intervention, Mrs. Cox was called by her family to run the family business for just over a decade. She is excited to rejoin the world of education and use her experience, both in the classroom and the real world, to connect with students. Mrs. Cox lives in Hanover County with her husband and two daughters. They are active member of Springfield Christian Church and enjoy leading the card ministry. Mrs. Cox loves travel, gardening, reading, cooking, and spending time with her family.

Darenda Davis

High School Math & Science

Darenda Davis

High School Math & Science

Mrs. Davis received her undergraduate degree from Atlantic Baptist Bible College, VA in Education and Missions. She later earned her Master's degree in Curriculum and Instructions from Piedmont International University. Mrs. Davis is currently dual certified for secondary teaching and principal with ACSI. Mrs. Davis is entering her twenty third year teaching, mostly at the middle and high school levels. Mrs. Davis, her husband Ashley, and their two boys attend church at Truth Baptist Church in Mechanicsville.

Trey delaCuesta

Physical Education

Trey delaCuesta

Physical Education

Coach delaCuesta is a graduate of Hilbert College in Buffalo, New York, where he played college baseball. He earned a Bachelor of Science in forensic science/crime scene investigation with a minor in digital forensics. A few years later, he discovered his passion for teaching and coaching and returned to school to earn his teaching license in physical education. With a love for sports and coaching, Coach delaCuesta draws on his experience as a former college athlete to minister to the athletes he teaches and coaches. In his free time, he enjoys playing sports, traveling, and spending time with his family. He lives in Chesterfield County with his wife and daughter, and together they attend St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church.

Mark D'Ornellas

Middle & High School History

Mark D'Ornellas

Middle & High School History

Mr. D'Ornellas, originally from Trinidad, holds a Bachelor's degree in Cross-Cultural Studies from Bethany Global University in Minnesota. His academic background has equipped him with a deep appreciation for the richness of world history and the diverse cultures that shape the world. In addition to his studies, he has professional experience in business management, accounting, graphic design, and illustration, allowing him to combine both analytical and creative approaches to teaching. He and his wife, along with their two daughters and crazy pug, make their home in Mechanicsville, where they are members of Mechanicsville Christian Center. Mr. D'Ornellas is also a cartoonist with a love for storytelling, as well as water sports and gaming.

Angie Halphen

Middle School Math & Science

Angie Halphen

Middle School Math & Science

Mrs. Halphen teaches middle school math, science, and STEM. She holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Virginia Commonwealth University and previously worked as an environmental chemist. She is committed to inspiring curiosity, cultivating critical thinking, and empowering students to build confidence in their abilities. She enjoys learning, reading, playing video games, following baseball, and exploring every facet of science. Mrs. Halphen treasures the moments when challenging concepts resonate with her students, guiding them to see the connection between academic understanding and the beauty of God's creation.

Tracy Lesher

Middle & High School Science

Tracy Lesher

Middle & High School Science

Mrs. Lesher is a graduate of Grand Canyon University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. She also earned her Associate of Applied Science degree from Bryant and Stratton College. She has taught in Christian schools for the past seven years where she also directed a middle and high school chorus. Mrs. Lesher and her family are active members of Life Church in Mechanicsville. She enjoys singing, going to the beach, and spending time with her family.

Alissa Linton

Middle School History

Alissa Linton

Middle School History

Ms. Linton is a graduate of Liberty University with a Bachelor of Education in Social Studies. She has a genuine love for history and enjoys sparking that same curiosity and appreciation in her students. In the classroom, she creates an engaging and welcoming environment where questions, critical thinking, and connections between learning, life, and faith are encouraged. A member of Fairmount Christian Church, Ms. Linton is thankful for the opportunity to invest in both the academic and spiritual growth of her students at Grace Christian School.

Nicole Lohmeyer

Spanish

Nicole Lohmeyer

Spanish

Mrs. Lohmeyer moved to Virginia about two years ago after returning from the mission field in the Dominican Republic. She and her family lived there for almost four years; she is thankful for the opportunity in which she served children in the mission schools, immersed herself in the Latin American culture, and was able to share the love of Jesus with those around her. Mrs. Lohmeyer holds a Bachelor's in Secondary English education from Penn State University and has taught students ranging from elementary to high school in both public and private schools, as well as homeschooling her two daughters. She enjoys traveling, gardening, performing arts, literature, and photography and is grateful that God has led her to Grace Christian!

Amy Martin

Middle School Math &
High School Science

Amy Martin

Middle School Math & High School Science

Mrs. Martin is a graduate of James Madison University where she earned her degree in Psychology with a minor in Special Education. As a licensed Virginia educator, Mrs. Martin has more than 19 years of teaching experience with students of differing ages and abilities in both public and private schools. Mrs. Martin is a lifetime resident of Mechanicsville. She has served in various children's ministry for over 30 years. Mrs. Martin and her family attend Compass Christian Church.

Kate McBride

Physical Education

Kate McBride

Physical Education

Katherine Starnes is a graduate of East Carolina University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Park Management as well as a minor in Psychology. She then continued her education at Liberty University, earning her Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics. Katherine fell in love with Christian camping youth ministry at a young age, where the Lord has continued to deepen her love and passion for equipping the next generation in their understanding of who Jesus is. Now, the Lord has opened a door to serve at Grace where she is so excited to pour into students as well as create a nurturing learning environment for all those in physical education.

Teresa Mullins

Middle School Math & STEM

Teresa Mullins

Middle School Math & STEM

Mrs. Mullins is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University where she earned a degree in Psychology with a Master's in Teaching. As an educator, Mrs. Mullins taught K-5 reading for 3 years in King William County. In this role she administered testing and provided remediation. Mrs. Mullins has 12 years of experience homeschooling. Mrs. Mullins and her husband, along with their 4 children, attend Mechanicsville Christian Center. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, and friends, traveling, fitness, and listening to Christian music.

Cameron Olson

Middle School English &
High School Spanish

Cameron Olson

Middle School English & High School Spanish

Mrs. Olson is a graduate of Virginia Tech with a degree in Communications with an emphasis in Film Theory. After working in the video production industry for several years, she and her husband served with the International Mission Board in Peru for 11 years. Upon returning to the USA in 2020, she completed the EducateVA Career Switcher Program to obtain her teaching license. She and her husband David have two sons, Peter and Michael, and reside in Goochland County. They are members at Grace Community Baptist Church. Mrs. Olson enjoys gardening, reading, playing games, watching movies, and going to the beach.

Lori Ricks

Middle School English & History

Lori Ricks

Middle School English & History

Mrs. Ricks has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fashion Merchandising from Georgetown College and a Bachelor of Architecture degree from North Carolina State University. After a varied professional career in architecture and design, she and her husband David began homeschooling their son in 2011 where her passion for teaching literature and history, with a classical educational approach, enabled her to teach in several local homeschool co-operatives. Mrs. Ricks incorporates relevant topics from history, science, math, and real-world experiences that challenge students to understand that learning to communicate and write well does not have to be boring. By giving students challenging and exciting assignments, she hopes to instill an appreciation (or maybe even love) for the language arts and great works of literature while thinking creatively and critically about the world God has blessed us with.

Betsy Rountree

NILD Therapist 

Betsy Rountree

NILD Therapist 

Mrs. Rountree graduated from James Madison University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Living Sciences with a minor in History. She later earned her Masters in Teaching from Virginia Commonwealth University. Mrs. Rountree is an educational therapist offering help and hope to students needing additional academic or organizational support. She has more than 20 years of experience as a classroom teacher in public, private, and home school settings. Trained and licensed by the National Institute of Learning Development (NILD), Mrs. Rountree believes no student is beyond help. She and her husband and two daughters reside in Mechanisville and are members of Mattaponi Baptist Church where her husband is the pastor.

Samantha Stewart

Middle & High School Science

Samantha Stewart

Middle & High School Science

Mrs. Stewart is a graduate of Christopher Newport University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication. She has taught middle and high school for the last 11 years. With her husband and two children, Mrs. Stewart attends New Bridge Baptist church, where she serves as a youth leader, Bible study teacher, and yearly camp counselor. She has a passion for following Christ fervently, living by her favorite verse, Romans 12:2- "Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing, and perfect will." Mrs. Stewart desires to help her students grow in their relationship with Christ and live accordingly. Outside of school, she loves to go to the beach, craft, listen to music, and spend time with her family.

Maria Toro

Spanish

Maria Toro

Spanish

Senora Toro is a graduate of Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador - Quito where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing and Georgetown University, where she earned her master's degree. She earned her state teaching certificate from Virginia Union. Senora Toro has over 20 years experience as a classroom Spanish teacher and has been recognized for numerous awards: Laspau, Fulbright Scholarship and Medal of Excellence in teaching, J.B Fisher Elementary School. Senora Toro and her husband, Federico Puma, are members of Winfree Memorial Baptist Church and supporters of In Touch Ministries.

Ron Tiemann

Assistant Athletic Director
Physical Education

Ron Tiemann

Assistant Athletic Director
Physical Education

Ron Tiemann is a dedicated leader in youth soccer with a passion for developing players both on and off the field. As the Director of Coaching and head coach for boys and girls travel teams, Ron brings 18 years of experience, tactical knowledge, and a deep commitment to team culture and growth.

In 2024, Ron was named VISAA Soccer Coach of the Year, a testament to his leadership and coaching excellence. He also led his girls' team to back-to-back Division III State Championships, a rare and impressive achievement in competitive school soccer.

Ron is also an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys camping, fishing, mountain biking, and golf. His love for nature fuels his coaching philosophy of resilience, exploration, and perseverance, qualities he strives to instill in his players both on and off the field.

A graduate of Geneva College with a B.S. in Business Administration, Ron lives by the school's motto, "Pro Christo Et Patria" - For Christ and Country - integrating faith, service, and integrity into every aspect of his coaching. He attends Truth Baptist Church in Mechanicsville, where his faith continues to anchor and inspire his leadership.

Support Staff

Ben Berumez

Chapel Band Director

Ben Berumez

Chapel Band Director

Ben Berumez is a performing musician and instructor. Offering instruction in a wide variety of instruments and genres, Ben enjoys sharing his love of music with students of all ages. With over a decade of teaching experience, his teaching methodology centers around tailoring information to each student's needs and goals. As a performer, he has worked as a solo act and as the front man for the indie rock band Saint Square. Ben has also been involved with multiple church bands, working in support and leadership roles. Whether teaching, performing, or leading in worship, it is Ben's goal to provide a quality musical experience. Ben, his wife Chelsea, and their two daughters live in Aylett, VA, and attend Freedom Fellowship Church in Mechanicsville, VA.

Julie Burch

Administrative Assistant

Julie Burch

Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Burch is a graduate of J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College with a degree in Administrative Support Technology. She served the Mechanicsville area as a business owner for 10 years. She also worked as an administrative coordinator for Dominion Power for four years. She has served in Christian leadership in a variety of youth and children's programs, including CBS, teaching Sunday school, church nursery, and AHG leadership throughout the years. Most importantly, she has a passion for Jesus and a desire to serve Him and influence others to do the same. Her favorite verse is Jeremiah 33:3 "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."

Amy Cavanaugh

Handbell Choir Director

Amy Cavanaugh

Handbell Choir Director

ding dong

Diane Downs

Administrative Assistant

Diane Downs

Administrative Assistant

Diane Downs is a graduate of Lancaster Bible College, where she earned an associate's degree in Biblical Studies. She spent 18 years as a stay-at-home mom, homeschooling her three children - Seth, Megan, and Nathan—all of whom graduated from Grace Christian School. During those years, she also supported her husband, Jeff, as he pursued his seminary studies. Jeff now serves as the pastor of Knox Reformed Presbyterian Church in Mechanicsville, Virginia.

The simple things in life bring her the most joy: hosting friends in her home, reading good books, a day at the beach, sunflower fields and spending time with her favorite dog, Maisy. Her heart is fullest when her whole family, including her wonderful son-in-law, are gathered together at home.

Lisa Eckler

Accountant

Lisa Eckler

Accountant

Mrs. Ecker is a graduate of Eastern Kentucky University where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting. For the past 15 years, she has been employed as an accountant and the Human Resources Coordinator for Professional Rehabilitation Associates in Madison County, Kentucky. In July 2019, Mrs. Eckler and her family moved to Mechanicsville as her husband accepted a position with Robinson's Towing and Recovery. Mrs. Eckler continues to do distant-accounting work from home for Professional Rehabilitation Associates in addition to working as a classroom assistant at Grace Christian School. Lisa, her husband Bill, and their daughter Sophie actively attend Richmond Free Will Baptist Church.

Erik Hastings

Morning Traffic Safety

Erik Hastings

Morning Traffic Safety

Laura Morales

Custodian

Candace Kirby

Assistant Athletic Director

Candace Kirby

Assistant Athletic Director

Coach Kirby's has been a member of the Henrico/Hanover soccer community for over 20 years. Her soccer career began in high school when she played for Varina High School as a member of their first girls' soccer team. She later played for Atlee High School as well. Coach Kirby quickly realized how special the sport of soccer was in creating a positive learning environment that allows athletes an opportunity to have a memorable experience each season.

Post high school, Coach Kirby played in the adult league with Dynamo Soccer. In 2019, she joined Grace Christian School as an assistant soccer coach, and in 2022 she became the girls middle school soccer coach. An avid lover of the sport and a lifelong learner, Coach Kirby looks forward to attending future coaching clinics to sharpen her coaching skills.

Coach Kirby has lived in Hanover for 21 years and is married to Charles Kirby. They have two daughters, Campbell & Carrison and are active members of Gethsemane Church of Christ.

Jaime Ramirez

Custodian

Jaime Ramirez

Custodian

Audra Smith

Permanent Substitute
High School History

Audra Smith

Permanent Substitute
High School History

Audra Smith brings a unique blend of ministry experience, creativity, and a strong biblical worldview to her role at Grace Christian School. She studied Bible and Music at Northland Baptist Bible College and spent 25 years serving alongside her late husband in pastoral ministry. A teacher at heart, she has poured her life into others-leading student ministries, teaching Bible and music, directing programs, mentoring women, and cultivating a vibrant community rooted in Scripture and the love of Jesus.

Audra is also a seasoned homeschool mom, having educated her own five children through every academic stage. She will teach History and Cultural Geography with a special emphasis on worldwide missions, helping students recognize God's heart for the nations throughout history, as well as His heart for each individual.

After the loss of her husband, Ms. Smith founded a hope-based grief support ministry and became a certified youth mental health coach.

Whether teaching, mentoring, or coaching, her greatest joy is using God's Word to point others to His unfailing faithfulness in every season of life.

Rebecca Stallings

Hot Lunch Coordinator

Rebecca Stallings

Hot Lunch Coordinator

info

Annie Swinson

Administrative Assistant

Annie Swinson

Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Swinson is a graduate of Varina High School, where she was a member of Peer Helpers and the National Art Honor Society, and a graduate of Emmaus Bible College in Dubuque, Iowa. She has worked in the business field of banking and contract administration, and also owned her own businesses for the last ten years. Mrs. Swinson is passionate about camp ministry and gospel outreach, and serves yearly at various youth camps throughout Virginia and North Carolina. She is a published Christian Historical Fiction author, an avid foodie, and a music lover. She and her husband, Josh, and their son Preston, attend Carlisle Avenue Gospel Chapel.