Faculty
Preschool Teachers
K5 Teacher
Mrs. Barbara Gifford
K5 Teacher
Mrs. Melissa Meeks
K5 Teacher
Mrs. Denise Anderson
K4 Teacher
Mrs. Tara Walton
K4 Teacher
Mrs. Kathy Tomlin
K4 Teacher
Mrs. Lauren Kennon
K3 Teacher
Mrs. Angela Jordan
K3 Teacher
Mrs. Jessi Chiarizzio
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born here in Lynchburg, Virginia, on October 26th, 1998. I started going to Temple Baptist Church when I was just three years old, and I did Kindergarten through 12th grade here at Temple Christian School. I got saved in Mrs. Berry’s Kindergarten class and renewed my salvation in the summer of 2019. I studied Studio Art and Graphic Design at Pensacola Christian College, and I’ve even considered getting my Master’s Degree in sculpting. I’ve worked with small children ever since I was allowed to be a camp counselor, and I absolutely love seeing God’s blessings in them!
LIFE VERSE
My favorite Bible verse is Romans 15:13, it’s a reminder to me that God’s peace and comfort is simply a prayer away.
Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have one year as a Teacher’s Assistant under my belt! I’ve been alongside the INCREDIBLE Amy Burns in K3, and this is my first year with my very own class.
FAMILY
By the time school starts this fall, I will officially be Mrs. Chiarizzio! I’m getting married on September the third, to my best friend, Connor Chiarizzio. Connor and I met playing soccer for Temple’s high school varsity soccer team, and we’ve now been together since November of 2019
HOBBIES
I studied studio art in college, but I would consider my small business–Jessi Jo Artistry– to be one of my favorite hobbies! Aside from my many art projects, I greatly enjoy playing tennis and roller skating.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT TEACHING
What I LOVE about teaching, is the impact I can have on your precious children! They have such an equal impact on my life, and I’ve found such an appreciation for the little things now that I have had this opportunity to work at Temple. There has not been one single day that I woke up and wasn’t excited to get to class! I love seeing their faces as they learn all about Jesus, and I am blessed beyond measure to get to know and love each of these little people.
Mrs. Jessi Chiarizzio
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born in Norfolk, Va. three months early on December 28, 1988. I grew up in Smithfield, Va. where all the hams come from. My sibling and I were homeschooled for eight years while my mother was in medical school, then we attended a Christian academy where I graduated. I played softball, cheerleading, and volleyball through middle and high school. We also were brought up in a strong Christian home and were involved in all church functions. I attended GA camp, VBS, and Christian summer camp where I later became a counselor. I was involved in a youth group that did a lot of mission trips, and local support missions like soup kitchens and walking around neighborhoods to share the love of Christ to kids and their families. After high school I attended Liberty University where I met my husband.
LIFE VERSE
Philippians 4:13 “ I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have been teaching for four years
FAMILY
My husband use to be a police officer with the Amherst Sheriff’s Department. I am blessed with two beautiful girls who currently attend Temple Christian School. We also are kept busy with chickens, ducks, a dog(Xena) and a lizard(Iggy).
HOBBIES
I love to garden (I think I have a green thumb), sewing, art, and relaxing at the beach.
INTERESTING FACTS
I have to have my morning coffee to function, love the color green, and I get great joy giving to others, and providing my home for fellowship.
WHAT I ENJOY ABOUT TEACHING
My favorite part of teaching is watching the little ones grow to come to love learning and the Lord. It is so amazing to see how much they want and need to soak up in such a small time. Knowing that I am helping and am a part of their growth is such a joy!
Mrs. Angela Jordan
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born in Charlottesville, VA on October 31 where I was raised and lived until I moved to Lynchburg in 2012. At seven years old I asked Jesus into my heart during a conference our AWANA group attended. I grew up in the church and knew I wanted to go to heaven one day, so I made the walk to the front of the building we were in and prayed with one of the counselors. During my teen years I served in our home church in the nursery and elementary department. I have always enjoyed working with kids and teaching them about Jesus and memorizing scripture.
LIFE VERSE
I have several favorite verses and for every season of life a new one seems to become my “favorite.” Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have taught at another preschool for the last year and a half and been involved in the preschool ministry at our church. As well as teaching Sunday School to kindergarteners for the last two years.
FAMILY
I have been married to my husband Aaron for ten years. Together we have three kids, Eleanor, Katherine, and Tobias. Since moving to the Lynchburg area we have been members at Thomas Road Baptist Church where I am involved in their preschool ministry while my husband serves in the elementary department.
HOBBIES
We enjoy being outdoors, walking/hiking, swimming, playing golf. We enjoy doing things as a family including movie nights, game nights, and trips to the beach. I also enjoy doing mud runs and obstacle runs around the state.
INTERESTING FACTS
What I like about teaching is seeing the kids learn new things and their eyes lighting up when they realize they learned the material. And seeing how much a child grows from the beginning of the school year to the end of the year and how much the just absorb what I am telling them. I love being able to teach in a Christian environment where they will also be learning about the bible and learning bible verses.
WHAT I ENJOY ABOUT TEACHING
My favorite part of teaching is loving on the students and watching their faces light up when they learn something new! It blesses my heart to watch each one of them grow more proud and more confident in themselves every day! I’m also extremely thankful to teach in a Christian school environment where we can teach the students the Bible and the unconditional love of God!
Mrs. Lauren Kennon
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, on October 6, 1960. When I was five years old, we moved to Madison Heights and have resided there since that time. Wonderful, Godly parents raised me. At the age of nine, I asked Jesus to come into my heart and save me. What a privilege it is to be a child of the King. We are members of Faith Baptist Church.
LIFE VERSE
My life verse is Psalms 27:4 & 5 – “One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.”
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I taught K-3 for five years at Fairview Christian Daycare Center. I also worked for one year at Kid’s Place, Inc. with the four year olds. My experience at TCS includes one half year as a K-3 aide and one year as a K-4 aide. This will be my 21st year as a K-4 teacher.
FAMILY
My family includes my husband, Anderson. our oldest son Matthew, his wife Judilyn, and their two boys Lincoln and Jude, our daughter Molleigh, and her husband Trevor, and our youngest son McKain and his wife Kaity. I am truly blessed!
HOBBIES
I enjoy walking, reading and just being together with my family
INTERESTING FACTS
I love teaching Bible to the 4 & 5 year olds at Faith Baptist Church. I love long walks, rainy days, and anything chocolate.
WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT TEACHING
It is so clear to me as I read God’s Word, just how precious the little ones are in His eyes. It is such a privilege that the Lord has allowed me to teach them. It is such a joy watching them grow and seeing those “big smiles” on their little faces when they learn new things. They also teach me a thing or two such as simple faith and trust that only comes from the heart of a little child.
Mrs. Kathy Tomlin
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I’m originally from Georgia, but moved to Florida when I was 12. My family and I moved to Virginia 10years ago, and we love it here!
LIFE VERSE
Isaiah 26:3 “He will keep in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him.”
1 Cor. 13:13 “These three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.
Matt. 5:16 “Let your light shine before men so they will see your good works and glorify God in heaven.”
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I was the “in-house-sub” in Florida for five years where I taught K through 5th grades. I left that job to have my daughter. Two years later we moved to Virginia where I eventually began teaching at Temple, and have been for 7 years.
FAMILY
I truly have the most loving family on the planet! I’m married to an incredible man, John, for 27 years. I have two boys and one girl. Jrew is 23 and recently got married. Grant is 21 and Gabriella is in 4th grade here at Temple. We try our best to raise them with adoration of the Lord and to have their own relationship with Him! We are truly blessed with lots of love in our home!
HOBBIES
Honestly, my favorite thing to do is to be with my husband and kids! I love building relationships with people and going on missions trips!
INTERESTING FACTS
I love to travel! I also really enjoy camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and gardening!
WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT TEACHING
My favorite part of teaching is loving on the students and watching their faces light up when they learn something new! It blesses my heart to watch each one of them grow more proud and more confident about themselves every day! I’m also extremely thankful to teach in a Christian school environment where we can teach the students the Bible and the unconditional love of God.
Mrs. Tara Walton
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I am from Cumming Georgia which is about forty minutes north of Atlanta Georgia. I met my husband Gary in middle school, and we were High School sweathearts. We got married in Alpharetta Georgia on March 23, 1991., and we habve five children and four grandchildren so far. We moved to Virginia in 2006 so my husband and I could go to Liberty University. Gary studied Religion and counseling and I studied Elemetary Education.
LIFE VERSE
Romans 8:28 “And we know all things work together for the good to them that Love God, to them who are called according to his purpose” (KJV)
EXPERIENCE
My focus on education began in 1996 when I started homeschooling my oldest daughter Bethany. All my children were exclusively homeschooled except the youngest Rachel and abigail. The youngest two attended Temple Christian School in the fifth grade. I have also taugh Sunday School and VBS for over 15 years and I love it.
FAMILY
My husband Gary and I have been married for thirty-two years. He pastors Central Baptist Church and is a therapist at Blue Ridge Medical Center in Arrington Virginia. I am GiGi to all my grandchildren and Gary is PaPa G. My greatest accomplishment is found in III John verse 4 “I have no greater joy to hear my children walk in truth” (KJV)
HOBBIES
My hobbies are all my animals. We have ten dogs, barn cats, chickens, and a new kitten named Harley. Another hobby is going to historical sites and museum. History is my favorite subject.
WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT TEACHING
I love teaching children how to read because it opens the door to succeed in every area of life. The most important book a student will ever read is the Bible and I pass on my passion for reading the Bible to my class. Another thing I love about teaching is the arts and crafts. I love coloring, painting, cutting, and gluing. I love it all!!!
Mrs. Denise Anderson
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
Born in Lynchburg, VA (at VBH) on August 15, 1966. I was saved at the age of 6 years old in first grade at LCA through the guidance of my teacher (and family friend) Mrs. Jeri Yoder Smith. I attended LCA from K5-12th grades. I attended Randolph Macon Woman’s College where I received my BA in Sociology-Anthropology and Sports Exercise. I attended Jefferson College of Health Science and am a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, mostly serving in the hospital and SNF settings. I have enjoyed substituting for grades1 – 12, and love each grade for different reasons. I have enjoyed my first year as a K5 teacher. I am truly thankful for this opportunity to be on staff at this amazing Christian school, and have been blessed with many new friendships! I’m grateful for all of the support I have received! God is so good!
LIFE VERSE
I have three verses! Isaiah 40:31, Proverbs 31:5, Luke 1:45
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
One year teaching K-5 full time, and eight months long term substituting here at Temple Christian School.
FAMILY
I’m thankful my Dad is still alive at 83! My Mom has been in Heaven almost 5 years and I miss her more than ever but strive to continue her loving legacy. In addition to being a strong Christian, loving wife/mother/friend, she was also a teacher! I have an older sister, Laura, who is my best friend and also a teacher. I’m excited to be married to my other best friend, Ricky, and to be a step-mom to his daughter and son! I’m also a “Mom” to our fur baby (K9), Bentley!
HOBBIES
I love being the wife/best friend/team partner of Ricky Meeks and spending every second God gives us together, as well as time with our families and friends! Ricky and I enjoy walking, hiking, running, and playing with Bentley. Together we enjoy traveling, fishing, gardening, cooking/grilling, anything outdoors, attending sporting events, movies, and going to the shooting range.
INTERESTING FACTS
Ricky and I will celebrate our first anniversary on June 14th! We were married on the beach at the Outer Banks. I am goal oriented and love new challenges! I may not excel at them all, but ALWAYS give my best and I never give up. I have run three half marathons and two marathons. I enjoy reading biographies. Sushi is my favorite food, and I crave broccoli and salads. My sister teases me about my “tree bark and grass”. My main goal in life is to serve the Lord and share His love wherever He leads.
WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT TEACHING
What I like most about teaching is the students, the variety of personalities and my daily interaction with them. I enjoy helping them to the best of my ability learn and understand the content of each subject. I love when they understand what they are learning and watching them grow in their own lives. I love the challenge of their questions, as I have been learning from them too! It truly means so much when they make a special effort to come visit or get my attention whether at school or out in the community.
Mrs. Melissa Meeks
Elementary School Teachers
5th Grade
Mrs. Starr Harris
5th Grade
Miss. Michaela Urbani
4th Grade
Mrs. Mary Beth Jones
4th Grade
Miss. Laura Taylor
3rd Grade
Miss Emily Coates
3rd Grade
Mrs. Allison Fields
2nd Grade
Mrs. Sarah Gifford
2nd Grade
Mrs. Alexis Hamilton
2nd Grade
Mrs. Diana Loving
1st Grade
Mrs. Kathy Sudlow
1st Grade
Mrs. Teresa Belcher
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I have lived here in the Lynchburg, Madison Heights area all of my life. I was born on August 21st. I was saved at the age of 6 at Thomas Road Baptist Church in Sunday School. I am a graduate of Amherst County High School and Liberty University. I taught preschool for 15 years and worked in alternative education as a counselor. I am married to my wonderful husband, Glenn, and have two children. Aaron is 22 and AnnMarie is 17 years old, and will be a senior at Temple Christian School.
LIFE VERSE
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think for you, saith the Lord, Thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Seventeen years teaching experience.
FAMILY
My husband, Glenn, works at Liberty University. He is a supervisor for recycling. Aaron is married and is attending LU. AnnMarie is 17 and attends Temple Christian School and plays soccer.
HOBBIES
I enjoy reading and going for walks.
Mrs. Diana Loving
Mrs. Teresa Belcher
Mrs. Kathy Sudlow
Mrs. Alexis Hamilton
Mrs. Sarah Gifford
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born on July 23 in Oshawa Ontario, Canada. I have been blessed with a very rich Christian heritage. My parents, their parents, and their parents before them were all saved as young children. All throughout my childhood and teenage years my parents made sure that our family was at church every time the door was open. It was because of this blessing that I was saved as a six year old child. For as long as I can remember I have loved going to Sunday School and church every Sunday, and to worship services every Wednesday evening. My closest friendships have developed out of the time I have spent with fellow believers in church.
My relationship with Christ is the most precious thing to me. If I do not have that relationship right, no earthly relationship can be as rich and meaningful as it should be. I desire to know Christ more and spend more time with Him on a daily basis. It is difficult as a working wife and mother to set aside the time I need to spend in prayer and fellowship with God, but I have learned over the years that without that time no other relationship feels right. The only way I can be the wife, mother, and teacher that God wants me to be is if I spend time with Him each day. I thank God every day for the family He has blessed me with and pray that I will be everything for them that He wants me to be.
LIFE VERSE
My life verse is Philippians 4:6 & 8 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God…Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.”
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have been teaching for 21 years in Christian schools in Charleston, S. C., Charlotte, N. C., and for the last eleven years at Temple. I have taught kindergarten, 2nd grade, and 3rd grade.
FAMILY
I have been married to Andrew Fields (who I met a Liberty University) for 22 years, and we have been blessed with three beautiful children. Rachel was born 9/9/99 and will be a junior at Liberty University. Zachary will be a freshman at Liberty; and my busy baby, Benjamin, will be a junior at Temple.
HOBBIES
I love to sew…a lot! Sewing is my stress reliever. I have been sewing in one capacity or another for more than 25 years. My other love is writing. I have written two children’s books, Twenty One Bees based on an event from my childhood and The Neighbor’s Kid based on memories from my husband’s childhood.
INTERESTING FACTS
Something interesting about me is that I was born and raised in Canada…in fact, I still am a Canadian citizen. I also was lucky enough to spend my 18th birthday in Paris, France on a short term mission trip.
WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT TEACHING
My favorite part of teaching is seeing the looks on children’s faces when they finally grasp a concept they have been struggling with. I am very enthusiastic, encouraging and creative. I love writing and the writing process. I get very excited at the opportunity to teach children how to tap into their creativity and draw out ideas and abilities they didn’t even know they had and to transfer those ideas and abilities to paper. I get excited to see the way my students grow and blossom from when they enter my class in August to when they leave in May. I love to hear that a student who entered my class not enjoying reading has become a child who would rather read than watch television, play video games, or do anything else! That makes my year!
Mrs. Allison Fields
Miss Emily Coates
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born in Lynchburg, Virginia on December 7. My birthdate was an indication of God's plan for my life, as I grew up to become a history teacher and December 7 is Pearl Harbor Day! I was blessed to be born into a Christian home with two very loving parents. When I was 4, they heard of a new school that was being opened by Dr. Jerry Falwell. That year they enrolled me in the brand new Lynchburg Christian Academy. It set the course for my life. Together with my parents guidance and all I learned at LCA, my life was set on a very firm foundation. It was because of attending LCA and regular Sunday School and church attendance that I came to know my precious Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. My salvation is the most precious gift I could have ever received and I am forever thankful, awed and humbled to be called a child of The King.
LIFE VERSE
My life 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 hope and a future.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have been a teacher for 22 years. I began my teaching career at New Vista School in Lynchburg. I then transferred to Appomattox County, where I taught middle school history and civics and economics. I also taught high school history, government and AP US Government.
FAMILY
While I am not married, I have been blessed with a very close family and lots of good friends. Currently, I live with my elderly father, and have the privilege of being his caretaker.
HOBBIES
I love to read! I also love gardening and I love to be outside with my plants enjoying the fresh air. I enjoy sports, cooking and following current events.
INTERESTING FACTS
I have the funniest dog you will ever see! His name is "Steve" and he is a Poma-poo/Pug. He is very smart and keeps me on my toes!
WHAT I LOVE MOST ABOUT TEACHING
There are many things that I love about teaching. But if I had to name just one, it would be my students. I love meeting them each year, getting to know them and sharing my love of learning with them. It is such a privilege to meet students after they have moved on from my class and have them tell me how much they enjoyed it, and that they learned something they were able to apply to their lives. The connection between a teacher and student is so special and is something I have come to treasure.
Miss. Laura Taylor
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born in Uniontown, PA, on January 17. I was raised in Gibbon Glade, PA. I accepted Christ at the age of five in Sunday school class. I was blessed with Godly parents who provided a strong Christian home. I received a B.S. degree in Elementary Education from Pensacola Christian College, in Pensacola, FL.
LIFE VERSE
It is hard to choose just one, but at this point in my life I Corinthians 10:31 stands out. “Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I taught for six years at Chestnut Ridge Christian Academy in Uniontown, PA. This will be my thirteenth year at TCS.
FAMILY
I met my husband, Jack, at a Boy Scout Camp in PA, where I worked during the summers. We were married on September 5, 1992. Our son, Liam, is 22 years old, and our daughter, Emily, is 19 years old.
HOBBIES
I enjoy reading, scrap booking, and cross-stitch.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT TEACHING
I love the daily interaction with children. It is so rewarding to watch students learn and grow throughout the year, academically as well as, spiritually. I am so thankful that God has given me the opportunity to daily have a positive impact on the lives of children.
Mrs. Mary Beth Jones
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born in Springfield, MO on April the 18th. I went to the same neighborhood elementary school from K – 6th grade and had some wonderful teachers. My love for reading didn’t come until I met the most wonderful school librarian in the 8th grade! After that year, I was hooked on books for life!!!
Although I didn’t grow up in a Christian home, I was always sure of God’s existence and love for me. When I was 18 years old, I finally began I comprehend God’s plan of salvation and chose to follow Him! This was the single most important choice I have ever made!!!!
LIFE VERSE
I would have to say my life verse is Genesis 16:13, “You are the God who sees”.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have spent the last three years teaching at Appomattox Christian Academy, during that time I taught 4th through 6th Before my time at ACA, I homeschooled my children for 16 years.
FAMILY
I have the most wonderful FAMILY!!! My husband, Rob, and I have been married for 26 years this fall and have 6 wonderful children. Our oldest son, Robb, is 25 (he has been married to Halle for 2 years), Simeon is 24 (he is dating a wonderful girl, named Ali), Emma is 20 (she is headed to Bible school in Alaska), Elizabeth is 14, and Abby & Axel are 9!!!!
HOBBIES
My absolute favorite hobby is curling up with a hot cup of tea and a good book!!! I also love being outdoors in the garden or working on a project.
INTERESTING FACTS
Our family spent 7 years in Alaska attending Bible School and running a Youth Outreach for local teens. We’ve got lots of fun stories about our time there😊
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT TEACHING
I love those moments in the classroom when I glance out at excited and engaged students. I want my students to “catch” my love for the topic and learning in general.
Miss. Michaela Urbani
Mrs. Starr Harris
Biographical Sketch
I was born and raised in south central Kentucky on March 1st 1988. I love my small community of Jamestown and enjoyed being raised up with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and my grandmas to teach and encourage me. I accepted Christ when I was seven years old. My mom taught me the importance of faith in Jesus and staying involved in the local church. My Dad was a local business owner that taught me a lot about serving the community and treating others the way you want to be treated. During high school I was involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, trombone player and percussionist in the band (STATE CHAMPS!), an anchor and writer for our high school news team “WLKR news”, as well as acting and singing in several of our community theatre productions. Upon graduating high school, I attended Liberty University. While at Liberty I continued to stay involved in music for two years as well as their hall leadership teams. I graduated from Liberty in 2010 with a Bachelors of Arts in Social Sciences with a secondary Education Teaching Certification. Upon marrying my husband in 2011 our first of four children were born in 2013. I have been at home with my four children for the past nine years. This has been a wonderful blessing to be able to stay at home and a perfect plan of the Lord as I was able to focus and give my family and home the care it needed while my husband worked full time and completed a Bachelors and Master’s degree.
Life Verse
Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.”
I know the Lord is always faithful and good and I find myself repeating this verse when things get hard in my day to day. Choosing a life verse was a challenge for me, so many verses are a daily encouragement.
Teaching Experience
I student taught 8th grade civics at Linkhorne Middle School, following student teaching I taught one year of 6th grade history, at Linkhorne Middle School. I have two years of long-term substitute teaching experience with the Lynchburg City schools, (primarily E.C. glass and Linkhorne Middle) and Amherst County Public Schools. These positions include everything from two-weeks to five-month at various grade levels and subjects. The subjects include middle school science, (five months) high school U.S. History, World History, and Language Arts. Additionally, I have substituted for a library science position, special education, and elementary, kindergarten - 5th grade. The past year I used the Abeka program to homeschool first and third grade. We were also a part of the Classical Conversations Co-Op of Forest where I was a tutor for the five- to seven-year-old age group. My responsibilities included preparing and teaching an over view of content for the upcoming week. I also teach 2s and 3s Sunday School, 4 and 5s children’s church and lead music for the upper elementary children’s church program, and have served in this capacity in some way for the past seven.
Family
I met my husband, Jeremy, in 2009, we were married in 2011 and reside in Amherst County where he was born and raised. I like to say I married into beautiful Amherst County. We have four children Jude, Jessie, Levi, and Luke. I have four siblings a twin sister in New Hampshire, older brother and Sister who live in Nashville, TN.
Hobbies
I enjoy being with my family. We like the outdoors, hiking, camping, canoeing, and the pool. When we can’t get outside, we enjoy game and movie night. We travel a lot to see family and enjoy catching as many fun attractions along the way. I enjoy music, history, reading, and running. Occasionally I like to strum and sing on my guitar as life allows.
Interesting facts
My great, great, great grandparents lived in Campbell County, VA before moving to Kentucky and I didn’t know this until I had already lived in VA for 10+ years. Today I have family in seven different states from New Hampshire to Kansas to Texas and several states in-between.
What I like most about teaching
I truly believe that to teach a child is to love a child, and to love a child is to teach them. A teacher is one of the most impactful professions one could pursue and how you teach determines whether it is a good or bad impact. I mean to make my influence a good one. My hope, outside of teaching content, is to see students grow in confidence in themselves and who the Lord has created them to be. Challenging them to work hard toward reaching goals that they may have never thought possible.
Mrs. Mandy Hansen
Middle and High School Teachers
Middle School English
Mrs. Mandy Hansen
High School English
Miss Ginger Sweat
High School Math
Mrs. Kari May
High School Science
Mrs. Molly Levering
Asst. Principal/High School History
Mr. Rob Bouldin
Middle School Science
Mrs. Tiffany Miller
Middle School Math
Mrs. Kristi Toliver
Middle School History
Mr. Joshua Ashcroft
7th Grade English
Mrs. Emily Homon
6th Grade
Mrs. Angie Luther
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have taught for 30+ years.
FAMILY
I have a husband, Jon
Mrs. Angie Luther
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was raised in Forest, Virginia, and I attended Temple for 13 years. I graduated with the class of 2018, and I studied Elementary Education at Liberty University before fraduating with my degree in the Spring of 2022.
LIFE VERSE
Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and Forever.”
EXPERIENCE
I completed my student teaching semester in the Spring of 2022. I graduated in May f 2022 and this will be my first full-time teaching job.
FAMILY
I was raised by my parents, and I have one brother. My mom teaches 4th grade at Temple. I married my college boyfriend in December 2021.
HOBBIES
Reading, playing sports with my husband and friends, shopping!
WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT TEACHING
My favorite thing about teaching is consistent interaction with students. I have a strong passion for discipleship and the desire to see younf people love the Lord and choose to follow Him forever. I believe that edcation is done best when it is intertwined with content and the cultivation of community amoung students who are on the same mission of knowing and following Jesus together.
Mrs. Emily Homon
LIFE VERSE
“As for me and my house we shall serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
This is my first year of teaching.
FAMILY
I have a wife named Audrey and a 2 year old boy named Gregory. I am the oldest of five children.
HOBBIES
In my free time I enjoy reading and playing soccer. Other hobbies include barbecuing and listening to Bluegrass.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT TEACHING
I love the engagement of my mind and spirit as I seek daily to encourage them in their education, sports, but most importantly Christ.
Mr. Joshua Ashcroft
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I grew up in Northern Virginia and moved to Lynchburg to attend Liberty University in 2005. I ended up settling in Appomattox with my husband. I went from a big city to a small town! I accepted Christ into my heart when I was in second grade which is just one of the many reasons that I love working with that age.
LIFE VERSE
Psalm 9:10
And they that know Thy name will put their trust in Thee: For Thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek Thee.
EXPERIENCE
I taught 4th grade for two years, high school math for one year, second grade for 9 years and this is my first year teaching middle school math. I’ve loved every minute of teaching in a Christian school and I’m thankful God brought me to Temple.
FAMILY
I will celebrate my 7th anniversary this August to my wonderful husband, John. We have a 3 year old, Bryan, who is in K3 here at Temple. You will hear all about my family throughout the year because I love to talk about them and show pictures.
HOBBIES
I absolutely love being a fan of Duke and Liberty basketball! I watched every game with my brother when we were in high school and just never stopped. Is it basketball season yet?
WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT TEACHING
”Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire”. -W.B. Yeats
I enjoy creative ways to stimulate the minds of children and help them learn. While the material is the same each year, the students are always changing. I think a classroom is the most dynamic and exciting place to work. Making a difference in a child’s life brings me great joy.
Mrs. Kristi Toliver
LIFE VERSE
John 3:30 – He must increase, but I must decrease.
Romans 12:2 – And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Throughout my career as a nurse, I have taught and mentored many employees of all levels to provide safe care for patients. This past year has been a life changing experience and I have had the amazing opportunity to teach most grades at Temple. I am so excited that God has provided me with my very own classroom to share, teach, and grow with the students at Temple Christian School.
FAMILY
My husband and I have lived in Amherst County all of our life. We have three children that have been at Temple since kindergarten – Lillian (12th grade), Lacey (8th grade), and Cole (7th grade). We have a 16-year-old dog named Sam, a cat named Trixie, and several fish.
HOBBIES
We love the beach, going camping, growing gardens/flowers, spending time on the front porch watching for lightening bugs, and any time on the water. You can find us many weekends on the river at Monacan Park or Bugg’s Island Lake.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT TEACHING
Teaching to me isn’t so much about the material taught or exceptional grades. It’s about creating relationships with each student to help build upon their strengths and weaknesses. My hope is to encourage and help them find their greatest potential, so they can go into the world and further God’s purpose for their lives.
Mrs. Tiffany Miller
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born in 1958 in Lynchburg, then moved 1 year later to Alexandra for 18 years. I was saved in High School but didn’t particularly grow spiritually until after graduation from a secular college. It was our shared effort to serve God on a secular campus that brought my wife and I together. We have been married for over 35 years.
LIFE VERSE
No particular one is my favorite, but I often ponder James 3:1
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have taught for over 30 years.
FAMILY
I have a wife named Lisa, and 3 children: Tyler and wife Lauren and grandsons Pierce and Grant, daughter Faith and her husband David, and daughter Grace.
HOBBIES
I enjoy reading, home remodeling and playing the guitar.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT TEACHING
It is an awesome and thrilling responsibility to stand in front of a group of young Christians, and lead them into a closer walk with their saviour.
Mr. Rob Bouldin
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I am from West Virginia. I am the youngest of four and a Pastors kid. I was saved at the age of six in Vacation Bible School.
My parents sacrificed to send my sisters and me to a Christian School. I have always had an appreciation for them, and a conviction to teach Science from a Christian’s perspective in a Christian School.
LIFE VERSE
My work verse is Col. 3:17 – 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I have taught for 7 years.
FAMILY
My husbands of 23 years is Paul and I have 2 daughters
HOBBIES
I enjoy reading.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT TEACHING
My favorite thing about teaching is working with my students, helping them grasp difficult concepts.
Mrs. Molly Levering
Mrs. Kari May
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
I was born in Florida on November 11. As a result of my family’s regular attendance at church, I was exposed to the gospel at a very early age. Fortunately, my mother knew how to lead people to Christ and showed me how I could have forgiveness of my sins and have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Except for first grade, I attended Christian school ansd Christian colleges my entire life.
LIFE VERSE
Ephesians 2:8-9 – For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
40 years – working on year 41! I taught 17 years in South Carolina and the rest have been at Temple.
FAMILY
Mom, (Dad is deceased), two brothers, two sisters-in-law, three nephews, one niece-in-law, and a precious pup (Lani)
HOBBIES
I enjoy reading and golf.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT TEACHING
I enjoy encouraging young people to have a Biblical worldview and a relationship with Jesus Christ all while providing them with an academically sound education.
Miss Ginger Sweat
Biographical Sketch
I was born and raised in south central Kentucky on March 1st 1988. I love my small community of Jamestown and enjoyed being raised up with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and my grandmas to teach and encourage me. I accepted Christ when I was seven years old. My mom taught me the importance of faith in Jesus and staying involved in the local church. My Dad was a local business owner that taught me a lot about serving the community and treating others the way you want to be treated. During high school I was involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, trombone player and percussionist in the band (STATE CHAMPS!), an anchor and writer for our high school news team “WLKR news”, as well as acting and singing in several of our community theatre productions. Upon graduating high school, I attended Liberty University. While at Liberty I continued to stay involved in music for two years as well as their hall leadership teams. I graduated from Liberty in 2010 with a Bachelors of Arts in Social Sciences with a secondary Education Teaching Certification. Upon marrying my husband in 2011 our first of four children were born in 2013. I have been at home with my four children for the past nine years. This has been a wonderful blessing to be able to stay at home and a perfect plan of the Lord as I was able to focus and give my family and home the care it needed while my husband worked full time and completed a Bachelors and Master’s degree.
Life Verse
Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.”
I know the Lord is always faithful and good and I find myself repeating this verse when things get hard in my day to day. Choosing a life verse was a challenge for me, so many verses are a daily encouragement.
Teaching Experience
I student taught 8th grade civics at Linkhorne Middle School, following student teaching I taught one year of 6th grade history, at Linkhorne Middle School. I have two years of long-term substitute teaching experience with the Lynchburg City schools, (primarily E.C. glass and Linkhorne Middle) and Amherst County Public Schools. These positions include everything from two-weeks to five-month at various grade levels and subjects. The subjects include middle school science, (five months) high school U.S. History, World History, and Language Arts. Additionally, I have substituted for a library science position, special education, and elementary, kindergarten - 5th grade. The past year I used the Abeka program to homeschool first and third grade. We were also a part of the Classical Conversations Co-Op of Forest where I was a tutor for the five- to seven-year-old age group. My responsibilities included preparing and teaching an over view of content for the upcoming week. I also teach 2s and 3s Sunday School, 4 and 5s children’s church and lead music for the upper elementary children’s church program, and have served in this capacity in some way for the past seven.
Family
I met my husband, Jeremy, in 2009, we were married in 2011 and reside in Amherst County where he was born and raised. I like to say I married into beautiful Amherst County. We have four children Jude, Jessie, Levi, and Luke. I have four siblings a twin sister in New Hampshire, older brother and Sister who live in Nashville, TN.
Hobbies
I enjoy being with my family. We like the outdoors, hiking, camping, canoeing, and the pool. When we can’t get outside, we enjoy game and movie night. We travel a lot to see family and enjoy catching as many fun attractions along the way. I enjoy music, history, reading, and running. Occasionally I like to strum and sing on my guitar as life allows.
Interesting facts
My great, great, great grandparents lived in Campbell County, VA before moving to Kentucky and I didn’t know this until I had already lived in VA for 10+ years. Today I have family in seven different states from New Hampshire to Kansas to Texas and several states in-between.
What I like most about teaching
I truly believe that to teach a child is to love a child, and to love a child is to teach them. A teacher is one of the most impactful professions one could pursue and how you teach determines whether it is a good or bad impact. I mean to make my influence a good one. My hope, outside of teaching content, is to see students grow in confidence in themselves and who the Lord has created them to be. Challenging them to work hard toward reaching goals that they may have never thought possible.
Mrs. Mandy Hansen
Other Teachers
Physical Education
Mrs. Danielle Byrd
Computer, Yearbook Advisor
Mrs. Kathi Hogan
Music
Mrs. Mary Crowder
Mrs. Mary Crowder
Mrs. Kathi Hogan
Mrs. Danielle Byrd
