ELEMENTARY STAFF (Pre-Kindergarten - 5th Grade)
Tessa Ellsworth, B.A., M.ED -- Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 123
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI; Masters of Education in Reading from Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI; ACSI Lifetime Certificate. I've been teaching Pre-K and Kindergarten at ACS since 1995.
Comments: I have been blessed so much by the ministry at Algoma. I absolutely love being a part of a school where I can share Christ on a moment-to-moment basis. It is so wonderful! I consider the children I teach and have taught my extended family. The students mean so much to me. I believe children are “…a heritage of the Lord,” which is a priceless treasure. It is of utmost priority that the students know that the Lord loves them, that their teachers desire that they come to know and love Him, and that they prepare themselves to be loving servants of our Heavenly Father. I love serving God by teaching His children in a wonderful school. The children that enter my classroom are special and dear to me, and my life is better because of them. I am a firm believer in the home and school being one unit, bonded together in love.
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI; Masters of Education in Reading from Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI; ACSI Lifetime Certificate. I've been teaching Pre-K and Kindergarten at ACS since 1995.
Comments: I have been blessed so much by the ministry at Algoma. I absolutely love being a part of a school where I can share Christ on a moment-to-moment basis. It is so wonderful! I consider the children I teach and have taught my extended family. The students mean so much to me. I believe children are “…a heritage of the Lord,” which is a priceless treasure. It is of utmost priority that the students know that the Lord loves them, that their teachers desire that they come to know and love Him, and that they prepare themselves to be loving servants of our Heavenly Father. I love serving God by teaching His children in a wonderful school. The children that enter my classroom are special and dear to me, and my life is better because of them. I am a firm believer in the home and school being one unit, bonded together in love.
Jennifer May -- Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 105
Abigail Miller, B.A. -- First Grade Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 124
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Moody Bible Institute. ACSI certified.
Comments: I did my student teaching here in 2022 and have been teaching here ever since! I love teaching at Algoma because I get to teach children in a Christ-centered way and see my students grow spiritually and academically throughout the year. It is such a joy to see the students' curiosity grow as we tackle new concepts and they ask more questions.
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Moody Bible Institute. ACSI certified.
Comments: I did my student teaching here in 2022 and have been teaching here ever since! I love teaching at Algoma because I get to teach children in a Christ-centered way and see my students grow spiritually and academically throughout the year. It is such a joy to see the students' curiosity grow as we tackle new concepts and they ask more questions.
Andrea Quillan -- First Grade Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 107
Education and Experience: Applied Health Science, Baker College; Pre-Nursing, Grand Valley State University; Early Childhood Education, Rasmussen University; Currently working toward a Master’s Degree in Child Development and Curriculum Instruction, Walden University.
Comment: I earned a degree in Applied Health Science from Baker College and spent 10 years in the medical field before I felt God was calling me into teaching. I went back to school and graduated from Rasmussen University with my degree in Early Childhood Education and Child Development. I am currently working on obtaining my Master's degree in child development and curriculum instruction. I have worked at Wee Knights Child Development Center for the last 4 years, most recently teaching their preschool program. My husband, Brandon, and I have been married for 7 years and our daughter attends Algoma Christian. I love being able to watch students grow in their faith and integrate biblical principles into every subject I teach. I am so excited to be teaching 1st grade at ACS- Go Knights!
Education and Experience: Applied Health Science, Baker College; Pre-Nursing, Grand Valley State University; Early Childhood Education, Rasmussen University; Currently working toward a Master’s Degree in Child Development and Curriculum Instruction, Walden University.
Comment: I earned a degree in Applied Health Science from Baker College and spent 10 years in the medical field before I felt God was calling me into teaching. I went back to school and graduated from Rasmussen University with my degree in Early Childhood Education and Child Development. I am currently working on obtaining my Master's degree in child development and curriculum instruction. I have worked at Wee Knights Child Development Center for the last 4 years, most recently teaching their preschool program. My husband, Brandon, and I have been married for 7 years and our daughter attends Algoma Christian. I love being able to watch students grow in their faith and integrate biblical principles into every subject I teach. I am so excited to be teaching 1st grade at ACS- Go Knights!
Dawn Snell, B.A., M.ED -- Second Grade Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 120
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Arts in English/Language Arts and Elementary Education and M.Ed in Reading from Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI; ACSI Certificate.
Comments: I have been teaching at Algoma since 2014, and I am loving it! It is a blessing to share the love of Christ and to encourage students to walk with Him and shine His light wherever they go. It is fun to see the energy and excitement that second graders have for learning. I enjoy watching them grow spiritually and academically.
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Arts in English/Language Arts and Elementary Education and M.Ed in Reading from Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI; ACSI Certificate.
Comments: I have been teaching at Algoma since 2014, and I am loving it! It is a blessing to share the love of Christ and to encourage students to walk with Him and shine His light wherever they go. It is fun to see the energy and excitement that second graders have for learning. I enjoy watching them grow spiritually and academically.
Katie Wheat, B.S. -- 2nd Grade Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 125
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a double minor in Language Arts and History from Ferris State University, Big Rapids, MI; State of Michigan Standard Teaching Certification.
Comments: Our family just moved to the area this summer and I am very excited to be part of the work the Lord is doing here at Algoma Christian School! I love teaching children and watching them grow in their relationship with the Lord. I pray that with the Lord's help, I can encourage them daily to pursue Him and serve Him gladly. I have a wonderful husband named Aaron and we have three children who will be attending ACS. I look forward to seeing what God will do in our community this school year!
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a double minor in Language Arts and History from Ferris State University, Big Rapids, MI; State of Michigan Standard Teaching Certification.
Comments: Our family just moved to the area this summer and I am very excited to be part of the work the Lord is doing here at Algoma Christian School! I love teaching children and watching them grow in their relationship with the Lord. I pray that with the Lord's help, I can encourage them daily to pursue Him and serve Him gladly. I have a wonderful husband named Aaron and we have three children who will be attending ACS. I look forward to seeing what God will do in our community this school year!
Ryan Ruth, B.S. -- Third Grade Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 113
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science from Cornerstone University in Bible and Art of Ministry. ACSI Certificate and Interim Teaching Certificate from Michigan Teachers of Tomorrow.
Comment: I am beyond blessed to have been married for almost 8 years to my wife Megan, and we have two vibrant and joyful daughters. 9 years ago, I was hired to coach soccer at Algoma Christian. During this time, I developed a deep appreciation for the students and staff. So, when I received word that I was hired as a teacher for the 2020-2021 school year I was beyond excited to join the ACS staff. I hope to bring an enthusiastic, exciting, and positive attitude to the classroom where students can grow academically, in Christ, and in service to one another. GO KNIGHTS!
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science from Cornerstone University in Bible and Art of Ministry. ACSI Certificate and Interim Teaching Certificate from Michigan Teachers of Tomorrow.
Comment: I am beyond blessed to have been married for almost 8 years to my wife Megan, and we have two vibrant and joyful daughters. 9 years ago, I was hired to coach soccer at Algoma Christian. During this time, I developed a deep appreciation for the students and staff. So, when I received word that I was hired as a teacher for the 2020-2021 school year I was beyond excited to join the ACS staff. I hope to bring an enthusiastic, exciting, and positive attitude to the classroom where students can grow academically, in Christ, and in service to one another. GO KNIGHTS!
Kim Wheeler, B.S. -- Fourth Grade Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 116
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Science from Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids, MI; Science Endorsement and minor in Elementary Education from Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids, MI; ACSI Certificate.
Comments: I have been teaching 4th Grade at ACS since 1999. I am so excited to be a part of God’s work at Algoma Christian School each day. I enjoy teaching and sharing my life with children. I pray each day that students would see Christ through me. My greatest joy is to see children come to know Jesus as their personal Savior and grow more like Him each day. I am married to my wonderful husband, Dean, and we have one daughter who graduated from Algoma. God is so good and faithful!
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Science from Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids, MI; Science Endorsement and minor in Elementary Education from Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids, MI; ACSI Certificate.
Comments: I have been teaching 4th Grade at ACS since 1999. I am so excited to be a part of God’s work at Algoma Christian School each day. I enjoy teaching and sharing my life with children. I pray each day that students would see Christ through me. My greatest joy is to see children come to know Jesus as their personal Savior and grow more like Him each day. I am married to my wonderful husband, Dean, and we have one daughter who graduated from Algoma. God is so good and faithful!
Suzanne Tiesma, B.S., M.ED -- Fifth Grade Teacher
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 138
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Communications from Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI; Masters of Education in Elementary Education from Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI. ACSI Certificate. My first year at ACS, I taught English and History in 6th, 7th and 8th Grades. Since 2002, I have been teaching 5th Grade.
Comments: I have been teaching at Algoma Christian School since 2001. It is and has been a blessing to instruct and instill Godly principles to a great group of kids. As a Christian teacher, I believe that I am a partner with parents in education. No matter what grade a student is in, I believe as teachers we have an incredible opportunity to speak into their lives and show them the love of God. I cherish seeing God's hand on the hearts and lives of students at Algoma Christian School.
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Communications from Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI; Masters of Education in Elementary Education from Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI. ACSI Certificate. My first year at ACS, I taught English and History in 6th, 7th and 8th Grades. Since 2002, I have been teaching 5th Grade.
Comments: I have been teaching at Algoma Christian School since 2001. It is and has been a blessing to instruct and instill Godly principles to a great group of kids. As a Christian teacher, I believe that I am a partner with parents in education. No matter what grade a student is in, I believe as teachers we have an incredible opportunity to speak into their lives and show them the love of God. I cherish seeing God's hand on the hearts and lives of students at Algoma Christian School.
Nathan Dracht, B.S. -- Art 2 - 5
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 139
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Visual Art Education from Huntington University, Huntington, IN.
Comments: This will be my 9th year as an art teacher! I’ve taught in both Indiana and Minnesota, but am so excited to be back in my home state of Michigan! I have worked with diverse student populations, ranging from elementary to high school levels. It’s going to be a wonderful privilege to openly integrate my faith into daily teaching. Helping students see the beauty of God's creation through their artwork is incredibly satisfying. I have 2 children with my wonderful wife, Brittany, and we are all looking forward to starting at ACS!
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Visual Art Education from Huntington University, Huntington, IN.
Comments: This will be my 9th year as an art teacher! I’ve taught in both Indiana and Minnesota, but am so excited to be back in my home state of Michigan! I have worked with diverse student populations, ranging from elementary to high school levels. It’s going to be a wonderful privilege to openly integrate my faith into daily teaching. Helping students see the beauty of God's creation through their artwork is incredibly satisfying. I have 2 children with my wonderful wife, Brittany, and we are all looking forward to starting at ACS!
Gabrielle Maggio -- P.E. PK - 5
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 132
Education and Experience: Juris Doctor of Law from the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná, Brazil; Bachelor of Science with emphasis in Biology and Vision Science from Ferris State University.
Comments: God led me to Algoma in 2022 as I searched for a new Christian school for my kids. Shortly after, He also opened the doors for me to become a part of the teaching staff. Science is my passion and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to use my knowledge along with my ministry training to teach students all about the amazing things that God has created!
Education and Experience: Juris Doctor of Law from the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná, Brazil; Bachelor of Science with emphasis in Biology and Vision Science from Ferris State University.
Comments: God led me to Algoma in 2022 as I searched for a new Christian school for my kids. Shortly after, He also opened the doors for me to become a part of the teaching staff. Science is my passion and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to use my knowledge along with my ministry training to teach students all about the amazing things that God has created!
Sara Pitzer -- Adjunct Teacher -- Elementary Computers
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext:
Education and Experience: GRCC Spanish and Business, Coopersville Public Schools ESL Night Migrant Program, Bethany Christian Services Refugee Housing.
Comments: I have been an employee of ACS since 2022. It’s such a blessing to be part of the Christ saturated environment found at ACS, surrounded by others who love Jesus and sharing that love with the children around them. I have been married to my husband, Matt for 20 years. We live in Rockford and have four children, three of whom attend ACS and our oldest who attends Western Michigan University.
I fell in love with the Spanish language and Latin culture in my very first High School Spanish class. I couldn’t have imagined then, all the ways the Lord would use me, change me and grow me (and our family) through something as simple as a second language. When you know another language it opens you up to a whole other world you’d otherwise never have access to. The different cultures and people groups you’re able to connect with, serve and share the love of Jesus with is an incredible gift! I am so very excited to share my passion and love of Spanish with your students.
Education and Experience: GRCC Spanish and Business, Coopersville Public Schools ESL Night Migrant Program, Bethany Christian Services Refugee Housing.
Comments: I have been an employee of ACS since 2022. It’s such a blessing to be part of the Christ saturated environment found at ACS, surrounded by others who love Jesus and sharing that love with the children around them. I have been married to my husband, Matt for 20 years. We live in Rockford and have four children, three of whom attend ACS and our oldest who attends Western Michigan University.
I fell in love with the Spanish language and Latin culture in my very first High School Spanish class. I couldn’t have imagined then, all the ways the Lord would use me, change me and grow me (and our family) through something as simple as a second language. When you know another language it opens you up to a whole other world you’d otherwise never have access to. The different cultures and people groups you’re able to connect with, serve and share the love of Jesus with is an incredible gift! I am so very excited to share my passion and love of Spanish with your students.
Sherri Vander Meulen, B.A. -- Computers 1 - 5
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 130
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Arts, from Alma College. ACSI Certificate.
Comment: My husband and I have two daughters attending ACS and are thankful for the family atmosphere and quality education our children receive. As a teacher, I'm blessed to have the opportunity to talk about Christ, teach students, and share my passions. God placed me at ACS in the fall of 2010, and I enjoy the opportunity to work with students eager to learn and see the ways God is working through their lives. I want all students to succeed and I enjoy the opportunity to work with students of various abilities and skill levels to reach their full, God-given potential.
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Arts, from Alma College. ACSI Certificate.
Comment: My husband and I have two daughters attending ACS and are thankful for the family atmosphere and quality education our children receive. As a teacher, I'm blessed to have the opportunity to talk about Christ, teach students, and share my passions. God placed me at ACS in the fall of 2010, and I enjoy the opportunity to work with students eager to learn and see the ways God is working through their lives. I want all students to succeed and I enjoy the opportunity to work with students of various abilities and skill levels to reach their full, God-given potential.
Karissa Waggoner -- Music PK - 5
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 136
Education and Experience: Bachelors in Instrumental & Vocal Music Education k-12 from Spring Arbor University in Spring Arbor, Michigan.
Comment: This is my second year teaching at Algoma. I grew up on the east side of the state in Tecumseh, Michigan where my parents still live. I have a brother and SIL in the Dayton, OH area, and my sister lives in TX. It has been wonderful to be here in this caring and positive environment. It is a blessing to be able to talk about my faith and sing and play in worship to the Lord with the students.
Eph. 5:18-20
Education and Experience: Bachelors in Instrumental & Vocal Music Education k-12 from Spring Arbor University in Spring Arbor, Michigan.
Comment: This is my second year teaching at Algoma. I grew up on the east side of the state in Tecumseh, Michigan where my parents still live. I have a brother and SIL in the Dayton, OH area, and my sister lives in TX. It has been wonderful to be here in this caring and positive environment. It is a blessing to be able to talk about my faith and sing and play in worship to the Lord with the students.
Eph. 5:18-20