closeTerry Janow - Band Director & Maria Janow - Choir Director & Piano Instructor (Apr '11)
Have you ever thought about working with your spouse? Mr. and Mrs. Janow both teach in side-by-side classrooms at Hope Christian School every day. The Lord brought this couple together in Las Angeles, California and, although they do not have any children, they consider their many students as part of their family.
Maria Janow is the middle child of her family and was born and raised in Cirebon, Indonesia. She grew up as a Christian in a Muslim country. Her mother, also a Christian, once bought an organ from the “Salvation Army” church. While growing up, Maria loved to learn to play the organ and her favorite subject in school was music class, of course. Later, as a young adult, Maria attended college at the Grove School of Music and the University of Laverne in Las Angeles, California. Maria majored in Music Composition.
Maria Janow has had experience teaching at a private music studio, teaching five years at a private Christian school in Indonesia as well as eight years at Calvary Christian Academy, being a part of the Music Staff at Hoffmantown Church, and teaching at “Tierra Bamgsa” in Jakarta, Indonesia. Her current position at Hope Christian School is the choir director and piano instructor.
She has found that there are many challenges when it comes to working with younger students. “Teaching music is different than academics. Each student has a different starting level. Bringing everyone in the class up to the same level of expertise is the biggest challenge”, she says. Maria’s philosophy for her work is “Love music and strive to be skilled, and trust the Lord with all your heart.”It is a blessing to have such a skilled and devoted musician such as Maria share her expertise with the students.
The other half of the Janow music team, Terry Janow, was born in Roswell, New Mexico. He grew up in an independent, fundamental Baptist church and realized that he personally loved Jesus when he was thirteen. As a young adult, Terry attended college at Eastern New Mexico University and the Grove School of Music.
Mr. Janow has always been interested in music. He began playing the flute early on, and then went on to play the following instruments: bassoon, trombone, saxophone, clarinet, and piano.
He spent twenty years in Los Angeles as a professional musician. Mr. Janow has “played practically every genre of music imaginable.” Terry worked through the Musician’s Union local 47 located in Hollywood, California. He has preformed with people such as “The Temptations”, “Freddy Fender” and Paul Baloche. Mr. Janow has recorded with “Lawrence Welk”, as well as played with musical sound tracks and TV themes in L.A. and South Korea.He also played on recordings for worship albums in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Mr. Janow has taught at Grove School of Music, Musician’s Institute, Sekoal Pelita Havam in Jakarta, Indonesia, and Calvary Christian Academy. Since 1978, Mr. Janow has taught a variety of ages that include third grade through college. Currently, he is the band director at Hope Christian School.
Becoming a teacher was not a job that Terry had in mind while growing up. “Teaching became automatic," said Mr. Janow. He states that when teaching students, he follows the philosophy of Zephaniah 3:17 “…he will sing and be joyful about you." God commands people to be skillful. Terry wants God to be pleased as the students play for Him.
The Janows' outside interests are both similar. Mr. Janow holds down the position of Associate Pastor of Instrumental Music at Hoffmantown Church. Mrs. Janow is on the worship team at Hoffmantown Church. She plays the electric bass and the piano. They feel privileged to work with fellow musicians who worship Jesus each week. They are both a wonderful addition to the music program here at Hope.
Written by Hope High School Yearbook Student Caroline C. - April 2011
Cindy Burnham is a professional when it comes to science; it was her favorite subject in school. She has now been teaching 7th grade science at Hope for eight years and loves it!
Cindy grew up in Ft. Collins, Colorado, but she also calls Albuquerque her home.She is married to Bruce Burnham and has two children, Luke (23) and Lauren (20).Luke is graduating this year from Oklahoma Christian University and Lauren is a junior at Pepperdine University.Interestingly, the Burnham family currently has two foreign exchange students living with them.One student is from Germany and the other is from Spain.
For her college experience, Cindy attended both Oklahoma Christian College and Colorado State University for two years each and graduated with a Medical Technology Degree.She says that her degree and the experience of homeschooling her own children helped to prepare her for teaching in the classroom.Cindy enjoyed homeschooling so much, that she decided to pursue teaching at Hope.She is presently working on her Master’s Degree in Education while continuing to teach science here in the Middle School. Mrs. Burnham has a special philosophy for her work.She says, “More than anything I don’t want to be the teacher that turns kids off to science and if I can turn them on to it and they gain an appreciation for God’s incredible handiwork, even better.”
If Cindy Burnham could visit any place in the world she would hike the whole way up Machu Picchu.Mrs. Burnham also likes to spend her time running, biking, skiing, and sewing; she also spends much of her time helping out at her church.
She states that her life verse is Ephesians 3:16-19, “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” The students at Hope Middle School are blessed to have her for their seventh grade year of Science.
Written by Hope High School Yearbook Student Laurel C. - April 2011
Lisa Anne Kindley has been working at Hope Christian School as an elementary secretary for almost three years now and always has a smile to brighten up the daily lives of others. She is married and loves to spend her time with her husband, Jeff and children, Laura and Matthew. Both children attend Hope with Matthew being in 2nd grade and Laura being in 5th grade.
Lisa was born and raised in Albuquerque. Growing up, she was active in her church, in campfire girls, and in band. Lisa graduated from Sandia High School and then attended UNM for one year.She transferred to TVI for two more years where she earned her Associates Degree in Accounting. Her favorite classes in school were accounting and music. Before coming to Hope, Lisa spent over fourteen years working as a credit collections manager and accountant.
Lisa had originally applied to be a substitute teacher at Hope. She believes that, while waiting to hear back, the Lord pushed her to come into the office and ask about her application. The office staff asked if she might also be interested in a job as a secretary. One week later, she had her training and was asked to work part-time. She says, “The short of it ... a great job to be closer to my kids.”She now works at the Hope Elementary School as a secretary.
Lisa comments, “I am very blessed to work in the Elementary School office part-time.” As a secretary at Hope, there are many things she has to accomplish in a day. She answers phones, greets parents, and helps teachers with whatever they may need. She also cleans and bandages knee scrapes and gives smiles when a child is scared or hurt. Lisa tries to do her work for the glory of God. She says, “I believe in always doing my best and having a positive attitude.”
In her job, Lisa faces many challenges but also is rewarded with many blessings. Some days are busier with students and parents than others. She says that sometimes when you have a grumpy teacher or parent, you have to be extra patient and understanding. She says in those times she just smiles and tries to help in any way she can. She is blessed by meeting new parents, seeing familiar faces, and interacting with the children. She exclaims, “I work with the best staff and teachers anyone could be blessed with!”
Although Lisa’s job at Hope keeps her inside most of the time, when she is off the clock, you will most likely find her outside enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Something you may not know about Lisa Kindley is that she absolutely loves hunting and fishing. During a “once-in-a-lifetime” hunt in 2004 she was able to hunt an Oryx, a large African antelope! She also is extremely fond of camping and loves to water ski. Albuquerque is where she calls home, but that does not stop her love of travel. She enjoys the different experiences of various cultures.
Lisa Kindley is a dedicated, caring, and interesting woman. She has definitely had an impact on Hope Christian School by being so friendly and helpful, and by being so efficient at her job. The Elementary School is pleased to have her as part of the staff.
Written by Hope High School Yeakbook Student Sarah G. - Arpil 2011
closeNancy Heisey - 9th Grade World History & 11th Grade U.S. History (Feb '11)
How many of you would love to work with your spouse every single day? What if your spouse was also your boss? Well, this is exactly what Nancy Heisey willingly and pleasantly encounters each day when she arrives to teach. Nancy is married to Terry Heisey, the High School Principal as well as the Girls’ Varsity Basketball Coach for Hope Christian High School. She also has three children that attend Hope: Christine is in 6th grade, Lane is in 9th grade, and Ali is in 10th grade.
Although she now calls Albuquerque her home, she grew up in West Chester, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. Mrs. Heisey graduated from Messiah College in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This is where she also met her husband, Terry. Growing up, Nancy’s favorite subjects were Civics and U.S. History. Before moving to New Mexico, she taught one year of school in Pennsylvania. She shared that some of the things that prepared her for teaching include learning skills from her mother, also a teacher, and earning her Education Degree in Social Studies.
Over the years, Nancy has taught grades four, seven, eight, ten, and twelve. She now teaches 9th grade World History and 11th grade U.S. History to the high school students and has been teaching these current classes for a little over ten years. She thoroughly enjoys teaching both of these subjects, although she states she is probably more knowledgeable in World History.
When confronted with a room full of students, Mrs. Heisey follows her philosophy to “be passionate and know learning is important; then students will know it too.” She also stated, “I truly believe History is the key to understanding and loving God’s people, and seeing the magnitude of God and the spectrum of His plan. So, make it as real as possible.” Besides teaching, she has a strong passion for missions. Other hobbies include: traveling to see new things, going to beaches, and solving Sudoku puzzles. Mrs. Heisey wants the parents of Hope students to know that, “I love teaching your kids and doing so brings me joy.” Nancy’s life reflects her wonderful values and beliefs, and she strives to honor God in everything she does.
Written by Hope HS Yearbook Student Kasey H. - February 2011
Rafael Rosado is a favorite of many students at Hope Christian School, but make no mistake, critical thinking is an essential part of his classroom philosophy. Mr. Rosado was raised in New Mexico and Texas, and calls both states his home. He attended the Latin American Bible Institute in San Antonio, Texas, and received an associate’s degree in Pastoral Ministries. Mr. Rosado went on to attend the Southwestern Assemblies of God University, and obtained a bachelor’s degree in Church Ministries.
Mr. Rosado is married to Mimi Marili. They welcomed their first daughter, Arieli Soe, into the world on September 23, 2010.
Rafael’s (or Tito, as his friends call him) favorite subjects in school were History and Science. However, his favorite subject to teach is Bible. Mr. Rosado currently teaches 7th grade Bible at Hope, and is involved in the Athletic Department, helping out with various sports.
When asked what positions prepared him for this job, Mr. Rosado replied, “Fifteen years of youth ministry, ten of which were spent as a youth pastor.” Mr. Rosado also previously taught 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade science at a charter school in Texas, and he has taught kindergarten. As previously stated, Mr. Rosado insists that critical thinking is a must for his class. Mr. Rosado simply states, “No answers will be handed to you.” He also says that he strives diligently to educate the whole child: emotionally, intellectually, and physically. According to Mr. Rosado, “Life application enhances what is learned academically.” He adds that he challenges his students to go beyond what they have been told to know biblically.
Written by Hope HS Yearbook Student Andrew P. - February 2011
Claire Lundberg is a familiar face at Hope Christian Elementary School. Mrs. Lundberg has been a 5th grade teacher at Hope for three years and plans to keep on doing so unless God leads her in another direction. She has also taught 2nd grade. Her favorite subjects to teach are math and history.
Claire Lundberg is a proud alumnus of Texas Tech University and her favorite subject to study was band. She actually started college as a music major and played the saxophone and the clarinet. She got her Master’s degree in Business and never planned on teaching. However, now she states, “God directed me to this career and I have been incredibly blessed.”
Claire grew up in Los Alamos, New Mexico, and currently lives here in Albuquerque with her husband, Rob, and her three daughters. She spends her most of her free time with her family; she also likes gardening and cooking. All three of her daughters go to Hope: Nicole is a sophomore (and a very talented singer), Kristen is in 7th grade, and Sydney is in 4th grade. She says, “I strive to have balance for my own family. I tend to think of my students as my ‘extra kids’ and often end up shortchanging my own children.”
Claire is a godly woman who sets a great example for the kids she teaches. She loves working with her students to help them succeed in what they do. She says, “Kids are capable of amazing things. Set high standards and they will meet them.” Mrs. Lundberg makes her class creative and fun, but they also learn both about academics and about God. She loves the place at which she is positioned. She explains, “They are still in elementary school but growing up and ready for a challenge. I also enjoy preparing the students for the transition to middle school.”
Claire Lundberg has a great personality and a good view on life. Her 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 a hope and a future.” Her classes’ quote is: “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well!” Mrs. Lundberg loves teaching at Hope and she says, “This is a great school and I am blessed every day by my students.”
Written by Hope HS Yearbook Student Allison H. - February 2011
Mr. Guthrie is not your typical teacher; he has taught Bible, Physical Education, Math and Science to 6th through 8th graders. This will be his third year teaching at Hope Christian School where he is currently the 6th grade Math teacher. Mr. Guthrie’s favorite subjects while growing up are now his favorite to teach. Mr. Guthrie formerly taught at East Mountain Christian Academy, a small, private Christian school in the East Mountains. Many of Mr. Guthrie’s students from East Mountain Christian Academy now attend Hope Christian.
Tim Guthrie grew up in Danville, Illinois. He graduated from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelors' degree in Education. He says that Illinois will always be his home, even though he loves New Mexico. Someday he wishes to move back to Illinois. Outside of teaching, and specifically during the summer months, Mr. Guthrie and his wife, Patricia, direct camps for kids as well as fishing camps for adults. Mr. Guthrie also enjoys fishing, hunting, and a variety of other sports when he is not teaching or helping out at his church. He also enjoys spending time with his family. Mr. Guthrie and his wife have a 28 year old son named Brian. They enjoy their home in the east mountains.
Mr. Guthrie shared how he learned the many skills needed to teach students. He said, “Running my own business and working in various positions in my church prepared me for this job.” His philosophy for his classroom is ”Keep God on the Throne”; this helps him keep his sanity when dealing with 6th graders for six hours each day. His life verse is Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Always ready with a smile and a handshake, he has been a blessing to the students, the parents, and the faculty at Hope Christian School.
Written by Hope HS Yearbook Student Chandler C. - January 2011
Many people do certain occupations because they believe God has called them to do so.This is exactly why Ms. Sue Hall has been a Kindergarten teacher at Hope Christian Elementary School since 1991.
She was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and this is where she feels at home. There are many reasons that she loves Albuquerque such as the blue skies, the mountains, adobe houses, the chili, irrigation ditches, giant cottonwoods and all of people that live here.She also states, “The weather cannot be beat!”
Sue Hall graduated from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri.She majored in English/Literature and History and her minor was in Secondary Education.She also received a Master of Science in remedial reading for grades kindergarten through 12th grade.While she was working on those degrees, Ms. Hall picked up enough hours to be certified to teach kindergarten through 12th grade reading and to become a pre-school through 6th grade teacher.She has two children, Rachal and Seth, who are both Alumni of Hope.
Not only has Sue taught kindergarten, but she has also taught various grades and subjects including: 10th through 12th grade English, 3rd through 4th grade remedial reading and, at one point, she was a pre-school director.She had felt prepared to teach kindergarten because she had taught it once before and she says it is her favorite grade to teach.As much as she loves kindergarten, she also says, “The most challenging part of teaching this grade is to have to take 23 children who all have various academic backgrounds and instill in them the love of learning and the desire to do your best in every endeavor.Even with this challenge, she says that her favorite aspect of teaching are watching children grow, both academically and spiritually. She states, “It is rewarding to see children become more confident and more independent.”
When asked if she had a philosophy for her work, Sue replied, “You can only give God your best.” She loves teaching and states that even a “bad” day is good when she is in her classroom and further believes that the reward of teaching is a happy heart.When confronted about the ways God works through her on a daily basis, she stated, “I think God works through the simplest things that are done with a heart of love such as tying shoes, putting boundaries on real and imaginary hurts, comforting little broken hearts, watching someone cross the monkey bars for the 10th time, pushing swings and listening to the important things five-year-olds have to say. Being a teacher is being a servant.”The elementary school is blessed to have Sue Hall leading and teaching the kindergarten students.
Written by Hope HS Yearbook Student Lindsey B. - January 2011
Kim Macaron teaches biology, physical science and anatomy and physiology at Hope Christian High School.This is her second year at Hope and she truly enjoys the students and the staff.She has a daughter, Melissa, who graduated from Hope in 2009 and her son Jason is a senior this year.She has two older children as well.She and her husband have been married 25 years!
Having grown up in Albuquerque and graduated from Del Norte High School, Ms. Macaron continued her studies at the University of New Mexico (UNM).She received her bachelor of science degree in nursing and currently holds a New Mexico nursing license.
Her nursing background and 13 years of teaching have prepared Ms. Macaron for her position at Hope.She taught many different subjects at the elementary and middle school level at another local Christian school.
Science has been a favorite of Ms. Macaron’s for many years, and it is her favorite subject to teach, especially in a Christian school environment.“I hope that the students will be able to see how amazing God created us and our world,” she says.“In my classroom, I try to treat the students as I would want my children treated.I want them to learn and know that I care about them.”
Stacey Lake has a lot going for her, not the least of which is her sense of humor!She was born in Santa Fe, but grew up in Deming and Albuquerque.She says the dry climate suits her because a humid one “would make my hair curly!”After graduating from Albuquerque Academy, Ms. Lake went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas (the humid climate).She received her master’s degree in English Literature from the University of New Mexico (UNM).
During her time at UNM, Ms. Lake did an exchange term at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.“That changed my life forever,” she exclaims.“I fell in love with Scotland.”After graduation, she returned to the United Kingdom for a program at Oxford University.
Since starting at Hope Christian School in 2002, Ms. Lake has taught 6th grade English, sometimes also teaching Bible, drama, and study skills.She says, “Drama was TONS of work, but I enjoyed the production aspects and I like to write plays.”
While life is certainly the best teacher, Ms. Lake also credits student teaching in college as good preparation for her current vocation, although she taught 3rd grade for one year and “vowed never to return to the classroom again!”Her true love was gymnastics and she coached for a number of years, even reaching the position of Recreational Program Director at Gold Cup Gymnastics in Albuquerque.A back injury cut short her “dream” job of coaching, holding clinics, choreographing routines and traveling to exhibitions around the country.God had her in the right place, however - former Hope Headmaster Kelly McEachran’s daughters were under her tutelage and he asked her to interview for the English teacher position.Seeing God’s hand in such a ridiculous situation, she agreed to consider “the dreaded classroom” again!Of course, she actually had already begun teaching French at Albuquerque Academy – “J’adore la langue francaise!” she rolls off her tongue!
Ms. Lake has always loved English Literature – and she enjoys teaching it as well.Along with the regular 6th grade English curriculum, she plans to slip in a little Dickens, Wordsworth and Shakespeare.She says her philosophy of teaching boils down to this: “Hold great expectations for my students, knowing that great expectations yield great results.”Jeremiah 29:11 guides her:“I know the plans I have for you …plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”She is grateful that God has allowed her to be a part of that future for her students.
Ms. Lake allows God to direct her life and she appreciates the opportunities He had afforded her.She loves to travel, especially overseas.She is writing a historical novel set in her beloved Scotland.She participates in the music ministry at her church, works in her yard a bit, and enjoys spending time with her dog, Shakespeare.“In all things,” she admits, “my desire is to give God the glory, for He has done great things!”
Teresa Garcia knows a lot about kids – as the mother of six and one of Hope’s Pre-K 4 teachers, she certainly ought to!She and husband Dan have three Hope graduates – Cristina, Jessica and Alyssa – and three kids still at Hope, one on each campus – Andrea in 11th grade, Mikayla in 7th and Joshua in 4th.When Cristina started at Hope in 1991, Mrs. Garcia just hung out in the parking lot “missing my kids with the other moms,” she smiles.“I was a happy stay-at-home mom for 19 years – until my youngest was old enough to go to school.”She says she was blessed to be hired as the pre-kindergarten teacher at Hope in 2004, a job she enjoys immensely.
Mrs. Garcia was born and raised in southern California, where she attended Riverside College.She and Dan married in 1982 and moved to Albuquerque in 1984 for his new job at Sandia Laboratories.In addition to her career at Hope, Mrs. Garcia teaches preschool kids at her church, Copper Point (formerly First Family Church).Having six of her own children, and being raised in a family of six that was grounded in the Lord, helped prepare her for her role of teaching young children.“My grandmother (also a mother of six) used to tell me that children are like flowers,’ muses Mrs. Garcia, “all are beautiful, all are different and all are created and loved by God.I have adopted this philosophy, too.”
A new chapter of her life began recently – she became a grandmother!Grandson Aiden was born in February and Mrs. Garcia exults, “Being a G-mom is the best!”She is praying for a houseful of grandchildren.But until that happens, she is surrounded by little “flowers” soaking up her love for the Lord and for them!
closeAli Hughes - 8th Grade U.S. History (Sep '10)
If you don’t know Ali Hughes, she’s an original. It starts with her name - Elsa Ximena Alarcon Germany Nejme Cortes de Hughes. She explains simply, “I am Hispanic.”
Mrs. Hughes is married and has two children. Both are Hope students – Devin is in 10th grade, Riley in 8th. “I taught them both as a 4th grade teacher and they asked me to move up to mid-school to have me again! Imagine that… WANTING to have your mom as your teacher!” She grew up in Albuquerque and graduated from St. Pius in 1985. She received her undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Kansas and a masters in hotel administration at UNLV. She calls Heaven her home, as should we all, but considers Albuquerque her current “nest.”
At Hope, there are lots of opportunities to “change paths” and Mrs. Hughes has done just that. She has taught 4th grade and is currently teaching 8th grade U.S. history for the fourth year, but she has also coached volleyball, boys’ parochial basketball and serves as “emcee” at the 8th grade retreats.
“God literally has equipped me for this job - since He is the one who called me to the classroom,” she confesses. “I have no formal training in the educational field. I just run my classroom as I would my hotel business - except I can’t fire any of my ‘employees’!”
When asked about her favorite subject in school, Mrs. Hughes claims, “I loved English (I would diagram the longest sentences anyone could find for me) but HATED history. What was the point of studying all these old men and boring facts?” But she loves to teach it, because she feels she can make “HIS-story” come alive. She revels in the chance to get her students to appreciate their nation, others’ sacrifices throughout history, and God’s providence. “If I can inspire each young person in my class to make an eternal impact in their community, then I have done my job,” enthuses Mrs. Hughes.
Basing her life philosophy on Matthew 6:33, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well”, Mrs. Hughes works hard and plays hard, laboring for the Lord in all things. She knows that each child in her care is there for a specific reason - they are her ministry. “I may be tough, challenging, and cause a few tears to fall, but I love each deeply and will give sacrificially to help them achieve their God-given potential,” declares Mrs. Hughes. She aspires to be a reflection of God’s passionate, creative and fascinating side. She knows if she does that, she will one day hear her Boss Jesus say, “Well done, good and faithful servant…”
By the way, she is also the 1988 NM Women’s Arm Wrestling Champion - every 8th grade boy wants to arm wrestle her!
Keith Buchanan rides his bike – a lot. This 2009-10 Elementary Teacher of the Year rides his bike to school: “I mostly concentrate on staying alive!” He takes a longer ride home: “It gives me a chance to unwind and pray.” He even rode his bike from Pittsburgh, PA, to Washington, DC, this summer! When asked about that trip, Mr. Buchanan exclaimed, “It was awesome! The solitude was great, but I also enjoyed meeting different people along the way. Our country’s natural beauty and wildlife is amazing, too.”
A popular fixture on the Elementary campus, Mr. Buchanan has been teaching 4th grade for the past four years. Before that, he taught 3rd grade for 6 years. He loves teaching the young children – “I tried mid-school and high school English and Speech, but it just didn’t suit me. I lasted one year!” He is obviously where God wants him – the kids flock around him like flies to honey on the playground at recess.
Growing up mostly in Albuquerque (his father was in the Air Force, so he lived in lots of places, even Japan!), Mr. Buchanan went to college at the University of New Mexico (UNM) and received a degree in Spanish. His favorite subject was 17th century English literature. He still loves literature and languages and gets to use both while singing in the choir at Eastern Hills Baptist Church.
Mr. Buchanan had several jobs after college, including four years in the Navy, but everyone kept telling him he would make a good teacher, so he went back to school and got his teaching certificate – at the age of 35! His favorite subject to teach is history – only because elementary age kids don’t do literature yet! His philosophy for teaching? “I love what I do. If I’m not having fun, I might as well quit!”
In his spare time, Mr. Buchanan enjoys gardening, photography and cheering on the Lakers (basketball), Dodgers (baseball) and Cowboys (football). “At least the Lakers are on top!” he muses. He also nurtures his relationship with his dad. Two of Mr. Buchanan’s brothers have died at early ages, so it keeps them close. In fact, his father went with him on his long bike trip this summer – in his car. The elder Mr. Buchanan would drive ahead to scope out good places to stop, and they would share meals and evenings together. What a great picture of our relationship with God!
Ask Sean Anthony what he is passionate about and he will say: “Teaching, youth ministry and sports.” And now he is living his dream as a teacher and coach of the varsity baseball team here at Hope Christian School.
While this is only Mr. Anthony’s 2nd year teaching at Hope, he has been involved in his passions for years. After receiving his degree in management information systems at New Mexico State University (NMSU) in Las Cruces, he spent 20 years working in the information technology field. During most of that time, he also worked with youth through YoungLife, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Calvary of Albuquerque and Grace Church.
Mr. Anthony grew up in Albuquerque and has raised his own family here. He and his wife of 23 years, Yolanda, have three children – RJ, Ben and Ashley. He went back to school and finished at the University of New Mexico (UNM) with a master’s degree in education. His career took a sharp turn, bringing him to Hope to teach the high school computer applications class.
“Teaching is a second career for me,” he comments, “and I really enjoy teaching the Computer Applications class because I know that these students will use the skills they learn throughout high school, college and into their careers.”
His teaching philosophy extends to his coaching job. He is enthusiastic about both. “I want to engage the students at their level. I believe they will rise to meet your expectations, no matter how high you set them."
If you want to see action, look for Hope Middle School’s Jessica McCall. But you’d better be quick - not only does she teach 7th grade PE (physical education), she coaches the high school volleyball team and is the assistant coach for the high school track team!
Ms. McCall was a student at Hope from 6th grade on and graduated in 2004. She was on the state championship track and volleyball teams. Her main sport was javelin. Since then, she has received her bachelor of science degree in biology from the University of New Mexico (UNM) and began her coaching career at Hope. She has been assistant track coach for four years; this is her first year teaching PE and coaching volleyball.
Youth is obviously her passion. She has been working at Hope’s Middle School Summer Day Camp for the past five years and volunteers with the youth at First Family Church. Ms. McCall has a wide variety of interests, some of which include traveling, shopping and baking. She also loves coffee and the outdoors, where she plays with her Beagle Lexy. “I am still a kid at heart,” she laughs, “which is probably why I love teaching PE!”
Maxine Adams is a woman who has “done it all” – at least as far as teaching is concerned! Just in the last few years, she has gone from teaching 5th grade to 8th grade and back to the elementary campus as a 2nd grade teacher at Hope.
Mrs. Adams grew up in Chicago, Iillinois, and Gary, Indiana, but she considers Albuquerque her home. She earned her bachelor of arts degree at the Metropolitan State College in Denver and her master’s degree at the University of New Mexico. Her husband passed away in 1998, but that hasn’t dimmed her enthusiasm for life and her faith in God. Both of Mrs. Adams’ sons are police officers – Darren in Trinidad, Colorado, and Carlton here in Albuquerque.
After holding various positions, including being a supervisor and a librarian at Temple Baptist School, Mrs. Adams went into full-time teaching. She has been an educator for over 13 years and has taught nearly every subject and grade. She says a lot of her experience has prepared her for her job, but motherhood is one of the best. “It helps you understand why children act as they do,” Mrs. Adams smiles knowingly.
“My philosophy is to have a good work ethic and to love my job and students,” Mrs. Adams states. “I try to instill in them self-pride -- to care about everything they do. I want them to gain academically, socially and spiritually from my class.”
In her free time, Mrs. Adams likes to serve her church community. “Each month, Fellowship Baptist Church has a luncheon for our senior citizens. The seniors look forward to the speakers and gifts as well as the food.”
But all is not business for Mrs. Adams. She enjoys her leisure time when she relaxes by reading, sewing, crafts, bowling and cooking. “Move over, Martha Stewart,” she croons, “for my smothered steak, pound cake and sweet potato pie!”
“I have held a teaching position at Hope Christian School longer than any other job,” enthuses Mrs. Adams. “I enjoy my job, and I work with a great staff -- and the parents are just AWESOME!”
Being a teacher to 10th graders is nothing compared to being the mom of twin boys in 1st grade! Just ask Mindy Jewell, who is the sophomore English teacher at Hope Christian School. Of course, it helped that she spent the last seven years teaching the same subject at the middle school, 7th graders no less!
While Mrs. Jewell didn’t attend Hope, she grew up mostly in Albuquerque (with stints in many locales, including Castle Rock, CO, and Lake of the Ozarks, MO). She graduated from El Dorado High School and received her bachelor’s degree from Southwest Baptist University in Missouri. Her husband is a Hope alumnus and now their boys attend.
Mrs. Jewell’s favorite subjects in school were math and English. When asked about her favorite subject to teach, she exclaimed, “I love where I am!!!” Her goal as a teacher is to help the students learn how to be organized and responsible, even if they don’t understand the material itself. “I know this will help them later in life,” she says. “I also try to let them know I love them so they can feel I am a constant in their daily lives.”
One of the reasons she enjoys working at Hope is the parents. “I want to thank you all for your support and being involved in your students’ lives,” she declares. “It makes such a big difference!”
closeJanis Dietz - 7th Grade Language Arts (Apr. '10)
Sometimes it seems that New Mexico is an extension of Texas – so many people here are from there! Hope Christian School’s 7th grade language arts teacher, Janis Dietz, is one of them! Mrs. Dietz and her husband Mike moved to Albuquerque two years ago, where Mike is pastor of First Baptist Church, Alameda. This is her first year at Hope. They have four grown, married children and 13 grandchildren, with #14 due in May! They also have one son who is still at home.
Mrs. Dietz has acclimated herself well to New Mexico, given that she grew up in Texas and even went to college in Abilene at Hardin-Simmons University. She received her degree in secondary English. She loved English as a student and enjoys teaching it now, although Spanish is s second love. In fact, she taught Spanish II at a high school in Texas for eight years. Before that, the Dietzes were missionaries in Chile from 1985-1997, raising their olderst children there and supplementing their Spanish schooling.
“My goal is to develop my students into serious thinkers who filter everything they read, see, and hear through the filter of Truth,” she says. Mrs. Dietz also helps them learn to handle the English language to be effective communicators. “And I want them to see literature as an art form, whether or not they enjoy it!” she laughs. If anyone can do it, Mrs. Dietz can!
Lyn Kausche has a lot of staying power. She has been teaching 5th grade at Hope Christian School for the last eight years! In fact, she has been at Hope since 1997. Before teaching full time here. she was the Extended Care Supervisor and a substitute teacher. Her teaching career has included 6th grade self-contained, 6th grade math/science combo and even preschool, and it spans 30 years.
Originally from Akron, Ohio, Mrs. Kausche has lived in Fort Defiance on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona, as well as in Phoenix, prior to settling in the Albuquerque area. Her family includes husband Ed and her two dogs. She received her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Akron and her master’s in elementary education from the University of Arizona. She says her favorite subject as a student was reading. “I hated math, but now I really enjoy teaching it,” she muses, “because I know how to help kids who are struggling.” She also enjoys teaching science.
Mrs. Kausche tries to instill in her students the idea of “never going backwards.” She tells them, “Once you have found a better way of doing something, or improving something about yourself, hang on to that and use it to move forward.” Good advice for students heading for lots of change in middle school!
Although Don Bauer grew up on a farm with his 13 bothers and sisters in Minnesota, he has lived in New Mexico since 1973, so he considers this home. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics/Education with a minor in Physical Education at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, Minnesota, on the Mississippi River in central Minnesota.
Mr. Bauer spent several years teaching (and coaching baseball, football and basketball) all over New Mexico before being hired at TVI to teach math, reading and drafting, which he did for 26 years. This is Mr. Bauer’s fifth year at Hope – he currently teaches geometry, advanced math and statistics. He has taught algebra as well.
Mr. Bauer and his wife Racheli have two children, Toni Rae and Joseph, both graduates of Hope Christian School. Racheli worked in APS as a special needs counselor but stayed home with their children after dealing with various cancer scares. She now volunteers at Hope and in the community. Toni is married to Josh and has one child and one on the way! She works and attends UNM where she is working on her Elementary Education degree. Joseph (Zeppi) is pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at NM Tech in Socorro.
“My favorite subject in school was always math and that is what I like to teach,” Mr. Bauer affirms with a smile. “My philosophy is to be fair, be firm and have fun!” God continues to show Mr. Bauer in a variety of ways that he belongs at Hope. Having been through several near-death experiences, he strives to do his best not to disappoint God. “I love my students,” he exclaims, “and the entire Hope community.”
In his spare time, Mr. Bauer likes to fish as well as play sports. “I still compete in volleyball in the Senior Olympics every year,” he grins. When asked if there is anything else he would like his Hope family to know about him, he replied, “My mom, who lives in Minnesota, is 94 years old and has sixty-some grandchildren, eighty-some great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren!” Wow! What a legacy for him to carry on!
closeDale Esser - 8th Grade Math & MS Asst. Athletic Director (Dec. '09/Jan. '10)
Dale Esser hasn’t been at Hope Christian School long, but he has been fitting right in. He teaches 8th grade math and is assistant to the middle school athletic director. He is married to Kathy and they have three sons, two daughters-in-law and two grandchildren, all living out of state.
Having gone to high school in Montana and college and seminary in the southeastern United States, Mr. Esser considers Colorado home, but admits that “New Mexico is growing on me.” He spent 10 years on active duty in the Army but really wanted to be a teacher. This is his 18th year in a Christian school environment. He has taught a wide variety of middle and high school subjects – Bible, history, math, science and even Latin!
Mr. Esser’s favorite subject in school was history. He smiles when he says, “I enjoyed most everything except English.” He loves to teach Bible, but he wants to teach whatever subject the Lord gives him. His philosophy comes from scripture: “I strive to follow Colossians 3:23-24 in teaching. I want to teach wholeheartedly, for the Lord, and not just for my personal gratification or for the recognition of others.”
As for his life outside of school, Mr. Esser enjoys adventure and sports. His favorite activities are motorcycle riding, flying, shooting and volleyball, but he cherishes meals out with his wife and even supporting his students in their after-school pursuits. He also plays rhythm and bass guitar at his church. And he “loves chocolate and popcorn, hates brussels sprouts and coffee.” Sounds like a well-rounded person, a Christian with passion and energy, a teacher we can be glad gives his best to our school!
Mrs. Silva is one of our 2nd Grade Teachers. This is her first year teaching at Hope. Mrs. Silva was born and raised in Albuquerque and received her undergraduate degree in Business from the Anderson School of Management at UNM. She got her Masters in Elementary Education from Wayland Baptist University. Her husband Floyd has encouraged her throughout her education career. Their son, a 7th grader, attends Hope and their 10 year old daughter attends Petroglyph Elementary. She believes that being a parent has prepared her most for this job as well as working at Petroglph for three years.
Mrs. Silva makes it a point to give each student the time they deserve. Her favorite subject is math, and she loves to show her students how things *just work* mathematically. " There are usually several ways to show how things add up," she grins.
For Mrs. Silva, teaching is a calling. "To be part of children*s lives and to show each child that they have so much potential is an important job," she asserts. "I want them to know they can accomplish great things!" She loves to watch when the *light goes on* for students who are learning something difficult. "The joy and happiness they show is unforgettable!" she beams.
closeLou Brassington - 7th Grade World Studies & New Mexico History (Nov. '09)
Lou Brassington has been teaching at Hope Christian School for the last four years and she has already won the 2008-09 Teacher of the Year Award! This speaks volumes about her ability to connect with her students on a daily basis as the teacher of 7th grade world studies and New Mexico history.
“I always hope that all my students, even the ones who never really enjoyed history, will be intrigued when I share the stories that I love about the events and heroes of the past,” she exclaims. Armed with a bachelor’s in history with an English minor, as well as graduate work in history, Ms. Brassington became a teacher at the middle and high school levels.
Coming back to New Mexico (she grew up in Santa Fe) from her education back east, she worked as assistant controller for the Albuquerque Hilton, but left that to be a stay-at-home mom. She and her husband Doug have a daughter who is a sophomore at Pepperdine University in California and a son in the 11th grade at Hope. Being a teacher again allowed her to stay close to the kids and do what she loves.
“I adore history,” she enthuses. “I love to read biographies, autobiographies, and books about history, politics, prophecy and eschatology.” Ms. Brassington says she feels blessed to be a part of the Hope family, having taught in both public and privates schools before. “My goal each day,” she reveals, “is to try to reflect Jesus’ love to each of my students and to treat each one the way I would want my own children treated in the classroom. I hope that my students know that their concerns are important to me.” She must be succeeding and the Hope family is blessed to have Ms. Brassington as part of its team!
Mrs. Zimmerly grew up in a small farming town north of Dallas, Texas. She came to Albuquerque in 1989 to attend UNM on a golf scholarship and has since called New Mexico home. She and her husband Wright have been married for 16 years. They have two daughters - Kaitlin in 9th grade and Kourtney in 6th grade. Both have attended Hope since kindergarten.
Mrs. Zimmerly*s passion for golf led her to teach golf for nine years. It was her love for teaching that led her to the classroom. "It is such a privilege to be a part of a child's learning experience," she gushes. "It is incredible to watch them grow with the Lord and experience their unconditional love for life!" One of the things Mrs. Zimmerly finds so rewarding about her job as the PreK-3 teacher is seeing the little ones inspired to live their lives for the Lord.
"The Lord has truly blessed me here," Mrs. Zimmerly enthuses. We have certainly been blessed to have her teaching at Hope for the past 7 years. Anyone who walks in Mrs. Zimmerly*s room knows she loves what she does and the children absolutely love her! No wonder she was awarded the 2008-09 Teacher of the Year!
Everybody knows Coach Jim Murphy is one of the winningest basketball coaches in New Mexico. And most Hope people know he is Hope Christian School’s Chaplain and the High School’s (HCS) Athletic Director. But what you may not know, because he is also a humble Christian man, is that he was inducted into the New Mexico High School Coaches Association’s (NMHSCA) Hall of Honor this year. And that, as coach of the Hope Huskies Basketball Team, he has helped the school garner eight state championships. In fact, he has been named NMHSCA’s Coach of the Year five times (including 2009) and was a finalist for national Coach of the Year in 2005!
Coach Murphy was born in Wisconsin and grew up in New York. (Did you also know his sister is none other than Hope 3rd grade teacher Joyce Myers?) He and his wife of 27 years, Angela, have three sons and a daughter, all former or current Hope students. After receiving a degree in Bible from Messiah College in Pennsylvania in 1982, Coach Murphy began his varied career at Hope Christian School. In his nearly three decades of service to HCS, he has coached JV boys’ soccer, varsity basketball, boys’ and girls’ track, and girls’ softball. He went on to get a Master’s Degree in Physical Education/Sports Management at the University of New Mexico (UNM) in 2007.
“I love the mission of Hope Christian School – to pray for, equip and send Christ-centered, passionate leaders to change the world,” says Coach Murphy. “I treasure the hours I have spent with the many fine students, faculty and coaches here.” And we, as parents, love what you are doing every day for our students, from Elementary age on up through High School. We praise God for you!
closeJanet Haist - MS Assistant Principal (Sep./Oct. '09)
Janet Haist may be the new Mid-School Assistant Principal, but she is not new to Hope Christian School. Last year, she taught sophomore English and served as the High School Student Council Advisor. She also has a daughter in 10th grade at Hope and one who graduated from Hope last year. Her son is a student at New Mexico Tech.
While the children were growing up, Janet was a stay-at-home mom. She has been married to Tim Haist for 23 years. “It was just about two years ago that I felt the Lord tugging at my heart to pursue teaching/administration once again,” she muses. She had been teaching various subjects and grade levels after graduating from UNM with a BA in Secondary Education and a Masters in Special Education. She also served as Assistant Principal at another Christian school.
When asked about her favorite subject to learn (and to teach), Janet exclaimed, “English! I am an avid reader and I spend time writing on my own.” She also enjoys administration, always looking for ways to improve and keep a school running smoothly and productively.
Janet says she loves seeing God lead the staff at Hope to minister, train, and educate the students to realize their full potential. “The students are foremost in my heart,” she claims. “My goal is to constantly pursue ways to ensure that Hope Christian Middle School excels both academically and spiritually. My door is always open to both parents and students. I have always enjoyed education; it is truly a passion.”
While this is her first year teaching her own class at Hope Christian School, Dena Lynn Arrighetti has been a substitute for the past two years and was very involved with PSF. She has a very supportive husband, Keith, and three boys who all attend Hope. She grew up in Phoenix, AZ, and San Diego, CA.
Mrs. Arrighetti graduated from New Mexico State University in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and has over seven years of teaching experience. However, being a mom has given her new perspective and prepared her the most for her current role of 3rd grade teacher. She loved English as a child but has found she enjoys teaching Math the most. Mrs. Arrighetti's philosophy for teaching is: "Love what you do! Do it with a passion! If done right, the love for learning and teaching should be contagious."
"I feel BLESSED -- blessed to be at Hope, blessed to have such a wonderful family, class, group of parents, and supportive co-workers," says Mrs. Arrighetti, "but above all, I feel blessed to be able to worship our Lord and Maker freely, every day, throughout the day!"
Mrs. Breeden is a 3rd Grade teacher at Hope. Midway through last year, she started at Hope in the Pre-K 4 class. This is her fifth year of teaching after 10 years of time off to be with her children. She grew up in LaVerne, California (southern CA), graduated from Azusa Pacific University and received her teaching certificate from Cal Poly Pomona in California.
"I believe that each child can be successful," says Mrs. Breeden, "and my goal is to teach so that every student reaches his or her full potential." She uses many teaching styles, so she can teach to all the different learning styles. Mrs. Breeden enjoys all subjects, but her favorite subject to teach is Language Arts, Reading & Writing. She believes in trying to stay organized and to be in PRAYER!
Mrs. Breeden and her family moved to Albuquerque about a year-and-a-half ago and feel so blessed that God led them to Hope Christian School. Both daughters attend Hope - Bailey is in 5th grade and Rebecca is in 2nd grade. Her husband, Rick, is the President for the New Mexico Baptist Foundation. They just celebrated their fifteenth year of marriage!
Mrs. Eidem is one of the new faces at Hope, as this is her first year teaching at our pre-school. She previously taught 6 years in the Rio Rancho Public School System. When Mrs. Eidem was pregnant with her first child, her husband was able to start a business which provided blue prints for residential houses. This allowed her to stay home with their daughter. Now that their daughter is in Kindergarten here at Hope, she has returned to the classroom.
Mrs. Eidem believes that a teacher's job is to instill the love of learning in all children. She believes that all subjects are important and enjoys teaching them all; however, her passion is science. She loves to explore the world that God has created for us. She enjoys creating hands-on activities to help the students use all five of their senses to learn the concept.
When Mrs. Eidem is not teaching in the classroom, she is dedicated to the Preschool Ministry at Sagebrush Community Church. She started in the two-year old room, but had an opportunity to teach in the 3, 4 & 5 year old room. She is thankful for the love and support of her husband, 14 year old step-daughter, five year old daughter and God. Without them, none of this would be possible.
Mrs. Fillmore was born and raised in southern Wisconsin. She had five brothers and sisters. Her parents loved the Lord and diligently taught their children the Word of God. She met Dennis, her husband of 30 years, in Kansas City where she was a teacher and he was in dental school. They have three grown children, one who is about to make her a grandma!
Staying home while the kids were growing up was important to Mrs. Fillmore. However, when she enrolled her kids at Hope Christian School, she restarted her teaching career. She has taught most elementary grades and enjoys all of the subjects, but likes to include creative writing, poetry and art throughout the week. You can find Mrs. Fillmore doing a variety of other activities, too, such as hiking, camping, knitting, quilting and having tea parties.
God has truly used her many talents to touch the lives of kids for many years. Her dedication to instilling Christian values into her students can probably best be summed up by her life verse: ". . . be steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." 1 Corinthians 15:58.
Denise Framel has worked for Hope Christian School for seven years. She spent one year as a kindergarten aide, but loves how she can impact the whole school in the office! Her goal is to help the students with whatever needs they have, and keep their parents informed when necessary. She also helps the teachers and principals with administrative duties.
One of her favorite aspects of her job is working with the students that need her assistance. "For example," she laughs, "it sounds creepy, but I enjoy pulling splinters! The wood chips on the playground have made me very popular!" We appreciate Denise's willingness to help and the cheerful satisfaction she gets from her work!
Shirley Gray is a main cog in the wheel of Hope's elementary campus. As Elementary Secretary, she has a host of responsibilities, but she loves being able to help the principals, teachers, staff, parents and students. "I want to be sure the staff have what they need so they can concentrate on teaching your kids," she explains.
As a student at Hope, Shirley learned a lot about serving Christ and the sacrifices made to have a Christian school. "I will always remember Mr. Ehlert caring for the teachers and their families," she muses. "Our building was so small. We would have classes outside or in a bus, but it was fun!" Her husband Kent and daughter Natasha also graduated from Hope - Breanna is a senior this year. Shirley prays daily for our school and the families represented. She uses Colossians 3:1-2a: "Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, ... Let heaven fill your thoughts."
Mrs. Harjes has been teaching at HCS for the last 10 years of a 13 year teaching career. She has taught 3rd, 4th, and 6th grades and Title I math. Her favorite subject is math, but she seems to make all the subjects interesting and fun for her students.
She works hard to make her classroom a positive, creative place of learning. "I try to be patient and flexible when working with the children," she says. "I try to mix things up and pull in various activities to enhance learning."
You can often find Mrs. Harjes interacting with kids as well as parents on campus. Her joyful smile is infectious, her caring spirit apparent. "I want to have fun and I want the children to have fun as well," she says with a smile. Don't let that fool you - she is a super teacher that helps her students learn more than just academics for the next grades; she also teaches them skills for their futures as Christian learners and servants.
closeRhonda Jones - Elementary Principal (Aug. '08)
Rhonda Jones knows Hope Christian School – she has been at the school for 23 years! She says she has worked her way up – first teaching Kindergarten, then 2nd grade, then 4th grade – before being named Assistant Principal two years ago. This year she’s on her own as Principal of Hope’s Elementary Campus. This varied experience makes her imminently qualified for the job, not to mention her love for the kids. She claims “loving the students” is the easiest part of her job; the behind-the-scenes paperwork is proving to be the most challenging.
Mrs. Jones has one son, a 2007 graduate of Hope. She says, “I always wanted to be a teacher – even as a little girl. I used to line up my dolls for school!” She is currently working on a Masters in Education Administration, demonstrating her commitment to excellence.
