Early Childhood

PRE-SCHOOL 
Ellyn Eggleston
[email protected]
Bio →
I am so grateful to be a part of the Crosshill community! The Lord led my husband and I to Crosshill when my oldest was entering Preschool and we were instantly drawn to the teachers, environment, and focus on Jesus and discipleship. 

Since a young age I have loved working with kids. In 2010, I graduated from George Fox University with my degree in Elementary Education. I began working as a preschool teacher right out of school and, during this time, also attained my Reading Endorsement. After we had our first child, I was blessed to spend the next 11 years as a stay-at-home mom to our 4 children. The 24-25 school year was my first year working at Crosshill as a substitute teacher and it was a great experience. What a privilege to get to help children grow in so many ways, while also pointing them to Jesus every day! 

My husband and I have been married for 15 years and all of our children attend Crosshill. We have been very blessed to be a part of the Crosshill community for so many years! In my free time I love spending time with family, gardening, playing board games, organizing, and cooking. 
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PRE-K
Ashley Pritchett
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Bio →
I am thrilled to be a part of the Crosshill team! I was born and raised in Oregon. When I was 17 my family moved to Illinois which is where I met my husband. We have been married since 2009. We have two children, Sophia and Lincoln. We moved back to Oregon in 2015 and love this beautiful state! 
We attend Outward Church where my husband helps lead worship. We have been a part of the Crosshill community since my daughter started preschool in 2016. I enjoy camping, baking, worship music, and time with friends and family, and have recently become an indoor plant enthusiast. 
God has given me a love and passion for children. I have served in children’s ministry for years, and I am excited to bring that experience to the Crosshill community. I love that discipleship is a top priority at Crosshill and look forward to being a part of a discipling environment.
KINDERGARTEN & AIDE
Karen Lytle
klytle@crosshillchristian.com
Bio →
Our family has had the privilege of being part of the CCS community since 2014.  I love leading kindergarten in worship and helping them learn and grow.  I attended George Fox University and got my Bachelor's degree and met my husband, Bret, in a doubles tennis match with friends.  We both still love each other and sports to this day! We were married right out of college and have 3 amazing boys.  I led worship at Gateway Foursquare for 7 years and still attend and lead worship there from time to time.  We fell in love with Crosshill after coming to the Open House.  When we heard the school's mission of discipleship, we were sold immediately!  I love to see that our mission is still constantly upheld and improved upon.  I am constantly humbled and grateful for God's good and perfect gifts in my life, including Crosshill Christian!  
AIDE
Sarah Taylor
​[email protected]
Bio →
I am so blessed to be a part of the Crosshill Christian School team. I love working with the Early Education Department! We have an amazing group that encourages each other daily. I’ve felt like the Lord has given me the ability to connect with little ones, and they bless me in return! Before working here I stayed at home with my 2 daughters, Emma & Claire. My girls love CCS so much, we’ve been a part of the CCS community since 2017! I look forward to serving the teachers and students in whatever way is necessary to help aid in their education and love of Jesus Christ. 
AIDE
Heather McNeal
​ [email protected] 
Bio →
 I am excited and grateful to be part of the Crosshill team. My family has been apart of the Crosshill community since 2018 when my daughter started kindergarten and before coming on as an aide. I have loved being able to volunteer in my kid's classrooms. I have always loved working with kids since I was younger helping my mom with her home daycare and seeing her shine Jesus to the kids and parents. That is one thing I have always loved about Crosshill also is how they continually show these kids how it is to walk with Jesus daily. I am looking forward to being apart of that in the classrooms. 
      These days in my free time I love spending time with my family and friends. Also Calvary Chapel Salem is our home church and we enjoy being very involved there in different ways God leads us.
PRE-SCHOOL & PRE-K
Sally Metgzer
smetzger@crosshillchristian.com
Bio →
It has been an honor to be part of the Crosshill community for many years. I can say with confidence (and due to experience) that there is no place like home! I'm thrilled to be teaching and working alongside this amazing team.

I've always loved working with kids of all ages, and find humor and joy in their various stages of development. I learn SO much every year I work with young students. I wish I would remember to keep a journal of the hilarious things they say - it would be a top seller! They keep me on my toes and keep me humble! I recently decided to become what I like to refer to as "pro-aging" and let my gray hair grow out... a precious 5-year-old told me this when he first saw me, "Wow, Ms. Metzger! You look SO much older than the last time I saw you!" And a 4th-grade student said, "You look older than my mom now, and she's 58!" ... hahaha! Kids say the darndest things.

I love baking, sewing, drinking coffee, studying the Bible and Apologetics, hanging out with my 3 sweet kids Sailor, Jude & Finley, snuggling with our puppy, and dreaming of being an author and/or owning a Bed & Breakfast someday. I've been teaching & aiding in Preschool/Kindergarten for 6+ years now and think it's the best job ever. I've always loved people, connecting with them, encouraging & uplifting them, and seeing the Lord move in the messy, challenging lives we lead here on Earth. I believe the Lord has an incredible story of redemption for each and every one of us if we will submit our lives to Him. I am living proof of this, my friends! 
KINDERGARTEN
Candace Lute
[email protected]
Bio →
In the winter of 2011, my husband Tyler and I were searching for a private school to send our incoming kindergartener to for one year. We visited Crosshill’s Open House night and we knew we had found our son’s school for his first year!  Our plan was to attend for one year because we couldn’t afford for all three of our boys to attend on one income.  Thankfully, God’s plans were much bigger!  My husband got involved in the basketball program that year, providing little by little for us to keep our three boys in school.  Four years later, I took the job as kindergarten teacher at Crosshill and the rest is history! Every day I have the privilege of pointing little hearts to Jesus!  I am so thankful to be a part of the Crosshill community as both a mom and teacher.  God has blessed me with such amazing relationships here that I wouldn’t have known otherwise.  

​I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education in 2003 from George Fox University, and my Master’s Degree in Education from Walden University in 2010.  I currently hold a Professional Teaching Licence in the state of Oregon.
KINDERGARTEN
Ashlee Breivogel
[email protected]
Bio →
Hi there, I’m Mrs. B, and I am so excited to work with your kiddos this year! One of the many reasons I love Crosshill is our emphasis on discipleship and caring for students’ hearts.  Over and over again in scripture, we see the Lord’s passionate pursuit of people’s hearts, and I feel so blessed to be a part of a team that is committed to doing the same for His kingdom.

I have almost fifteen years of experience working with kids through teaching and camp ministry. My husband John and I met at Canyonview Camp in Silverton where we both shared a love for God and teaching kids about Him and His word.

Some things I love include being outside (preferably tent camping), reading, knitting, cross-stitching, and playing guitar, piano, and ukulele.  My favorite subjects to teach are art and music so I can’t wait to get messy and sing praises with your kids!
AIDE
​Esther Preston
​[email protected]
Bio →
I feel so blessed to be a part of Crosshill Christian School! I started as a substitute in November of 2022, and finished out the school year teaching KEP. I greatly appreciate the sweet and welcoming Christian
spirit of the staff at Crosshill.

I was born and raised in Oregon and have lived in Salem since 1984. My husband and I have four grown married daughters and ten grandchildren. My favorite thing to do in my free time is spend time with my grandchildren! I also enjoy studying the Bible, hiking, and gardening. My husband and I attend Salem Baptist Church and are involved in teaching in the Junior Church Ministry.

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Education at Joshua Baptist Bible Institute in 2019.

I have loved working with children pretty much my whole life, as a parent, daycare provider, Sunday
School teacher, and as a Christian school teacher since 2002. Children are such a blessing from God, and it is my desire that I would be a good influence in their lives for God. Discipling them to put their trust in Jesus and to make wise, Biblical choices.

Elementary

1ST GRADE
Erin Christensen
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Bio →
My husband and I have been married since 1999. We have four kids, two girls and two boys with thirteen years between the oldest and youngest. We attend First Baptist Church of Salem.
For as long as I can remember, my passion has been for children and families. After college at George Fox University, this passion led me to social work of various kinds. My desire was to make a lasting and positive impact on the families I served. When my husband and I had our first child, that passion naturally shifted to our own children. Then, when it was time for school, we discerned that the wise choice was to become a part of the Crosshill community. We were thrilled that a school would partner with us in raising our children in godliness and grace. We now have three children who attend Crosshill and one who will make her debut in a couple years. 
It brings me great joy to come alongside so many parents as they disciple their children. With ACSI certification, I continue to learn new and excellent ways to implement discipleship in the classroom that not only benefits my students, but also their families. I am so blessed to be able to live out my passion for children and families at home as well as at work!
1ST GRADE
Jessica Peterkin 
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Bio →
My husband and I have been married since December 2023, and just this past year moved to the Salem area.  Between us, we have five wonderful girls, ages 13-17.  We attend Outward Christian Church in Salem.
For most of my adult life, I have worked in a school setting, starting when my oldest entered Kindergarten.  In 2018 I finished getting my teaching degree from Bushnell University, and God blessed me with a wonderful job teaching at my children's school. In 2023 I had a shift in my life meeting my husband and God opened another door here at Crosshill.  I love being able to share the word of God and all of His goodness daily with students.  Having a community that shares in the love of Christ, and being able to disciple children beyond my own has been such a blessing.  I continue to grow and learn ways to grow in my faith, as well as grow that faith in my classroom.  I am blessed to be able to have a wonderful loving family at Crosshill that I can be a part of every day. 
2ND GRADE
Christen Bowdoin
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Bio →
I have always loved learning and being in the classroom. From an early age, I knew I wanted to work in a school. I grew up in Anchorage, Alaska, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Alaska Anchorage. During college, I was actively involved in the Campus Crusade for Christ ministry, which deepened my faith and passion for serving others.

After finishing my undergraduate program, I moved to Oregon and attended Willamette University, where I earned a Master of Arts in Teaching. I then taught 3rd grade for seven years in the Salem-Keizer Public Schools. When my son and daughter were born, I had the privilege of being a stay-at-home mom for seven years. During that time, I also served in the children's ministry at my church, where I found great joy in sharing the gospel with students each week.

In 2019, my children began attending Crosshill's preschool. Every time I walked through the halls to drop them off, I was filled with joy as I witnessed discipleship in action. As I sought God's guidance for the next chapter in my career, He led me to apply for a teaching position at Crosshill. I'm so thankful to now be teaching and discipling students here!
3RD GRADE
Macy Spaulding​[email protected]
Bio →
​My time at Crosshill began when I was only 5 years old. When I was in kindergarten, I remember writing down that I wanted to be a teacher when I grew up. I would have never guessed that I’d be fulfilling that dream in the very same place it began. I graduated from Crosshill in 2019 after attending the school since kindergarten. I then attended Corban University and graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 2023.

While Crosshill is not where I expected to be, I know I am right where God wants me. Crosshill has impacted my life in more ways than I can count. The community and relationships that come out of Crosshill are long lasting. I am still connected with many people who I went to school with, and they are some of my most treasured friendships. I was blessed with teachers who were invested deeply in not only my education, but in my walk with Jesus. I am so excited to continue to be a part of the community and be a part of discipling students in the same place I was discipled.
3RD GRADE
Michelle Saffeels
[email protected]
Bio →
From the time that I was young, I've had a passion for working with young kids and knew that someday I wanted to be a teacher. I met my husband, Tim, at Corban University, where we both graduated with education degrees. Right out of college, I was blessed to teach for 4 years at a  private school here in Salem and loved those years of discipling and working with students within the private school setting.  In 2012, the Lord transitioned us into full time ministry with students at our home church, Salem Heights Church, where we continue to serve in full-time ministry with students and families.  I was also blessed to spend the last 11 years as a stay-at-home mom with our 4 amazing kiddos, Nora, Toby, Lewis and Sadie.  When our kids began attending Crosshill in the fall of 2021, I felt a draw to someday teach at Crosshill and we are so thankful for the way the Lord has opened the door for me to be able to do that!  I have seen the impact that Crosshill has had in my own kids' lives of not just giving them a solid education, but more importantly discipling their hearts and growing them in their love for the Lord.  I am thrilled to partner in this mission as a teacher and feel so humbled to walk alongside Crosshill students and point them to Jesus everyday in my classroom.
4TH GRADE 
Julie Dripps
jdripps@crosshillchristian.com
Bio →
My story as a teacher begins with an amazing role model, my mother. She faithfully served God as  a Christian School teacher for about 25 years, and I followed in her footsteps. I graduated from LIFE Pacific College in 1999, and began teaching that fall. I followed God’s call on my life.  For the next 7 years, I taught 3rd or 4th grade.  I stopped teaching when my first daughter, Victoria, was born. She came into this world with a genetic disability that causes her to fight daily emotional and physical battles; in God’s strength she has become Victorious!
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Just after Hannah was born, I received an opportunity to join a church plant in Keizer as a children’s ministry director. So we moved from Southern California to Oregon. Later, I was introduced to Crosshill Christian School through a service at Church on the Hill. I knew deep in my heart that God was calling me to this school. When my youngest, Abigail, was ready for kindergarten, God opened a place for me here.  He is always so faithful to guide and direct our life as we listen to His calling. Being a teacher is truly one of my greatest joys, and I am beyond thankful God has given me the opportunity to teach at Crosshill.
​5TH GRADE 
Jessica Harvey 
​[email protected]​​
Bio →
I grew up in Culver, Oregon and graduated from Western Oregon University with a degree in Physical Education in 2006. My passion has always been in the world of kids, sports and movement and I couldn't wait to get started! I began my career teaching PE and coaching athletics at McKay high school and truly cherished my years there!

I married my husband, Chad in 2005 and we have three amazing daughters- Emma, Brynn and Mae who all attend Crosshill. When we are not here on campus, you can typically find us on the soccer fields or the local pizza place that we are part owners of. 

Teaching fifth grade at Crosshill has been an absolute gift from God. After so many years in the public education world, it has been so much fun being able to integrate my faith into education. I will never get tired of talking about God's infinite creativity when it comes to Science, His grace when it comes to mistakes or praying with students on the playground. ​
​6TH GRADE + BAND
Brian Stuck
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Bio →
God's way of creating a calling on one's life, to love Him, serve Him, and share the gospel with others, is quite the adventure!  The opportunities that Crosshill offers teachers, families, and students to grow in discipleship and ministry opportunities while knowing Christ more, is an ultimate opportunity!
God called me to Crosshill after earning a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies 1997 and a M.A.T. in Teaching in 1998 from George Fox University, holding licensure from the state of Oregon.  Currently, I am blessed to teach 6th graders, orchestrate the instrumental band program, and coach varsity soccer at Crosshill.  
It is a thrill to work along with my wife, Megan, and have my two children attend Crosshill!  Outside of school, my family enjoys hiking, camping, kayaking, and soccer!  God wired teaching into my DNA and seeing people discover Christ is the greatest adventure!
6TH GRADE
Tod Scheler
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Bio →
I am an Oregon native and grew up in the Umpqua valley near Roseburg. I competed on Roseburg's wrestling and football teams at Roseburg High School. It was during my high school years that I became a follower of Jesus Christ. I attended Western Oregon University pursuing a bachelor's degree. I also pursued the person who would later become my wife - Karla. We married in 1984 after receiving my Bachelor's degree in education. After our wedding, I attended Multnomah Biblical Seminary and received a Master of Sacred Ministry degree. For the next eleven years I was a youth pastor in Washington and California. During my time as a youth pastor, Karla and I were blessed to have three children Dawn, Kyle and Anna. While in California, I earned the Master of Divinity degree at Azusa Pacific University. In the fall of 1999 I  was hired at Willamette Christian School which is now called Crosshill. My wife and I live in Keizer and currently have six grandchildren.
AIDE
Rachel Coleman
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Bio →
I grew up in a wonderful Christian home and am blessed with parents who showed us how to love and live for Jesus. As a young teenager, I started being involved in children’s ministry and have always had a burden for children and missions. After graduating high school, I served on a youth mission trip in Guatemala and spent the following summer in the Netherlands with a mission family. After returning home, I went to nursing school and spent the next few years traveling and working as a RN.

I met my husband while working at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in 2004. We married in 2005 and now have four beautiful children. We moved back to the Salem area in 2022. After homeschooling and serving as a substitute teacher, aide, and nurse in our previous homeschool hybrid program for several years in Missouri, we prayed about where and how to continue our children’s education in Oregon. 

In 2024 God led us to Crosshill and our family has been immensely blessed by the teachers and leadership here. We were drawn to the school’s discipleship mission and how it is literally the driving force behind every decision made. I’m so thankful for the opportunity God has given me to love, serve, and connect with the precious students here at Crosshill while still being able to stay deeply involved in my own children’s lives at school as well as at home!
P.E.
Tim Warnock
twarnock@crosshillchristian.com​​
Bio →
I attended Concordia University Irvine where I competed in Swimming and Water Polo. At an early age I fell in love with sports and feel called to have a positive influence on students through sport. My wife and I are currently Pastors on staff at Free Church in South Salem where we spend our time discipling students from middle school to college. I am passionate about seeing students succeed mentally, physically, and spiritually.
AIDE
Tiffany Trull
[email protected]
Bio →
I’ve been a part of the Crosshill Christian School family since 2000 when my husband and I enrolled our son in Kindergarten. Later our daughters joined the Crosshill family when they began school. All three children are now alumni. I couldn’t stand the thought of leaving this amazing place and began working as a Teacher’s Aid in First Grade during the Fall of 2018. My degree is in Psychology from Corban University. I serve with my husband at Valley Baptist- Perrydale where he’s been the pastor since 1991. Crosshill has given me the opportunity to build into other children the love of Christ and point them toward success.
ELEMENTARY CHAPEL DIRECTOR
Jessica Meyer
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Bio →
I have been a Christ follower since childhood  and have loved music as long as I can remember. I began both leading worship and teaching music in 2012, and graduated from Corban University in 2015. Following college graduation I taught various music and arts classes and led worship at CCS until I pivoted my ministry home for a few years when my first child was born. I returned to CCS in the fall of 2025.
​My husband and I got married in 2019 and have two beautiful, energetic children. We love camping, exploring new places, and traveling anywhere that there is a body of water to play in. In addition to my roles at home and CCS, I also lead worship at a church in Keizer. Teaching young minds and leading them in worship to our Savior is both a joy and a privilege. I love the CCS mission of discipleship and am honored to be a part of it! 
2ND GRADE
Amber Davis
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Bio →
For almost as long as I can remember, I have had a desire to become a teacher. Christ instilled a passion for learning and exploring within me at a young age, and I am so glad that I can now help other young learners develop this same love for knowledge and wisdom.

​My parents are both amazing educators and have also really inspired me throughout my own educational journey and teaching pursuits. I grew up here in the Willamette Valley and attended Stayton High School. I then graduated from Corban University in 2024 with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and am currently working towards my master's in education there as well. This last year, I taught kindergarten at another local Christian school and was then blessed with an opportunity to start a new journey here at Crosshill, teaching 2nd grade. I am extremely excited to be a part of such a wonderful team and community, and I truly look forward to getting to know everyone throughout this next year. I am thrilled to be able to help train and disciple students to be salt and light in the world as they grow in their faith and walk with Christ.
3RD GRADE
Heather Lima
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Bio →
I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. I come from a long line of pastors and teachers and spent my childhood in a pastor’s home in Oregon filled with books and lively discussions. I received my degree and teaching credential from The Master’s University in California in 2007 and have taught for six years in public and private elementary schools in California as well as an international Christian school in Africa. My husband Quincy and I were married in 2011 and I put a pause on teaching to establish our family when we moved to North Carolina. After our children Caedmon, Parker, and Joselyn were born, the Lord brought us back to the West Coast in 2020 to put down roots here in Salem. Our son Caedmon began attending Crosshill in Kindergarten that fall and we quickly came to understand what a treasure this community is. 

All my years of teaching have been full of the challenge and excitement that comes from lighting the fire of learning, but teaching in a Christian school environment is the absolute pinnacle for me.  I can’t think of anything more joyful than pointing kids to our Creator as we explore the wonders of His Word and His world together.  I have prayed about when the Lord would have me back in the classroom, and I am delighted that He’s given me the gift of being able to teach at my favorite school!
4TH GRADE
Jami Hinderks
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Bio →
My husband, Jay and I got married in 2009. We have three kids, all who attend Crosshill. I graduated from Corban University in 2005 and began teaching at CCS that fall. After teaching for 5 years, I was able to take seven years off to raise children. During my seven years at home, I subbed for Crosshill and continued to be connected to the staff and families in that format as well as complete my Master’s Degree.  I returned to Crosshill in 2016 and began teaching part time in fourth grade.  My family attends Bethany Baptist Church where I have always been very involved in ministry and have been the children’s ministry director for over nine years.  I love Jesus and I love that I get to talk about Jesus with my students, pray over them daily, and invest in their hearts as I help show them Christ.
5TH GRADE 
Esther Kruse
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Bio →
As a child, when I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was always the same: A teacher! The Lord placed a desire and love for teaching very early in my life. I was born and raised in Seattle, Washington in a family who so beautifully modeled what it looked like to love and follow Jesus. I attended Corban University and majored in Elementary Education with a minor in Biblical Studies. The Lord called me to private Christian education and I have been teaching in Christian schools in the Salem area for over a decade. 
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My husband and I met while attending Corban and serving together at church. We did middle and high school ministry together for many years. Working with and discipling youth is what we are passionate about! Together, we have three sweet boys: Grayson, Easton, and Lincoln. We love going on outdoor adventures together and being out in nature. We are truly blessed that the Lord led us here and are excited for what He brings in the years ahead!
5TH GRADE
Roxanne Bennett
​[email protected]
Bio →
I graduated from George Fox University in 2007 with a degree in Elementary Education. From there, I spent 6 years teaching 4th grade in a public charter school in town. 

In 2008, my husband Josh and I got married. We are both graduates of a local private high school, so you could say that private education has been a life-long passion for us. Our family includes our daughter, 2 sons, 1 dog, and a couple of cats. Our kids have been students at Crosshill since 2014 when my oldest started in the pre-3 classroom. They have attended Crosshill every year since then with the exception of a couple of years that I refer to as “the homeschool experiment.” 

I taught 4th grade until 2013 when I had my 2nd child. At that time, I made the choice to stay home with my kids. During this season, I have been involved with children’s ministry, substitute teaching, and coaching volleyball. I also really enjoy cooking, gardening and reading.

I  am so excited for this season that God has called me back into a classroom! Even though I never strayed far from working with kids, it will be so much fun to be part of an official classroom once again. 
6TH GRADE
Mandy Hemelstrand
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Bio →
I graduated from Western Oregon University in 2003 and was blessed to spend the next 15 years as a stay-at-home mom to 5 children. It was during this time that the Lord led my husband and me to Crosshill Christian School, as we searched for a Kindergarten for our oldest daughter.  Our family was instantly drawn to the community and discipleship that Crosshill Christian school provides. My passion for education started through volunteering in my children’s classrooms. I knew at that point that I wanted to be in education and that lead me to seek out a teaching position at Crosshill. I love being a part of my student’s academic growth and feel privileged to have the ability to teach them about Jesus and pray for them. My family has been blessed by Crosshill’s mission of discipleship. I love being part of such a unique community where my family and I can be both challenged and fulfilled academically and spiritually.
6TH GRADE
Molly Nemecek
[email protected]
Bio →
I’m so grateful to be a part of the Crosshill community! My journey in teaching began in 2001 with a degree in elementary education from Western Oregon. Being a teacher was the only career I’d ever dreamed of and stepping into that role did not disappoint.  What a privilege it is to get to love on students and be a part of their growing, changing lives and minds.  I took a step back when I became a mom to four incredible kiddos, but my heart for teaching never stopped beating. I spent countless hours volunteering in their classrooms, helping with parent clubs, serving in high school ministry, and eventually came back to teaching part-time right here at Crosshill. I get to teach 6th grade Language Arts, but equally importantly, I get to love on some pretty cool kids and we have a ton of fun! 
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Born and raised right here in Salem, Oregon, I married my high school sweetheart in 1999. When I’m not at Crosshill, I get to help my husband with our family business and we continue to stay active with our kids’ ever-changing seasons.  We love living out our faith in the community God has us, watching football, and eating and making good food to feed the masses.  
ART
Katie Shaw
[email protected]
Bio →
When I drove our daughters’ to school on their first day at Crosshill, Indie entering third grade and Finley entering first, I instantly fell in love with how the school and staff radiated the joy and love of Jesus.  I graduated from OSU with my Masters in Early Childhood Development in 2005.  From there I began to work as a Pre-K teacher at a local preschool for the next 15 years, where I focused on art and learning the passion of teaching.  I also met my husband, Casey, started a photography business, got our chocolate lab, and had our two gorgeous girls.  In 2020 God decided to mix everything up.  His timing and plan were humorous and unexpected.  He took all of my passions and joys and brought me to Crosshill, the school that I instantly fell in love with.  To connect our creative God and the inner desire to create in a child is one of my greatest passions.  I am blessed and beyond excited for what is to come.
MUSIC + CHOIR
Madelyn Alt
malt@crosshillchristian.com
Bio →
I grew up in the Salem/Keizer area, living everywhere from the tip top of Keizer to very South of Salem. My husband and I have been married since 2021, and we are both teachers! He is teaching freshman and sophomore English at Molalla HS. I love to travel, I have been to something like 17 odd countries for either vacation, education, or mission trips. My favorite way to serve the Church is through leading Worship! At Crosshill I teach Elementary Music, Secondary Choir, Secondary Theater, and help out with Orchestra. I am also the Fine Arts Director, meaning I get to support the Early Childhood Music, all Art Classes, Worship Team, all Bands, and our schoolś participation in the Amplified Fine Arts Festival. I love my job!

I have always felt at home in private Christian schools. I grew up attending a local private Christian school pre-k through 12th grade where I had my father in administration, and multiple family members as faculty. It’s really no surprise that God would lead me to teach and serve at an amazing school like Crosshill! I graduated from Corban University with a Bachelors of Science in Music Education, and after doing multiple internships teaching and observing at four other schools, I can say that Crosshill is different. It is set-apart in all the right ways, even compared to other private schools. It’s all because of their discipleship-focused model. I am over-the-moon excited to make music with these students and help them grow as disciples who worship and “Sing to the Lord."
AIDE
Angela Clark  
[email protected]​
Bio →
I’m so thankful to be part of the Crosshill family! After marrying my husband in August 2022, we felt led to begin a new chapter together in Salem, arriving here in spring 2024. I’m a proud mom of two grown children and a joyful grandma to four sweet grandgirls. My passion for education has guided me through a 25-year career as a librarian, serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade. Living in Oregon and continuing my work in education has always been a dream—and I feel truly blessed to be living it now.
MUSIC, AIDE, & AFTER SCHOOL CARE
Emily Casterline
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Bio →
I grew up in Molalla, OR, and participated in sports, drama, piano lessons, and church choir. At the age of 16, I moved to China for 5 years and enjoyed learning the language, culture, and spreading the love of Jesus by words and actions. Through that time, God gave me friends from the local and international churches. There, I finished high school, a year of language school, and my Associate's degree from Manna University’s online program. I fell in love with teaching my ESL students and knew it was God’s calling.
In the summer of 2022, I moved back, joined the community with Salem First Baptist, and finished my Bachelor’s of Intercultural Studies. In the spring of 2024, I was a TA for Capitol Christian Schools, and it was a blessing to work there. That summer, as I applied to different schools, God made my heart yearn to be with Crosshill.
The EC Music Teacher position was offered in the interview, and I became excited! God wanted me here!
I have loved every single second here, and the community is like family!
But the best thing is seeing the children grow in their love for music and their passion for Jesus!
Junior High / High School
​JH BIBLE
Brett Kelly
bkelly@crosshillchristian.com​
Bio →
I was born and raised in Nebraska, and then moved to Salem with my wife Mindy in 2013 to pursue a traditional ministry education at Corban University. After earning a BA in Ministry, I transitioned directly into working toward a Masters of Divinity. Living 25 years in the heartland of America meant Oregon was a bit of a culture shock, as was our first interactions with a private Christian school like Crosshill. These were both shocks that I have embraced wholeheartedly. I have always been impressed and inspired by Crosshill's mission and dedication to discipleship. I find it a great privilege to now be among the Crosshill Christian team and entrusted to imparting my love for the Scriptures to upcoming generations. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy playing with our daughter Winnie, strategy board games, woodworking, and the outdoors.
JH LANGUAGE ARTS
Jenna Gille
​jgille@crosshillchristian.com
Bio →
I grew up in Phoenix, Arizona and graduated from Arizona Christian University. Growing up my family was very involved in missions, and it was such a joy to know missionary teachers from around the world. I’ve taught for the last several years in Phoenix, Bend, and now Salem. During this time, I have primarily taught history and English in 3rd, 6th, and 9th grade classrooms. My love for teaching comes from my desire to helping students grow holistically. I’m so thankful to join Crosshill and know it’s such a gift to be at a Christian school where I can help teach and disciple students. I hope to help my students understand their immense value as image bearers of God and their purpose to live fully for Him. I’m excited to teach English in middle school this year! 
JH SCIENCE
Kristina Smith
​[email protected]
Bio →
My first taste of teaching was an intense summer with elementary aged children on a U.S. Air Force base in Japan. This began my journey of the Lord guiding me down a unique path of sharing my love of learning with others. 
My husband and I met at OSU and married the summer we graduated. I then completed my masters coursework at OSU while teaching Comm 111, went on to be an instructor at LBCC, then a Field Director for a gubernatorial campaign and finally a HR/Volunteer Ministries Director for a local church.
And then… the Lord blessed us with four precious children: Olivia, Josiah, Elijah and Hannah. I had the amazing gift of raising our children and being their homeschool teacher! I cherished the moments of sharing my faith in Jesus and teaching them from a Christian world view. Teaching middle school general science, physical science and botany in our co-ops sparked my love of science and led to my becoming a Master Gardener.
For the last three years, I have worked for the Salem/Keizer public school district while homeschooling. As a substitute teacher, I experienced all grades and subjects, but the majority of my time was spent teaching science and math at SSHS (where my husband has taught for over 20 years).
Being called to teach at CCS is such an amazing gift! I pray Jesus may be glorified as He uses me to help students understand His creation and grow in their walks with Him.
​HS HISTORY
Ben Northrop
bnorthrop@crosshillchristian.com​​
Bio →
I moved to Oregon from Marysville, Washington in 2014 to attend Corban University. While attending Corban, I majored in History, was a member of the Corban baseball team, participated in student life leadership, and best of all -- met my wife Gabby. We were married in the summer of 2019 and shortly after adopted our “fur-child,” Lola (an Australian Shepherd), since then, we have added Bruno our second Aussie, and have been blessed with our son Macleay as our family continues to grow.
​
After completing my undergraduate degree, I continued on to finish my graduate teaching license at Corban. During that season, I had the blessing of being the day camp supervisor at the Kroc Center before arriving at Crosshill. I love the opportunities that I have to teach and disciple students with Crosshill, and I am grateful to be a part of the Crosshill family.
HS MATH
Tammy Poush
[email protected]​
Bio →
I have a 4-year degree in mathematics from Corban University, plus a Master of Arts in Teaching degree from George Fox University. I started my teaching career at Christiansen Academy, a school for missionary kids in Rubio, Venezuela. I returned from Venezuela to marry Jeff in 1999 and got hired by Salem Keizer Public schools to teach math. After teaching in the public schools for 10 years, I moved to teaching in the Christian school setting, first at the preschool level and then back to middle school. I love math, however, I have also found joy in teaching some other subjects like STEAM which incorporates Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Jeff and I have three children, two boys and a girl. We also have three dogs, which leads to a full house! We attend and serve at Salem First Baptist Church in downtown Salem. In my free time, I enjoy baking, sewing, gardening, and reading Christian fiction.
HS BIBLE
Kim Cummings
[email protected]​
Bio →
It was Mr. Licht, my principal/Bible/history teacher at Calvary Baptist Christian Christian School, in Port Angeles, Washington, who introduced me to teaching. He gave me the opportunity to assist him in his junior high history class and recommended me as a tutor for the younger students. I saw then that I could positively impact the lives of others by sharing the things I loved.
 
One of the things I love deeply is the Word of God. I began teaching children’s church and Vacation Bible School as a high school student and have led Sunday School and Bible studies consistently since then. The opportunity came for me to finish the degree that I had started at Corban University (formerly known as Western Baptist College). I chose to get my degree in Biblical Studies from Multnomah University believing that God would open the door for more teaching opportunities. After working for 14 years in public education I am thrilled to be able to share my knowledge, experience, and passion for God’s Word and a deep spiritual life with the Crosshill community. Teaching here brings so much joy.
 My husband Chris and I have been married since 1992, and we currently attend Salem First Baptist. We have one daughter, Keely who is married to her husband Joshua. It has been such a blessing to watch them build their lives together. My husband and I enjoy live music, country drives, and finding new restaurants. When I have the opportunity I love doing puzzles, games, and crafting activities. I am also an avid reader and rarely ever turn down the chance for a walk in nature.
HS SCIENCE + ROBOTICS
Paul Zukowski
[email protected]
Bio →
I was born and raised in Salem, and attended NNU in Nampa, Idaho right after high school where I met my wife. After college we both relocated to the Phoenix area to be near her family and we were married in the fall of 2016. Since then we now have two children, Luke and Annabelle, who fill our lives with so much purpose and love. 
I started teaching middle school science in 2016 and fell in love with being an educator. In 2020 I transitioned to high school and taught physics and robotics, and that’s where I found the most impact with my students. My favorite part of science is seeing the beauty of creation and how it points to the genius and glory of God, and I’m so excited to get to show that to the young minds of Crosshill! 

I received a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from NNU in 2016, and I am currently enrolled in a Masters of Education program at Grand Canyon University.
HS LANGUAGE ARTS + YEARBOOK
Lauren Bernard
 [email protected]
Bio →
My husband, Jason, and I met in our freshman year of high school at a youth group winter retreat with Salem Heights Church; the church we still attend. We were married in 2008. I graduated from Corban University in 2009, with a degree in Language Arts education. The following year I also received endorsement in elementary education. I taught for a few years in Salem-Keizer School District as a full-time middle school language arts teacher. 

After having our first son, Blake, in 2012, I became a stay-at-home mom, and taught part-time through the Title I program at several local private schools. Two years later, we had our son, Easton. During this time, Jason and I had gotten certified through the State of Oregon to foster/adopt. In 2017, when we were 30-weeks pregnant with our daughter Ashlyn, we said yes to fostering a two-day old baby girl, Lily. After years of waiting for 'the call,' while the timing was crazy, it was God's perfect timing. The girls were born nine-weeks apart. After over two years of fostering, we were able to adopt Lily into our family. While this season of life was both extremely hard and sweet, it was a time that drew us all closer to God; leaning on Him, and trusting Him with the many unknowns. 

In 2021, we decided to homeschool our children. While we loved that season, we were continually praying for God to direct us in where we should be educationally as a family. In the spring of 2023, God opened a door for me to begin teaching at Crosshill. I have loved both the teaching and discipleship that takes place here at Crosshill. We love having all four of your kids attending school here, and being a part of this amazing community. 
​COMPUTER PROG./DIGITAL BRIDGE
Aaron Craig
acraig@crosshillchristian.com​
Bio →
I grew up fascinated by technology and the incredible minds that God had created in all of us. To be able to study a new subject and then convert that into creating something that I can be proud of is my biggest passion. I've lived around and in Salem my whole life, growing up in Aumsville and attending youth group for my teenage years. After graduating high school I joined the staff of my church's youth group, and for nearly 10 years I volunteered to do life with the middle and high schoolers, teaching Bible lessons, attending events, and building God's Kingdom.
I graduated with a Computer Science degree from Western Oregon, but my passion has always been teaching, which is why I'm so thrilled to join the CCS community. Both my kids attend and absolutely love the school, and I'm excited to help out in any way I can. My passion for technology and programming drive me to continue learning new things, building new creations, and sharing that with the world. I can't wait to see what we can build together!
​JH MATH
Erin Rowzee
erowzee@crosshillchristian.com​​
Bio →
I grew up in a great family with awesome parents who love Jesus. I pursued a music education degree at Western Baptist College, now Corban University.  A couple years into college, I decided to switch gears to elementary education with a minor in music. I've loved being a classroom teacher!  I stumbled into teaching middle school math at Albany Christian School and God grew in me a love for the subject and grade level. I hadn't known that middle schoolers could be so much fun!  Isn't it amazing how God directs our path in awesome ways we don't imagine? 
My husband and I met at Corban and married in 2000. We have two teen daughters and we are all active in ministry at Salem Heights Church. Our younger daughter is a high schooler at Crosshill.  We are amazed at all God has done for our family through our involvement at CCS!  After 19 years of subbing in Salem Keizer schools, with a few years of teaching at Albany Christian and several long term substitute jobs thrown in the mix, I'm excited to settle at Crosshill teaching secondary math. I hold a current Oregon k-12 teaching license. 
JH HISTORY
Rick Saffeels
rsaffeels@crosshillchristian.com
Bio →
What a journey! I'm really excited to teach middle school history at Crosshill Christian. It's a big deal for me, and I'm grateful for the chance to be part of the school's mission and story. 

My background began with graduating from Corban University and taking on the role of director at Canyonview Camp in September 2011. I went on to teach at Salem Academy and then in the Salem-Keizer public schools for 9 years, at Swegle Elementary, Candalaria, and Wright Elementary. I earned my Master's Degree in Education and Technology from Western Governors University in 2018 and became a small business owner in 2019, starting a social media consulting and marketing company to help local businesses in Salem, Oregon, and nationwide, which I am still directing at this time.

I love that God has called me to teach ages from birth to death and to have the opportunity to share the gospel to hundreds of people every year!
Teaching in public schools and working with Salem Academy Christian Schools has given me 12 years of teaching experience, and I'm thankful for the opportunities that God has continued to lead me to.

We prayed for years, hoping that our 4 kids would one day be able to attend here.  I enjoy learning and growing together with everyone, exploring new opportunities to contribute, and learning more about leadership, mission trips, and the community we are meant to serve. What a pleasure to join you all in exploring the history that God has written and how we can worship Him together.
HS MATH + 3D PRINTING
Kyle Katsinis
[email protected]​
Bio →
My aptitude in school was always in math and technology. After graduating from a Christian school, I ran straight down that path and began work on dual bachelor’s degrees in software and hardware engineering at Oregon Institute of Technology. On the way, I took a job as a tutor on campus and found life-giving energy in working with other students! Nothing I did in the lab even came close. I was thoroughly surprised to find that my calling was really in teaching, not technology. 
After graduation, I spent over 10 years teaching and tutoring in the Oregon community college system and earned a Master of Science degree in Mathematics from Emporia State University.  I live in Keizer, with my wife, Brittany, and our three kids. I’m also blessed to be a member of the music team at Northgate Wesleyan Church on vocals, guitar, and bass. In my spare time, I play board games, bicycle, 3d-print things (like bow ties), and do sudoku puzzles.
At the core of math is the art of asking and answering great questions. I’m particularly excited about exploring “When am I ever going to need math?” – ask me about it sometime.
HS LANGUAGE ARTS + THEATER
Bridgette Tedrow
[email protected]
Bio →
The day before I entered the Master of Arts in Teaching program at George Fox University in 2014, my husband and I prayed something along these lines: "Dear God, thank you for Bridgette's new adventure in grad school as she trains to become a teacher, and please bless her and send her wherever you want her to go. However, if it's all the same to You, we would really appreciate it if you would send her to a high-quality Christian school where we will also be able to send our two young children. But Your will be done, of course. Amen.”

​By the end of my grad school and student teaching journey, I had started to ask God if He was actually sending me into a public school teaching ministry, because I had become captivated by the messy beauty and deep unmet needs of my public school students. At the same time, however, my husband and I were very excited about sending our kids to this great Christian school called Crosshill. At the end of our family interview with Mr. K, he happened to mention that the school needed to hire a new English teacher. Even though I already had a job lined up at a Salem-Keizer public school, I instantly knew that God had just thrown a door wide open. "I have a resume in my car!" I told Mr. K excitedly, and I ran to fetch it for him. God took care of the rest, and He has blessed my family far beyond anything we could have hoped for by bringing us into the Crosshill community.
HS SCIENCE
Shelby Marshall
​[email protected]
Bio →
I enjoy teaching Biology and Anatomy at Crosshill, where my heart for education meets my heart for discipleship! The areas of cellular biology and genetics interest me the most, as I see the brilliant designs of God so beautifully there . 

I had wonderful believing parents and decided at a young age to follow Christ and that I wanted to be in ministry. As a teen and young adult, I started pursuing Biblical studies and volunteer positions in my church where I discovered a love for teaching and discipleship. I moved to Oregon in 2017 to attend Corban University.  After receiving my BA from Corban, I was a private tutor and a high school teacher in Spain.  

​My husband and I met at a ballroom dance studio here in Salem and still enjoy dancing regularly.  In my free time I enjoy reading, hiking, embroidery, tutoring with Salem For Refugees, and taking our dogs to the park. ​
HS BIBLE
Jim Langston
[email protected]
Bio →
My wife Lauren and I moved to Salem in 2017 to be closer to family, which has grown with marriages and grandchildren. God’s plan for me in that life change included beginning my journey at Crosshill as a HS teacher. That was the genesis of my classroom calling, where my love for discipling students began. It’s an amazing blessing to have the opportunity to support the development of their moral character, their pursuit of excellence in academics, and their embracing of a lifestyle of service to God and others. 
After a two-year hiatus from teaching, where Lauren and I ministered to people in need as certified Biblical Counselors, I’m excited to be returning to Crosshill in 2023. CCS allows me to apply my education (BS E & EE from CSU, Sacramento and an MA in Theological Studies from Liberty) and draw upon my personal sanctifying growth in Jesus to humbly impact the lives of our next generation of disciples and leaders.
HS SPANISH + STUDENT COUNCIL
Sara Phillips
[email protected]​​
Bio →
I joined the Crosshill community in 2012 as a parent and began teaching at Crosshill in 2016. I graduated from Oregon State University in 2004 with a B.A. and in 2006 with a M.A. in Spanish, Education, and Ethnic Studies. Go Beavers! I have a passion for the Spanish language and Spanish and Latin American culture and studied abroad in Spain. I've taught Spanish to all grade levels and love that moment when a student feels successful in language learning. God has blessed us with two kids, Johan and Corina, and one of my favorite things to do is watch them in sports and other activities. I also have a passion for being active and teach a dance workout class at the Courthouse Athletic Club. My husband and I enjoy backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and working on our hobby farm where we raise chickens, goats, and honeybees.
P.E.
Tim Warnock
twarnock@crosshillchristian.com​
Bio →
I attended Concordia University Irvine where I competed in Swimming and Water Polo. At an early age I fell in love with sports and feel called to have a positive influence on students through sport. My wife and I are currently Pastors on staff at Fellowship Church in South Salem where we spend our time discipling students from middle school to college. I am passionate about seeing students succeed mentally, physically, and spiritually.
HEALTH
​Lynette Hawkins
[email protected]
Bio →
Hello Crosshill Christian School community!  I am delighted to be serving as a Health teacher here at Crosshill Christian School. The 23-24 school year marked my first year at Crosshill, and I bring with me a BS degree in Public Health with an emphasis on Child and Adolescent Health.
As a parent, I am deeply committed to this school, with all three of my boys attending Crosshill Christian. Our family is also actively involved in our church community at Church on the Hill, which further strengthens our connection to this wonderful community.
I find immense joy in stepping into my kids' world every day, both at home and within the school environment. Being part of such a supportive and nurturing community like Crosshill is truly a blessing. I look forward to contributing to the growth and learning of all our students here at Crosshill Christian School.