Meet Our Team

Ben Hartman has been working at Valley Christian School since 2023 and is our JH/HS Assistant Principal and Guidance Counselor. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS:
"The opportunity to interact with and disciple the students every day”. 

Favorite Scripture:
Luke 8:23-24 “…and as they sailed he fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water and were in danger. And they went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm”. 

Where is Ben from? 
Ben was born in Readlyn, IA. Ben and his wife felt led to move to Missoula in 2023. 

Education and Certifications: 
Ben holds a Bachelors degree from the University of Dubuque, a Master of Science from the U.S. Naval War College, a Master of Arts from Joint Forces Staff College, a Montana educator license in History. Ben also holds an ACSI certificate in school counseling. 

Fun Facts about Ben:
Ben served in the Navy for 21 years as a naval flight officer and military planner before retiring. Ben and his wife Melanie have 7 children; 2 of their children they adopted from the Ukraine. Ben also enjoys outdoor activities and woodworking.    

Melisa Reimer has been working at Valley Christian School since 2013. Melisa was an elementary teacher before moving into her role as Elementary Assistant Principal in 2023. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS: 
"The One Voice Model that is unique to VCS". The One Voice Model is part of the VCS legacy - the same biblical principals taught at home, in church and at VCS. 

Favorite Scripture:
Deuteronomy 31:6. "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Where is Melisa from?
Melisa was born and raised in Missoula, MT. 

Education and Certifications: 
Melisa has a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education with a Minor in History and is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.   

Fun Facts about Melisa
Melisa and her husband both graduated from VCS. They have 3 boys who all attend VCS - her oldest son graduates in 2024. Melisa's favorite hobby is gardening. 

Emily Hawley joined the Valley Christian School team in 2023 and is our Admissions Director. 

What does Emily love about VCS? 
"That we are a school that is dedicated to pointing our students to know and love Jesus."

Favorite Scripture:
Emily loves “all the verses in Leviticus." 

Where is Emily from?
Emily was born and raised in Maryville, TN. Emily and her husband moved to Missoula, MT for her husband's job.   

Education and Certifications: 
Emily has a Bachelors degree in Social Work from Union University in Jackson, TN.

Fun Facts about Emily: 
Emily has “a wonderful husband, John, and 2 lively boys, Michael and Elias.” They love enjoying the warm summer months in Montana.  
 

Keaton joined the Valley Christian School team in 2002 and fills several roles at VCS. Keaton serves as our director of IT, facilities, custodial, transportation and rentals. 

What does Keaton love about VCS? 
"Impacting people and students for eternity."

Favorite Scripture:
Philipians 2:3-4. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

Where is Keaton from?
Keaton has lived in Missoula for most of his life.   

Education and Certifications:
Keaton holds an A+ certification in Information Technology, is a certified instructor in Safariland security and intruder alert defense and is certified by I Love You Guy's in standard response protocol.  

Fun Facts about Keaton: 
Keaton has four kiddos - two old enough to attend VCS. “They are my pride and joy”. Keaton is also a VCS alumni. 

Kari Fanguy joined the Valley Christian School team in 2021 and is one of our 3-year-old preschool teachers. 

What does Kari love about VCS? 
"Teaching little hearts how much they are loved by the Mighty Savior." 

Favorite Scripture:
Habakkuk 3:17-19. “Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places.

Where is Kari from?
Kari was born and raised in Starkville, MS. She moved to Missoula, MT for her husband's work.   

Education and Certifications:
Kari holds a double Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and Family Studies from Mississippi State University. Kari is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.      

Fun Facts about Kari: 
Kari has 5 children and she “adores them.” She loves reading - from picture books to historical fiction novels. She says “reading is a great way to learn.” All 5 of her children attend/have attended VCS - her oldest daughter graduated in 2023.    
 

Kira Miller joined the Valley Christian School team in 2015. Kira is one of our 4-year-old preschool teachers. 

What does Kira love about VCS? 
"Being able to share Bible truths with the kids." 

Favorite Scripture:
Matthew 22:37. “And he said to him, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind." 

Where is Kira from?
Kira was born in Red Bluff, CA but moved to Montana in her youth.   

Education and Certifications:
Kira holds Bachelor degrees in Forensics and Psychology. She is also certified in Early Education and is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.   

Fun Facts about Kira: 
Kira has 4 kids and says “my kids are all talented in their own ways.” Kira likes true crime and mysteries. Kira has studied law, medicine and education.   
 

Lindsay Aquilio has been working at Valley Christian School since 2022. Lindsay is one of our 4-year-old preschool teachers. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS: 
"I love teaching our students about the love of God"

Favorite Scripture:
John 15:9 "Abide in my love.”

Where is Lindsay from?
Lindsay and her family have lived in Missoula for 12 years, and they love every bit of it. Lindsay is originally from Bakersfield, CA. 

Education and Certifications: 
Lindsay has a Bachelors degree in Child Development from CSU Sacramento. She also carries an Early Childhood Credential, is a member of the American Montessori Society and is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.  

Fun Facts about Lindsay:
Lindsay enjoys spending time with her husband and four kids (16, 14, 10, 8) - they love the outdoors and watching movies together. Lindsay also loves to read, garden and bake. 

Michelle Ferrel has been working at Valley Christian School since 2018 and is one of our 3-year-old preschool teachers. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS:
"The students and getting to freely worship God every day”.

Favorite Scripture:
Luke 18:16 “But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these”.

What brought Michelle to Missoula, Montana? 
Michelle was raised in Thompson Falls and came to Missoula for school. 

Education and Certifications: 
Michelle has 10+ years experience running preschool ministries and is completing her dual Bachelor's degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education. Michelle is certified to teach preschool by the Association of Christian Schools International. 

Fun Facts about Michelle:
In her free time, Michelle loves to spend time with her husband and three kids and enjoys crafting as a hobby. 
 

Jennie Hamer has been working at Valley Christian School since 2021 and is one of our 1st grade teachers. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS: 
"Serving the Lord with fellow believers." 

Favorite Scripture:
Galatians 5:22-23. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”

Where is Jennie from? 
Jennie was born and raised in Bigfork, MT. She moved to Missoula to attend college. 

Education and Certifications: 
Jennie has a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education and is also certified to teach preschool. Jennie is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.    

Fun Facts about Jennie:
Jennie is married and has 3 grown children. She loves doing crafts and spending time with her family.  

Robin Knaff has been working at Valley Christian School on and off for over 30 years. She worked in our school office from 1994-1997,and taught through our (no longer available) online program from 1997-2006. She later returned as one of our 3rd grade teachers in 2021.  

Favorite thing about working at VCS:
"Watching the children form and grow in their relationship with Jesus". 

Favorite Scripture:
Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love;he will exult over you with loud singing". 

Where is Robin from? 
Robin was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. Robin and her husband Jim moved to Montana for Jim's job and so their older children could attend the University of Montana while living at home. 

Education and Certifications: 
Robin holds a Bachelors degree in Education from the University of Cincinnati, and Biblical Counseling and Biblical Studies Certificates from Beacon University. Robin is is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.   

Fun Facts about Robin:
Robin and her husband have 6 children, and 5 grandchildren (2 attend VCS). Robin loves gardening, reading and fishing. 

Heather Hunt joined the Valley Christian School team in 2021 and is one of our 3rd grade teachers.

What does Heather love about VCS? 
"Being able to teach God's Word as it relates to His creation and how His story is woven through every subject."

Favorite Scripture:
Heather loves Philippians 4:4-9. 

Where is Heather from?
Heather was born and raised in Lake Arrowhead, CA. Heather moved to Missoula, MT in 2005 to help church plant.   

Education and Certifications:
Heather holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Biola University in La Mirada, CA. Heather is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.  

Fun Facts about Heather: 
Heather has 2 kids and “loves being outdoors, hiking and gardening."    
 

Naomi Lorenz joined the Valley Christian School team in 2018 and is our 5th grade teacher. 

What does Naomi love about VCS? 
"The freedom to teach, disciple and be vocal about our faith in Christ." 

Favorite Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”.

Where is Naomi from?
Naomi is from Bozeman, MT but moved to Missoula to be closer to family.   

Education and Certifications:
Naomi holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.    

Fun Facts about Naomi: 
Naomi has 3 children who all attend/or have attended VCS. Her son graduated from VCS in 2023. Naomi loves “cool fall mornings, a book and a hot cup of coffee".      

Julie Wilson has been working at Valley Christian School since 2016 and is one of our 5th grade teachers. 

Jon Hawkins has been working at Valley Christian School since 1986. Jon is one of our 6th grade teachers. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS: 
"Being able to teach the Bible in every subject."

Favorite Scripture:
Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Where is Jon from?
Jon was born and raised in Walla Walla, WA and moved to Montana in 1986 to work at VCS. 

Education and Certifications: 
Jon has a bachelors degree in K-8 education, a master’s degree in educational leadership and is certified as a K-12 principal through the state of Montana and the Association for Christian Schools International.  

Fun FACTS about Jon: 
Jon has four wonderful children and loves hiking, sailing and unicycling. 

Tracy joined the Valley Christian School team in 2021 and teaches 7th and 8th grade.  

What does Tracy love about VCS? 
"The students. They grow so much in junior high and I love seeing their development and growth in their faith and academics."

Favorite Scripture:
2 Chronicles 7:14 “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land..”

Where is Tracy from?
Tracy and her family are from North Carolina. They moved here in 2016 for all that Montana has to offer. 

Education and Certifications:
Tracy holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in General Education and Special Education K-12 and is also certified by the Association of Christian Schools International.  

Fun Facts about Tracy: 
Tracy and her husband have five children - two have graduated from VCS and three still attend. Tracy loves to sew and bake. 

Cary Bell joined the Valley Christian School team in 2017 and is one of our Junior High teachers. 

What does Cary love about VCS? 
"The students and parents God brings me every year to disciple and build relationships with." 

Favorite Scripture:
Philippians 4:4-9. "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice… what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me - practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." 

Where is Cary from?
Cary was born and raised in McFarland, CA. She came to Missoula with her husband and 4 children to church plant in Bonner, Mt.  

Education and Certifications: 
Cary has a Bachelors degree in Deaf Studies with an emphasis in teaching from California State University Northridge. Cary also has her K-8 teaching credential and is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.   

Fun Facts about Cary:
“My family loves to backpack every summer…well, my husband and I love it, the kids are forced to come.” All four of Cary's children have attended VCS - 3 of them have graduated and her youngest is in JH. 
 

Kim joined the Valley Christian School team in 2022 and teaches 7th grade Bible and JH/HS English.   

What does Kim love about VCS? 
"The supportive staff and the relational and joyous students. Also, being able to incorporate the Bible into teaching and being able to talk about God."

Favorite Scripture:
Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” 

Where is Kim from?
Kim was born in New Jersey but, moved around quite a bit throughout her school years, ending up in Ohio where she attended college and met her husband of 30 years. She moved to Missoula in 2021 when the Lord called her husband to the lead pastor role at Christian Life Center. 

Education and Certifications:
Kim holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education - English from Southeastern College in Lakeland, FL. and is also certified by the Association of Christian Schools International.  

Fun Facts about Kim: 
Kim and her husband have two children, Rachel Martinez (VCS music teacher), and Brayden who will be a Senior at VCS. She has two dogs, loves shopping, watching design/home improvement shows and loves spending time with her family and new grand-dog puppy. 

Allison joined the Valley Christian School team in 2021 and teaches high school History and Government. 

What does Allison love about VCS? 
"The students are lots of fun, the staff is supportive, and we have a wonderful opportunity to design lessons with a Biblical worldview."

Favorite Scripture:
Galations 2:20. “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

Where is Allison from?
Allison is from all over - she's lived in WA, OR, ID, TX, CA, WI and now Montana! 

Education and Certifications:
Allison has a Bachelor's degree in History/Political Science with a minor in English from LeTourneau University in TX and is certified through the Association of Christian Schools International.  

Fun Facts about Allison: 
Allison and her husband have three boys, a cavapoo puppy and a parakeet. All three of her boys have or are attending VCS. Allison enjoys art, writing, sports and selling antique books. Allison previously taught at VCS back in 2000. 

Lorie Hawkins joined the Valley Christian School team in 1985, leaving in 1993 and returned again in 2006. Lorie teaches high school English. 

What does Lorie love about VCS? 
"Getting to talk about Jesus to kids and making English understandable."

Favorite Scripture:
Ecclesiastes 3:14. “I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him."

Where is Lorie from?
Lorie is originally from Cedar Rapids, IO. She moved to Missoula to teach at VCS. 

Education and Certifications:
Lorie holds a Bachelor's degree in English and is certified through the Association of Christian Schools International.     

Fun Facts about Lorie: 
Lorie and her husband Jon, also a long-time teacher at VCS, met while teaching here. They have four children, all graduates of VCS.  

Noelle Glidewell has been working at Valley Christian School since 2015 and teaches junior high and high school science.  

Favorite thing about working at VCS:
"The students and families! It is so fun to teach science from a biblical perspective - understanding God's incredible design has me in awe every day!"

Favorite Scripture:
John 10:10 (ESV) “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly".

Where is Noelle from? 
Noelle was born and raised in St. Paul, MN - she lived in the same home all of her life until she married her husband Mark - a native Montanan. 

Education and Certifications: 
Noelle has an undergraduate degree in Chem/Pre-Med from the University of Minnesota Morris, a Master's in Public Health from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, and a Master's in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Montana State. Noelle is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.   

Fun Facts about Noelle:
Noelle has been married for 25 years and has 4 kids (born over a 5-year period!). All of her children attend or have graduated from VCS and her husband is VCS alumni. She loves to spend time outdoors and feels the summer months are “close to heaven-on-earth”. 

Jesse joined the Valley Christian School team in 2015 and teaches 7th grade History and 12th grade Bible.   

What does Jesse love about VCS? 
"I love that we can evangelize and disciple kids to be followers of Christ, no matter the subject being taught."

Favorite Scripture:
Jesse doesn't have one favorite verse, but feels “different verses have been more prominent in my heart at different times of my life depending on how God is sanctifying me.” 

Where is Jesse from?
Jesse is a native of Missoula, MT.

Education and Certifications:
Jesse holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and is certified by the Association of Christian Schools International.  

Fun Facts about Jesse: 
Jesse and his wife have two children, a boy and a girl. He enjoys reading, chess and Frisbee golf. Jesse's favorite music genre is opera, but he also enjoys Christian metal. 

Donnie joined the Valley Christian School team in 2023 and teaches 11th grade Bible.   

What does Donnie love about VCS? 
"The amazing students!"

Favorite Scripture:
1 Timothy 2:2 “…that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

Where is Donnie from?
Donnie and his family are from Ontario, CA. “Jesus brought us here in 2016.” 

Education and Certifications:
Donnie has 20+ years experience in pastoral ministry and is an associate pastor at Missoula Alliance Church. 

Fun Facts about Donnie: 
Donnie and his wife have four kids - three attend VCS. Donnie enjoys good coffee and good books. 

John joined the Valley Christian School team in 2005 and is one of our high school math teachers and one of our boy's Bible Discipleship Training (BDT) leaders.  

What does John love about VCS? 
"The students."

Favorite Scripture:
Deuteronomy 31:8. “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

Where is John from?
John is a native of Missoula, MT.

Education and Certifications:
John holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Wheaton College in IL. John is also certified by the Association of Christian Schools International.  

Fun Facts about John: 
John and his wife have two young boys and love to hike, bike and ski. John is also a VCS alumni. 

Mike Cross joined the Valley Christian School team in 2021 and fills several roles at VCS. Mike serves as our 10th grade Bible teacher, is one of our boy's Bible Discipleship Training (BDT) leaders and teaches Bible Study Methods in high school. 

What does Mike love about VCS? 
"Being able to teach God's Word to the upcoming generation."

Favorite Scripture:
Galations 2:20. “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

Where is Mike from?
Mike is originally from Elkins, WV but, moved to Missoula to church plant. 

Education and Certifications:
Mike holds a bachelors degree in Bible and Theology and Pastoral Theology. Mike is a certified Bible teacher through the Association of Christian Schools International. Mike is also the pastor of Redeeming Grace Church. 

Fun Facts about Mike: 
Mike is married and has two kiddos who attend VCS. Mike and his boys practice and love Brazilian jiu-jitsu. 

Sarah joined the Valley Christian School team in 2021 and is our elementary Art teacher. 

What does Sarah love about VCS? 
"I love how much the teachers care about their students at VCS - the students feel known and loved."

Favorite Scripture:
Romans 12:1-2 “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - his is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - is good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Where is Sarah from?
Sarah is originally from Southern CA. Sarah and her husband Danny lived in OR for 10 years and moved to Montana for her husband's position as worship pastor at Church at the Gates in Missoula. 

Education and Certifications:
Sarah holds a Bachelor's degree in Art and is certified through the Association of Christian Schools International.      

Fun Facts about Sarah: 
Sarah and her husband have two kids who both attend VCS. Sarah enjoys hiking, fishing, kayaking, drawing, painting and gardening. 

Kallie Becker joined the Valley Christian School team in 2023 and is our JH/HS art teacher. 

What does Kallie love about VCS? 
"The students, they are incredibly kind and willing to learn, and you can see their hearts for Jesus." 

Favorite Scripture:
Isaiah 64:8 “Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.”

Where is Kallie from?
Kallie was born and raised in Great Falls, MT. She moved to Missoula, MT with her family when she was in high school. 

Education and Certifications:
Kallie holds a Bachelor's degree in Art from the University of Montana and is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.      

Fun Facts about Kallie: 
“My husband and I met our Junior year here at Valley Christian. We love working out together, and I love doing art and pottery as a hobby”.     
 

Rick Paris has been working at Valley Christian School since 2022 and is one of our high school teachers. Rick teaches Photography, Yearbook, Publications, and heads one of our Bible Discipleship Training classes. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS:
"Everything about VCS, especially the opportunity to share God's beauty”. 

Favorite Scripture:
James 2:1 & 26, v.1 “My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory”. v.26 “For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead”.

Where is Rick from? 
Rick was born in New York City, NY (Queens). He later moved to MT, married “a Cali girl” and had a daughter who lives in Fairbanks. 

Education and Certifications: 
Rick holds a bachelors degree in Automotive Engineering. He has extensive training and experience in the fields of photography, media, and production. Rick is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.   

Fun Facts about Rick:
Rick spent many years in the “movie biz” in New York - on set and behind the scenes.Rick's daughter works in Alaska on “Red Dog”, one of the world's largest zinc mines located north of the Arctic Circle.  

Laurie Job joined the Valley Christian School team in 1999 and is our PK-12th grade Librarian. Laurie also helps out with development efforts and teaches advanced placement math. 

What does Laurie love about VCS? 
"Resolving conflict for the glory of God."

Favorite Scripture:
John 16:33. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Where is Laurie from?
Laurie was born and raised in Nebraska and moved to Missoula for its opportunities.   

Education and Certifications:
Laurie holds a Bachelor's in Business, a Master's in Education and is certified as a Library Media Specialist. She is also certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.      

Family Facts about Laurie: 
“My husband and I have a prime family: 2 daughters, 3 grandkids in one family, 5 total grandkids. 7 people when counting grandparents and grandchildren, 11 people in our 3 generations." 
 

Cathy Race joined the Valley Christian School team in 2020. Cathy provides support services to students in preschool - 12th grade. 

What does Cathy love about VCS? 
"The freedom to talk about Jesus."

Favorite Scripture:
Ephesians 5:1-2. “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." 

Where is Cathy from?
Cathy was born in Montana and moved to Missoula in 1973 to attend the University of Montana.   

Education and Certifications:
Cathy holds Bachelor's degrees in Health/Physical Education and Physical Therapy. Cathy also holds a Master's degree in Health Education and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Cathy worked in Special Education for Montana County Public Schools for almost 25 years. Cathy is certified to teach through the Association of Christian Schools International.   

Fun Facts about Cathy: 
Cathy is married and has 2 adult children - both graduates of VCS. She has 4 grandchildren who live in Denver, CO and Bozeman, MT.    
 

Emily Comer has been working at Valley Christian School since 2023 and is our JH/HS Office Manager. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS:
"Talking with students, school families and our teachers and staff every day". 

Favorite Scripture:
Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV) “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God". 

Where is Emily from? 
Emily was born in Missoula and graduated from Sentinel High School. She moved away for nine years but returned in 2022. 

Education and Certifications: 
Emily studied Criminal Justice at Liberty University. 

Fun Facts about Emily:
Emily and her husband help run a Christian non-profit called At Heart Ministries. Emily is also a published author of two Christian books. 

BREANNA IS THE JH GIRL'S VOLLEYBALL AND BASKETBALL COACH

Melodie joined the Valley Christian School team in 2021 and works in our business office.   

What does Melodie love about VCS? 
"The people, both staff, students and families."

Favorite Scripture:
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.”

Where is Melodie from?
Melodie was born and raised about an hour south of Missoula, in Darby, MT.  

Education and Certifications:
Melodie is a certified bookkeeper. 

Fun Facts about Melodie: 
Melodie is semi-retired and lives with her daughter. She loves hiking and backpacking.  

Serena Peissig joined the Valley Christian School team in 2019. Serena is our events coordinator and also supports alumni and our development department. 

What does Serena love about VCS? 
"The people I work with, the heart and soul of the school and that I have personal history here as an alumna". 

Favorite Scripture:
1 Samuel 12:16 “Now therefore stand still and see this great thing that the Lord will do before your eyes." 

Where is Serena from?
Serena was born and raised in Missoula, MT. 

Education and Certifications:
Serena attended Northwest University in Kirkland, WA. 

Fun Facts about Serena: 
Serena has 3 kids who all attend VCS. Serena also attended VCS grades 1-12. She loves to hike and take her kids on adventures. 
 

Deanna Smithers has been working at Valley Christian School since 2018. Deanna is one of our preschool aides as well as a helper in our lunchroom. 

Favorite thing about working at VCS: 
"Fellowship - friendships - serving - hugs - seeing my children (4) throughout the day."

Favorite Scripture:
Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Where is Deanna from?
Deanna was born and raised in Missoula, MT. 

Education and Certifications: 
Deanna will graduate with her Bachelors degree in elementary K-3rd education in 2025. 

Fun Facts about Deanna:
Deanna enjoys spending time with her husband and six kids - they love camping. Deanna also loves to garden, and her favorite season is fall.