HEAD OF SCHOOL

anoakes@covenantchristian.school

Being a part of the Covenant Christian family is a true blessing. I have never "worked" in a place where everyone feels like family. My favorite part of the week is Monday mornings when the whole school gathers for chapel. It brings me to tears when I hear the students singing and praising our God!

Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, to work alongside children to help support them in their educational development. Prior to coming to Covenant in 2019, I taught for 13 years in various roles: 1st grade, 4th grade and Intervention Specialist working with students K-6th.

I attended Indiana University for my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education, IUSB for my Master's in Education and Bethel College for my Master's in Administration. I enjoy learning which is very fitting that I cannot leave the school environment!

My husband and I have two beautiful daughters. We spend most of our time playing and watching sports. We attend St. Marks.

As a mother, I know and understand that you are sending us your most prized possession. It is my goal for you and them to know how much they are cared for, how valuable they are as a person and push them to their full potential academically and spiritually!

Director of Secondary Education

chaupert@covenantchristian.school

I am so excited to be a part of the Covenant Christian family! I truly look forward to being an integral part of helping grow the CCS high school program as well as modeling God's love and compassion on a daily basis. My goals also include for all students to know they are cared for/valued and given the fullest support to develop both academically and spiritually. 

My educational journey comprises 26 years of teaching and administration in the public school setting - 15 years teaching middle school/high school English, 10 years as building level administrator, and 1 year as a district-level Title I. administrator. 

I attended Ball State University to earn my Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Secondary Education. I later earned a secondary social studies minor from Indiana-Purdue University in Fort Wayne. All of my graduate work took place at Indiana Wesleyan University where I earned a Master of Education, Principal Licensure certification, and Education Specialist degree. I continue being a life-long learner and love being a student myself! 

My husband and I have enjoyed Labrador Retrievers over the years and currently own four. We enjoy traveling, exercising, reading, and worshiping. Currently, we attend the New Paris Church of Nazarene. 

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

hstclair@covenantchristian.school

Covenant Christian has been a tremendous blessing to my family, and I am so thankful to be part of this incredible community. Not only do I have the privilege of working here, but my three children also attend CCS, which has made our connection to the school even more special.

I truly enjoy being a part of a team that is dedicated to providing a Christ-centered education and fostering a safe, supportive environment for students and families.

FINANCE OPERATIONS MANAGER

dwilson@covenantchristian.school

This is my third year at Covenant Christian School. It is my first year in this position and I'm so happy to be here! I have a great deal of experience after being the administrative assistant for the past two years. I have always been involved in my children's schools over the years and have found that CCS has the most welcoming and positive atmosphere.

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND ASSESSMENT, MIDDLE SCHOOL IMMERSION TEACHER

scastro@covenantchristian.school

I have worked in many different roles in education over the last 20 years in both the public and private sector. I can honestly say that Covenant has been the best school to work for. I love being able to share my passion for Spanish with the Middle School students as well as the younger ones. The students are really a joy to be with day in and day out. Being able to share Jesus openly in the classroom with my students is an added (big) bonus. The staff here really strive to live out CCS' mission statement in the classroom as well as their personal lives. I am honored to work alongside them.

Director of Discipleship

ngeever@covenantchristian.school

Mr. Geever joins the covenant team with a long history of investing in young adults as well as youth, and a zeal for helping them recognize the immense potential that they hold for furthering the kingdom and showing the love of Christ to the world. With a strong desire to serve and a love for uniting science and faith, Mr. Geever loves teaching his students to think and engage the world with new perspectives, while always letting God be the focus of it all.

 When not at school working with the students, it is not uncommon to find Mr. Geever teaching or helping out in other ways around the area or around the globe. With a passion for missions and a general love for people alongside a curiosity about the whole of Creation, Mr. Geever is often on the go; be it heading abroad for another missions-focused service trip, or just going out on the trail to explore God's creation, he is often up to something and rarely alone in his escapades as he is frequently joined by his lovely wife and sometimes their friends as well. 

Needless to say, Mr. Geever is welcomed member of the team and we are glad to have him onboard. 

Athletic Director / PE Teacher

elechlitner@covenantchristian.school

Covenant Christian has quickly become a second home for me. Being able to teach Physical Education, Dance, and Sport Studies is so rewarding. I truly have always had a passion for teaching and impacting young lives. Every day I can put a smile on the student's faces is a day I can call a true blessing.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

sberlin@covenantchristian.school

Our family has been blessed to be a part of Covenant Christian for the last 5 years.  During this time, I've been able to use my background in school consulting and educational research to work alongside an amazing group of educators here at CCS.  I have a passion to share the love of Christ in the classroom, and believe that the dedication of our instructors is what sets us apart!

Director of Advancement

oallen@covenantchristian.school

It's been a joy to come onto the Covenant Christian School Family and watch God provide for our financial needs. My first job out of college was as a high school biology teacher and I'm excited to enter back into the world of education as the Director of Advancement. My heart is to grow and build community wherever the Lord leads and I cannot wait to see how he does that here at CCS.

PRESCHOOL TEACHER

jpotts@covenantchristian.school

When the door opened for me to be part of the CCS team, I did not realize how much I would treasure being able to share my fondness for early childhood and love for Jesus at the same time within the classroom setting. Preschool children are curious, eager to learn, and amazed by the simple things in life. There is always laughter and joy in a preschool classroom and I am blessed to be able to see the world through the eyes of a child on a day to day basis. It is wonderful to teach with a like-minded staff that supports your efforts, challenges you to be your best and is willing to pray when a need arises. I appreciate the support I have received from my principal, and other teachers, for my classroom and my teaching philosophy. I am very grateful to be part of such a wonderful school!

PRESCHOOL IMMERSION TEACHER

zhernandez@covenantchristian.school

My name is Zuleny and I am truly grateful and excited to be part of the CCS family as the Spanish Immersion Preschool Teacher.

I believe that God has created every child with a unique purpose and special gifts that deserve to be nurtured with love, patience, and care. My calling as an educator is to walk alongside each child during these important early years, helping them grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually in an environment where they feel safe and deeply loved.

I am passionate about sharing my knowledge, creativity, and love for the Spanish language while creating meaningful experiences that become joyful preschool memories. My goal is for every day in the classroom to be filled with active learning, exploration, wonder, and opportunities to experience God’s love.

I graduated from Ivy Tech Community College with a degree in Early Childhood Education and have certification and experience implementing the HighScope preschool curriculum. In addition,  a Bachelor’s Degree in Administration. These experiences have shaped my child centered philosophy, recognizing that every child learns differently and flourishes when encouraged through meaningful relationships and hands on learning.

For me, teaching begins with connection. I want every child who enters my classroom to feel safe, heard, valued, and loved, knowing that their voice matters and that they belong. I believe that when children feel genuinely seen and supported, they gain the confidence to reach their fullest potential.

Outside of school, I treasure spending time with my family and have a special love for animals. Our Goldendoodle, Bruno, brings so much joy and reminds us daily of the simple blessings found in companionship and unconditional love.

It is a blessing and an honor to partner with CCS families as we help children build a strong foundation of learning, faith, and lifelong curiosity.

KINDERGARTEN TEACHER

kweaver@covenantchristian.school

I am thankful to have the opportunity to teach kindergarten and be the assistant cross country coach at Covenant this year. I attended Mishawaka High School and Purdue University. I began teaching in 2018. I have taught first grade, third grade, and now kindergarten. I already know that this is my favorite grade to teach! My husband and I have two dogs. We attend church at Vineyard. I spend most of my time outside of school playing with our dogs or reading. I am excited to see all of the growth my students make in academics, their faith, and their relationships with each other this year!

KINDERGARTEN IMMERSION TEACHER

azeider@covenantchristian.school

Highlights:

I go to sleep every night with a smile on my face thinking of my day. I am so proud of my peers at CCS and the wonderful partnership we have with God and like-minded parents when it comes to faith. It has been a challenging year with changes always happening and we still pull through every time as a team, a family! I value the fact these parents have trusted me with the care and education of their children. Learning a second language could be intimidating for children, and their families as well. We are blessed with immersion teachers who are giving their all to prepare our students academically, spiritually, and emotionally with the incredible support from our office staff and a one-of-a-kind principal.

I love my job here and it has been so fun to get to know and teach a new group with 22 different and unique personalities!

FIRST GRADE TEACHER

etwiddy@covenantchristian.school

This is my first year working as a first grade teacher at Covenant Christian! I have been so blessed by the way God has opened the doors for me to work here. From student teaching in first grade last year to teaching first grade this year has been so amazing. This school upholds Gospel-centered teaching and actions which is so encouraging. I feel so thankful that I am able to teach in a way that points back to Christ.
“For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.” Psalm 100:5

FIRST GRADE IMMERSION TEACHER

facevedo@covenantchristian.school

Proverbs 22:6

" Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it."

I'm delighted and blessed to be part of CCS and share my love for Jesus and education in the classroom.

As a native Spanish speaker, I am honored to promote cultural awareness embedded with academic excellence.

SECOND GRADE TEACHER

sbauer@covenantchristian.school

Working at Covenant Christian has changed my life dramatically. I am surrounded by like-minded Christians whose sole purpose is to give our students top notch education with God at the center of it all.

I am a Mishawaka High School Alumni (2009). During my Junior and Senior year, I was fortunate enough to attend Elkhart Area Career for Childcare and there I was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society. During my college career I attended Ohio Northern University majoring in Elementary Education (minor in history).

Our hearts longed to be home so eventually we came back and I graduated in 2017 from Indiana University with my Elementary Education Degree. During my first 5 years teaching I was teaching in a local public school system.

A friend of mine from church introduced me to Covenant Christian through discussion about her kids attending. I am forever thankful for my friend that introduced me to this amazing school I call my 2nd home.

I wanted to share a bible verse that holds to my heart when I think about CCS:

“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—this 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—his good, pleasing and perfect will." - Romans 12:1-2

SECOND GRADE IMMERSION TEACHER

abennett@covenantchristian.school

This is my first year at Covenant Christian but my fourth year working in elementary education. What an amazing difference I have seen in working for an organization who puts God first. I have felt so welcomed, cared for and appreciated. I love that students have the opportunity to expand their worldview by learning a new language. It is such a blessing to be able to teach in Spanish and to work with students who are eager to learn and who have supportive parents. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work with second graders. They are so smart and such a joy to teach! 

THIRD GRADE TEACHER

icollier@covenantchristian.school

Being from Ohio, I am beyond blessed to call South Bend/Mishawaka my new home. I graduated from Bethel University with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Family Studies, along with an Early Literacy Endorsement. I have such a passion to not only see students succeed academically, but to see them truly understand Christ and the light He brings! Working at CCS gives me the opportunity to fulfill both that passion for teaching and discipling in my 3rd grade class!

Outside of teaching, I enjoy road trips, laughing, and gardening!

Having seen the Lord’s hand guide me to CCS, I am very excited to see how He will work while I’m here!

THIRD GRADE IMMERSION TEACHER

mcalderon@covenantchristian.school

It is a blessing in my life to work at Covenant Christian School! I feel welcomed and I’ve received a lot of support from the staff and parents who have also been very kind to me. I cannot fail to mention the principal, Mrs. Noakes, who has always been available when I’ve asked her for help or advice. My students are a special group of talented, active, and very independent students with whom we have been overcoming together every challenge that has been presented to us I n this teaching-learning process. To date, I can day “Thank you God for opening the doors of this school and giving me the opportunity to teach and learn from these wonderful children who bring life to my life every day and to surround myself with professional, respectful, and friendly people.”

FOURTH GRADE TEACHER

jtonkin@covenantchristian.school

I’m a mother of three and have been married to my husband, Nathan for twenty years. We have a four-year-old chocolate labrador named Governor, who we adore. My children first enrolled at Covenant in 2023. It was a seamless transition for us and we couldn’t be happier here.

I’ve attended Bethel University and will be working through the Transition To Teach Program, starting this fall. I’m so excited to have my own classroom this year, as I’ve worked as a teacher's aide for eight years previously. Being able to speak freely of the Lord in my classroom is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. Not only is it allowed, but it’s encouraged. I’m looking forward to planting seeds for Christ in the minds of these young men and young women daily.

I’m an avid runner and have run three marathons, and countless half marathons. I’ve run Cross Country and Track and Field for Bethel University and can’t wait to coach Cross-Country and Track and Field for Covenant.

I’m so excited to work with my students this year as we search for their aha moments! A favorite Bible verse of mine, comes from Mark 10:27, NASB, “With people it is impossible but not with God; for all things are possible with God.”

4TH GRADE IMMERSION TEACHER

nmartinez@covenantchristian.school

Hi, I’m Nicole Martinez, and I’m honored to be teaching Spanish in the 4th grade immersion program. I’m originally from the Dominican Republic and have a background in economics. I’ve also worked as a teaching assistant, and I’m excited to start this year as a teacher. I have always felt a calling to give back, and I believe there is no better way to give than through teaching.

FIFTH GRADE TEACHER

avega@covenantchristian.school

I am so excited God opened the door for our family to be a part of the CCS family!  I attended Bethel College and graduated with my Bachelor's in Elementary Education in 2001.  I received my Master's in Education from IUSB in 2009.  I have been teaching for 24 years, in both public and Christian school settings.  I am thankful for the opportunity to share Jesus with my students and open His Word together daily.  

I love growing each year with my students and helping them learn about the amazing world our Father has created.  I want to honor God as we learn together and strive to know Him more. 

In my spare time, I enjoy playing pickleball, scrapbooking, playing games, and reading.  I am married to my husband, Daniel, and we have two beautiful daughters who will be attending CCS.  We are active members of Gospel Center Missionary Church.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

FIFTH GRADE IMMERSION TEACHER

lphipps@covenantchristian.school

At the beginning of the semester, I was really excited but scared. A new year, a new grade, I didn’t know what to expect. I am absolutely in love with 5th grade. My students are always eager to learn new things. It’s amazing how students can talk and solve problems in Spanish at this young age. I am very surprised how my students can understand different dialects. My class is filled with curious and wonderful personalities. My favorite thing about my class is the desire that the students have to please God in every way. As a teacher, I am so happy that I can talk and incorporate God in all classes. I also love that our parents are willing to work and help us. In addition, I have always felt comfortable talking to our principal. She is always willing to hear and help us in any way possible. The staff is family, if any of us have a problem, we are always ready to help.

Middle School / High School History & Bible Teacher

ahenderson@covenantchristian.school

It is an honor and privilege to be here at Covenant Christian School. I love this mission I have been given by the Lord, to educate our young people. I enjoy working with all ages but middle school is my favorite and I am grateful for this opportunity to be in the environment at CCS.

Covenant Christian School is a school that cares for the whole student, mind, body and spirit. The staff at CCS are like family, and it is a joy to work alongside them in the body of Christ for the common goal of educating our students.

Middle School / High School ELA Teacher

emagyar@covenantchristian.school

Hi, I’m Mrs. Emily Magyar, and I’m honored to teach English here at Covenant Christian School. I graduated from IPFW with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Language Arts and have three years of teaching experience. I’m passionate about helping students grow in their love for reading, writing, and thinking critically—all through a Christ-centered lens.
I’m a wife and a mom to one amazing child, and I love spending time with my family cooking, traveling, and camping. My family and I attend Vineyard Church, where we enjoy being part of a welcoming and faith-filled community. I’m so thankful to be part of a school where faith and learning go hand in hand!

Middle School/ High School ELA Teacher

emeyer@covenantchristian.school

Hello! My name is Ms. Ella Meyer, and I am so excited to teach ELA and Bible at Covenant Christian School. I recently graduated from Bethel University, here in Mishawaka, with a degree in English Education and a minor in Special Education. I absolutely love helping students make connections to the Bible in literature, learn how to sharpen their writing and reading skills, and grow in their faith in Jesus Christ. 

Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading (of course), going on walks and hikes, being outside, spending time with friends and family, and finding new coffee shops. I also attend Community Baptist Church in South Bend. I am thrilled to make this school year a great one!

MS / HS Science Teacher

jbrooks@covenantchristian.school

I am so privileged to teach science here at Covenant Christian! I love science, and have been passionate for it my entire life. I love few things more than being able to explain or demonstrate the magnitude of the created world that God has made for us! 

When I am not teaching, I am dedicated to investing in the lives of students through tutoring, coaching, and building meaningful relationships in an effort to point our students to who ultimately matters most, Jesus Christ!

Middle School Science/Math Teacher

I am excited to be joining the Covenant Christian family this year! This is my first year teaching, having just graduated from Bethel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Computer Science. I am currently enrolled at Bethel University, working towards a Master’s in Teaching.

I have always enjoyed teaching, whenever presented with the opportunity. It seems like I always end up helping those around me learn. I find teaching to be one of the most fulfilling jobs, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to share my love of math and science with students this year!

I am so grateful for the community at Covenant Christian. Everyone on staff is kind and it truly feels like a big family. I have a love of Christ, and it is apparent that he is at work at Covenant Christian. I currently attend St. Mark.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy competitive disc golf, athletics, and training on Bethel University’s track team. 

Middle School / High School Spanish Teacher

scorrea@covenantchristian.school

I am very grateful to be at this school and thank God for guiding me here. This is my first year at the school, and I have loved it from the very beginning. The environment is welcoming, cheerful, and conducive to development and learning.

Education has always been my passion, as I believe it significantly contributes to society and the formation of well-rounded and spiritual individuals. I am from Chile, where I worked for 5 years at a private school, and I also completed my Bachelor's Degree in Education and a Master’s in Spain.

I am excited to continue learning and enriching my practice and training through this culture, alongside the excellent professionals at CCS and our students.

MUSIC TEACHER

szylstra@covenantchristian.school

I have been involved with Covenant Christian School from the very beginning! When my kids were young I was a substitute, a preschool aide, and have served on the education committee for many years. My kids all graduated from Covenant several years ago. The education that they received here really prepared them for their high school and college experiences. The last several years I have also had the privilege of serving as the music teacher. As a music teacher, I want to provide them with a love for music by listening to and learning to play a variety of music through various avenues. I would love for all students to find a special place for music in their life. Music can be a powerful thing if you let it!

REMEDIATION SPECIALIST

khaughee@covenantchristian.school

Kim has a Master’s Degree in Education from Ball State University. She is a certified tutor and trainer at the initial and advanced levels of an Orton-Gillingham IMSLEC accredited training program. She is also a Certified Academic Language Therapist and an Instructor of Certified Academic Language Practitioner through ALTA. She also serves on various ALTA committees. She has 45 years of teaching experience helping children and families address reading challenges. 

CLASSROOM AIDE

jterhorst@covenantchristian.school

ART/BOYS & GIRLS CLUB DIRECTOR

bengland@covenantchristian.school

The longer I work for covenant, the more I am aware that this is where the Lord has called me. I graduated from Grace college with my bachelor of arts degree. From there I worked for the boys and girls club in goshen as their art teacher! Later God called me to work for this wonderful school, the door swung open for me to also direct the after school boys and girls club program! What an honor and joy it is of mine to encourage these young brothers and sisters in Christ. It is truly a blessing to get to speak the name of Jesus in a school. 

I am happily married to Marc, who works at Gospel City where we both attend. 

Psalm 146:1

Praise the Lord! Let all that I am praise the Lord.

Spanish Aide

cluna@covenantchristian.school

SPANISH PREK AIDE

brodriguez@covenantchristian.school

SPANISH AIDE

talpizar@covenantchristian.school

SPANISH AIDE

kbastardo@covenantchristian.school

CLASSROOM AIDE/ BUILDING SUBSTITUTE

dboger@covenantchristian.school

CUSTODIAN

ltaulbee@covenantchristian.school