USE - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Head of School
- Head of School & Ex Officio Board Member
I am a graduate of Eastern Michigan University (B.S. in Occupational Therapy 1989.) While I have worked with all ages, I have immensely enjoyed working with children in varied hospital-based, school, private practice and consultative capacities. I am currently employed as the Care Ministry Director at Grace Bible Church, in Ann Arbor. I previously served for 3 years there in a combined Care and Disability Ministry Director role and prior to that for 6 years, there, as the Elementary (Education) Director. Before my formal staff roles at Grace Bible Church I served for 6 years as the Children's (K-12) Program Supervisor for the Bible Study Fellowship Evening Women's class in Plymouth, MI. In addition, I had been a Children's Leader in Bible Study Fellowship for several successive years, leading and teaching children's classes from preschool through high school. My husband, Mark, and I have been married for 32 years and we have two adult daughters.
While my children are older and did not attend WCA, I have taught several current and previous WCA students at church. I have long been impressed with the WCA community and the obvious excellence of the curriculum from both a Christian and an academic perspective. I have felt drawn to participate, somehow, in being a supportive encouragement to WCA in whatever opportunities God would orchestrate. This is my second year on the WCA Board of Directors. I am passionate about helping kids to know Jesus, and to navigate life's challenges as followers of Christ. I'm excited for the accreditation process and grateful for the excellence that WCA teachers and staff consistently provide. My goal as a board member is to help make decisions for the school that strengthen WCA even further toward continued excellence in Christian training and academics, ever improving fiscal health, and a "Salt and Light" presence in the community that proclaims and glorifies the name of Jesus Christ.
Job Titles:
- Director of Development
- Director of Development and Community Relations
Annherst Kreitz joined WCA in the Fall of 2022 as the Director of Development and Community Relations. She also served as a Guidance Counselor at WCA from 2010-2012. She has a long 47-year history with Saline Christian School/WCA as her pastor, Rev. David Thompson, began the school in 1976.
Job Titles:
- Assistant to the Head of School
Job Titles:
- Elementary Art Instructor
My wife Paulina and I have 3 children at WCA - Sophie in 9th grade, Claire in 7th grade, and Benjamin in 4th grade. This is our 4th year at WCA. Four years ago, I thought we would have our kids go to Christian school during their middle school years then transfer back to public school for high school. Over the past few years our original thought has changed as we learned and experienced more of WCA. We're now keeping them in for high school and enrolling them earlier than middle school! Our kids have thrived here and we appreciate the staff's care for our kids and their care to teach a Biblical worldview through each subject.
I graduated from the University of Michigan with a BSE in Industrial and Operations Engineering with a minor in Economics. Since college, I've been working for Toyota, doing manufacturing production preparation and supply chain roles. I'm also active at Grace Bible Church in Ann Arbor, serving as a Small Group Leader and a Deacon.
It's been encouraging to see our school grow together through a few years that have been very difficult for the educational community. I'm honored to be asked to join the WCA Board. I pray that God will use my experiences in the automotive industry and in the local church to help improve processes, solve problems, develop relationships, and honor Christ inside and outside the school. My desire is that WCA will continue to grow academically as we maintain and deepen our Christian identity and character. It is an exciting time for WCA and our future possibilities.
Job Titles:
- Principal / Administration
Job Titles:
- Chemistry / Physic Teacher
Job Titles:
- President / Senior Pastor at Calvary Bible Church of Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti
- President Senior Pastor at Calvary Bible Church of Ann Arbor .
My name is Brian Jones and I've been the Senior Pastor at Calvary Bible Church for the past 13 years.
Job Titles:
- Head of School / Administration
Job Titles:
- Business Manager / Administration
Job Titles:
- Homeschool Partnership Director & Special Events Coordinator
Christina Ban has been a part of WCA since the autumn of 2022. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communications, both from Eastern Michigan University, complemented by a Certificate in Pastoral Studies from Global University.
Her career has been characterized by many diverse roles including being a full-time Youth Pastor for 10 years, currently a Music/Piano Instructor, in both the public and private sectors, for over 25 years, and most recently, the Administrator of a local homeschool cooperative learning group. Christina has been deeply involved in the local homeschool community and, as such, is presently the Director of the Homeschool Partnership Program at WCA.
Moreover, Christina fulfills the role of Special Events Coordinator at WCA, where her attention to detail, organizational skills, and communication abilities consistently enhance the quality of special events, creating a positive impact within the WCA community.
Christina is enthusiastic about using her diverse experience and skillset to contribute to the continued excellence and growth of WCA.
My wife Jennifer and I have been involved with WCA since 2011, when our daughter Abigail (now in 8th grade) joined the pre-K program. Our other daughter Emily is in 5th grade, and we are also currently hosting an exchange student from China-another Abby!-who is in 10th grade.
I have a PhD in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan, and I am a serial entrepreneur with experience in company-building, technical R&D, product launch, strategic planning, and management across multiple life-science companies. In the process, God has also used me to lead co-workers to Christ.
I am particularly passionate about the integration of faith and life, and I look forward to working with the board on questions of strategic vision, planning for the future, and encouraging the development of students with strong critical thinking skills to navigate the many competing voices in our world.
Job Titles:
- Preschool Director / Administration
Job Titles:
- Principal
- Principal at WCA
Ernie Bowman became the K-12 Principal at WCA in 2018. As K-12 Principal, he oversees student welfare and academic excellence.
His educational journey began with a Culinary Arts degree from Oakland Community College in Farmington, Michigan, and Sous Chef certification from the American Culinary Federation. Transitioning to education, Mr. Bowman earned a degree in Secondary Education from Faith Baptist Bible College emphasizing his dedication to nurturing student intellectual growth. Furthermore, he attained a Master's in Biblical Studies from Maranatha Baptist Seminary, demonstrating his commitment to theological and scriptural understanding. Currently, Mr. Bowman is actively pursuing a Doctorate in Christian Leadership from Baptist Bible Seminary, underscoring his dedication to enhancing his professional knowledge and leadership skills.
My name is Finias Guseth, my wife Brooke and I have been married for 11 years and both grew up in the surrounding areas. We have been blessed with 5 wonderful children, all of whom will be attending WCA this fall. Currently, God has positioned me to lead and support my own family as a stay-at-home dad. This has strengthened and motivated my purpose to steward not only my own kids towards Christ but also the lives of other children. In previous years, my background as a small business owner and entrepreneur has equipped me with a skill set that will hopefully support & impact the WCA mission. We have been very pleased with the direction and environment at WCA, and it would be an honor to collaborate and work with the other members. I believe that it is essential that we as Christians adhere to the truth of scripture and lead our children to do the same while developing academically. I hope that by participating with the Board of Directors, we can collectively leave a Christ-centered legacy for WCA's future generations.
Job Titles:
- Dean of Admissions & Records / Administration
Job Titles:
- Support Service Coordinator / Spanish Teacher / Administration
Job Titles:
- Preschool Director and Child Care Services Coordinator
Jenna Cummings is strongly committed to nurturing young minds and providing support to educators and parents in the field of Early Childhood Education. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University and has been actively involved in the world of preschool education since 2008.
Over the course of her career, Jenna has held a variety of positions, from Toddler Lead Teacher to Center Director. These diverse roles have afforded her valuable insights into the dynamic and multifaceted realm of Early Childhood Education.
Jenna's true passion lies in empowering teachers to excel in their roles. She has dedicated numerous hours to training and professional development in Early Childhood Education, equipping her with the knowledge and skills necessary to support educators effectively. Additionally, Jenna is committed to guiding parents through the process of introducing their children to school, with the aim of creating a nurturing and educational environment for every child within the WCA Preschool Program.
Job Titles:
- Part Time - Office Assistant
Craig and I enrolled our two sons at WCA in 2020. We initially came here seeking in-person learning to better support our kids during the early development stages of COVID. In our transition to WCA, we found a community of dedicated administrators and educators pouring into children's lives, assisting them to grow personally and academically, as well as biblically. We found an amazing community at WCA and I have enjoyed serving on the board this past year with this group of faithful followers of Christ. I look forward to working with the board members to strategically balance supporting current families, faculty, and students with future growth and preserving the culture of WCA while upholding biblical truths.
I graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor's in Human Resources Management and have worked in the automotive and chemical industries for the past 20 years in an HR capacity and currently support Chem-Trend as the Director of Human Resources. I obtained a Master of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University and also support Solid Ground Counseling as a contract therapist.
My family has attended Grace Bible Church for the past 8 years, where Craig and I are both active in ministries. I trust God will utilize my business knowledge and experience counseling families and children to support WCA in maintaining strong Christian values while continuing to improve structure and consistency as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of growth.
Laura Charlick oversees the daily financial operations at WCA, exhibiting expertise and experience. Prior to starting at WCA in the spring of 2023, Laura dedicated a decade of her professional career to the University of Michigan, where she served in various administrative and financial capacities, cultivating a wealth of knowledge and skills.
With a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Management from Adrian College and completing her Master of Science in Accountancy in the Fall of 2023, Laura is committed to financial excellence at WCA.
Job Titles:
- Athletic Director / HS History Teacher
Job Titles:
- Support Services Coordinator
Megan Holmes has been with WCA since the autumn of 2021. She obtained a Bachelor's degree in K-12 Spanish Education from Eastern Michigan University in 2012. In 2021, she furthered her educational pursuits by earning a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University.
In her current capacity as the Support Services Coordinator, Megan undertakes the essential role of collaborating closely with the families of WCA students requiring accommodation plans. Her responsibilities include guiding teachers on the most effective ways to support these students, thus fostering a collaborative and supportive educational environment. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role in maintaining and nurturing WCA's relationship with Saline Schools, facilitating access to ancillary services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, social work, speech therapy, and teacher consultations for our students.
Megan also serves as the Overnight Trips Coordinator, diligently ensuring that students take safe and enjoyable adventures, from WCA's Middle School Retreat to the Senior Mission Trip, and all the trips in between. Moreover, Megan takes pride in orchestrating fundraising opportunities for the WCA community, including the management of concessions at the University of Michigan.
My name is Melanie Mangiapane. My husband Bobby and I have been married for 15 years and have three children. Our three children are all part of the WCA family, Mya is in 7th grade, and Everlie and Emmett are in 3rd grade. My family and I joined WCA in March 2021 and quickly fell in love with this community.
I am an Eastern Michigan University graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration. I spent 19 years in the transportation industry working for the same company. When our family made the move to Ann Arbor, I found myself reevaluating my career and made a promise that I would be very intentional about what consumed my time in the future. That promise led me into a WCA classroom when the need arose for substitutes. I was most satisfied in my previous position when I was training and teaching our drivers new technologies, so I knew this would be the perfect fit for me. My experience in the classroom has been rewarding but has led me to want to do more for our school community.
I am excited to join the group of leaders who represent this wonderful school. These times are trying and navigating what is best for our families and students weigh on all of us. We are blessed to have this positive environment surrounded by people who know and love Jesus. I look forward to working with the board to carry out His mission while serving our students and families at WCA.
Job Titles:
- Dean of Admissions and Records
Deborah Hazey, the Dean of Admissions and Records at Washtenaw Christian Academy, brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to education.
She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Education and a Master's Degree as a Reading Specialist, both from Eastern Michigan University, demonstrating her profound understanding of educational processes and dedication to academic excellence.
With 37 years of classroom experience, including 14 years in Southeastern Michigan and 23 years in Southern Louisiana, Deborah has positively impacted countless students, fostering a passion for learning and knowledge acquisition.
In her current role, she oversees Admissions and Records, ensuring a seamless admissions and educational experience for the students at WCA, including international students. Deborah is enthusiastic about her role in WCA's academic community and looks forward to contributing to its ongoing growth and success. Her extensive professional background and commitment to education make her a valuable asset to WCA.
Job Titles:
- Director of Family Service
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Preschool Teacher