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Upcoming Events
Monday, January 30
Wednesday, February 1
Monday, February 6
Staff
Mrs. Cathy Wells - Administrator
Email Mrs. Cathy
Year at BCA:  The 2009-10 is my second year with the BCA. 
 
Qualifications:  I have a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Kent State University, and a Master's Degree in Education from Syracuse University. Even though this is my first year as administrator, I am no stranger to the BCA!  For the past two years I have been the Director of Children's Ministries at Brice Church.  In addition to my duties on Sundays, I have had the opportunity to sub and help out at the BCA, everywhere from the classrooms to the lunchroom! In addition, I have been a member of the BCA School Board during my time at Brice. 
 
Christan Testimony:  I grew up in a Christian household, and have known Jesus Christ as my Savior all my life!  Since being married, I have grown so much in my faith and participation in our local church.  I have come to recognize the necessity of a daily walk with Jesus, as opposed to just a "Sunday morning faith". I consider the time I can spend in prayer and study to be a gift, and enjoying sharing that treat with others in Bible Studies and small groups.  I believe that while none of us is perfect, we are called to share His perfect love in what we say and do, and it is toward that goal that I aim!
 
Philosophy of Christian Education:  I believe that our children are the future, but without Jesus Christ in their lives, that future is bleak!  I understand the importance of a quality education, and the impact that it has on the lives of our children.  I do believe that Christian schools should not be a refuge from the world in which we live, but a tool to better equip our children to live in that world as happy, productive, confident and Christ-centered leaders.
 
Personal Life:  I have been married for twenty years to David! We have three children, Ryan (25), Garrett (13) and Courtney (11).  We are also the servant staff to 2 dogs, 3 cats, 2 lizards, two fish, and a guinea pig, each of which believe that that he or she is really the one in charge!
Mrs. Carolyn Johnson - Special Services Director
Email Mrs. Carolyn
Years at BCA:  The 2009-2010 school year is Mrs Johnson's 4th year at BCA.
 
Qualifications:  Mrs. Johnson has served in the field of Christian Education for over 28 years - 8 years in the capacity of classroom teacher and for 20 years as the Founder-Administrator of Southeast Christian Academy.  Mrs. Johnson is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Special Education from Cheyney State University. Upon graduation, she was awarded a scholarship and earned her Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling from The Ohio State University.
 
Christian Testimony-  I accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Savior in the year of 1961.  Since then I strived to live the Christian life by allowing the Holy Spirit to direct my path as I seek to live out God's purpose for my life.
 
Philosophy of Christian Education-   Our number one responsibility, as stewards of our children, is to inspire them to conform to the image of Jesus Christ.  In summary, my Philosophy of Christian Education calls for an educational process that places the Bible in the center and asks the faculty, staff, and students to evaluate all polices, procedures, curriculum, and programming by the standards of God's Word.  Students should be taught to extend this practice beyond the walls of the school and see the world through a Biblical perspective.  In addition, I accept each child as a unique creation of God and that He has a special purpose and plan for each one.  (Romans 12:6a)  "Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them..."
 
Personal Life-  Married to Rev. Joshua Johnson, Pastor of the Rushcreek Charge, in Bellefontaine, OH where she is active in the spiritual development of the church, particularly in youth ministries and evangelism.  Mrs. Johnson has four children and four grandchildren.  She says "I can say as the Apostle John...I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth."  III John 4 
Dr. Vicki Gartner - Director of Staff and Curriculum
Email Dr. Vicki
Mrs. Beth Burns - Administrative Assistant
Ms. Robbin Smith - Full Day Kindergarten Teacher

Years at BCA: The 2011-2012 school year is Ms. Smith's 16th year at Brice Christian Academy. 

Qualifications: Mrs. Smith has a Bachelors degree in Elementary education from the University of Toledo.  Specialization in Early Childhood Education.

Personal info: Resides in Baltimore with her two daughters Jacquie and Sarah.

Teaching Philosophy: "I believe that children are a God given gift and we need to do everything possible to make learning successful for EVERY child."

Email:  rsmith@BriceChristianAcademy.com

 

Mr. Matthew Newcomer - Full Day Kindergarten

Years at BCA:  This is Mr. Newcomer's first year at BCA.

Qualifications: 

Philosophy of Education: 

Christian Testimony: 

Personal Life: 

Mrs. Keeley Smith - 1st Grade Teacher (1B)
Email Mrs. Keeley

 

Years at BCA:  This is Mrs. Smith's third year at BCA.

Qualifications: Bachelors of Science in Education from Ohio University.

Philosophy of Education: Children learn best through song, dance, and hands on experience..  I believe learning should be fun yet effective, meaningful and at their ability level. 

Christian Testimony: Christ has always been a part of my life, both as my savior and my friend.  I grew up in Christian home where I learned about the Bible and the love of the Lord and how powerful the two combined were . I'm now working in a school that is dedicated to educating the mind, body and soul. What a great way for me to practice my faith and share the love of the Lord! 

Personal Life: 

I'm currently living in Pickerington with my husband Brad and my daughter Macey. We attend Shalom United Methodist Church in Carroll. We have a passion for traveling and exploring tourist attractions in towns we travel to.  We love family time together! Whether it's cooking at home or soaking our toes in the sand, as long as we are together we'll have a blast.  I love being around children and watching them learn.  The most amazing reward as a teacher is to see a child discovering his/her own talent and knowledge.

 

Mrs. Jennifer Leistikow - 2nd Grade Teacher
Email Mrs. Jennifer

Years at BCA: Mrs. Leistikow began working full-time at the BCA in 2007. 

 

Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree in Education - Interdisciplinary PreK – 8th

 

Christian Testimony: I have been a Christian my entire life, but accepted Christ as my personal Lord and Savior and as an integral part of my daily life in my early twenties. I am actively involved in the Children’s Ministry at my home church and believe that God’s plan for my life includes working with children. Only through the direction and guidance of Jesus Christ have I been able to achieve my degree in Education and fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a teacher.

 

Philosophy of Christian Education: I believe that every child in my classroom deserves the opportunity to build and explore their relationship with Christ in an environment that nurtures and models the beliefs and attitudes taught by Paul in the New Testament. I believe that a strong foundation in Christian principles is essential to putting the feet of our children on the path that will lead them to a greater understanding of our Lord as well as the purposes that He has for our lives. I feel that children need to perceive God as a real presence in their lives and that it is my job as their classroom teacher to show them how real He can be.

 

Personal Life: My husband, Terry and I, were married in 1989 and we have 2 children; Sheridan, born in 1994, and Thomas, born in 1999. Both of my children have attended the BCA.  I enjoy reading, my horses, and playing video games with my children.

 

Mrs. Marlene Carney - 2nd Grade Teacher
Email Mrs. Marlene

 

Years at BCA:  Mrs. Carney began working at the BCA in 2001.

 

Qualifications:  Mrs. Carney earned her Bachelor's of Science Degree in Elementary Education from The Ohio State University.  She is licensed to teach Kindergarten thru eighth grade.  She has submitted her Master Teacher portfolio and will be the first teacher at the BCA to receive this endorsement from the state of Ohio.

 

Christian Testimony:  I accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Savior in 1978.  By reaching to the Holy Spirit, He guides me daily and influences my direction in life.

 

Philosophy of Christian Education:  I believe that each and every child in our classroom is a miraculous gift from God.  It is our mission to instill Biblical teachings in all areas of the curriculum.  I believe we must reach each child and inspire him/her to maximize their potential as Jesus has taught us to do while we are His stewards on earth.

 

Personal Life:  Mrs. Carney is the proud mother of a 16 year old son. and enjoys wathching him as he participates in wrestling. Her son attended the BCA from Kindergarten through the 6th grade.  The Carneys are members of Peace United Methodist Church in Pickerington.

Mrs. Danielle Kidwell - 3rd Grade Teacher (3A)
Email Mrs. Danielle

Years at BCA:  Mrs. Kidwell has taught at BCA since the 2009-2010 school year.

Qualifications: I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Ohio University.

Philosophy of Education: I believe that all children can learn.  I believe that children learn in a variety of ways.  My classroom will be active with learning as I try to encourage children to become live long learners!

Christian Testimony: I became a Christian as an adult.  My husband and I were baptized together!

Personal Life: I live in Pickerington with my husband Mike and our two daughters Alex and Jordan.  I enjoy watching my daughters play volleyball, basketball and softball.  When I have free time, I like to read and work on crossword puzzles.

Mrs. Wenter Martin - 3rd Grade Teacher (3B)
Email Mrs. Wenter

Years at BCA: The 2011-2012 school year is my first year at BCA.

Qualifications: I have a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Education. I am certified by the state of Ohio to teach preschool through 3rd grade.

Christian Testimony: Growing up I occasionally attended Sunday School or VBS. When I became a teenager I began looking for a church to attend. I found home at a local Catholic church. I began taking RCIA classes and I was baptized at the following Easter vigil.

Personal Life: I live in Heath with my husband Jeremy and our 5 children, Jonathan, Allison, Emily, Olivia and Annabelle. They keep us very busy but in our free time we love to camp. I also enjoy reading. We currently attend church at Saint Francis de Sales in Newark where I teach preschool PSR class. I am very excited to join the BCA staff!

Mrs. Robin Widlicka - 4th Grade Teacher
Email Mrs. Robin

Years at BCA:  This is Mrs. Widlicka's fourth year at BCA.

Qualifications: I received my teacher's certificate in 1980. I taught five years before starting my family. I took off twenty years as a mommie. The last six of those I substituted in the Pickerington Schools. I am now in my fourth year of full time work with the BCA.

Philosophy of Education: 

Christian Testimony: I was lucky enough to be born and raised in a Christian household.  I've considered myself a Christian as long as I can remember. I met and married a Christian man who loves God. Together we sought the Lord. Through bible study, small group meeting, and friendships we have learned of God's awesome love for us.

Personal Life: Bob, my husband, and I have been married 25 years. Twenty one of those years we have lived in Ohio. God gave us three boys. Our eldest, Ben, passed away unexpectedly last Spring. He was a senior at Cedarville University. He was a giving person who loved all people.  He was gifted with computer skills and his ability to make people laugh. We greatly miss him and look forward to the day when we will meet up with him again. Andrew our middle son is 20. He will be attending Ohio University in Athens this Fall. He enjoys all sports, but is particularly fond of basketball. Our youngest is a senior at Pickerington HS Central. He plays in the marching band. His instrument of choice is the tuba. He also is a boyscout, and he is working on his Eagle Scout Project at present.  Our golden retriever is Sunshine. She has been a part of our family for almost eight years. Our home church is Grace Fellowship in Pickerington. We worship and praise our God there among many friends.

Mrs. Cindy McVey - 4th Grade Teacher

Years at BCA:  Mrs. McVey has been teaching at BCA since the 2009-2010 school year. 

Qualifications: Bachelor of Science in Education from Grace College, undergrad. Cedarville University; thirty-five years of teaching experience

Philosophy of Education: My philosophy of education is to instruct children in a loving way and to give them the tools that they may need to grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Christian Testimony: I accepted Christ as my personal Savior at the age of eleven.  After graduating from a Christian University,  my husband and I have been in full time Christian ministry.

Personal Life: I enjoy spending time with family (especially my  grandchildren), gardening, and doing things to enhance my spiritual life.

Mrs. Heather Kelley - 5th Grade Teacher
Email Mrs. Heather

Education: Bachelor of Science degree from Ohio University

                    Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana Bible College

Experience: Taught for 5 years at Calvary Christian School in Indianapolis, Indiana

                      I began teaching at BCA in 2011.

I believe that education should be valued, and that every child should be given a chance to improve themselves through learning. My family's motto has always been "If it is to be, it is up to me!" What a child/family does with this educational opportunity is up to them, but I will do my best to instill a love of learning into my students. 

I have attended church all my life. I received the Holy Ghost when I was six in a barn that had been renovated for Children's Church. When I was eight, I decided I wanted to be baptized. Life is not easy, but God has always been there with me and for me even when I have gone to different countries on mission trips. I now attend Turnpoint Apostolic Church in Groveport, Ohio.

I have been married to my wonderful husband, Andy, since October 2011. I am part of a family of six that is constantly growing with nephews and in-laws (no nieces, yet).

Mrs. Martha Martin - Middle School Teacher
Email Mrs. Martha

Years at BCA:  I began teaching at BCA in 2008.

Qualifications:   I have a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Ohio University and a Master of Arts degree in Teaching Performance from the College of Mount St. Joseph in Cincinnati.  I have thirty-four additional semester hours from various other universities including OSU and Ashland.  My teaching career includes three and one-half years at West Jefferson Junior High, thirty years at Groveport-Madison Middle Schools, and three years at BCA.

Philosophy of Education:   I believe all the academic classes and extra-curricular activities that children take in school are for preparation to do the Lord's work.  It is my job to teach, encourage, support, and guide them along the path of knowing God personally and of learning God's will for their lives.

Christian Testimony:   I grew up in the Methodist church in Chillicothe, Ohio.  At age twenty-three, I accepted Jesus as my Savior after being witnessed to by my neighbors.  I owe everything that I am and have to the Lord. I pray daily for His guidance and direction for my life.   "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  not of works, lest any man should boast."  Ephesians 2:8

Personal Life:   I currently reside in Groveport with my husband, Michael, who can be found helping out at BCA nearly every day of the week.  I have two grown sons, Rich and Mark (Stacey) Barrett, and two grandchildren, Ryan and Kylee who attend BCA.  My interest/hobbies are:  music (clarinet and piano), fishing, and reading medical mysteries and crime novels - especially Robin Cook and James Patterson. I love to vacation in Amish country and Myrtle Beach.  My favorite foods are Resche's cake and Genji's fried rice.  I am a member of Fellowship Baptist Church where I play clarinet in the orchestra, help with baptisms, and do personal altar work.

Mr. Dave Steger - Middle School Teacher

 

Years at BCA:  The 2009-2010 school year will be Mr. Steger's 6th year at BCA

Qualifications: Mr.  Steger has a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Theology from Ohio Christian University and a Master's of Education in Literacy from Ashland University.

Christian Testimony: I accepted the Lord at a youth camp meeting when I was a teenager.  Since then, I have put my confidence in my Saviour and have let Him guide my paths. "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man." -Psalm 118:8

Philosophy of Christian Education: God has given every student many gifts and abilities.  It is up to the teacher to find that gift and spark an interest for the student to explore.  The main focus in the classroom should be on the Lord and that will carry over to other subjects being taught.

Personal Life: I am married to Cheryl and live in Canal Winchester.  You can find me on Sundays at Fellowship Baptist Church, usually ushering or playing with puppets.  During the week I am either teaching at school or at home playing with Batman toys.

 

Mrs. Brandy Cox - Middle School Teacher
Email Mrs. Brandy

 

 

Teaching Experience: 

  • 2011-2012 is my third year at BCA!!!
  • I've taught for 5+ years (Districts include Pickerignton, Groveport, and Brice Christian Academy)

Qualifications: 

  • Master's of Art in Edcuation- Mount Vernon Nazarene Univesity
  • Bachelor's of Science in Edcution- The Ohio State University

Philosophy of Education:  I firmly believe that all students are capable of academic greatness.  Each student enters a classroom with a unique set of experiences that I get the privelage to build upon.  I take an active approach to teaching.  I like to keep students interested by relating standards to real life situations.  Learning must be fun!  I believe it is my job as an educator to help my students grow not just academically but spiritually as well; which is why I love teaching at Brice Christian Academy. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mrs. Deanna Sullivan - Literacy Coordinator
Email Mrs. Deanna

Name: 

Position: 

Years at BCA:  

Qualifications:   
 
Mrs. Cyndi Tassos - Math Tutor

Years at BCA:  The 2009-2010 school year is Mrs. Tassos 2nd year at BCA.

Qualifications: 

Philosophy of Education: 

Christian Testimony: 

Personal Life: 

Mrs. Tina Gowins - School Counselor
Email Mrs. Tina
Year at BCA:  My first year at BCA was the 2004-2005 school year. 
                         The 2011-2012 school year will be my 8th year as the BCA School Counselor.
 
Qualifications:     BA in Psychology from Miami University (Ohio)
                                MS.ED in Clinical counseling from The University of Dayton   
 
                                Have worked in the field since 1989 at:  Harding Hospital, Hannah Neil Center for Children, The Buckeye  
                                Ranch and  as a Foster Parents with The Bair Foundation.                         
 
Christan Testimony:  I had been raised in the church but did not accept Christ until I met my husband in college and started going to the church where his dad was the Pastor. Since then I have journeyed in my spiritual growth through many experiences and very caring Christian mentors and accountability partners.  I continue to work out my salvation daily and am thankful for God'd grace because I need it each and every day.  I  rely on Phillipians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me".   
Philosophy of Christian Education:  A Christian Education can provide the seed and building stone in children's lives that God's kingdom can expand from in their futures.   
 
Personal Life:  I am married to my best friend and soul mate, Jerry Gowins.  We have been married for 23 years.  We have 5 kids and 5 grandkids.  Andy(28) & Jacqui Gowins (A.J., Leyland, Davineh & Trevian), Diamond(25) Christian (Taylor), Karah(24), Max(21) & Cori(16).
We have a blended family that God has carefully constructed and we are blessed to have each and every one of them in our lives no matter how they came to us.  I thank God each and every day for these gifts!
Mrs. Lynn Vottero - Speech Therapist

Years at BCA: The 2009-2010 school year is Mrs. Vottero's 11th year at BCA. 

Qualifications: BA from University of Toledo; M.A from the University of Tennessee; ODE Certification K-12 Speech Therapy; Ohio Licensed through Ohio Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology: Certificate of Clinical Competence from American Speech - Language - Hearing Association.

Personal info: Married to John; Son Matt and daughter Gina 

Teaching Philosophy: "Understanding and using language is the basis of learning and I love that BCA teachers know this!"
 

Rick Ewing - Phyical Education Teacher
Years at BCA: 9

Qualifications: 34 years with Columbus Recreation & Parks Liberal Arts degree from Capital University, Political Science/History; Major Physical Education minor. Certificate from the Department of Education to teach at BCA.

Personal info: Resides in Carroll with his wife, Lynn. They have three children Keeley, Karli and Korry.

Teaching Philosophy: "Teaching should cover the students spiritual, mental and physical growth and development."

Chesley Talisse - Music Teacher
Email Chesley

 

Years at BCA: This is Miss Talissé’s first year at BCA

Qualifications: Miss Talissé has a Bachelors degree in Music Education from Baldwin Wallace College

Christian Testimony: God has always been a part of my life since I was a young girl. I grew up in a Christian home and went to B.C.A. since kindergarten where I learned about the unconditional love the Lord has for us. God has always given me the desires of my heart as long as I follow his word and plan for my life. It is very exciting to be working for the very place where my faith first started.

Email: ctalisse@bricechristianacademy.com

Patrick Thompson - Technology
Email Patrick
Beth Duffield - Art Teacher
Email Beth

Years at BCA: I was one of the original staff members when the school started in 1995!  At that time I was the art teacher, the gym teacher, and got Friendship Company up and running.


Qualifications: B.S. in Art Education from Northern Illinois University Masters degree in Art Therapy from the University of Louisville

Personal info: Resides in Pickerington with her husband James and 3 cats.


Teaching Philosophy: "In the art class, students not only learn about art processes, materials and artists. The themes and activities support classroom learning, develop thinking and problem solving skills; practice sharing ideas and opinions as well as appreciating the work of our Master Artist: God."

 

Senora' Irisol Stepp - Spanish Teacher
Email Senora' Irisol
Year at BCA:   12 years
 
Qualifications:  I am a native Spanish speaker from Caracas-Venezuela, 3 years of Undergraduate study in Special Education at " Colegio Universitario Monsenor de Talavera, 2 years of Modern languages at Universidad Central de Venezuela ( English, French and Spanish).
 
Christan Testimony: When I was 10 years old  I started to attend an Evangelical Church "Jezreel"with my mom. I accepted Christ to come into my heart during a Vacation bible school since then I have trust the Lord in everything I do. I got baptized when I was 16. While still living in Venezuela I participated in Awana Ministries, Youth camps, Christian theatre, Street ministries " Mimes". I currently attend Reynoldsburg Alliance Church we found this church family 13 years ago. I enjoy working with the kids there. Some off the things I have done there is Awana leader and commander, Sunday school classes for kids, lead VBS and serve at vbs, youth group, mission trip with the youth, deaconess and greeter. I am currently serving as the Childrens Ministry Leader. I will have to say is not an easy task and thats why i take it one day at the time so I dont go crazy,haha. So that will be an area where you can pray for me :)
 
Philosophy of Christian Education:  I just feel so bless to work in a Christian school. I believe that by showing love to the kids and families they can see Jesus through us. I enjoy singing Christian songs and praying with your kids in Spanish. We are not only learning the Spanish language but we are also learning about people and cultures. It is so much fun working at Brice. I get so excited when your kids help me with my English and teach me new words. They like that too ;).
 
Personal Life:  I live in Pataskala, My husband name is Trent, I have a princess and her name is Sammy (She loves acting, singing and playing with friends) and a little boy his name is Matthew ( He loves making his sister crazy). I have a dog Lewcy, Bunny Cinnamon and a fish ( Koi). My favorite food is Pasta that's why my new favorite place is Piada Street Food. I also like Chinese. Our whole family loves ice cream so we spend a lot of time in Orange leaf and DQ.
Terri Geiger - Friendship Company Director
Email Terri

 

Years at BCA: I have worked at Brice Christian Academy and Brice Church Preschool for over 10 years.

Qualifications: I have worked with children for over 20 years.  I was a Teacher,Trainer and Assistant Director at a local daycare. I have attended many classes through the years as well as classes through Columbus State.

Christian Testimony: I accepted the Lord as my Savior in 1997 during a very difficult time in my life.  It was the hardest decision I've ever had to make.  I had to surrender all!!!  Now I know that It was the best choice I ever made.  I would not be where I am now without Jesus as my ROCK!

Philosophy of Christian Education:Our goal as christian educators should be to support
the children in their walk with Christ. We should also be aware of children in their special talents and needs and accept them accordingly. I see christian educators many times go the extra mile to help a child or to support a parent in times of trouble or for a shoulder to cry on. I belive when these things are accomplished  the children will take what they have been a part of and take it into the world.

Personal Life: My time away from school is spent with family and friends.My hobbies are; drawing, reading and exercise .I also like to watch college football. I have a son, Michael. He is a senior at Fairfield Career Center and wants to become a police officer. I have a Beagle named Jeni. I have a wonderful family that lives here in Ohio.  We are very close.  I belong to Brice United Methodist Church. I have been coming here since 1987 (when my parents made me) and 1996 on my own!!  I have been involved with several ministries.  My favorite one was a chistian comedy group!:)

Rachael DeLaTorre - Friendship Co. Assistant/Lunchroom Assistant
Karen McKee - Lunch Cook

Years at BCA:

Qualifications:

Personal info: 

 

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