An Amazing Team

Our teachers play a vital role in educating and shaping our children, the future leaders of our community. They are kind, patient, hard-working, dedicated, and understanding professionals who love Jesus and disciple our children, guiding them in positive directions. Simply put, they are terrific! The love between teachers, staff, and pupils was such that in April, the faculty and staff produced a video for the students expressing their feelings about the separation. You can watch that here.

The staff and teachers at TC Christian have impressed us greatly from the start. Their love, drive, passion and desire to see our kids succeed is obvious and invaluable to our family! Double kudos for loving and guiding teenage girls, and helping them discover God’s plan for their lives! These teachers are demanding yet caring, tough yet fair, expect effort and hard work yet are full of grace and discernment. You are amazing!!”

This year we welcomed - and farewelled - several members of the TCCS team. Additions

Carrie Johns (4th Grade)

Carrie is a graduate of Spring Arbor University with a Major in English and Minor in Education and Early Childhood Education. Carrie has 10 years of teaching experience within Elementary classroom settings, most recently serving as a Reading Interventionist with TCAPS. Carrie is a member at New Hope Community Church, volunteering in numerous areas within her church home. Carrie shared, “My relationship with Christ is the centerfocus of my life. We are all called to shine His light and I would love to continue to do that in an educational setting!”

Amanda Keene (Middle School Math)

Amanda, formerly Amanda Ufer, is no stranger to TCCS. She is a TC Christian alumnus and has spent time with us over the years coaching, subbing, and tutoring. Amanda attended Calvin College where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education, with dual majors in Math and Spanish. She also has unique experiences internationally in both Peru and Costa Rica where she completed a portion of her studies. Amanda will primarily teach Middle School Math at TCCS. She shared the following during the application process: “Jesus is my Lord and Savior. I desire to honor and glorify him with my life. I am passionate about Math and faith and I want to be able to encourage my students in their faith.”

Charmaine Lipscomb and Betsy Rudolph

Many of you will remember Charmaine from the incredible productions she did at the school several years ago: Mary Poppins, Oklahoma!, The Best of Broadway, and more! In addition to being a Choreographer and Director, Charmaine and her husband, Rich, are proud Sabre parents of David (‘14) and Tyler (‘16). Betsy is also a well-known figure at TC Chrstian. She is a graduate of the Class of 2009 and in addition to theatre, was a Sabre athlete who has since subbed and coached at the school. Charmaine and Betsy will focus on working with students interested in drama, dance, and song.

Colette Nichols (MS/HS Aide)

Colette is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a degree in Elementary Education (K-8) along with a major in Science, a minor in Reading, and an endorsement in Child Development. Colette has a variety of teaching experiences over the last several years and has also served as a mentor for middle school and high school students. Colette and her family attend Living Hope Church in Traverse City. Colette shared the following during the application process: “Our family values and believes in the vision of Traverse City Christian School. I love the Lord with all of my heart. He is my Savior and Redeemer. I also know how deeply I need His grace and mercy and try everyday to share this with my children.”

Syndi Knorr ((Elementary Aide)

Syndi Knorr is our new Elementary Aide! Syndi and her husband, Josh (TCCS class of 1999), have three Junior Sabres: Caleb (5th), Charis (2nd), and Christian (K). Syndi has a degree in Psychology with a concentration in Counseling, along with a Masters in Human Services. Over the years, Syndi has had various job and volunteer experiences working with

young children.

Retirements

Ron Christie, head coach of the Traverse City Christian soccer program, has retired after 19 seasons. Coach Christie amassed a record of 284-99-15 with eight district championships and three regional championships. He was named District Coach of the Year five times and Regional Coach of the Year three times. Roy Montney will succeed Ron in head coaching duties. Coach Montney has coached athletes through Traverse Bay Area Youth Soccer for the past 15 years and also serves on its Board of Directors. Coach Christie, we tip our hat. What an excellent coach, mentor, role model, and friend you have been to a generation of Sabre soccer players and their families. Thank you for an outstanding run. Congratulations, Coach Montney. We’re looking forward to welcoming you to the Sabre family.

Teresa Mitchell Our Learning Lab Aide is retiring after 10 years at TC Christian. During her time with TCCS, Teresa was a vital part of the teaching team helping students transitioning from other schools who needed remedial support. She also provided support for students with learning impairments. We will miss your hands-on skills and cheerful spirit, Teresa. Happy trails!

Jackie Richer came to us through TCAPS and spent several years at TCCS, both as an Elementary school aide and a translator for our hearing-impaired students. Although retiring from teaching, Jackie is excited to continue serving in the community as a translator. Thank you for your skills and kindness to our children, Jackie.