FACULTY & STAFF
Rachael Oren | Founding Head of School
Rachael Oren is the founding Head of School at The Classical Academy. With over fifteen years of experience in education, Rachael brings a wealth of passion, knowledge, and expertise to The Classical Academy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and a Masters of Education with a concentration in curriculum development and management. In addition to her work in the public and private sector of education, Rachael has home educated her school-age children since 2014 before launching the Academy. Having spent significant time in both educational sectors of home and the classroom, Rachael found that there is a wealth of benefit from both. Her passion for classical, Christian education and her passion for strengthening families is what motivated her to launch The Classical Academy. Rachael has a strong desire to see students develop a lifelong love of learning and grow into articulate, passionate, servant-led thought leaders who inspire and lead the next generation. Rachael and her husband Jon have five children and live in a 106-year old schoolhouse.
Rachael Oren is the founding Head of School at The Classical Academy. With over fifteen years of experience in education, Rachael brings a wealth of passion, knowledge, and expertise to The Classical Academy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and a Masters of Education with a concentration in curriculum development and management. In addition to her work in the public and private sector of education, Rachael has home educated her school-age children since 2014 before launching the Academy. Having spent significant time in both educational sectors of home and the classroom, Rachael found that there is a wealth of benefit from both. Her passion for classical, Christian education and her passion for strengthening families is what motivated her to launch The Classical Academy. Rachael has a strong desire to see students develop a lifelong love of learning and grow into articulate, passionate, servant-led thought leaders who inspire and lead the next generation. Rachael and her husband Jon have five children and live in a 106-year old schoolhouse.
David Hardesty | Dean of Students, Upper Humanities
David Hardesty earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at the University of Arizona, and his Master of Divinity from Golden Gate Seminary. Mr. Hardesty comes to The Classical Academy with many years of pastoral, teaching, and business experience. He began his career in classical education as the Dean of Students at one of the largest ACCS classical, Christian schools, and throughout his career he has served as a classical humanities teacher, Dean, Head of School, and Upper School leader. David is convinced Classical methodology is the best way to teach children, as it conforms to how God made students' minds and emotions at different levels of development. David is an eager traveler who once toured England using a 1200-year old text as a guidebook. He and his wife Colette serve on the worship and leadership teams of their local church and are fully enamored of 3 John 4: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
David Hardesty earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at the University of Arizona, and his Master of Divinity from Golden Gate Seminary. Mr. Hardesty comes to The Classical Academy with many years of pastoral, teaching, and business experience. He began his career in classical education as the Dean of Students at one of the largest ACCS classical, Christian schools, and throughout his career he has served as a classical humanities teacher, Dean, Head of School, and Upper School leader. David is convinced Classical methodology is the best way to teach children, as it conforms to how God made students' minds and emotions at different levels of development. David is an eager traveler who once toured England using a 1200-year old text as a guidebook. He and his wife Colette serve on the worship and leadership teams of their local church and are fully enamored of 3 John 4: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
Tim Dooley | Chief Financial Officer
Tim Dooley graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Accounting. He spent 17 years at Republic Airways, retiring in 2015 after serving as Chief Financial Officer for five years. Since then, he has been helping leadership teams for several non-profit organizations in Indianapolis by providing financial oversight and interim leadership support. He has been an elder at his church for more than 20 years and is pleased to join the Classical Academy in support of its mission “to equip students to gain knowledge, apply understanding, and walk in the wisdom of God.” Tim and his wife Christina have three boys and live and do life in community on the north side of Indianapolis. Tim is passionate about the Scriptures, jigsaw puzzles, running, golf, spreadsheets, and cooking.
Tim Dooley graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Accounting. He spent 17 years at Republic Airways, retiring in 2015 after serving as Chief Financial Officer for five years. Since then, he has been helping leadership teams for several non-profit organizations in Indianapolis by providing financial oversight and interim leadership support. He has been an elder at his church for more than 20 years and is pleased to join the Classical Academy in support of its mission “to equip students to gain knowledge, apply understanding, and walk in the wisdom of God.” Tim and his wife Christina have three boys and live and do life in community on the north side of Indianapolis. Tim is passionate about the Scriptures, jigsaw puzzles, running, golf, spreadsheets, and cooking.
Alyssa Crum | Office Administration
Alyssa Crum graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Business. After a few years in the corporate world, Alyssa transitioned to staying at home with her three children. She actively serves in her church’s Children’s Ministry and on its Education Committee. She is enthusiastic about cultivating a love of lifelong learning in children and loves that The Classical Academy provides an environment in which this love is fostered. Alyssa enjoys spending time with her husband and kids, exploring outdoors, and tackling home improvement projects.
Alyssa Crum graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Business. After a few years in the corporate world, Alyssa transitioned to staying at home with her three children. She actively serves in her church’s Children’s Ministry and on its Education Committee. She is enthusiastic about cultivating a love of lifelong learning in children and loves that The Classical Academy provides an environment in which this love is fostered. Alyssa enjoys spending time with her husband and kids, exploring outdoors, and tackling home improvement projects.
Jennie Greer | Office Administration
Jennie Greer earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Aurora University and worked in the insurance business prior to becoming a stay at home mom. In addition to focusing on raising her children, Jennie has spent her time involved in her local church in both kid’s ministry and women’s ministry and volunteering with a local education group in communications and website development. Jennie is passionate about the university model and the Academy’s mission to partner with parents in training up students who shape culture with Gospel truth and evaluating all knowledge and experience through the lens of Scripture. Jennie and her husband live in Noblesville with their three children who attend the Academy. In her free time, she enjoys reading, learning new technologies, consuming her favorite podcasts, and playing board games with her family.
Jennie Greer earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Aurora University and worked in the insurance business prior to becoming a stay at home mom. In addition to focusing on raising her children, Jennie has spent her time involved in her local church in both kid’s ministry and women’s ministry and volunteering with a local education group in communications and website development. Jennie is passionate about the university model and the Academy’s mission to partner with parents in training up students who shape culture with Gospel truth and evaluating all knowledge and experience through the lens of Scripture. Jennie and her husband live in Noblesville with their three children who attend the Academy. In her free time, she enjoys reading, learning new technologies, consuming her favorite podcasts, and playing board games with her family.
Tracy Williams | Upper School Mathematics
Tracy Williams holds a Bachelor degree in Mathematics and Science and has taught upper school mathematics for 19 years before coming to the Academy. After a short period of substitute teaching for The Classical Academy, Tracy fell in love with the students and university-schedule model and knew it was exactly where God was calling her to continue using her gifts and talents. Innovation and discovery in math and science comes from not just being able to compute math, but in being able to make connections across disciplines- a lost art in many schools today. Tracy thrives in that space, not only on mastering mathematics and its connection to all areas of life, but she thrives in forming relationships with students and meeting them exactly where they are.
Tracy and her husband Jess have been married for 30 years, live in Fishers, and have four grown children.
Tracy Williams holds a Bachelor degree in Mathematics and Science and has taught upper school mathematics for 19 years before coming to the Academy. After a short period of substitute teaching for The Classical Academy, Tracy fell in love with the students and university-schedule model and knew it was exactly where God was calling her to continue using her gifts and talents. Innovation and discovery in math and science comes from not just being able to compute math, but in being able to make connections across disciplines- a lost art in many schools today. Tracy thrives in that space, not only on mastering mathematics and its connection to all areas of life, but she thrives in forming relationships with students and meeting them exactly where they are.
Tracy and her husband Jess have been married for 30 years, live in Fishers, and have four grown children.
Fran Simmons | Upper School Writing & Grammar
Fran Simmons earned her Bachelor's in Science and her Master’s in Science from Indiana Wesleyan University. After working in private practice for several years as a Marriage and Family Therapist, she decided to stay home in order devote more time to educating her children. Fran brings ten years of experience in classical, Christian education to the Academy and is passionate about classical education, grammar, and writing. She also loves working with teenagers and believes the teen years are an exciting time to be involved in helping kids build lifelong habits of character and learning. Fran lives in Indianapolis with her husband and four daughters, all of whom attend the Classical Academy. In addition to teaching at the Academy, she works at her local church in Family Ministries.
Fran Simmons earned her Bachelor's in Science and her Master’s in Science from Indiana Wesleyan University. After working in private practice for several years as a Marriage and Family Therapist, she decided to stay home in order devote more time to educating her children. Fran brings ten years of experience in classical, Christian education to the Academy and is passionate about classical education, grammar, and writing. She also loves working with teenagers and believes the teen years are an exciting time to be involved in helping kids build lifelong habits of character and learning. Fran lives in Indianapolis with her husband and four daughters, all of whom attend the Classical Academy. In addition to teaching at the Academy, she works at her local church in Family Ministries.
Daryl Kessler| Upper School Writing & Grammar
Daryl Kessler graduated from Indiana University with a BA in English, after which she
honed her skills for five years as a proofreader and copyeditor for Macmillan Publishing.
Later, while freelance editing, Daryl with her preschool children joined a homeschool co-op
where she discovered and developed her enthusiasm for teaching. Accredited through the
Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) after a demanding evaluation process, she became
a registered IEW instructor in 2017. Crediting her love of the English language and all its
quirks to her grandmother and to her childhood teacher affectionately known as Captain
Proofreader, her personal delight is to witness the spark in students’ eyes when they “get
it.” In her free time, she enjoys binging on scary movies, immersing herself in mystery novels, and attending hockey games. Daryl and her husband Jack share a little redbrick house on the north side of Indianapolis. Both of their grown children are homeschool graduates.
Daryl Kessler graduated from Indiana University with a BA in English, after which she
honed her skills for five years as a proofreader and copyeditor for Macmillan Publishing.
Later, while freelance editing, Daryl with her preschool children joined a homeschool co-op
where she discovered and developed her enthusiasm for teaching. Accredited through the
Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) after a demanding evaluation process, she became
a registered IEW instructor in 2017. Crediting her love of the English language and all its
quirks to her grandmother and to her childhood teacher affectionately known as Captain
Proofreader, her personal delight is to witness the spark in students’ eyes when they “get
it.” In her free time, she enjoys binging on scary movies, immersing herself in mystery novels, and attending hockey games. Daryl and her husband Jack share a little redbrick house on the north side of Indianapolis. Both of their grown children are homeschool graduates.
Heather Mackinnon | Upper School Science
Heather Mackinnon holds a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry and a Masters in Environmental Science. She has been discipling and teaching young people in the Midwest and South for 25 years, teaching science, Bible, and leadership. Prior to her career in education, Heather was a research scientist in South Africa, where she was born and educated. Heather is passionate about the philosophy behind classical, Christian education and her favorite subjects are Latin, Biology, and English. She is passionate about teaching for mastery and delight and loves to help students expand their horizons, cultivate their gifts, and learn to love the Lord with all their hearts, souls, and minds. She is excited to teach in an environment that truly enables students to thrive. In her spare time, she is outdoors whenever possible, hiking, cycling, kayaking, and taking pictures. Indoors, she devours educational YouTube videos; her playlist is an eclectic mix of science, history, apologetics, entrepreneurship, and old sermon audios. Her main side hustle is website design and digital marketing and she buys software the way the Head of School buys cowgirl boots.
Heather Mackinnon holds a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry and a Masters in Environmental Science. She has been discipling and teaching young people in the Midwest and South for 25 years, teaching science, Bible, and leadership. Prior to her career in education, Heather was a research scientist in South Africa, where she was born and educated. Heather is passionate about the philosophy behind classical, Christian education and her favorite subjects are Latin, Biology, and English. She is passionate about teaching for mastery and delight and loves to help students expand their horizons, cultivate their gifts, and learn to love the Lord with all their hearts, souls, and minds. She is excited to teach in an environment that truly enables students to thrive. In her spare time, she is outdoors whenever possible, hiking, cycling, kayaking, and taking pictures. Indoors, she devours educational YouTube videos; her playlist is an eclectic mix of science, history, apologetics, entrepreneurship, and old sermon audios. Her main side hustle is website design and digital marketing and she buys software the way the Head of School buys cowgirl boots.
Jeremy Mills | Upper School Latin
Rev. Jeremy Mills earned his bachelor’s degree in Theological Languages from Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon, Wisconsin. He earned his master’s degree in Exegetical Theology from Concordia Theological
Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Upon graduation, he accepted a call to Advent Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zionsville to establish a mission congregation, which became Epiphany Evangelical Lutheran Church. Jeremy currently serves as sole-pastor of Epiphany Lutheran Church in Westfield. In his free time, Jeremy enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and traveling.
Rev. Jeremy Mills earned his bachelor’s degree in Theological Languages from Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon, Wisconsin. He earned his master’s degree in Exegetical Theology from Concordia Theological
Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Upon graduation, he accepted a call to Advent Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zionsville to establish a mission congregation, which became Epiphany Evangelical Lutheran Church. Jeremy currently serves as sole-pastor of Epiphany Lutheran Church in Westfield. In his free time, Jeremy enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and traveling.
Barry LeBlanc | Formal Logic; Academy Choir Director
Barry LeBlanc holds a Master's degree in Music Education from UGA and Practical Theology from Regent University. His role as an adjunct college professor in ethics and his role in Christian ministry and pastoral leadership have led him to develop a growing passion for logic and rhetoric studies. His professional career includes 14 years in education as a band director; 12 years in full-time church music and worship ministry; 7 years in full-time pastoral ministry; and 7 years as an adjunct college professor, where he continues to teach music appreciation and ethics. Currently, Barry pastors a small church in Indianapolis and does occasional chaplaincy at two area hospitals. He also teaches percussion and enjoys performing with community groups when his schedule allows. Barry and his wife Cindi live in Noblesville and have two married children and four grandchildren, two of whom attend the Academy.
Barry LeBlanc holds a Master's degree in Music Education from UGA and Practical Theology from Regent University. His role as an adjunct college professor in ethics and his role in Christian ministry and pastoral leadership have led him to develop a growing passion for logic and rhetoric studies. His professional career includes 14 years in education as a band director; 12 years in full-time church music and worship ministry; 7 years in full-time pastoral ministry; and 7 years as an adjunct college professor, where he continues to teach music appreciation and ethics. Currently, Barry pastors a small church in Indianapolis and does occasional chaplaincy at two area hospitals. He also teaches percussion and enjoys performing with community groups when his schedule allows. Barry and his wife Cindi live in Noblesville and have two married children and four grandchildren, two of whom attend the Academy.
Suzanne Collins | Upper School; Rhetoric and Support Staff
Suzanne Collins earned her B.A. in Communication Studies from Cedarville University and M.A. in Communication from the University of Dayton. She worked as a corporate trainer for almost a decade before staying home with her children. During her time home, she began teaching public speaking and business writing at Indiana Wesleyan University. From teaching adults, college students, and Academy students, Suzanne is dedicated to helping her students become eloquent and empathetic communicators. Suzanne and her husband, Jon, live on the northeast side of Indianapolis with their two girls who attend The Classical Academy. They love reading, playing board games, hiking, and being involved in their local church and community.
Suzanne Collins earned her B.A. in Communication Studies from Cedarville University and M.A. in Communication from the University of Dayton. She worked as a corporate trainer for almost a decade before staying home with her children. During her time home, she began teaching public speaking and business writing at Indiana Wesleyan University. From teaching adults, college students, and Academy students, Suzanne is dedicated to helping her students become eloquent and empathetic communicators. Suzanne and her husband, Jon, live on the northeast side of Indianapolis with their two girls who attend The Classical Academy. They love reading, playing board games, hiking, and being involved in their local church and community.
Andrew Znachko | Upper School; Bible/Spiritual Development
Andrew Znachko earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management from Baylor University. After graduating Andrew and his wife, Heather, moved to College Station, Texas where Andrew was a pastor for three years before they moved to Indianapolis in 2016 to plant Antioch Community Church. Andrew exists to preach the gospel of the kingdom and make others great and is excited to help students at the Academy encounter Jesus and understand how to follow him. The Znachkos have two children at the Academy with a third to join in the near future!
Andrew Znachko earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management from Baylor University. After graduating Andrew and his wife, Heather, moved to College Station, Texas where Andrew was a pastor for three years before they moved to Indianapolis in 2016 to plant Antioch Community Church. Andrew exists to preach the gospel of the kingdom and make others great and is excited to help students at the Academy encounter Jesus and understand how to follow him. The Znachkos have two children at the Academy with a third to join in the near future!
Daniel Mann | Upper School; Fine Arts
Daniel has over 20 years experience in the professional art world. Some of his work ranges from religious oil painting, book covers, graphic novel and illustration. He is fluent in both water color and oil painting with a focus on Italian renaissance and Dutch Flemish approaches. Classically trained he has both a bachelor of fine arts degree and a minor in art history.
Sonja Greiwe | College Advisor
Sonja has been coaching high school students in career exploration, college decisions and scholarship exploration for over 4 years. She began this work based on two decades of working on college campuses with Greek InterVarsity, a national ministry to fraternity and sorority students, which she helped start in 1991.
Sonja is a certified Growth Coach through both Life Forming Leadership and the Christian Coaching School. She currently lives in Fishers. She and her husband have four children. Sonja loves to read, ride bicycles, play games and spend time with friends.
Sonja has been coaching high school students in career exploration, college decisions and scholarship exploration for over 4 years. She began this work based on two decades of working on college campuses with Greek InterVarsity, a national ministry to fraternity and sorority students, which she helped start in 1991.
Sonja is a certified Growth Coach through both Life Forming Leadership and the Christian Coaching School. She currently lives in Fishers. She and her husband have four children. Sonja loves to read, ride bicycles, play games and spend time with friends.
Anna Larson | Lower School; 6th Grade
Anna Larson earned her Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and Biology Education and a Teaching Certificate from Purdue University in 2001. She has spent 14 years classically home educating her own six children and other children cooperatively. She is passionate about disciple-making within the local church and studying and teaching the Scriptures. Whether studying the Bible or academic subjects, it is important to Anna that students of any age connect knowledge both practically and meaningfully to real life situations. She has lived for short periods in both Puerto Rico and Russia and studied several foreign languages, most recently Latin. In her free time, she gardens, hikes with her family, and teaches her children to sew. Anna and her husband, Ben, live in West Lafayette and their youngest three children attend the Academy.
Anna Larson earned her Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and Biology Education and a Teaching Certificate from Purdue University in 2001. She has spent 14 years classically home educating her own six children and other children cooperatively. She is passionate about disciple-making within the local church and studying and teaching the Scriptures. Whether studying the Bible or academic subjects, it is important to Anna that students of any age connect knowledge both practically and meaningfully to real life situations. She has lived for short periods in both Puerto Rico and Russia and studied several foreign languages, most recently Latin. In her free time, she gardens, hikes with her family, and teaches her children to sew. Anna and her husband, Ben, live in West Lafayette and their youngest three children attend the Academy.
Catie Smiley | Lower School; 5th Grade
Catie Smiley earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at Taylor University in 2007. She taught elementary school and tutored on the North Shore of Chicago before moving to Indiana. She is passionate about the local church and enjoys serving with her husband and family in ministry. She has taught 4th and 1st grade here at the Academy and has a passion for developing relationships with her students and families. Having the experience of being both a teacher and co-teacher to her two boys has furthered instilled a love for the classical approach to education. Catie, her husband Andrew and two boys live and serve in Cicero.
Catie Smiley earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at Taylor University in 2007. She taught elementary school and tutored on the North Shore of Chicago before moving to Indiana. She is passionate about the local church and enjoys serving with her husband and family in ministry. She has taught 4th and 1st grade here at the Academy and has a passion for developing relationships with her students and families. Having the experience of being both a teacher and co-teacher to her two boys has furthered instilled a love for the classical approach to education. Catie, her husband Andrew and two boys live and serve in Cicero.
Kelly Miknaitis | Lower School; 4th Grade
Kelly Miknaitis earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration in Mathematics. She taught elementary school and tutored before coming out of the traditional classroom after her children were born. Kelly brings over 7 years of experience in classical, Christian education to the Academy. She is passionate about strengthening family relationships between students and their parents and helping all students find joy in the learning process. Reading, playing board games, and going hiking in the woods with her family are some of her favorite ways to enjoy her free time. Kelly and her husband Darius live in Indianapolis and have three children, two of whom attend the Academy.
Kelly Miknaitis earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration in Mathematics. She taught elementary school and tutored before coming out of the traditional classroom after her children were born. Kelly brings over 7 years of experience in classical, Christian education to the Academy. She is passionate about strengthening family relationships between students and their parents and helping all students find joy in the learning process. Reading, playing board games, and going hiking in the woods with her family are some of her favorite ways to enjoy her free time. Kelly and her husband Darius live in Indianapolis and have three children, two of whom attend the Academy.
Cheryl Tomas | Lower School; 3rd Grade
Cheryl Tomas earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education and has worked in the education field for 20 years. She is a firm believer in multiple intelligences and strives to find the optimal learning pathway for each child. She has a passion for children who struggle and has worked extensively with children with special needs. She loves to help teachers and parents navigate the beauty of differing learners. In her free time, Cheryl enjoys watching her garden propagate madly of its own accord, chauffeuring her teenage children to horse back riding lessons, randomly breaking into a musical number, serving on mission's trips and volunteering for local ministries. She and her husband, Nate, have been married for 20 years. They reside in Fishers and have two daughters whom she has home educated for ten years.
Cheryl Tomas earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education and has worked in the education field for 20 years. She is a firm believer in multiple intelligences and strives to find the optimal learning pathway for each child. She has a passion for children who struggle and has worked extensively with children with special needs. She loves to help teachers and parents navigate the beauty of differing learners. In her free time, Cheryl enjoys watching her garden propagate madly of its own accord, chauffeuring her teenage children to horse back riding lessons, randomly breaking into a musical number, serving on mission's trips and volunteering for local ministries. She and her husband, Nate, have been married for 20 years. They reside in Fishers and have two daughters whom she has home educated for ten years.
Alison Terry | Lower School; 2nd Grade Cohort A
Alison Terry earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Indiana University. She taught in public and Christian schools in Chicago and the Washington, D.C. area for 9 years in grades K-8. After having her first daughter she became a stay at home mom and enjoyed using her teaching skills and passion for working with children as a mom, a Sunday school teacher, Awana leader and VBS teacher. Alison is back in the classroom and loves seeing children blossom into lifelong learners and growing spiritually. She and her husband Jerry live in Fishers and have three daughters who attend the Academy. In her free time, Alison enjoys spending time with her family; going on bike rides; women’s discipleship ministry; reading; baking; and crafting.
Alison Terry earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Indiana University. She taught in public and Christian schools in Chicago and the Washington, D.C. area for 9 years in grades K-8. After having her first daughter she became a stay at home mom and enjoyed using her teaching skills and passion for working with children as a mom, a Sunday school teacher, Awana leader and VBS teacher. Alison is back in the classroom and loves seeing children blossom into lifelong learners and growing spiritually. She and her husband Jerry live in Fishers and have three daughters who attend the Academy. In her free time, Alison enjoys spending time with her family; going on bike rides; women’s discipleship ministry; reading; baking; and crafting.
Sarah Lindley | Lower School; 2nd Grade Cohort B
Sarah Lindley earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Anderson University. She taught for seven years in grades 3rd-5th as well as high ability. After her first child was born, she became a stay at home mom using her teaching skills as a Bible Study Fellowship children’s leader, Awana leader, and Sunday school teacher. She and her husband live in Noblesville and have two children, a son and daughter, who attend The Classical Academy. In her free time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, reading, quilting, baking, and participating in Bible Study Fellowship.
Sarah Lindley earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Anderson University. She taught for seven years in grades 3rd-5th as well as high ability. After her first child was born, she became a stay at home mom using her teaching skills as a Bible Study Fellowship children’s leader, Awana leader, and Sunday school teacher. She and her husband live in Noblesville and have two children, a son and daughter, who attend The Classical Academy. In her free time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, reading, quilting, baking, and participating in Bible Study Fellowship.
Kelsey Maddox | Lower School; 1st Grade Cohort A
Kelsey Maddox earned her Bachelor of Science in Education and Reading Specialist Certification from Indiana University. She taught Language Arts for seven years before staying home with her two children. During her time home, she taught preschool fitness classes and pre-K Sunday School. Transitioning her oldest daughter from public school into The Classical Academy for its first school year reinforced her belief that a Christian hybrid model between school and home would best fit her family's needs. Kelsey is passionate about fostering a life-long love of learning and serving. Her favorite family activities include exploring parks, cooking, spending time at the lake, and reading aloud. Both of her daughters attend the Academy.
Kelsey Maddox earned her Bachelor of Science in Education and Reading Specialist Certification from Indiana University. She taught Language Arts for seven years before staying home with her two children. During her time home, she taught preschool fitness classes and pre-K Sunday School. Transitioning her oldest daughter from public school into The Classical Academy for its first school year reinforced her belief that a Christian hybrid model between school and home would best fit her family's needs. Kelsey is passionate about fostering a life-long love of learning and serving. Her favorite family activities include exploring parks, cooking, spending time at the lake, and reading aloud. Both of her daughters attend the Academy.
Amelia Savage| Lower School; 1st Grade Cohort B
Amelia Savage earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from Indiana Wesleyan University. Since graduating she has taught in elementary and preschool classrooms until staying home to homeschool her children. Amelia has a passion for getting students excited about learning and guiding them in their spiritual walk. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, being active, baking, and exploring with her family. She and her husband, Parker, live in Pendleton with their 3 children.
Amelia Savage earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from Indiana Wesleyan University. Since graduating she has taught in elementary and preschool classrooms until staying home to homeschool her children. Amelia has a passion for getting students excited about learning and guiding them in their spiritual walk. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, being active, baking, and exploring with her family. She and her husband, Parker, live in Pendleton with their 3 children.
Robyn Bewley | Primer School; Kindergarten Cohort A
Robyn Bewley earned her Bachelor's degree in Child Development and Family Life from Indiana State University. Since graduating Robyn has worked as an Early Childhood Educator for Family Development Services, an Early Childhood Director for Noblesville Schools, and also a kindergarten Instructional Assistant at Hinkle Creek Elementary. Robyn has a passion for working with children and also building relationships with her students' families. She lives in Noblesville with her husband Chris and has two children Jorden and Aiden who attend the Academy. Robyn and her family love showing hospitality to others and love serving together through their church. Robyn also enjoys hiking with her family and her favorite hobby is photography.
Robyn Bewley earned her Bachelor's degree in Child Development and Family Life from Indiana State University. Since graduating Robyn has worked as an Early Childhood Educator for Family Development Services, an Early Childhood Director for Noblesville Schools, and also a kindergarten Instructional Assistant at Hinkle Creek Elementary. Robyn has a passion for working with children and also building relationships with her students' families. She lives in Noblesville with her husband Chris and has two children Jorden and Aiden who attend the Academy. Robyn and her family love showing hospitality to others and love serving together through their church. Robyn also enjoys hiking with her family and her favorite hobby is photography.
Destiny Henderson | Primer School; Kindergarten Cohort B
Destiny Henderson earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Special Education from Ball State University. She taught for seven years before staying home. Along with her experience in the classroom, she has homeschooled her children since 2018. Her favorite part of teaching is witnessing the joy that comes from students when they recognize their academic and spiritual growth. Outside of the classroom Destiny enjoys reading, baking sweet treats, and playing outdoors with her family. She is passionate about serving in her church and leading women’s ministry in her community. She and her husband, Todd, live in Pendleton with their son and daughter who both attend the Academy.
Destiny Henderson earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Special Education from Ball State University. She taught for seven years before staying home. Along with her experience in the classroom, she has homeschooled her children since 2018. Her favorite part of teaching is witnessing the joy that comes from students when they recognize their academic and spiritual growth. Outside of the classroom Destiny enjoys reading, baking sweet treats, and playing outdoors with her family. She is passionate about serving in her church and leading women’s ministry in her community. She and her husband, Todd, live in Pendleton with their son and daughter who both attend the Academy.
Danielle Courtney | Primer School; Pre-Kindergarten
Danielle Courtney brings years of experience in both private school and homeschool environments. Her passion is serving God in ministry to children and has served over five years as a Children's Pastor. Always active in the local church, Danielle has led ministries, chaired fundraisers, taught student and adult Bible studies and organized mission trips. Danielle is passionate about the Pre-Kindergarten age and enjoys nurturing students' excitement for learning with fun, hands-on, and intentional lessons. It is her desire that the students to whom she ministers would see Jesus and want to follow Him. Danielle enjoys a variety of hobbies: walking, traveling, crafting and reading.
Danielle Courtney brings years of experience in both private school and homeschool environments. Her passion is serving God in ministry to children and has served over five years as a Children's Pastor. Always active in the local church, Danielle has led ministries, chaired fundraisers, taught student and adult Bible studies and organized mission trips. Danielle is passionate about the Pre-Kindergarten age and enjoys nurturing students' excitement for learning with fun, hands-on, and intentional lessons. It is her desire that the students to whom she ministers would see Jesus and want to follow Him. Danielle enjoys a variety of hobbies: walking, traveling, crafting and reading.
Denise Huston | Primer School Support Staff
Denise Huston earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana University at IUPUI. She taught in the Hamilton Southeastern Schools for 7 years before deciding to stay at her home with her children. After having her first child, she spent her time using her teaching skills in children's ministry at her local church, Awana, and VBS. Since then, she taught preschool at Hamilton Hills Preschool for 6 years and lead the Parent Teacher Organization at Hamilton Southeastern High School for 6 years. She and her husband Todd live in Fishers and have two children, who are both attending college this year. In her free time, she enjoys reading, binge watching the Hallmark Channel, and spending time with her family.
Denise Huston earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana University at IUPUI. She taught in the Hamilton Southeastern Schools for 7 years before deciding to stay at her home with her children. After having her first child, she spent her time using her teaching skills in children's ministry at her local church, Awana, and VBS. Since then, she taught preschool at Hamilton Hills Preschool for 6 years and lead the Parent Teacher Organization at Hamilton Southeastern High School for 6 years. She and her husband Todd live in Fishers and have two children, who are both attending college this year. In her free time, she enjoys reading, binge watching the Hallmark Channel, and spending time with her family.
Lauren Hawkins | School Support Staff
Lauren Hawkins graduated from Purdue University with a bachelors degrees in Health Science and Nursing. She worked as an oncology nurse for several years before becoming a stay at home mom. After homeschooling her older children for the last two years, Lauren is looking forward to partnering with staff and other families as she and her husband transition their family to The Academy this fall. As a family, they enjoy being involved in their church, reading together, playing board games and spending time with family and friends.
Lauren Hawkins graduated from Purdue University with a bachelors degrees in Health Science and Nursing. She worked as an oncology nurse for several years before becoming a stay at home mom. After homeschooling her older children for the last two years, Lauren is looking forward to partnering with staff and other families as she and her husband transition their family to The Academy this fall. As a family, they enjoy being involved in their church, reading together, playing board games and spending time with family and friends.
Bethany Riederich | PreK Support Staff
Bethany Riederich graduated from a collaborative style education and loved her years spent in a Christ-centered school. Bethany's heart for serving the Lord has always been drawn to working with youth. She has not only spearheaded and lead a number of Bible studies locally and on-line for the past three years but also started numerous worship nights throughout the north Indy area. She is determined to make her work a place of ministry and is enthused to speak life into the next generation.
Bethany Riederich graduated from a collaborative style education and loved her years spent in a Christ-centered school. Bethany's heart for serving the Lord has always been drawn to working with youth. She has not only spearheaded and lead a number of Bible studies locally and on-line for the past three years but also started numerous worship nights throughout the north Indy area. She is determined to make her work a place of ministry and is enthused to speak life into the next generation.
Johnny McClung |Chapel Leader & Creative Services
Johnny is passionate about bringing people to the feet of God in authentic worship. He holds a B.A. in Communications and Graphic Design from Texas State University. As a songwriter and worship leader, Johnny is proud of his family heritage in music. His great-grandfather, John A. McClung, is in the Gospel Music Hall of fame as a hymn writer. Most recently, Johnny was Director of Worship at Faith Church Indy for several years. Johnny currently owns his own creative company which focuses on graphic design, photography, and video production. He and his wife, Scotia, have three daughters who attend the Academy. Johnny enjoys traveling, hiking, road cycling, COFFEE, and performing live music.
Johnny is passionate about bringing people to the feet of God in authentic worship. He holds a B.A. in Communications and Graphic Design from Texas State University. As a songwriter and worship leader, Johnny is proud of his family heritage in music. His great-grandfather, John A. McClung, is in the Gospel Music Hall of fame as a hymn writer. Most recently, Johnny was Director of Worship at Faith Church Indy for several years. Johnny currently owns his own creative company which focuses on graphic design, photography, and video production. He and his wife, Scotia, have three daughters who attend the Academy. Johnny enjoys traveling, hiking, road cycling, COFFEE, and performing live music.
