Teachers

This is my 35th year of being in the middle school; you’d think I’d have graduated by now. For all of those years I’ve taught Bible, but I’ve also taught English and Social Studies, since I have degrees in all three of those areas.  I’m looking forward to another fun and challenging year this year.

Favorite scripture:  “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,  may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.  Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”  Ephesians 3:16-21

I have been privileged to teach high school at WMC for the last 17 years.  I am grateful for my wife, Mary along with two daughters and six grandchildren.  I have attended three Christian schools: Hudsonville, Fremont, WMCHS and graduated from Calvin College in 1999 with a B.A. in history.

Favorite Scripture: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”  Numbers 6: 24-26

Summer Lile graduated from WMC in 2012 and then from Cornerstone University in 2016 with a degree in Integrated Science for Secondary Education. She loves fishing, gardening and sharing her passion for God’s creating with her students. Her favorite part of returning to WMC as an alum is the community of staff, students and parents that feels a lot like family.

Favorite scripture: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

Favorite scripture

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”  Colossians 3:23-24

Hello! I am so excited and blessed to be able to be the Guidance Counselor at WMC!  I grew up in Fremont, MI and attended Cornerstone University to receive my Bachelor’s Degree.  I majored in Learning Disabilities and began teaching at WMC as an Educational Support Specialist.  I later decided to go back to college for my Master’s Degree and am currently finishing up my degree in School Counseling at Grand Valley State University.  When I am not at WMC I enjoy anything outdoors with the people I love and my energetic dog! I enjoy going to the sand dunes, running, kayaking, rollerblading, biking and camping.  Just to name a few!

Favorite scripture: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  Philippians 4:6

Favorite Quotes: 

“We aren’t called to shine our own light; we are called to reflect His.”

“How cool is it that the same God that created mountains and oceans and galaxies looked at you and thought the world needed one of you too”

I was born and raised in Grand Haven.  I graduated from Grand Haven High School and Calvin College.  I taught in Florida and Mexico.  I started at WMC in 1989.  My wife is Carol.  My two children, Brian and Betsi graduated from WMC.

Favorite scripture: So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. The son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his servants, “Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” So they began to celebrate.  Luke 15:20-24

Born:  Zeeland, Michigan

Education: Bachelor of Arts degree: Dordt College

Masters of Arts degree:  University of Iowa

Schools:
Ocheyedan Christian School:  Administrator and 7th & 8th teacher
Pella Christian School: Middle school language arts teacher
Western Michigan Christian High School: English teacher

Family: Wife: Marilee
Children: Tracy (deceased), Jeremy, Justin

Favorite scripture: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4: 6-7

I joined the WMC staff in 2013, and I am so glad that God has directed me and my family to be a part of this great school!  I graduated with my Bachelor of Science degree in Math Education in 1999, but prior to graduating, I had sensed that God had a different direction for my life.  I felt him calling me into full-time Christian ministry.  I attended seminary and graduated with my Master’s of Divinity degree in 2003.  Over the years that would follow, I served on staff as an Associate Pastor, pastored a church in South Carolina, served as an international missionary, and returned to America to pastor a church in Metro Detroit. Then, God changed our family’s direction and location, bringing us to West Michigan and WMC. I’m incredibly excited to not only teach math classes, but to use the experiences and background God has given me to teach Bible classes as well. When I’m not teaching, I love spending time with my wife (Mrs. Abel, the ESL and Chinese teacher) and kids; running or biking; and rooting on my favorite team, the Chicago Cubs!

I feel blessed to be Athletic Director and teaching at Western Michigan Christian High School after attending Fremont Christian and graduating from WMC.  I’ve received my B.A. from Calvin College in History/Physical Education and my M.ED in Athletic Administration from Endicott College.  

Previously, I’ve taught at Whitinsville Christian, in Massachusetts and my wife Rochelle and I have two young boys (Kai and Myles).  

Favorite scripture:  “But God demonstrates his love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

Hello!  My name is Kelly Wierenga and I am one of the science teachers at WMC.  I grew up near Philadelphia, PA, but love living along the lakeshore!  I earned my B.S. in Integrated Science Education at Calvin College, and have been teaching since 2011.  While I enjoy all areas of science I particularly love marine biology and am currently pursuing a M.A. in Coastal and Marine Studies with NOVA Southeastern University.  The world we live in is a fascinating place and I take pleasure in guiding students as we journey deeper into understanding and learning about it together.  I also enjoy backpacking, soccer, Harry Potter, and being with family.

Favorite scriptures:
“Mightier than the waves of the sea is His love for you.”  Psalms 93:4

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”  Hebrews 6:19

I have been teaching for 16 years, all at WMC.  I earned a B.A. in social studies in from Calvin College and a M.Ed. with an emphasis in history from Grand Valley State University.  

Favorite scripture:  So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it. – Colossians 3:12-14

Nate Johnston graduated from Northwestern College, in Orange City Iowa. He taught for 3 years at Unit Christian in Orange City before moving to Michigan to teach at WMC. Nate lives in North Muskegon with his wife Emma. He enjoys running, cooking, and traveling.  

Favorite scripture: “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

My wife Mercy and I have 2 children and live in Norton Shores. Generally, I’m a thinker, researcher, and communicator. I am interested in Theology, Biblical Studies, local church ministry, preaching, Christian education, cross-cultural teaching, and researching the cultural shifts currently taking place because of society’s digital explosion, especially with reference to Christian communities (families, schools, churches). I am always asking, “How should Christians be adapting to today’s [fill in the blank]”?

Favorite scripture: “I will heal their backsliding; I will love them freely.”  Hosea 14:4

I graduated with a Bachelors from Calvin College and a Masters from The University of Detroit.

B.M.E, Calvin College (2003), M. Ed, Grand Valley State University (2010). Vocal Music Teacher K-8, Grand Haven Christian School; Sanctuary Choir Director, Second Christian Reformed Church, Grand Haven.

Kathryn graduated from Calvin College in 2003, with degrees in music education and vocal performance. She currently teaches general music and choir at Grand Haven Christian School and Western Michigan Christian High School in Muskegon. She also directs the Sanctuary Choir at Second Christian Reformed Church in Grand Haven.

In 2010, Kathryn completed her masters degree in secondary education from Grand Valley State University. Her thesis focused on technology use in the music classroom. She enjoys singing as a soloist around West Michigan, in churches and for community events. In 2014, Kathryn was privileged to sing as the soprano soloist for the Faure Requiem with the Grand Rapids Symphony.

She and her husband Dave are both choral nerds, having sung together in both the Calvin College Capella and the Calvin College Alumni Choir. In their spare time, they enjoy cooking (and eating), binge-watching home improvement shows, and spending time outside. They reside in Holland with their children, Jack, Clara,  Louise, and Cecilia.

Favorite Scripture: I John 4: 7-8

I grew up in Borculo, Michigan.  Graduated from Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, IL.  I have been at WMC for 2 years. I have the wonderful privilege of being the middle school athletics director and also the boys varsity basketball coach. I have a passion for athletics and watching kids use the gifts God has blessed them with.  My family and I live in Spring Lake, MI.

Favorite Scripture: Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.   James 1:17

Mr. DeBone earned his Bachelor degree at CMU and is starting his 8th year teaching band. He has 4 children with his wife Danielle. They both enjoy music and are very involved in leading worship. Mr. DeBone also is an avid runner and runs with Team World Vision every year to bring access to clean water to communities in Africa.

Favorite Scripture: Psalm 16

I graduated from Dordt College in 2005 with a double major in Theology and Secondary Education. In the summer of 2005, my wife, Jeannette, and I were married and then we moved to Southern CA where I taught Business and Computers for 3 years at Ontario Christian High School. We decided to move back to Holland in the summer of 2008 in order to be closer to family. For the next 5 years, I worked as a youth director at a church in Holland where I had the privilege of teaching the Bible from a reformed perspective, developing relationships with middle school and high school students, and walking alongside students in their faith journey. In 2011, my wife and I moved to Israel for 10 months where I received my Graduate Certificate in Biblical History and Geography from Jerusalem University College in Jerusalem. During this time, I also volunteered at a Christian school in Bethlehem where I taught middle school and high school Bible classes. I began teaching Bible at WMC in 2012 and I could not be more excited and blessed for the opportunity to be a part of the WMC community.

Personal Message
My wife and I have been married for 11 years and we have 2 sons and 1 daughter. Corben is 5 years old and Asher is 3 years old and our daughter Ayla is 7 months old.  I enjoy reading, being outdoors, playing tennis and golf, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends.

Favorite scripture: “Hear O Israel: the Lord is our God, the Lord alone.  Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might.”  Deuteronomy 6: 4-5

I was born and raised in the South.  My parents provided their eight children with the opportunity to grow up in a loving and Christian home. I attended Jackson State University. I enjoy reading and spending time with my family. I am honored to be married to my wonderful husband, Samuel. We have three beautiful girls-A’Nyah, Amaria and Avia.

Favorite Scripture:   Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.  Ephesians 3:20-21

Mrs. Abel has been married to her husband, Kyle Abel, for 18 years and have three children. Mr. Abel, teaches Mathematics and Bible courses at Western Michigan Christian High School. As a family they spent two years studying and working in China. Charissa has a passion for International work and students. Mrs. Abel works with our partner school Western Michigan Christian Shanghai, China.  She loves to travel and experience new cultures. In her free time she enjoys running, biking and swimming.

Favorite Scriptures:

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” – Romans 10:14

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19

Favorite Quotes:

“To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.” – Oscar Wilde

“To move, to breathe, to fly, to float
To gain all while you give
To roam the roads of lands remote
To travel is to live.“– Hans Christian Anderson

I grew up in the mid-west area of the nation, moving around from state to state. I would say that this area of Michigan is where I am from though, since my family has lived here the longest out of any area. I went to Jenison High School where I graduated in 2009. I am a Grand Valley State University grad with a degree in special education. I originally went to school for video game design, but that wasn’t what God had in store for me.  After doing some volunteer work with local schools I found my love for teaching, which has led me here to this position.

Favorite scripture:  He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life.”  Revelation 21:6

Nature/outdoors is my favorite piece of God’s creation. Being out on the water/fishing/backpacking with my family is where I love to be.

Favorite Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 9:24 – 27, Jeremiah 1:5

I grew up in Allendale, Michigan and graduated from Unity Christian High School in 2008. After attending Calvin College for one year, I transferred to Dordt College and graduated with a degree in Secondary Education and History in 2012. Throughout my student years, I played soccer. After college, I accepted a teaching position at MOC-Floyd Valley Public Middle School in Northwest Iowa where I taught 6th and 8th Grade history for 2 years as well as coached the boys’ varsity and junior varsity soccer teams. Then, I moved to Redlands, CA and taught 6th and 7th Grade World History for 2 years at Redlands Christian School. I also coached the middle school soccer team. This past year, I moved back to West Michigan to be closer to family and am teaching here.

Favorite Scripture: Romans 8:38-39

Jacque studied Developmental Motor Control at Michigan State University and looked at the impact of movement on brain development and the learning process. Understanding that vision is not only 20/20. A person can have 20/20 vision and still not be able to track their eyes together from left to right in a fluid way. This skill is essential for success in daily skills, especially reading. Finding a passion in understanding, and how movement is the basis of all learning has lead Jacque to continue her education in learning related visual problems. She combines experiential education, natural development and movement through Bal-A-Vis-X and Brain Gym to provide an insightful and rewarding experience for those who work with children.

Favorite Scripture: Psalm 91:1-2

This will be my 34th year of working in education and my 4th year at WMC. When I am not teaching, I enjoy sewing, reading and coaching the sport of Competitive Cheer.  My husband is a retired school administrator who decided to get back into education and currently works with 9th and 10th grade at-risk students at Shelby High School.  We are blessed with two daughters, a son-in-law and 2 grandsons (6 and 3) who bring much joy into our lives.

Favorite scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6

Tyler came to WMC after 5 years of youth ministry experience. In his other time, he partners with a mission agency called Biglife. He also plays basketball with the West Michigan Lakehawks and coaches at WMC. He loves deep conversation and training up young people to share the Gospel with people everywhere!

Favorite Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 5:21 and Psalm 103:4

“If people don’t see Christ in you, they won’t want what you have. Once you realize you are accepted as the beloved, you’ll be free from the feeling of  rejection from people. Why? Because, nobody on this planet can take away something they didn’t give you!” – Todd White

Mr. Liggett is Assistant to the Principal and teaches Middle School and High School social studies.  He coaches girl’s golf and JV baseball.  Scott joined the WMC team in September of 2011 as Chief Advancement Officer for Western Michigan Christian Schools and has been teaching for the past 3 years.  Scott, his wife Kelly and their four children live in Grand Haven and attend St. John Lutheran church.  

Scott received his bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University holds his current teaching certificate from Grand Valley State University and has a Masters degree in Non-profit Administration from the University of Notre Dame.

Favorite scripture:
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor heavenly rulers, nor things that are present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39

I have been a part of the WMC family for the past 7 years and taught English 9, British Literature, and AP Literature before becoming the Director of Curriculum and Instruction in 2014.  I love reading long stories and writing short ones, coaching Competitive Cheer, and watching Baseball with my family.

Favorite scripture:  “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.”  Ephesians 6:10
It’s a great reminder that we never have to face our battles alone, but that the Lord always goes before us.  

Favorite quotes: Every line from Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables…except for pages 200-250.