Staff Directory

“I love helping children build a strong, solid foundation in their spiritual and academic lives that will be the cornerstone for who they become as followers of God and citizens of this world.”

Teaching at LCS
I knew that I wanted to be an elementary teacher since I was in first grade. I always loved school and looked up to my teachers. I felt a calling to help foster a positive foundation for lifelong learning in children. I began teaching at LCS in 2006. I love that at LCS I am challenged professionally and spiritually through my work. LCS supports me in being a creative teacher and in designing learning experiences that give students the opportunity to live out their role in God’s story.

Favorite Things
I love spending time with my family. We love living in the country, riding our go-karts, and going camping together. I also love to crochet and make amigurumi!

Favorite Verse
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” – 1 Corinthians 9:24-25

“I love our caring, Christian community.  Everyone is here to help kids and help them grow academically and in their faith.”

Education
Eastern Michigan University • BA in English 6-12
Eastern Michigan University • BS in Psychology 6-12

Teaching Experience
Before coming to LCS, I had 17 years of teaching experience. I have wanted to teach since I was five-years-old. I don’t quite know what made me want to, but I loved playing school. I was the little girl who turned pretend play into a whole new level with my lessons and reward systems. I started teaching the moment I could, which was when I was senior in high school. I love contributing positively in people’s lives and teenagers are hilarious, which is one aspect that makes them fun to work with. I feel like teaching was my calling.

Favorite Things
I enjoy spending time with my children, visiting friends, or watching movies. I have also been a bee keeper for the last three years, so I love all things honey bees (except getting stung). I am new to raising chickens this year, which has been a fun adventure too.

Favorite LCS Memory
My greatest memory thus far is when my interview began with prayer. I loved that and was so encouraged as I was considering making some major life changes from public to Christian school. Everyone really made a great impression with their openness and candor. I love the warm, welcoming nature coming from all of the LCS staff.

Favorite Verse
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28

Education

I love the community atmosphere at LCS. I see people who genuinely care for each other and enjoy their work on a daily basis.

Education
ETHNOS 360 • BA in Intercultural Studies
Fort Sherman Academy • 10 day C+ Captive Saint Training
Peer to Peer Crisis Debrief
ASHA CPR, AED and first aid certified

Favorite Things
I enjoy time with our kids and grandkids.  My wife Jackie and I like to bike ride and get outside to enjoy God’s creation.

Favorite LCS Memory
The look on Matt’s face when we got the new mower. 🙂

People Might Not Know
I lived in a small village in Amazonas, Venezuela with my wife and Kids for 10 years, learned an unwritten language, and witnessed the birth of a church.

Favorite Verse
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” – Hebrews 12:1-3

Why I Value Serving at LCS 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve at Lansing Christian School by helping today’s students grow into tomorrow’s strong, wise, and faithful Christian leaders.”

Education
B.A. in English — Hope College

Favorite Things
Spending time with family
Learning about theology, philosophy, psychology, geography, history, and political thought
Working out, hiking and playing basketball
Writing and making art

Favorite Verses
Deuteronomy 1:31 — “And in the wilderness, where thou hast seen how that the Lord thy God bare thee, as a man doth bear his son, in all the way that ye went, until ye came into this place.”

Joshua 1:9 — “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

“I love seeing the students use their God-given talents in athletics as they grow, learn, and compete.“

Deep Hope
My deep hope is that our students know they are uniquely created, deeply loved, and God is equipping them for their role in His Story.

Favorite Verse
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9 

Education
An alumna of Lansing Christian School and a graduate of Taylor University, Mrs. Damesworth brings a deep and longstanding connection to the mission of Christ-centered education. Over the years, she and her family have faithfully invested in the life and culture of LCS.

“I love working alongside students and watching them learn and grow.“

Teaching at LCS
I have been teaching at LCS since 2014.  I became a teacher because I wanted to help students grow as people and learners, and to share my God-given passions with them. I love that at LCS I am able to openly share with my students how God is working in my life.

Favorite Things
I love any opportunity to be outside in nature, especially hiking and camping. And I love strategy games!

Favorite Verse
“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Matthew 11:29

Bio coming soon

“I love teaching at LCS because I get to inspire and grow young minds academically and in Christ.”

Favorite Things
I love spending quality time with family and friends.

Favorite Verse
“For the spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7

“I love explaining things or demonstrating skills in a way that most people will understand. There is something magical when a student gains confidence and skill.“

I remember the moment I realized how important this school is to its students. I was preparing for the day in my art room and chapel was just beginning. All I could hear was young students singing praise songs, loud and strong! Like their whole soul was invested. It filled my room and filled me up with joy, encouragement, love, and a warmth that was unforgettable.

Favorite Things
I enjoy my home and backyard. I enjoy watching the scenery, tending to my chickens, bees, and indoor animals as well. I also enjoy just hanging out with my family with no agenda or time restraints. And I love going on adventures! I took a 10 day hiking trip through the Teton Mountains and I’ve been rock climbing in the Rockies. When I have mountains and trees, I’m very happy; but when I have a large sky in front of me, that is the best. If there is a horseback riding experience available, I usually jump at the chance!

Favorite Verse
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” – Hebrews 13:5

“Quote.”

Education
here

Favorite Things
here

Favorite Verse
here

“I love our caring, Christian community.  Everyone is here to help kids and help them grow academically and in their faith.”

Education
Liberty University, BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
Pace University, MS for Teachers working with Students with Disabilities
Professional Teaching Certificate: K-5 All Subjects; K-8 Self-Contained; ASD, CI, EI, LD, OHI

Teaching Experience
I started my tenth year teaching when I came to LCS.

Favorite Things
I love going to the beach, especially in Hawaii or Florida. I enjoy spending time with my family: taking a short flight with my husband who is a pilot and soon with my daughter who is training to be a pilot, watching my senior daughter play sports, and playing outside with my toddlers.

Favorite Verse
“How precious also are Your thoughts for me, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the sand. When I awake, I am still with You.” – Psalm 139:17-18

Favorite LCS Memory
My daughters have both attended some middle school and all of high school here, so most of my LCS memories involve them. Seeing them be successful at whatever matters most to them is definitely my greatest joy. They have both played and continue to play a lot of sports, so watching them compete is amazing, I try to be at every game.

“Quote.”

Education
Dennis earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Sociology, with a minor in Bible, from Cornerstone University before completing a Master of Religious Education at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. His theological training, combined with decades of pastoral ministry, has equipped him to help students develop both a biblical worldview and a deep, personal faith in Jesus Christ.

Favorite Things
here

Favorite Verse
here

Education
Bachelor of Arts in Natural Science from Thomas Edison State University and a Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Policy with a specialization in Environmental Policy at Liberty University.

“I want kids to realize their full potential even at a young age.”

Education
Fairhaven Baptist College • BS in Elementary Education

Favorite LCS Memory
I love the kindergarten nativity we do each year.

Favorite Things
I enjoy spending time with my family.

You Might Not Know…
One of my students from my first class as a first grade teacher invited me to be celebrated as the teacher who had the most impact on her life. Now she teaches fifth grade in South Carolina.

Favorite Verse
“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” – James 1:2-4

“I love how the whole staff, families and community strive and come together to achieve the goal devoted to raising up the next generation for Christ.”

Favorite Things
Playing Pickle-ball and hitting golf balls at the driving range.

Favorite Verse
In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:6

“Quote.”
Education
here
Favorite Things
here
Favorite Verse
here

“I love pointing students to Jesus and helping them grow in their faith.“

Teaching at LCS
I began working at LCS in 2020. I love that at LCS, I can point others to Jesus.

Favorite Things
I enjoy reading and watching a good movie.

Favorite Verse
And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.
Colossians 2:13-14

“I love to teach because I enjoy watching students use creativity to solve problems.”

Teaching at LCS
I began teaching at LCS in 2011. I became a teacher because of the wonderful impact my elementary teachers had on me when I was a student.  I love to be able to share my faith with my students, and watch them grow and develop in academics and their love for Jesus. I love all of the times we are able to get together for staff community building at LCS.

Favorite Things
I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and attending MSU athletic events.

Favorite Verse
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” – Jeremiah 29:13

“I love how supportive all the rest of the staff are. Coming in as a new teacher, it was great to have so many coworkers come along side me to ensure that I got off on the right foot.”

Education
BA in History • Calvin University
Certified in Michigan in K-12 Health/PE, 6-12 Social Studies, and 6-12 English

Deep Hope
My deep hope is that students would see the hand of God in human endeavors, and would exercise the virtues of charity and wisdom in the study of the past.

Favorite Things
I enjoy reading, working out, playing games, and spending time with my family.

Favorite Verse
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6

“My prayer for Lansing Christian School is that we would truly fulfill our mission to educate children to the full extent of their God-given abilities.”

Education
Hillsdale College • BA in History, Minor in English

Favorite Things
I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, cooking, and listening to music.

Favorite Verse
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

“I am passionate about using sport as a platform for ministry. How blessed are we to work in the lives of students, helping them see all that God has made them to be!”

Education
BS in Sport Management & Marketing from Cornerstone University

Favorite Things
I love being outside in God’s beautiful creation, especially in the waters of Lake Michigan! If I’m not playing a sport, you’ll probably catch me watching one. I also love playing card and board games. I am a big people-person and love spending time with friends and family! 

Favorite Verse
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24 

“Quote.”

Education
David earned his undergraduate degree in Physics from Truman State University before completing both his M.A. and Ph.D. in Physics at Washington University in St. Louis. During his graduate studies, Dr. Shane participated in advanced research and later had his academic work published.

Favorite Things
here

Favorite Verse
here

“I love to watch the eyes and hearts of my students open wide to the wonders of Jesus as communicated through the brilliant scriptures.“

Favorite Things
I enjoy reading books, drinking good coffee, riding my bike, and mowing my yard.

Favorite Verse
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10

“I love to learn and my students teach me something new every day.“

Favorite Things
I enjoy reading and gardening.

Favorite Verse
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

“Teaching gives me the opportunity to share my love for history and give students the skills they need to make sense of history and apply it to their lives.“

Teaching at LCS
I have been working at LCS since 2007. I enjoy sharing my love for history in a wonderful community environment! I love all the Gettysburg trips I have gotten to lead and the role playing as the Speaker of the House of Representatives with Student Statesmanship Institute. I also have enjoyed playing my guitar at Christmas chapels. Teaching gives me the opportunity to impact people’s lives and to continue investigating and learning more history. My hope is for my students to be knowledgeable and active citizens who will positively contribute to their communities and nation, and who will also be faithful Christians who seek to live out their faith and pass it down to the next generation.

Favorite Things
I like to read history books and listen to music, as well as attend live music concerts.  I also like to watch hockey games and play guitar.

Favorite Verse
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked, or stand in the way that sinners take, or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.” – Psalm 1:1-3

“I love the joy of our LCS family. We truly are a tight-knit family.”

Education
Spring Arbor University • BA with double major in Family Life and Education

Favorite Things
My favorite sport is tennis. My life-long passion is horses and the horse industry.

Favorite LCS Memory
It’s so hard to choose! I love Grandparents Day, multicultural meals, worship and prayer at the first day of school chapel and my favorite smell is the Thanksgiving meal LCS serves.

You Might Not Know…
My family served on the mission field in Port-au-Prince Haiti for 7 months.

Favorite Verse
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

“I love seeing students learning the truth about God’s word.“

Favorite Verse
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” – Jeremiah 29:11 

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” – Psalm 73:26

“I love to see kids learn, and I love to see when they actually get it!“

Teaching at LCS
I have been teaching at LCS since 2002. I love to see the look on students’ faces when they get it. School was hard for me, and I have always wanted to help children and let them know they can be successful no matter what. I enjoy middle school retreat every year as well as directing the musical, which always provides wonderful memories.

Favorite Things
Reading, watching movies, hanging with family and friends, and snuggling with the dogs.

Favorite Verse
“Be still and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

“Quote.”

Education
Mr. Yunker earned a Master of Arts in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and a Bachelor of Social Work from Spring Arbor University, where he graduated with honors. His academic background is complemented by years of ministry and mentoring experience, preparing him to invest in students both intellectually and spiritually.

Favorite Things
here

Favorite Verse
here

“I love the sound of joyful voices at the students come through the cafeteria for meals. I think lunch might be everyone’s favorite ‘subject’.”

Education
BS in Business Administration • Maranatha Baptist University
Food Service Manager Certification • six years

Favorite Things
As a mother of six kids, spare time is rare, but I do enjoy listening to audio books while trekking to activities. I also look forward to our after dinner family walk.

What You Might Not Know Is…
We have two dogs. Piglet is our rescue Chihuahua and Winston is our opinionated French Bulldog.

Favorite Verse
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31

“I love that at LCS Jesus Christ is front and center.  We are striving to make an impact because of what God has done for each of us.”

Education
BS in Business Management • Maranatha Baptist University
MS in Management • Cardinal Stritch University
Ed.D. • Liberty University

Favorite Things
I like spending time with my family.

Favorite Verse
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14