SECONDARY TEACHERS (Grades 6 - 12)
Dave Berg, B.S., M.Ed -- Math and HS STEM
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 134
Education: Bachelor of Science, from Pensacola Christian College. Masters of Education, Instruction and Curriculum from Clark Summit University.
Comment: I started teaching at ACS in 2014. I have had the opportunity to teach a variety of subjects within the Math and Science arenas. I love being at ACS. My wife and I live in the Kent City area with our youngest son who attends ACS, and also have two grown children who have graduated from the school. ACS has been a great environment for our family.
Education: Bachelor of Science, from Pensacola Christian College. Masters of Education, Instruction and Curriculum from Clark Summit University.
Comment: I started teaching at ACS in 2014. I have had the opportunity to teach a variety of subjects within the Math and Science arenas. I love being at ACS. My wife and I live in the Kent City area with our youngest son who attends ACS, and also have two grown children who have graduated from the school. ACS has been a great environment for our family.
Charles Cargill, B.S. -- HS Science, Bible 7
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 127
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Ferris State University, Big Rapids MI; Biology major and minor in Chemistry, General Science, Athletic Coaching endorsement. Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology from Ferris State University, Big Rapids MI
Comments: I retired from MI public education after 30 years to take a teaching position at ACS. I have been teaching HS science at ACS since 2020. I am so excited to be able to bring clarity on God's creation to our students at Algoma Christian School each day. I enjoy teaching and bringing God's word to our students. I am married and have 10 children and 8 grandchildren.
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Ferris State University, Big Rapids MI; Biology major and minor in Chemistry, General Science, Athletic Coaching endorsement. Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology from Ferris State University, Big Rapids MI
Comments: I retired from MI public education after 30 years to take a teaching position at ACS. I have been teaching HS science at ACS since 2020. I am so excited to be able to bring clarity on God's creation to our students at Algoma Christian School each day. I enjoy teaching and bringing God's word to our students. I am married and have 10 children and 8 grandchildren.
Brian Carr -- Bible 8 -12, Ministry & Worship
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 121
Education & Experience: Majored in Communications and Political Science at Cornerstone University; Completed Licensing Classes with Arizona School of Ministry; Ordained for Ministry at North Valley Community Church, Phoenix AZ; Pastor at Green Country Church, Morley MI.
Comments: My heart is to see Jesus lifted high. I have served in ministry since I was a HS student. I spent most of my adult life serving in the local church and have served as a youth pastor, children's pastor, and served on staff at a Christian camp. I love God's Word and making it come alive for students. I hope that through their time at Algoma Christian School, they will have a genuine experience with God., they will place their faith in Him, and learn to walk out that faith for the rest of their lives. I am married to my wonderful wife Elida, and have two sons that attend ACS: Brian and Luke.
Education & Experience: Majored in Communications and Political Science at Cornerstone University; Completed Licensing Classes with Arizona School of Ministry; Ordained for Ministry at North Valley Community Church, Phoenix AZ; Pastor at Green Country Church, Morley MI.
Comments: My heart is to see Jesus lifted high. I have served in ministry since I was a HS student. I spent most of my adult life serving in the local church and have served as a youth pastor, children's pastor, and served on staff at a Christian camp. I love God's Word and making it come alive for students. I hope that through their time at Algoma Christian School, they will have a genuine experience with God., they will place their faith in Him, and learn to walk out that faith for the rest of their lives. I am married to my wonderful wife Elida, and have two sons that attend ACS: Brian and Luke.
Nathan Dracht, B.S. -- Art 6-12
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 139
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Visual Art Education from Huntington University, Huntington, IN.
Comments: This will be my 10th year as an art teacher! I’ve taught in both Indiana and Minnesota, but am so excited to be back in my home state of Michigan! I have worked with diverse student populations, ranging from elementary to high school levels. It’s a wonderful privilege to openly integrate my faith into daily teaching. Helping students see the beauty of God's creation through their artwork is incredibly satisfying. I have 2 children with my wonderful wife, Brittany, and we are all enjoying our time at ACS!
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science in Visual Art Education from Huntington University, Huntington, IN.
Comments: This will be my 10th year as an art teacher! I’ve taught in both Indiana and Minnesota, but am so excited to be back in my home state of Michigan! I have worked with diverse student populations, ranging from elementary to high school levels. It’s a wonderful privilege to openly integrate my faith into daily teaching. Helping students see the beauty of God's creation through their artwork is incredibly satisfying. I have 2 children with my wonderful wife, Brittany, and we are all enjoying our time at ACS!
Chris Feenstra, B.S. -- MS & HS Math
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 137
Education: Bachelor of Science, Arizona State University.
Comment: This will be my first year at Algoma Christian School and my first year teaching Math (Philippians 4:13). Both of my children have attended ACS for 4 years. I fell in love with education and leadership during 12 years of service in the United States Marine Corps. I subsequently fell in love with Jesus through our Father’s irresistible grace. Prior to ACS I instructed ballistics and meteorology at the Ft. Sill Fires Center of Excellence, ballistics and fire direction at the 11th Marines Artillery Training School, and secondary science at Lake Michigan Academy, Grand Rapids. When I’m not working or with family, I enjoy serving in men’s and veteran’s ministry. (1 Corinthians 16:13)
Education: Bachelor of Science, Arizona State University.
Comment: This will be my first year at Algoma Christian School and my first year teaching Math (Philippians 4:13). Both of my children have attended ACS for 4 years. I fell in love with education and leadership during 12 years of service in the United States Marine Corps. I subsequently fell in love with Jesus through our Father’s irresistible grace. Prior to ACS I instructed ballistics and meteorology at the Ft. Sill Fires Center of Excellence, ballistics and fire direction at the 11th Marines Artillery Training School, and secondary science at Lake Michigan Academy, Grand Rapids. When I’m not working or with family, I enjoy serving in men’s and veteran’s ministry. (1 Corinthians 16:13)
Morgan Kehoe, B.S., B.S., M.A. -- English 7-10
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 112
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science from Ferris State University in Recreation Leadership Management and Interpersonal Communication. Master of Arts from Michigan State University in Communication. I have worn many hats during my career at ACS. Currently, my roles include Athletic Director, Varsity Volleyball Coach, and teach Secondary English and High School Physical Education.
Comment: When it was time for my husband and I to decide on the educational path for our two boys we were led to Algoma Christian School. We fell in love quickly with the family atmosphere and the focus on Christ and His biblical teachings. I have worked for Algoma Christian since my youngest son was in kindergarten. I worked in the office for 7 years and then switched to the classroom and I love it! Through my time playing volleyball and running track at Ferris State, I discovered not only a passion for sports but also a passion to share my knowledge, experience, and love of athletics with others through coaching. It has been an honor to coach the ACS varsity volleyball team for the past nine years. It has been a continued blessing to coach, work, and send my kids to Algoma Christian.
Education and Experience: Bachelor of Science from Ferris State University in Recreation Leadership Management and Interpersonal Communication. Master of Arts from Michigan State University in Communication. I have worn many hats during my career at ACS. Currently, my roles include Athletic Director, Varsity Volleyball Coach, and teach Secondary English and High School Physical Education.
Comment: When it was time for my husband and I to decide on the educational path for our two boys we were led to Algoma Christian School. We fell in love quickly with the family atmosphere and the focus on Christ and His biblical teachings. I have worked for Algoma Christian since my youngest son was in kindergarten. I worked in the office for 7 years and then switched to the classroom and I love it! Through my time playing volleyball and running track at Ferris State, I discovered not only a passion for sports but also a passion to share my knowledge, experience, and love of athletics with others through coaching. It has been an honor to coach the ACS varsity volleyball team for the past nine years. It has been a continued blessing to coach, work, and send my kids to Algoma Christian.
Gabrielle Maggio, J.D., B.S. -- Science 6-8
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 132
Education and Experience: Juris Doctor of Law from the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná, Brazil; Bachelor of Science with emphasis in Biology and Vision Science from Ferris State University.
Comments: God led me to Algoma in 2022 as I searched for a new Christian school for my kids. Shortly after, He also opened the doors for me to become a part of the teaching staff. Science is my passion and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to use my knowledge along with my ministry training to teach my students all about the amazing things that God has created!
Education and Experience: Juris Doctor of Law from the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná, Brazil; Bachelor of Science with emphasis in Biology and Vision Science from Ferris State University.
Comments: God led me to Algoma in 2022 as I searched for a new Christian school for my kids. Shortly after, He also opened the doors for me to become a part of the teaching staff. Science is my passion and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to use my knowledge along with my ministry training to teach my students all about the amazing things that God has created!
Stephanie Montgomery, B.A., M.A. -- English 6, Social Studies 8, STEM, Computer Apps
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 135
Education and Experience: A State Certified Professional Teacher, Bachelor of Education and a Masters of Arts in Education Curriculum and Technology. Montessori certification in upper elementary. National Certified for STEM Education through National Institute for STEM Education.
Comments: I have been teaching for more than 15 years. I have taught in Grand Rapids Public, Kalamazoo Public and Muskegon Heights. After subbing a few times at ACS, I was asked to be a full-time aide in the 2nd grade room. I love spending time in the classroom and at recess building relationships with ACS students. My husband, Craig, graduated from Algoma Christian. My son, Cody, is currently attending ACS. Besides teaching, I volunteer at church in children’s ministry, coach Upward basketball, and lead the lesson for Girls on the Run program. I enjoy fixing our house, kayaking, being outside, reading, crocheting, and music. I am so very blessed and excited to be here!
Education and Experience: A State Certified Professional Teacher, Bachelor of Education and a Masters of Arts in Education Curriculum and Technology. Montessori certification in upper elementary. National Certified for STEM Education through National Institute for STEM Education.
Comments: I have been teaching for more than 15 years. I have taught in Grand Rapids Public, Kalamazoo Public and Muskegon Heights. After subbing a few times at ACS, I was asked to be a full-time aide in the 2nd grade room. I love spending time in the classroom and at recess building relationships with ACS students. My husband, Craig, graduated from Algoma Christian. My son, Cody, is currently attending ACS. Besides teaching, I volunteer at church in children’s ministry, coach Upward basketball, and lead the lesson for Girls on the Run program. I enjoy fixing our house, kayaking, being outside, reading, crocheting, and music. I am so very blessed and excited to be here!
Sheila Pederson -- Social Studies 7, English 8, 10-11
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 138
April Peterlein, B.S. -- English 11-12, AP English, Social Studies 10-12, Creative Writing
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 118
Education: Bachelor of Science in English Education with a minor in History Education from Pensacola Christian College.
Comment: I am so thankful to be part of the Algoma family! I originally taught here from 2006-2011. I was thrilled when God led our family back here in 2021. My husband Jason and I have one son named Lincoln who attends ACS. I truly love teaching high school! Getting to know the students and families that make up this school has been a true joy. I am very blessed to have this ministry and speak truth into the lives of my students.
Education: Bachelor of Science in English Education with a minor in History Education from Pensacola Christian College.
Comment: I am so thankful to be part of the Algoma family! I originally taught here from 2006-2011. I was thrilled when God led our family back here in 2021. My husband Jason and I have one son named Lincoln who attends ACS. I truly love teaching high school! Getting to know the students and families that make up this school has been a true joy. I am very blessed to have this ministry and speak truth into the lives of my students.
Sara Pitzer -- HS Spanish I & II, MS Computers
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 129
Education and Experience: GRCC Spanish and Business, Coopersville Public Schools ESL Night Migrant Program, Bethany Christian Services Refugee Housing.
Comments: I have been an employee of ACS since 2022. It’s such a blessing to be part of the Christ saturated environment found at ACS, surrounded by others who love Jesus and sharing that love with the children around them. I have been married to my husband, Matt for 20 years. We live in Rockford and have four children, three of whom attend ACS and our oldest who attends Western Michigan University. I fell in love with the Spanish language and Latin culture in my very first High School Spanish class. I couldn’t have imagined then, all the ways the Lord would use me, change me and grow me (and our family) through something as simple as a second language. When you know another language it opens you up to a whole other world you’d otherwise never have access to. The different cultures and people groups you’re able to connect with, serve and share the love of Jesus with is an incredible gift! I am so very excited to share my passion and love of Spanish with your students.
Education and Experience: GRCC Spanish and Business, Coopersville Public Schools ESL Night Migrant Program, Bethany Christian Services Refugee Housing.
Comments: I have been an employee of ACS since 2022. It’s such a blessing to be part of the Christ saturated environment found at ACS, surrounded by others who love Jesus and sharing that love with the children around them. I have been married to my husband, Matt for 20 years. We live in Rockford and have four children, three of whom attend ACS and our oldest who attends Western Michigan University. I fell in love with the Spanish language and Latin culture in my very first High School Spanish class. I couldn’t have imagined then, all the ways the Lord would use me, change me and grow me (and our family) through something as simple as a second language. When you know another language it opens you up to a whole other world you’d otherwise never have access to. The different cultures and people groups you’re able to connect with, serve and share the love of Jesus with is an incredible gift! I am so very excited to share my passion and love of Spanish with your students.
Trevor Reed -- Interventionist
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 121
Education: Cornerstone University, trained in RTI (Response to Intervention)- math and reading
Comment: Working at Algoma is a great blessing. I love to see how God impacts students' education. As an interventionist, I support my students' skills in math and reading, but most importantly I strive to help them with their relationship with God. My passion is to give students a solid foundation to implement in their future endeavors.
Education: Cornerstone University, trained in RTI (Response to Intervention)- math and reading
Comment: Working at Algoma is a great blessing. I love to see how God impacts students' education. As an interventionist, I support my students' skills in math and reading, but most importantly I strive to help them with their relationship with God. My passion is to give students a solid foundation to implement in their future endeavors.
Lindsey Smith, B.A. -- Math 6, Bible 6, HS PE, HS Health
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 111
Education: Bachelor of Arts degree with a triple minor in elementary education, physical education, and reading from Cornerstone University. ACSI Certificate.
Comments: After graduating from Cornerstone in the Spring of 2010, I began looking for a teaching position in Christian education. I have been at Algoma Christian School since 2011. My experiences consist of teaching elementary physical education, athletic director, and elementary computer teacher. Since 2016, I have been teaching sixth grade in the classroom setting, and I love teaching this age! I am so blessed to have the opportunity to teach God's Word every day to my classes. It gives me great joy to experience all the new challenges and rewarding experiences that come with teaching. I am overjoyed to invest my time in Christian education and pour God's love into the lives of students at ACS to help them become true disciples!
Education: Bachelor of Arts degree with a triple minor in elementary education, physical education, and reading from Cornerstone University. ACSI Certificate.
Comments: After graduating from Cornerstone in the Spring of 2010, I began looking for a teaching position in Christian education. I have been at Algoma Christian School since 2011. My experiences consist of teaching elementary physical education, athletic director, and elementary computer teacher. Since 2016, I have been teaching sixth grade in the classroom setting, and I love teaching this age! I am so blessed to have the opportunity to teach God's Word every day to my classes. It gives me great joy to experience all the new challenges and rewarding experiences that come with teaching. I am overjoyed to invest my time in Christian education and pour God's love into the lives of students at ACS to help them become true disciples!
Karissa Waggoner -- Band 6-8, Ministry & Worship
Phone: 616-678-7480 Ext: 136
Education: Bachelors in Instrumental & Vocal Music Education K-12 from Spring Arbor University in Spring Arbor, Michigan.
Comment: I grew up on the east side of the state in Tecumseh, Michigan where my parents still live. I have a brother and SIL in the Dayton, OH area, and my sister lives in TX. It has been wonderful to be here at ACS in this caring and positive environment. It is a blessing to be able to talk about my faith and sing and play in worship to the Lord with the students. Eph. 5:18-20.
Education: Bachelors in Instrumental & Vocal Music Education K-12 from Spring Arbor University in Spring Arbor, Michigan.
Comment: I grew up on the east side of the state in Tecumseh, Michigan where my parents still live. I have a brother and SIL in the Dayton, OH area, and my sister lives in TX. It has been wonderful to be here at ACS in this caring and positive environment. It is a blessing to be able to talk about my faith and sing and play in worship to the Lord with the students. Eph. 5:18-20.