Family and Friends, join us for music & silent auction to support the students and faculty of RSMCS.

Meet Our Team

We are blessed to have a truly incredible faculty and staff at RSM Christian School.  From our extended care and office staff to our teachers and administrators, you won't find a more caring, dedicated, and professional team.  We invite you to reach out to any of them with questions or just to get to know them.

Administration & Office Staff

Julie De Viso

Julie de Viso

Preschool Director, Preschool & Pre-K Teacher

Julie de Viso

Julie de Viso is dedicated to creating a loving and Christ-centered environment for all who come to RSM Christian Early Ed. Mrs. de Viso has more than 20 years of  Early Childhood Education teaching and directing and has a heart for making a difference. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree from California State University Long Beach, along with ongoing professional development in Early Childhood Development from Vanguard University and Saddleback College, Mrs. de Viso is committed to providing the best educational foundation for young learners.

Mrs. de Viso and her husband, Danny, have two children, Ryan and Grace. On the weekends, you can find Mrs. de Viso out taking pictures for her photography collection, which she often enters in local photo contests.

Lori Jensen

Lori Jensen

Principal

Lori Jensen

With more than 40 years of experience as a classroom teacher and administrator, Mrs. Jensen has been blessed to help guide students in both their academic learning and spiritual growth. Her ministry has included teaching Kindergarten through 4th grade, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Mrs. Jensen has been an active participant of WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) and ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International), serving on accreditation committees as both a committee member and chairperson. She has also been Chairperson for her former school’s WASC process. Mrs. Jensen holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration, a Multiple Subject Credential, and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership.

Mrs. Jensen is responsible for the day-to-day school operations and programs. Her wholehearted goal is to provide our elementary and junior high students with the best experience possible. As such, she is constantly evaluating new programs and curriculum, adding innovative teaching methodologies, and pursuing collaborative efforts.

Married to husband Bill, the Jensens have two daughters — both of whom are Christian school alumni – and one darling granddaughter. Mrs. Jensen treasures her time with family and friends and loves to explore new trails on her E-bike, travel, read, and watch old movies (with a Dr. Pepper and Nacho Doritos in hand). In addition to her ministry in education, Mrs. Jensen has been active in her women’s Bible study program at her church.

Mike Margy

Mike Margy

Vice Principal

Mike Margy

Mike Margy has been in Christian education since 2001, the first 17 years as a 5th/6th-grade teacher, followed by two as an Athletic Director/P.E. teacher, and now as the Vice Principal at RSM Christian. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from San Diego State University and was a sportswriter for 13 years before going back to school to earn his multiple-subject teaching credential. He received his Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University in 2019.

Mr. Margy has been married to his wife, Stacey, since 1996, and they have two grown sons, Justice and Noah. A few things to know about Mr. Margy are that he loves sports, especially the Dodgers and USC, he doesn’t drink coffee, and he absolutely loves anything chocolate. He also loves driving on cross-country trips with his family and has driven to Florida, New York, and Canada (three times), and he has been to 34 different states and 12 different countries.

Carrie Gulino, 2nd Grade Teacher

Carrie Gulino

Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Carrie Gulino

Born and raised in Southern California, Mrs. Gulino earned her Bachelor’s degree from UC Irvine along with an elementary teaching credential and specialization in Early Childhood Education. She and her high school sweetheart, Steve, have been married for more than 40 years. Their children are grown; son Eric is married to Kristina, and daughter, Jessica, is a junior high pastor at Saddleback Church. Eric and Jessica are graduates of Christian schools. Steve and Carrie also have an adorable rescued beagle named Jake.

She has taught all elementary grades, from pre-school to 6th grade, excluding 1st grade. In addition to classroom experience, she has also served in several office and administrative roles, including Community Relations, Assistant to the Principal, Grade Level Coordinator, and Principal at Mission Hills Christian School. Working directly with students and sharing God’s amazing plan for their lives was a deeply meaningful part of her journey. Now, as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at RSMCS, it is her privilege to work directly with the curriculum and faculty.

In her free time, Mrs. Gulino enjoys any time spent in the mountains or at the beach, reading a great historical fiction book and, most of all, being with her family.

Lisa Espinoza, Admissions Director

Lisa Espinoza

Admissions Director

Lisa Espinoza

Lisa Espinoza began serving as admissions director at Mission Hills Christian School in 2011. She is the mother of three boys and one girl and has been married to Chip since 1983. She holds an Associate of Science degree in sign language interpreting, a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology, and a Bachelor of Science in communicative disorders. She also is a licensed speech-language pathology assistant and a certified grief counselor.

Mrs. Espinoza loves to hike, read, embark on new adventures, and spend time with family and friends. Her favorite part of being at RSM Christian School is being able to meet all the new families that come visit our campus.

Dayna Graveline, Office Manager & Communications Specialist

Dayna Graveline

Director of Communications / Office Manager

Dayna Graveline

After a career as a senior publicist, Dayna Graveline fell in love with RSMCA, joined the office staff, and enrolled her children at the school. She’s been a permanent fixture at RSMCS ever since.

Whether it be through email reminders, social posts, or a friendly smile and greeting on campus, Mrs. Graveline’s desire is to serve and build connections with all RSMCS families.

Mrs. Graveline earned her Communications degree from Vanguard University. She and her husband, Scott, have two daughters, and she admits her addictions to Mexican food, working out, and ’90s music.

Primm Jill

Jill Primm

Finance Director

Jill Primm

After receiving her CPA and finishing accounting certification hours at Deloitte, Jill Primm served in various accounting roles for public traded companies in Orange County. Over the past few years, she has had opportunities to assist non-profits and smaller companies with their accounting functions and has seen more benefits and opportunities to make an impact. As a result, she has served in different ministry areas and has developed a heart for ministry. She is currently in graduate school getting her Masters in Evangelism and Leadership at Wheaton College. Mrs. Primm is married to her husband, Steven, and, together, they have two children, Hunter and Harper, who currently attend RSM Christian School. Her oldest son, Hunter, previously attended MHCS, so she has a passion and love for the school. In her spare time, Mrs. Primm loves playing and talking sports with her kids, reading, hanging at the beach, and spending time with family and friends.

Stephanie Longcob, Accounts Management / FACTS

Stephanie Longcob

Director of Human Resources and Student Records

Stephanie Longcob

Stephanie Longcob has worked for RSMCS/MHCS since 2001. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Nick, since 1992. Together they have four children – Nikolas, Jakob, Luke, and Mikah. All four of her children attended MHCS and, because of her love for the school, she continues to work here even after her children have graduated.

Having served in many roles over the years, including Early Childhood, After Care, Tuition, and now Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Longcob’s favorite thing about working at RSMCS is that it is more than a job, it is a ministry. Outside of work, Mrs. Longcob enjoys spending time with her three grandchildren, Emery and Ezekiel, and Niko, hiking, pickleball, and reading.

Sarah Olin

Sarah Olin

Office Staff / FACTS Account Manager

Sarah Olin

Sarah Olin was born and raised in Mission Viejo and has spent most of her life in Southern California. She graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a degree in Psychology and now lives in Rancho Santa Margarita with her husband, Jeff, and two children, Aubrey and Cameron. Mrs. Olin loves serving the families of RSMCS and working alongside the amazing staff. During her free time, she likes to watch her kids’ sports, go to the beach, and hang out with her family and friends.

Dara Gould

Dara Gould

Office Staff

Dara Gould

Dara Gould graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration before earning her Master’s degree in Public Administration with an emphasis in Public Policy from Cal State Dominguez Hills. She has worked for public high schools, in educational marketing, and in finance. She currently lives in Trabuco Canyon with her husband, Chris, and their three children, Christopher, Harlow, and Nolan. During her free time, Mrs. Gould loves to bake bread and travel with her family. Her husband is a college soccer coach, so you will regularly find her on a soccer field.

Rhonda

Rhonda Clark

Office Staff

Rhonda Clark

Born and raised in Orange County, Rhonda Clark has lived most of her life in Southern California, except for her toddler years when her family lived on the Kwajalein Atoll in the South Pacific. Mrs. Clark’s education in Accounting and Finance has provided opportunities to work for Christian radio stations Air1 and K-LOVE and in a variety of positions in the financial services industry.

Fueled by her passion for running, Mrs. Clark has completed several marathons and won a handful of local races. She and her husband are the proud parents of two red-headed boys, and they reside in Rancho Santa Margarita.

Aimee Gustafson

Aimee Gustafson

Elementary Instructional Aide

Aimee Gustafson

Henry

Leanna Henry

Elementary Instructional Aide

Leanna Henry

Leanna Henry has a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication from Cal State Fullerton and has worked for a Christian Education Program. Her daughter is an RSMCS alum, and both of her sons currently attend RSM Christian. Mrs. Henry has been married to her husband, Matt, for almost 20 years and, as a family of five, they love to ride bikes, try to solve escape rooms together, and play pickleball.

Early Education Teachers

Julie De Viso

Julie de Viso

Preschool Director, Preschool & Pre-K Teacher

Julie de Viso

Julie de Viso is dedicated to creating a loving and Christ-centered environment for all who come to RSM Christian Early Ed. Mrs. de Viso has more than 20 years of  Early Childhood Education teaching and directing and has a heart for making a difference. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree from California State University Long Beach, along with ongoing professional development in Early Childhood Development from Vanguard University and Saddleback College, Mrs. de Viso is committed to providing the best educational foundation for young learners.

Mrs. de Viso and her husband, Danny, have two children, Ryan and Grace. On the weekends, you can find Mrs. de Viso out taking pictures for her photography collection, which she often enters in local photo contests.

Joni Carruthers, Preschool Teacher

Joni Carruthers

Preschool Teacher

Joni Carruthers

Joni Carruthers attended San Diego State University and majored in Child Development, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree. Ms. Carruthers has more than 35 years of experience working with young children and considers it a privilege to introduce children to Jesus. Ms. Carruthers has two grown children who are married. Her biggest joy is spending time with her family and her grandchildren. Ms. Carruthers enjoys taking her Border collie, Sydney, for long walks around the RSM lake. She enjoys pickleball, tennis, and hiking.

Jodi Sabako

Jodi Sabako

Pre-K Teacher

Jodi Sabako

Jodi Sabako was one of the very first pioneers to move to RSM with her husband, Robbie, in 1986. They were blessed to raise their three now-adult children in this wonderful community. She has a strong love of children and animals. She practiced as an Animal Health Technician prior to finding her true calling to help build a strong learning foundation for preschoolers. Mrs. Sabako obtained her AA & AS degree from Mt. San Antonio College, holds an Early Childhood Certificate from Irvine Valley College, and a Master Teacher Permit with a focus on Math and Science. In her free time, Mrs. Sabako loves to walk her Rat Terrier, Mika, ride her E-bike, read, and spend as much time as possible with her family, which she loves dearly.

Coming Soon

Kelli Hoffman

Early Education Aide

Kelli Hoffman

Kelli Hoffman received her Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development from California State Fullerton. She taught Kindergarten for a year and a half until her first child was born. She decided to then be a stay-at-home mom while raising her three children, Lauren, Lindsey, and Luke for over 18 years. She felt God calling her back into the classroom and is excited to be a part of the RSM Christian School community. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching her children play sports, and spending time outdoors.  

Ashley Leavitt

Ashley Leavitt

Early Education Aide

Ashley Leavitt

Ashley Leavitt attended Chapman University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English. She earned a Master of Science in Educational Counseling from National University. Mrs. Leavitt enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters (who attend RSM Christian). They love going to Disneyland, traveling as a family, and exploring new restaurants together. One of the things Mrs. Leavitt enjoys most about working with children is supporting them academically and emotionally.

Ruth Lin

Ruth Lin

Early Education Aide

Ruth Lin

Ruth Lin graduated from Vanguard University with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She loves helping little ones grow and to worship Jesus with them. Mrs. Lin is married and has three beautiful children. Her youngest is a student at RSMCS! In her spare time, she loves hiking with her family and making memories together. Fun fact about Mrs. Lin: she speaks Mandarin!

Coming Soon

Riley Weinert

Early Education Aide

Riley Weinert

Riley Weinert attended Weber State University as a student-athlete. She received a bachelor’s degree in Family Studies and Child Development. She has worked with kids for the past five years and has loved working with preschool-age children. Her love for seeing children build a relationship with God as they grow led her to work in a Christian school setting. She is working towards becoming a child life specialist where she will help kids cope with their hospital experience and advocate for the children in the hospital. In her free time, she loves to spend time at the beach, camping, backpacking, and hanging out with her family.

Elementary Teachers

Sarah Salazar

Sarah Salazar

Transitional Kindergarten Teacher

Sarah Salazar

Gail Newton

Gail Newton

Kindergarten Teacher

Gail Newton

Gail Newton has been teaching in Christian Schools since 1974. Upon college graduation, she was called into Christian education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from California Baptist University and did graduate work at CBU and U.C. Irvine. Mrs. Newton holds a lifetime K-9 California Credential and has her ACSI certification.

At home, Mrs. Newton enjoys spending time with friends and playing with her cat, Zuzu. In her free time, she likes cooking, sewing, cake decorating, reading, gardening, and taking long walks at the harbor. Mrs. Newton is active in her church where she is involved with greeting, communion, senior adults and any other ministry where she can make people feel welcome and loved.

Mrs. Newton treasures the privilege of teaching the Bible daily and leading little ones to love Jesus. 

Mary Jane Merritt, Kindergarten Teacher

Mary Jane Merritt

Kindergarten Teacher

Mary Jane Merritt

Mary Jane Merritt attended the University of Arizona where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Education. She now holds a California Life Credential (K-9), and an ACSI Credential. Mrs. Merritt began teaching in 1969 and became a kindergarten teacher at Mission Hills Christian School in 1991. She absolutely loves coming to work where her students are always the “best class in the world!” As well as teaching reading, writing, phonics, and math, she enjoys teaching the Bible and helping the children walk closer with Jesus.

Mrs. Merritt’s favorite things to do are spending time with her five grown children, hanging out with her five grandchildren, traveling along our beautiful beaches, playing golf, and learning more about the importance of fitness and healthy nutrition.

Tatum Alexander, 1st Grade Teacher

Tatum Alexander

1st Grade Teacher

Tatum Alexander

Dana Miller

Dana Miller

1st Grade Teacher

Dana Miller

Dana Miller holds a California Teaching Credential and a Master of Arts degree in Education. Her undergraduate work was in Psychology and Child Development. Mrs. Miller has always known that working with children is her calling. Teaching students about the love God gives is her passion. Mrs. Miller believes that, through building strong relationships with her students and their families, she is able to guide each student to realize their God-given gifts and talents.

Mrs. Miller is married to Mark, and they share the blessing of five adult children. Dana’s favorite activities include taking her dog to the park daily, playing games with family, reading a good book, and sewing.

Diane Escobar

Diane Escobar

2nd Grade Teacher

Diane Escobar

Diane Escobar has been a Christian educator for more than 40 years. She considers herself blessed to work with children each day, leading them on the road to academic success and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Mrs. Escobar has a Bachelor of Arts in Child Development degree from California State University Northridge and received her ACSI Professional Teacher Certification in 1991. Mrs. Escobar is married,  the mother of two grown daughters (both products of Christian School education), and a grandmother. She loves art, cooking, traveling, and reading great books.

Bobbi Nyce

Bobbi Nyce

2nd Grade Teacher

Bobbi Nyce

Bobbi Nyce has a deep love of Jesus and is passionate about sharing that love with children and seeing them enter their own relationship with Him. She graduated from Grand Canyon University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with a Christian Education Emphasis. Mrs. Nyce has been in the classroom in many different roles – as a kindergarten aide, a technology and Bible teacher, and a Special Education aide.

When Mrs. Nyce is not in the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, and their dog. Most weekends, you can typically find them on a soccer field. She also enjoys reading good books and taking walks.

Michelle Gerard

Michelle Gerard

3rd Grade Teacher

Michelle Gerard

Michelle Gerard has a passion for teaching and guiding children to develop their God-given talents and gifts. She has many years of teaching experience in private Christian schools, public schools, and as a missionary in Mexico. She received her undergraduate degree and teaching credential from San Jose University.

Mrs. Gerard is married and has two children. In her spare time, she enjoys camping and exploring God’s creation, playing instruments and singing, reading, finding creative outlets through art, and enjoying time with family and friends.

Jenny Vande Wydeven, 3rd Grade Teacher

Jenny Vande Wydeven

3rd Grade Teacher

Jenny Vande Wydeven

Jenny Vande Wydeven is passionate about teaching and loves to help children develop their God-given gifts and talents. Her desire is to help her students develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and to see the world from a Biblical worldview. She received her undergraduate degree in Communication Studies from the University of California, Los Angeles. She then received her teaching credential and Masters of Education, also from UCLA. During her freshman year of college, she met her husband, Matt, and they married six years later. They have two adult children, Ryan and Kristen.

Mrs. Vande has taught for many years in both public and Christian schools. She has taught 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th grades. She currently lives in Irvine and attends Grace Fellowship Church in Costa Mesa. She loves to hike, go out on her outrigger canoe, and spend time with friends and family.

Natalie Hall

Natalie Hall

4th Grade Teacher

Natalie Hall

Natalie Hall is a dedicated educator with a passion for fostering young minds. Mrs. Hall has a Master’s degree in Education from Vanguard University. Her journey to becoming a teacher took an exciting turn a few years ago when she returned to teaching 4th grade after spending a decade at home nurturing her own children.

Married for nearly two decades, Mrs. Hall shares her life with her husband and three wonderful children. Outside the classroom, she enjoys immersing herself in books, exploring new destinations, and cherishing quality moments with her loved ones. She is actively involved in her church, passionately serving the youth and participating in missions.

Fun fact about Mrs. Hall: she speaks Tagalong!

Carrie Johnson

Carrie Johnson

4th Grade Teacher

Carrie Johnson

Carrie Johnson loves being a teacher. She’s worked with children since her first job as a swimming instructor at age 16. She is married to her college sweetheart, Ed, and lives in Mission Viejo. They have two young adult children. Mrs. Johnson attends Mission Hills Church with her family, where she teaches the 4th-6th grade Sunday School class and is involved in small groups. Mrs. Johnson earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UC San Diego and her teaching credential from San Diego State University.

In her spare time, Mrs. Johnson enjoys baking, reading, and working on home improvement projects with her husband. She loves being an elementary school teacher because she gets to build relationships with children (they’re so much fun!) and help all her students make progress every day.

Amal Andraos

Amal Andraos

5th Grade Teacher

Amal Andraos

Amal Andraos began her higher education by graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Rutgers University. After having three children, she was drawn toward the teaching profession where she was able to support and guide children in their most vulnerable years. She returned to higher education at Biola University where she received her teaching credentials and Master’s and walked the stage as the Master’s Graduate Class Speaker. She is now mentoring newly graduated teachers through the Biola Mentoring Program. In her free time, Ms. Andraos enjoys Bible study, hiking, being outside, baking, and spending time with her family. Her personal mission is to foster the growing relationships between her students and God. She hopes for each of her students to walk in their faith with dependence on the Lord and understand that He has a plan for each of their lives

Taylor Orgill

Taylor Orgill

5th Grade Teacher

Taylor Orgill

Coming Soon

Kelly C’de Baca

6th Grade Teacher

Kelly C’de Baca

Junior High Teachers

Jodi Dale, JH History

Jodi Dale

Math Teacher

Jodi Dale

Jodi Dale was born and raised in Southern California. She graduated in 1986 from Cal State Fullerton with a Bachelor of Science degree in Child Development and earned her teaching credential from CSUF in 1987. She has been married to Steve Dale since 1992. Mrs. Dale loves spending time at the beach and traveling with her husband. They have two grown sons, a daughter-in-law, and a granddaughter born in 2019. Mrs. Dale’s greatest passion here at RSMCS is seeing young adolescents thrive spiritually, academically, and relationally.

Everett

Chris Everett

History/Bible Teacher

Chris Everett

Chris Everett received his Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies and Pastoral Ministry from Moody Bible Institute. He served as youth pastor at Bethany Church, a six-campus church in New Jersey. With more than 10 years of experience in ministering to adolescents, Mr. Everett has a deep desire to see his students grow in their knowledge about and relationship with Jesus Christ. That fact shines through in his teaching, no matter the subject. 

Mr. Everett has taught World History, American History, Bible, and Physical Education. Mr. Everett and his wife, Natalie, have been married since 2020 and attend Union Church in San Clemente. They have two Bulldogs named Stormie and Sugar. Mr. Everett loves cycling, martial arts, music, and reading, and he used to love traveling, but now that he lives in Southern California, he says he doesn’t want to go anywhere else.

Kara Haverkamp

Kara Haverkamp

Math Teacher

Kara Haverkamp

Kara Haverkamp received her Multiple Subject Credential from Concordia University and cleared her credential through CalStateTEACH. She spent the first five years of her Christian school career teaching 6th grade. After a few years in 6th grade, Mrs. Haverkamp knew God was preparing her to teach junior high students. On top of her teaching experience, she has personally organized and helped at many junior high retreats, was heavily involved in Young Life, and led an ongoing Bible study for junior high girls. Although she could have taught at any number of schools, Mrs. Haverkamp chose RSM Christian School because of the heart behind the school; the relationships with the students are built with the great love of Christ as the foundation, which binds us together with the purpose of learning how to love the Lord and others every single day.

Mrs. Haverkamp is married to her husband, Peter, and has recently welcomed their first child into the world. In her free time, Mrs. Haverkamp loves reading, cooking at home, going on hikes, being at the beach, and spending time with family.

Stitz

Raquel Stitz

Science Teacher

Raquel Stitz

Raquel Stitz is a passionate educator who graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a Bachelor’s in Education and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. With an extensive background in science and special education, Mrs. Stitz’s true passion lies in shaping the minds of young learners, recognizing that they are the future.

When she’s not in the classroom, Mrs. Stitz spends her time with her loving husband, wonderful son, and crazy fur-ball dog. She loves all things nerd culture, from Disney to Lord of the Rings, and is fascinated by anything science-related. Mrs. Stitz also loves to travel and worship, always seeking to expand her horizons and enrich her life.

Jodi Svoboda, JH Language Arts

Jodi Svoboda

Language Arts Teacher

Jodi Svoboda

Jodi Svoboda has always had a passion for working with children. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and received her California Teaching Credential from National University, and is close to earning her Master’s in Education. She desires to ignite a passion for learning in her students so that they become life-long learners and grow academically as well as spiritually. Her love for Jesus radiates through her smile. 

Mrs. Svoboda and her husband, Arlo, have been married since 2002. They have two beautiful daughters, two dogs, and two tortoises. Mrs. Svoboda enjoys spending time with her family, as well as traveling, reading, and exercising.

Enrichment Teachers

Jessica Cook

Jessica Cook

STEAM Teacher

Jessica Cook

Jessica Cook earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Biola University and her teaching credential from Vanguard University. She is also a certified Automation and Robotics and K-5 STEM teacher through Project Lead the Way. 

Since 2019, Mrs. Cook has had the privilege of working with diverse groups of students in grades 6-12 and has taught many science classes, including AP Biology, Biology, AP Psychology, Chemistry, Life Science, Earth and Space Science, and Physical Science. Mrs. Cook loves nature hikes with her husband, and their goal is to visit all 63 national parks during their lifetime.

Mary Desmond

Mary Desmond

Music Teacher

Mary Desmond

Tracey Desmond, Musicals / JH Drama / Singing Saints

Tracey Desmond

JH Drama & Musical Director

Tracey Desmond

Tracey Desmond is a proud mom of three Mission Hills Christian School alumni and has been serving at the school for several years. She is the director of school musicals and runs the drama department and classes. Mrs. Desmond has been involved with different aspects of theater for more than 16 years. She has directed, designed hair and make-up, and costumed more than 80 shows. Her desire is to help each student achieve success as a performer and instill strong work ethics, integrity, and a love and respect for the craft.

Yvonne Erkelens, Spanish Teacher

Yvonne Erkelens

Spanish Teacher

Yvonne Erkelens

Yvonne Erkelens was born and raised in Guatemala, and Spanish is her first language. She was born to German parents and attended international schools, making her fluent in German and English. In 1996, she moved to California with her husband, Stephan, and her three sons, Chris, Tim, and Michael.

Mrs. Erkelens has served as an instructional assistant in grades K-6 and as a Spanish teacher for grades K-8. It is her joy and passion to teach Spanish, and she prays that, with the Lord’s help, her students can gain a greater appreciation for the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world.

When not helping her students, Mrs. Erkelens enjoys relaxing with her family and making memories with her grandchildren.

Katie Kelly

Katie Kelly

Art of the Masters Teacher

Katie Kelly

Katie Kelly has been interested in art for as long as she can remember, but there was a moment when she was 9 years old that crystallized her future artistic endeavors. During a family holiday, her grandma displayed a set of illustrations and political cartoons that her grandfather had created during World War II. Mrs. Kelly was captivated by her grandfather’s artistic abilities, and she has been inspired to paint and draw ever since. Mrs. Kelly studied graphic design and oil painting and minored in art history at Indiana University. She graduated with a BA in Fine Arts.

Upon graduating, Mrs. Kelly accepted a teaching position at a small art academy where she taught all ages. Years later, she was given a wonderful opportunity to paint fine art for Disney for more than nine years. During this time, Mrs. Kelly also taught art. Mrs. Kelly acknowledges how much of a blessing her students are to her. Mrs. Kelly finds much of her inspiration through her husband, Ty, her two sons, Trey and Ethan, and God. 

Lindy Lyles, Resource Specialist

Lindy Lyles

Resource Specialist

Lindy Lyles

Lindy Lyles was born and raised in Michigan in a strong Christian home. Having attended Christian schools from junior high through college, she knew that she wanted to be a Christian school teacher at an early age. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, with an emphasis in Early Education and Elementary Reading, from Grace College in 1990. She also has completed extensive training in many strategies to ensure every student is successful. Mrs. Lyles’ previous experience includes teaching 2-year-olds through 2nd grade in a traditional classroom, and she has served all elementary grades as a resource specialist.

Outside of school, Mrs. Lyles enjoys spending time, traveling, and searching for the best pizza and unique tasty treats with her husband Myke. She also loves to shop, read, lay by the pool, and hang out with her friends.

Tess Boone

Tess Michles

Resource Specialist Assistant

Tess Michles

Tess Michles has a passion for working with children. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University. Since being hired at RSMCS, she has had the privilege to teach Junior High science as well as 4th grade. This year, she is taking on a new role as a resource teacher. She and her husband, Justin, are expecting their first child. 

Mr. Michles enjoys spending time with her husband fishing and watching TV. She also enjoys the beach, the pool, reading, shopping, and spending time with her family. 

April Roche, Elementary Aide

April Roche

Resource Assistant

April Roche

April Roche graduated from Salem State College in Massachusetts with a Bachelor of Science in Education and immediately began her teaching career. She was blessed to be able to take time off to raise her children. During that time, she was a substitute teacher at Mission Hills Christian School (now RSM Christian School) and began working full-time at RSM Christian in August 2015.

Mrs. Roche loves children and especially loves to be able to teach them about Jesus. She and her husband, Dave, have three wonderful children, all of who are Mission Hills Christian School/RSM Christian alums.

Marisol Sicro, JH Yearbook Teacher

Marisol Sicro

JH Yearbook Teacher

Marisol Sicro

Marisol Sicro earned her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Georgia Tech, and she is currently working toward a Child Development degree at Saddleback College. She has been married to her husband, Rick, for 23 years, and they have five daughters and seven grandchildren.

Mrs. Sicro has worked on the school’s yearbook for the past five years. Her passion is for photography, Photoshop, and digital design. In her free time, she likes going on long runs with her Yorkie, King Triton.

Dawnell Viole, PE Teacher / Athletic Director

Dawnell Viole

Elementary PE Teacher / Athletic Director

Dawnell Viole

Dawnell Viole graduated from Cal State Fullerton in 1995 and has been in education since 2006. Since graduating from college, she has been in the physical fitness field and built her own personal training business as well as teaching physical education in a Christian school. In addition, she worked for the city of Mission Viejo teaching various youth fitness programs to elementary and junior high students.

Mrs. Viole is an avid runner and enjoys hiking and water sports with her family. Outside of fitness, she enjoys reading and going to L.A. Galaxy soccer games with her family. She has been married to her husband, Tony, since 1995 and has two boys, Nicholas and Christopher. Her favorite Bible verse is Romans 15:1-2, and she feels blessed to be able to combine her love of sports and fitness with her faith in Christ.

Heatherdawn Wadleigh, Technology Teacher

Heatherdawn Wadleigh

Director of Technology

Heatherdawn Wadleigh

Introducing the tech-savvy force for God, Heatherdawn Wadleigh! With over two decades of experience in the ever-evolving technology realm, she has mastered the art of unleashing the true potential of cutting-edge gadgets and digital wonders. As an enthusiastic advocate of tech empowerment, Heatherdawn thrives on enlightening others on the exhilarating possibilities technology brings to their everyday lives.

Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Computer Information Systems, she possesses the perfect blend of technical expertise and patient instruction. Heatherdawn’s innate ability to blend innovation with practicality allows her to effortlessly navigate the digital landscape, unraveling the mysteries of technology and unlocking its full potential for those fortunate enough to cross her path.

Heatherdawn, alongside her partner-in-adventure, Christopher, embarked on an extraordinary journey to RSM Christian School when they followed through on their heartfelt decision to enroll their son, the charismatic William, in Junior Kindergarten at Mission Hills Christian School in 2019. This move ignited a new chapter in Heatherdawn’s life as she obeyed God’s push to redirect her career. While conquering the ever-evolving tech world, Heatherdawn finds solace in dedicating her time to illuminating a path of hope, empowerment, and endless possibilities for children across the globe.

Through her inspiring volunteer work, Heatherdawn plays a pivotal role on the Board of Directors for the not-for-profit organization, Uniforms for Hope. With a powerful vision to empower children globally, Uniforms for Hope strives to remove barriers to education by providing compulsory school uniforms. Heatherdawn’s unwavering commitment to this noble cause highlights her dedication to ensuring every child has access to education.

So, whether she’s unraveling the intricacies of the digital universe or creating pathways for children to break free from the chains of poverty through access to education, Heatherdawn Wadleigh is a dynamic force, driven by her unwavering passion for technology, education, and community-building. Prepare to embark on a captivating journey as you witness her unravel the mysteries of tech, leaving a lasting impact on all fortunate enough to share in her boundless enthusiasm and expertise.

Support Staff

Rsmcs 2021 Ryan

Ryan Oddo

Senior Pastor, The Bridge Church & Chairman of the Board, RSM Christian School

Ryan Oddo

Pastor Ryan Oddo is the founding pastor of The Bridge in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. He also currently serves as the Area Pastor for the Foursquare denomination’s South Orange County churches.

Pastor Ryan has a BA in Business Administration from Azusa Pacific University and is pursuing his MA in Leadership & Spiritual Formation from Vanguard University. He has been married for 22 years to his college sweetheart, Johanna. The two have two boys, Caleb and Luke, who both are alumni of MHCS/RSMCS, and their family resides here in RSM.

Richelle Paris

Richelle Paris

CREW Director

Richelle Paris

Richelle Paris and her three siblings, Trent, Shannon, and Nathan, all attended Mission Hills Christian School (now RSMCS) Her mom, Lynda Armstrong, retired after working in many roles at MHCS for 30 years. 

Mrs. Paris was the extended care director at MHCS from 2010-2016 and, before returning, she was the Life Enrichment Director at a senior living community where she also served as the company’s memory care mentor.

Mrs. Paris and her husband, Mark, have five daughters. Mrs. Paris serves our families with a robust, nurturing, and creative program. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, grandchildren, daughters, and sons-in-law. She loves the beach and the mountains, all things holistic, essential oils, and coffee shops.

Natalina Heusser

Natalina Heusser

PE Assistant/Outdoor Aide

Natalina Heusser

Natalina Heusser began working in early education in 2013 in both the private and public education systems. She took a break in 2016 to focus on being a mother. She returned to education in 2021 at RSM Christian as the P.E. Assistant. Mrs. Heusser is excited to be at RSM Christian where her faith in Jesus Christ and her passion for teaching children are interdependent.

In her free time, Mrs. Heusser enjoys cooking and hosting friends and family at her home. Her favorite bible verse is Prov. 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Yani Linnes

Yani Linnes

CREW / Outdoor Staff

Yani Linnes

Yani Linnes worked for the past 10 years as a teacher’s aide and a Spanish teacher for children from Kindergarten through 3rd grade at Saddleback Valley Christian School. She is a licensed Cosmetologist and also graduated from Medical Assistant School.

She has been married to her husband, Bob, for the past 24 years, and they have two beautiful daughters. Her true passion and greatest joy are working with children. In her free time, Mrs. Linnes likes going on walks, watching the sunset, listening to music, and drinking coffee.

Lorene Preziosi, Outdoor Director

Lorene Preziosi

Outdoor Director

Lorene Preziosi

Lorene Preziosi has been a part of Mission Hills/RSM Christian School since 1991, first as a JK aide and then as an outdoor director. She is a mother of three girls and one boy who all attended MHCS from JK through 8th grade. She is married to Joe, who is a chiropractor in the Laguna Hills area, and they are grandparents to three and counting.

Mrs. Preziosi’s hobbies include spending time with her family and friends, walks, essential oils, homemaking soaps, and cooking.

Joy Wilson

Joy Wilson

Outdoor/Crew Aide

Joy Wilson

Joy Wilson comes to us as an MHCS alumni parent of three. She is happily married and loves being a parent to their oldest daughter, Jazmin, who is married, Jaci, their second daughter, as well as their son, Justin. Joy resides in Dana Point where she loves to take bike rides on the beach, have BBQs with friends, and is always up for coffee dates. She attends Oceans Church.

Dominic Rodriquez, Facility Director

Dominic Rodriquez

Facility Director

Dominic Rodriquez

Dominic Rodriguez has worked as a welder, a pipe fitter (in Colorado), a project manager for DJ’s construction, and now as the facilities director for The Bridge Church. He began working for the church in 2014 and has been attending The Bridge Church since 2008. He enjoys catching snakes and spiders and fixing what needs to be repaired at RSM Christian School.

Mr. Rodriguez has been married for over 20 amazing years to the most fabulous woman on the planet! They have two teenage boys, Matthew and Dylan. When he is not working, you can find him running Spartan races, hiking, fishing, camping, or traveling. He also enjoys the outdoors and eating good food. He and his family enjoy camping in Mammoth each summer where they have had many exciting bear encounters.

Paris

Mark Paris

Facilities Maintenance

Mark Paris

Mark Paris has worked in the Glazing contractor industry for more than 30 years. He was in the Union 636 trade school for four years, and he still does some glass work part-time. Then God led him to work at RSM Christian School. Mr. Paris is married to Richelle, and they have five daughters, all of whom attended MHCS/RSMCS. Mr. Paris loves to mountain bike and be in the outdoors. He has always loved music, collecting records, and playing bass guitar in bands and on the worship team at church.

Coming Soon

Taylor Schwab

Chapel Tech

Taylor Schwab

Taylor Schwab is, first and foremost, a follower of Jesus who uses production as a means of training in righteousness. As the full-time Production Arts Director with the Bridge Church, he oversees the use of theatrical elements in worship services and community events. He is also a licensed minister with the Foursquare Church and, as such, spends time investing in the spiritual formation of RSMCS students and attendees of The Bridge Church alike.

Coming Soon

Brennon Andrus 

Chapel Tech Assistant

Brennon Andrus 

Please join us on the RSM Christian School green for live music and a silent auction to support the students and faculty of RSMCS. Family and Friends are welcome.

Giving on the Green