Administration & Office Staff
Matt Kladnik
Mr. Kladnik brings a rare blend of ministry leadership experience including 11 years of senior pastoring, revitalizing churches, merging ministries, starting new businesses, and coaching church planters. He also brings a passion for Christian education, earning a Master of Divinity degree from The King’s University, and is currently a professor at Life Pacific University. Matt enjoys mountain biking, pickleball, reading, and time with his family. Matt and his wife, Grace, and three daughters, Polly, Mabel, and Annie all love being a part of new adventures. When Matt isn’t connecting with students on campus he is working diligently to ensure the financial and organizational health of the school.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dayna Graveline
After a career as a senior publicist, Dayna Graveline fell in love with RSMCS, 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.
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.
April Mickle
Mrs. Mickle has worked in the banking industry for over 15 years when she decided to put her career on hold to spend more time with her family and raise her children at home. Her husband, Jeff is an Engineer/Paramedic for San Bernardino County Fire. Both of her children attend RSMCS. Mrs. Mickle has been on the PTP Leadership team helping to plan and implement numerous events on campus for our students, parents, and faculty. When not here at school, you can find her family on a baseball field, whether it be watching her son play or going to an Angels or Padres game. Her family attends the Bridge Church. She loves working in the front office, helping our students and staff on a daily basis.
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.
Early Education Teachers
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 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.
Cheryl Freer
Mrs. Freer has over 30 years of experience working with young children. She counts it an honor and a joy to teach, guide, and help children grow in the love of Jesus. She obtained an Associate of Arts degree from Saddleback College and her Coursework in Early Childhood Education from Irvine Valley College. Mrs. Freer and her husband have raised three sons and lived in their Mission Viejo home for 36 years. Her greatest joy has been becoming a grandma and being a part of her sweet granddaughter’s life.
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.
Rezia Landers
Rezia is a recent graduate from Vanguard University. With a major in Theatre Arts and a minor in Theology, she also works part-time as a dance instructor and performer after school. She loves teaching and her “Great Hope” is that each student feels seen and understood under her care.
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.
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
With over 15 years of experience teaching preschool-aged children, Sarah brings a joyful and creative approach to early education. She has a passion for music, having taught preschool music for five years and worked with students from toddlers to 6th grade. Originally pursuing music therapy, Sarah earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music performance and continues to perform professionally.
Sarah enjoys helping her students grow academically and creatively. She believes each child is unique and wants her students to know who they are and whose they are.
When she isn’t teaching or singing, she enjoys hiking and spending time with her Frenchie, Gio. She resides in Rancho Santa Margarita and is honored to be a part of the RSM Christian School family.
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.
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.
Makaela Curammeng
Miss Curammeng graduated from California Baptist University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Multiple Subject Teaching credential. She is excited to be teaching first grade at RSM Christian School. Ever since she was a little girl, she has loved being at school with her classmates and teachers and loves to learn new things. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, visiting Dana Point Harbor, camping, and coffee!
Sloan Gonzales
Mrs. Gonzales and her husband recently relocated from Texas where she taught, Kindergarten, second, and third grades. Mrs. Gonzales graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). Mrs. Gonzales is so excited to be part of this amazing school. Her goal is to create a safe, welcoming, and fun environment where your child loves to come to school! She has a passion for helping each child grow social-emotionally, and academically, and hopes to be a light to show Christ to each student.
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.
Krista Tiffin
Krista is enthusiastic to teach 2nd grade! She’s deeply committed to nurturing her students’ growth and faith in the Lord. With a passion for adventure, she finds joy in exploring new places and experiences, always eager for the next exciting journey. Krista sees beauty in the glory of God in every aspect of life, from the classroom to the great outdoors. In her free time, she loves to read, play bass clarinet and guitar, and have fun with her family and friends.
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
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 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 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 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
Heather Davenport
Mrs. Davenport is a familiar face on campus, as her children have been attending MHCS/RSMCS since 2017. Growing up in Minnesota, Mrs. Davenport graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (go Badgers!) with a degree in Sociology. While attending UW, Mrs. Davenport played soccer and was captain of the women’s soccer team. She received her teaching credential from CSU Fullerton. Mrs. Davenport is excited to return to the classroom, specifically to sixth grade which she had previously taught. She desires to see students grow academically and socially, while they also learn and grow in the knowledge of who they are in Christ.
Kelly C’de Baca
Kelly C’de Baca is thrilled to return to the classroom after a rewarding time away. She holds a degree in Elementary Education from Baylor University. Following her teaching career, Mrs. C’de Baca took a break to focus on raising her four children, during which she cultivated her passion for family and personal growth.
Married to her husband for nearly 20 years, she values the importance of family and community. Beyond her dedication to education, she enjoys traveling with her family, baking delicious sourdough bread, and sharing her knowledge of holistic wellness with others.
Mrs. C’de Baca’s hope for her students is that they would develop a Biblical worldview that becomes a foundation for a life centered on Christ and His Word all the days of their lives. Her hope is that through her teaching she can help build confidence in all learners because of her classroom’s emphasis on having a growth mindset in all that we do.
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.
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.
Junior High Teachers
A.J. Borland
Mr. Borland received his BA from Point Loma Nazarene University, and his MAEd from Gateway Seminary. Mr. Borland served as the High School Ministry Next Steps pastor and the pastor over volunteers and recruitment at Saddleback Church for several yeas. Before serving at Saddleback Church, Mr. Borland was the Youth Ministry Director at Legacy Church. Following God’s call on his life, he returned to school to receive a credential in Social Sciences and English from Concordia Univerity. AJ is passionate about serving students and seeing them grow to become who the Lord has called and equipped them to be. He grew up in Rancho Santa Margarita and is so grateful to teach in a community that means so much to him! He is married to his high school sweetheart, Alexis, and they live in Irvine with their daughter. They love going to the beach, rooting for the San Diego Padres, and serving at church.
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.
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
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
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 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.
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.
Brooke Spurgeon
Mrs. Spurgeon is a graduate of UC Santa Barbara. She has led students in their relationship with the Lord as a youth group leader at Shoreline Church and Forest Home. While working in the music industry in LA, she felt the Lord calling her to move to the classroom in a Christian school. Her wide range of skills (from all things Adobe to Final Cut Pro to scoring and music production, creating music videos for her husband’s band, and much more) will continue to enhance the digital media skills of our students.
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
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
Support Staff
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 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.
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 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
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.
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.
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.
