Faculty & Staff
Excellent teachers love their subject, their students, and the toil of the day and above all else love the Lord with all their hearts. At Arma Dei Academy our faculty is united in mission and vision. Our teachers exemplify Christ by the pattern of their lives in and out of the classroom, love and know children, and are gifted and equipped to teach.
Interim Head of School
Mr. Greg Vigil
Mr. Gregory R. Vigil has over 30 years of oil and gas industry experience including positions with a super major to independent operators. He is the founder and president of Castle Rock Resources, an oil and gas partnership. He has represented numerous companies in front of the various oil and gas commissions and in the capacity of an expert witness. He was instrumental in the formation of Savant Alaska LLC. In early 2011, Mr. Vigil assumed the role of President until the company was sold in 2014.
Mr. Vigil received his BS degree in petroleum engineering from the Colorado School of Mines in 1988 where he received the outstanding senior in petroleum engineering award. Mr. Vigil serves on the Board of Trustees of ACE Scholarships, the Board of Waterstone, the Board of Cherokee Ranch & Castle Foundation, and the Board of the Association of Classical Christian Schools. He and his wife Sandi have four children and are one of the founding families of Arma Dei. He formerly served on the Valor Christian High School Board of Trustees.
Dean of Rhetoric School & Chaplain
Dr. Aaron Denlinger
Dean of Academics & Dean of Logic School
Mr. Josh Catron
Josh Catron is passionate about partnering with students, parents, and teachers so that children can grow confidently in their identity as children of God and in their abilities into joyful, flourishing individuals who seek to glorify and enjoy God in all they do.
Mr. Catron earned his BA in Economics and MS in Management Science & Engineering from Stanford University. He became an educator when he joined Teach for America after working as an industrial engineer for Anheuser-Busch InBev. After three years of teaching various math classes, serving as department chair, and coaching football and track & field on the Navajo Nation in Arizona, he moved to Colorado to work as a math teacher and football coach at an urban charter high school. Most recently, Mr. Catron served as an academic interventionist, math teacher, football, and track & field coach at Valor Christian High School. He is now in his sixth year serving as Dean of Academics and Dean of the Logic school at Arma Dei Academy.
Josh and his wife, Chelsea, live in Parker with their three children, Bear, Calla, and Nina. They enjoy cooking together, traveling, and exploring the outdoors.
Dean of Grammar School
Dr. Janine Knedlik
Dr. Knedlik arrived at Arma Dei in 2019 after obtaining her doctorate in History from the University of Pennsylvania and helping found the first classical Christian school in San Francisco. Since joining Arma Dei she has served in a variety of capacities: as a first grade and Latin teacher, as a curriculum developer, and as the manager of multiple projects, from accreditation to Dual Credit. Dr. Knedlik is currently utilizing her gifts, talents, and passion for classical Christian education as she leads the School of Grammar and teaches Rhetoric Humanities. She especially loves partnering with other Christian parents as they shepherd the hearts and minds of all of Arma Dei’s students.
Dean of Collaborative Learning Program
Mrs. Tifany Borgelt
Born in Schleswig-Holstein to a German nurse and Japanese American serviceman, Mrs. Borgelt’s greatest joy is studying words, the greatest of which is the Word (logos) made flesh in Jesus Christ. Over the last 15 years, she has filled multiple professional roles within the classical Christian homeschooling community as she and her husband embarked on the adventure of a lifetime by educating their two daughters from elementary through high school.
Tifany particularly loves rhetorically engaging students in rich Socratic discussions through the purposeful integration of classical language, literature, and the sciences. On the battlefield of ideas, she has relished challenging students to spar with differing opinions through the spoken and written word in virtuous and noble ways that speak to God’s Truth, Beauty, and Goodness. She believes our duty as Christian educators is to arm our young men and women with the classical liberal arts so that they might be masters of ideas in their intellects instead of being prey to them in their emotions (Dorothy Sayers, The Lost Tools of Learning, 1947).
A graduate of Pepperdine University with a BA in Communications, Mrs. Borgelt spent a semester in their Master of Divinity program, which she set aside to work in the Christian music industry. Today she resides in Parker, Colorado with her family and still remains committed to encouraging parents and educators through private speaking engagements within the classical Christian education community.
Executive Director of Advancement
Ms. Lora Hollaus
Through her daughters’ experience at Arma Dei, Lora can testify to the transformative power of an education that keeps God at the center and maintains high student standards. After witnessing the impact of classical Christian education on her daughters’ lives, she is thrilled to introduce an Arma Dei education to even more families in Highlands Ranch and the surrounding communities. Lora brings a passion for classical Christian education and 17 years of experience in high-tech sales and marketing to Arma Dei Academy. She received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Management Information Systems from Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, California.
As the Executive Director of Advancement, Lora is passionate about advancing the mission and vision of Arma Dei through family recruitment, enrollment, and retention, clear and consistent communication with constituents, and community engagement and cultivation.
Director of Communications & Events
Mrs. Janell Turner
Mrs. Turner joined Arma Dei in the fall of 2021 and diligently served as an Administrative Assistant for two years before assuming the role of Director of Communications & Events. With a proven background in administrative work, event management, creative design, and photography, Mrs. Turner is excited to utilize her gifts to communicate and further the mission and vision of Arma Dei through various media (print, digital, and video), bringing the stories of the academy to life! Employing her organizational and leadership skills, Mrs. Turner looks forward to coordinating events and experiences that foster community across the academy.
Janell and her husband, Jordan, have a son, Wyatt, and a daughter, Lilia. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, playing sports, swing dancing, and spending time with her family.
Admissions Coordinator
Mrs. Heather Eddy
Mrs. Eddy studied opera and art history in Italy and Austria, where she performed professionally before God called her to share her love of performing arts with students. She has taught K-12 choral and instrumental music, directed musicals, worship, and kids ministry, and given private voice and piano lessons for 20 years in Denver. Classical education shaped each of her daughters, cultivating their deep love for learning, Truth, and beauty. She is excited to bring these skills, her passion for Christ, and for classical education to join God’s work at Arma Dei.
Mrs. Eddy holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance (cum laude) from DePauw University, a Master of Music in Education from the University of Northern Colorado, and completed additional graduate work at New England Conservatory and Denver Seminary. She was a founding member of a classical charter school in Lakewood, CO where she taught for six years. There, she witnessed the impact of classical education in fully cultivating the God-given potential within every student. Mrs. Eddy enjoys working with students of all ages, building a joyful community, and developing the voices and hearts of her students. Her husband Ross and daughters Grace and Ellie love to travel, camp, laugh, hike, build sets, cook for friends and family, and serve children together. Mrs. Eddy is thrilled to join the community at Arma Dei and looks forward to pursuing Christ and His glory as we learn together!
Director of Institutional Advancement
Mr. Michael Butler
Mr. Michael Butler graduated from the University of Florida with a BS in Sport Management and later attended Arizona State University, where he completed a MA in History. After working in college athletics for several years, he found his passion in helping young people to grow spiritually and academically. Having previously served in academic support roles at the middle and high school levels, Michael enjoys helping students develop ownership of their education in the classroom and beyond as lifelong learners.
Prior to working in advancement, Michael taught science at Arma Dei where he became passionate about the school and its mission. He is most looking forward to partnering with parents and community members to support the school in training up young men and women to take God’s kingdom into the world. Michael enjoys spending time outdoors as well as painting and watching baseball.
Technology Manager
Mrs. Megan Billinger
Mrs. Megan Billinger received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Denver. After working for Lockheed Martin Information Systems and Solutions as a project manager for Department of Defense implementations, she became a stay-at-home mom and later homeschooled her children. Eager to contribute to the work being done at Arma Dei Academy, she joined the staff to assist in all things technical. Additionally, she teaches Rhetoric math and computer science.
Megan and her husband, Erik, have three children that attend Arma Dei. She enjoys studying the word of God, playing golf, CrossFit, and spending time with her family.
Receptionist
Ms. Ruth Pederson
Ms. Ruth Pederson worked for the Minnesota school district for 31 years. She tried retirement but missed the daily interactions with staff and students, which is why she is once again sitting in a receptionist chair when she moved to Colorado to be closer to her four grandchildren.
Ms. Pederson is excited to see where God is leading Arma Dei in the years to come. She loves walking into the buildings and feeling the presence of God’s favor.
Receptionist
Ms. Niki Hyde
Ms. Hyde has over 45 years of experience in healthcare, behavioral health, and trauma response to national and international tragedies. In addition to co-founding two children’s grief programs, Ms. Hyde wrote and trained professionals on a curriculum focused on grief, trauma, domestic violence, exploitation, and elder abuse. She holds a Doctor of Ministry in Christian Counseling, an MS in Health Services Administration, and an MA in curriculum development and instruction.
Ms. Hyde has observed the positive impact that classical Christian education has on her grandsons attending Arma Dei Academy. She is hopeful that she can play a small role in helping to equip the next generation with deep roots in wisdom and knowledge of how Christ would desire them to respond to the culture and world around them.
Ms. Hyde is a proud grandma of eight beautiful grandchildren whose many activities bring much delight. She also enjoys spending time with the Lord, family, and friends, reading, traveling, and walking her little dog.
Facilities & Operations Manager
Mr. Ben Alton
Ben Alton is a Georgia native who recently moved to Colorado to enjoy a change of scenery for the next adventure the Lord has in store. Mr. Alton holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science with a minor in Business Administration from the University of West Georgia. Working as a metal fabricator for the last 6 ½ years, he realized how much he enjoys physical labor and is excited to utilize his hands-on skills to serve as the Facilities Manager at Arma Dei.
Mr. Alton enjoys all things outdoors, especially backpacking, camping, kayaking, cornhole, and ultimate frisbee. He also has a deep-rooted love for black coffee, rice and beans, board games, good music, and making new friends along the way.
School Nurse
Mrs. Tatum Lehman
Mrs. Lehman is a Colorado native, and after 15 years in California, she moved back to Colorado in 2014. She stumbled upon Arma Dei soon after and fell in love instantly. Tatum serves as the School Nurse and shares her contagious joy and passion for Arma Dei and classical Christian education as a Grammar Movement Teacher.
Tatum received a BA in Social Science at Azusa Pacific and a BS in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma. She brings her 12 years of experience as a Labor and Delivery Nurse and vast experience in various ministry roles.
Tatum and her husband Eric have three kids at Arma Dei and love helping them and others experience the fullness of Christ. They love to hike and fish, travel to new places, and embrace adventure. A rich conversation over a good meal with old and new friends is their favorite pastime.
Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Katie Coats
Mrs. Coats moved to Castle Rock, Colorado after graduating from Harding University in 2021 with a BA in Art and Graphic Design. Katie served as a Marketing Coordinator for two years, where she implemented her design skills to create visually compelling and effective marketing materials. Having been immersed in a Christian education setting during her formative years, Katie looks forward to contributing her expertise to further the mission of providing exceptional, faith-based education. Outside of work, Katie enjoys reading, anything art related, spending time with her husband, Blake, and their two dogs, Wrangler and Rowdy, as well as family and friends.
Rhetoric Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Diana Stuckey
Mrs. Diana Stuckey received her bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems from Southwest Baptist University and her master’s degree in Management of Technology from Regis University. Those degrees served her well during her nearly 25-year career as a Project Manager at Lockheed Martin. Shortly after God led her family to Arma Dei, God also led her to “retire” to become more available for her family. Looking for opportunities to be a good steward of her time and skills, Diana spent many hours volunteering at Arma Dei. She is excited to be part of the Arma Dei Rhetoric team to serve faculty, students, and families.
Preschool Director
Brittany Conklin
Mrs. Brittany Conklin grew up in Colorado, is married to her husband Travis, and has two children Kylah and Mitchell.
Mrs. Conklin attended Arapahoe Community College and the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where she received an Associate of General Studies/ Associate of Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Education Group Leader Certificate, and Early Childhood Education Director’s Certificate.
Mrs. Conklin loves children and wants to provide a loving, caring, safe, and Christ-centered program for all children entering the preschool doors. She desires that their first school experience be so memorable that they are filled with excitement and are ready to learn when they enter the elementary grades.
Assistant Preschool Director
Kelli Tenneson
Mrs.Tenneson has had her teaching certificate since 1989 and her Colorado directorship since 1999. Keli was a preschool teacher, assistant director, and director of a large preschool in the Littleton area for 28 years and was in a leadership role for over 16 years. In 2015, she retired to take care of her granddaughter but was asked by her daughter Brittany to walk beside her and help start the Arma Dei Academy Preschool. Mrs. Tenneson loves the new preschool and believes it to be an excellent school and opportunity to teach children about God. She has been married to her husband Mike for 43 years. Mike is a retired Lieutenant from the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Department. Mrs. Tenneson has two children and three grandchildren and believes there is no better job than working with children and being a grandmother!
Preschool Lead & Junior Kindergarten Teacher
Barbara Tornow
Mrs. Barbara Tornow is thrilled to be part of the Arma Dei family, where learning centers around Biblical teachings and the love of Jesus. Her passion has always been for the youngest learners. She has been in Early Childhood Education for over 20 years. After graduating from Cal State Fullerton with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Tornow began her teaching career as Lead Teacher at a Therapeutic Preschool in California. She then ran a home daycare center while raising her girls. Before coming to Arma Dei she spent several years teaching Preschool at a learning center in Littleton. Having returned to teaching in the classroom, Mrs. Tornow finds the enthusiasm of young learners contagious and is excited and challenged to make learning the best it can be for each child. When not planning curriculum, Mrs. Tornow loves reading, crafting, hiking, or enjoying a cup of coffee!
Junior Kindergarten Teacher
Emily May
Mrs. Emily May grew up in the state of Florida. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at Florida State University and then proceeded to earn a Master’s degree in Reading Education at the University of South Florida. She taught elementary school for five years and married her husband, Arthur. Mrs. May and her husband decided to move to Colorado where they have currently lived for twelve years. She has three energetic children who attend Arma Dei, Madelyn (11), Benson (9), and Hayden (8). Mrs. May loves spending time with her family and being a part of the Arma Dei Academy Preschool.
Three Year Old's Teacher
Kerri Smith
Mrs. Kerri Smith grew up in the state of Texas. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Sam Houston State University. Mrs. Smith taught in elementary schools in Oklahoma and Texas for five years before having children of her own. While living in Midland, Texas, she was the children’s ministry director for Redeemer Midland Church until her husband’s job brought them to Colorado seven years ago. She cotaught prekindergarten at Front Range Christian School and this will be her third year as the lead 3s teacher at Arma Dei. One of her passions is instilling a love of school and learning in little ones. It is the absolute best to watch curiosity ignite! She has two amazing kids who attend Arma Dei, Owen (9) and Mae (6). When not at school, Mrs. Smith loves spending time with her family, going on hikes with her dogs, and reading a good book with a cup of coffee.
Four Year Old's Teacher
Abigail Tornow
Ms. Abigail Tornow grew up in California before moving to Colorado with her family. She attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, graduating with her Bachelor of Science. She studied Health Sciences, Educational Psychology, and Biology. While at Baylor, she spent time at Talitha Koum Nurture Center, a therapeutic learning environment. At Talitha Koum, she learned and applied self-regulation techniques and supported early brain development for children’s future success in all aspects of life.
Ms. Abigail has previously been a volunteer and substitute at Arma Dei Preschool and is excited to return for her second year in the 4s classroom as lead teacher. She is passionate about guiding young children in their first experiences at school and instilling a lifelong love of learning! Outside the classroom, she loves reading, paddleboarding, spending time with friends and family, and hiking with her dog, Ivy.
Teacher's Assistant
Jena Hryniewicz
Mrs. Jena Hryniewicz grew up in a rural city south of Philadelphia and attended Penn State University, where she studied Electrical Engineering. After graduating, she moved to the Boston area, where she worked at a defense company for three years. While in Boston, Jena met her now husband, Adam, whom she married in June of 2021. Jena moved to Colorado with her husband in March of 2022 and began pursuing a career in personal training. Jena worked at a gym for a month but quickly realized it was not a good fit. She now works at a wedding venue when she is not working at Arma Dei. Jena enjoys discovering new hikes, trying different workout classes, and eating at local restaurants/food festivals in her free time.
Three Year Old's Teacher
Satoko McCoy
Mrs. Satoko McCoy was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, where she is licensed to teach kindergarten and elementary school. Mrs. Satoko also holds her Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) diploma and has taught for more than 30 years in both Montessori and non-Montessori environments in Japan and the United States.
Satoko and her husband have a 18-year-old son. They love to camp, paddleboard, kayak, hike, swim, and ski as a family. While Mrs. McCoy loves the mountains, she misses the ocean! She loves children and is thrilled to be teaching in the preschool.
Teacher's Assistant
Kathy Potter
Mrs. Kathy Potter is married to Doug and has three grown children. She has enjoyed working at Arma Dei Academy for the last six years as a receptionist and for the last three years as a teacher’s assistant in preschool. She is excited to share her love of God with the 3’s class each day. Kathy loves working with Arma Dei Preschoolers, spending time with family and friends, walking, reading, and crafting.
Teacher's Assistant
Elyse Jackl
Mrs. Jackl grew up in Arizona but fell in love with Colorado, where she attended CSU and earned a Human Development and Family Studies degree. Mrs. Jackl and her husband have two children, and a dog. They moved to Highlands Ranch in 2019, and she joined the staff at Arma Dei in the fall of 2022. Mrs. Jackl loves caring for and helping children grow to achieve milestones and considers it a tremendous blessing to spend time with children in a Christ-centered environment.
Mrs. Jackl enjoys spending time with her family at home, in the garden, in the mountains, or at the pool. In her spare time, she loves to try new recipes, read a book, or attempt to sew.
Teacher's Assistant
Marnie Barclay
Ms. Barclay grew up in the Denver metro area. She gave her life to the Lord on her first day of college. After spending a few years in North Carolina attending Davidson College and working in Dallas as a Paralegal, Ms. Barclay returned to Colorado to earn her Master’s in Accountancy at the University of Denver. While raising her children, she worked as a tax accountant and substitute teacher. Now a Retired CPA, Ms. Barclay has directed her energy to nurture the Lord’s most precious treasures at the preschool.
Ms. Barclay’s family is at the heart of her life. She has three grown children, two sons and one daughter, two of whom are married. Her greatest joy is that they all love and are walking with the Lord. She also has three sisters and seven nieces and nephews in town, and the family gatherings are growing every year! When not taking classes to further her knowledge of classical Christian education, Ms. Barclay enjoys running with her three-year-old golden retriever, gardening, reading, doing home renovation projects, playing tennis and golf, hiking mountains, and watching SEC College Football.
Teacher's Assistant
Lil Klepacki
Miss Lil is a senior at Arma Dei Academy and loves serving in the preschool. She took courses over the summer to earn her Assistant Teacher diploma.
Miss Lil was born in Wisconsin, and her family moved to Colorado when she was three years old. She loves running cross country and track and is a black belt in taekwondo. She loves hanging out with her family and friends and watching movies. Her favorite bible verse is Hebrews 12:1-2.
Teacher's Assistant
Jill Allen
Mrs. Allen earned a BS in Human Services and Psychology from Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. During her college years, she held her first position as a preschool teacher’s assistant at a Christian academy. After graduating college, she moved to Colorado Springs, where she accepted a Focus on the Family position. Mrs. Allen went on to obtain her MA in Christian Leadership from Fuller Theological Seminary.
She and her husband now reside in Castle Pines, where they are actively involved in the community. They homeschooled their daughter utilizing the classical Christian model, and she is now attending Colorado Christian University. Mrs. Allen is very excited to join the Arma Dei Preschool and eager to contribute and foster a love for learning in the classroom.
Teacher's Assistant
Sarah Ann Kowalczyk
Mrs. Kowalczyk grew up in southeastern Virginia but has lived in Florida, Mississippi, Iowa, Illinois, and Colorado. Her husband’s job brought them to Colorado four years ago. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Special Education and completed postgraduate studies in Applied Behavior Analysis. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Prior to coming to Arma Dei Academy, she was the Director of Behavior Services for a non-profit on the Western Slope. She has three children who attend Arma Dei Academy – Walter, Calvin, and Anne. Additionally, her family has a Newfoundland and a Hedgehog.
Kindergarten, 1st & 2nd Grade Science
Miss Lydia Hattrick
Miss Hattrick moved to Colorado shortly after graduating from Hillsdale College in 2021 with a BA in Religion. She taught first grade for two years at a classical school, where she discovered a love for teaching children how to read. The only thing missing was the freedom to share God’s heart with her students, which is what led her to join the community at Arma Dei. In her second year at Arma Dei, she is looking forward to welcoming a new class of kindergarteners, and is grateful for the opportunity to continue to share in the wonder of God’s creation with the 1st and 2nd graders. When she is not at school, you can find her exploring the mountains, honing her coffee-making skills, or baking everything sourdough.
Kindergarten
Miss Amy Walker
Miss Walker decided she wanted to be a teacher when she was ten years old and now spends every day doing what she loves: using stories, songs, and exploration to introduce children to the wonders of the world God has created. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Bob Jones University and has over 20 years of grammar school classroom experience. Miss Walker first moved to Colorado in 2002 and taught in the Highlands Ranch area for a dozen years before God moved her to the Gulf Coast of Florida for almost a decade, where she discovered classical education, much to her joy! She is thrilled to be back in Colorado, close to her family, and now part of Arma Dei.
Outside the classroom, Miss Walker enjoys curling up with a good book, playing board games with family and friends, and attending live fine arts performances.
1st-3rd Grade Character Development & Outdoor Adventure
Mrs. Holly Cory
Mrs. Cory graduated from Covenant College in Lookout Mt., TN, with a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies in Education, English, and Physical Education. She helped start a thriving Christian School in Boca Raton, Florida, and has taught for over thirty years in K-6 Physical Education, middle school core subjects, and many different electives.
Mrs. Cory is passionate about God and helping students discover the joy of learning inside and outside the classroom. Teaching our youngest students, Mrs. Cory introduces them to the wonders of God and his creation. She desires all students to reflect God’s character as they pursue him and use their given abilities to invent and create. When she is not teaching, Mrs. Cory can be found hiking, paddle boarding, or spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren.
1st Grade
Mrs. Cindy Holden
Mrs. Holden is a native of Colorado but spent fifteen years on the east coast, where she and her husband taught in Christian schools. The beautiful, purple mountains’ majesty of Colorado called the Holden family back to “God’s country.” She enjoys spending as much time as possible with their seven grandchildren.
Mrs. Holden is a graduate of Eastern University in Wayne, PA, with a Bachelor of Arts in management. Her love of children and passion for teaching through a biblical worldview lens led her away from the business sector and into early childhood education. Last Spring, Mrs. Holden completed her 10th year at Arma Dei Academy with twenty-five previous years of classroom experience ranging from preschool to the fourth grade. Mrs. Holden feels blessed to be a part of the Arma Dei Academy faculty.
1st Grade
Miss Adlai Greene
Miss Greene completed her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Bachelor of Arts in English from Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts. She moved to Colorado in the Summer of 2022 and hails from all over having moved around every several years for the majority of her life.
Miss Greene started teaching at Arma Dei Academy in the Fall of 2022 after completing a short stint in the Irish school system. She is passionate about sharing how the Lord is evident in every aspect of school and feels privileged to instruct young minds in the ways of the Lord. All glory be to Christ!
When Miss Greene isn’t teaching, she loves to explore the outdoors by hiking and paddle boarding. She also enjoys completing jigsaw puzzles, sampling the Denver food scene, and spending time with her family and friends.
2nd Grade
Mrs. Becca Pettett
Mrs. Pettett graduated from Colorado Christian University with a BA in Liberal Arts and specializations in Elementary Education, Biblical Studies, Reading Literacy, and Language Arts. From her earliest years, Mrs. Pettett wanted to be a teacher. She loves bringing her passion for students and her love for the Lord together in the classroom at Arma Dei Academy. Mrs. Pettett is originally from Southern California, but fell in love with Colorado during college and made this her home. In her free time, Mrs. Pettett loves to be outdoors exploring the beautiful Colorado mountains, getting lost in the world of a good book, or spending time with her family and friends.
2nd Grade
Mrs. Darlene Walsh
Mrs. Darlene Walsh was born in Ontario, Canada, and grew up primarily in Southern California where she received her BA in Speech Communication at California State University, Fullerton.
Mrs. Walsh began her career as a K-5 teacher over 20 years ago in a private Christian school and spent 16 years working in Littleton Public Schools. She has four adult children whom she was blessed to homeschool for some of their elementary years and is also the proud grandmother of three Arma Dei students.
Darlene is a passionate educator dedicated to partnering with students, parents, and the school to help her students succeed. She was thrilled to return to her Christian education roots in 2022, when she joined Arma Dei Academy. She loves the opportunity to lead students in their walk with the Lord, teaching them to love God with all their hearts, souls, minds, and strength as they pursue academic development.
3rd Grade
Mrs. Emily Winter
Mrs. Winter completed her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential Coursework in 2005. As a lifelong learner, she has continued her education and holds her Elementary Education K-6 Teaching Credentials in California and Colorado and a Math Endorsement in Colorado. Most recently, her formal studies have taken her deeper into the beautiful world of math. There is nothing she loves doing more than teaching children about God and His well-organized world, and she is thrilled to partner with parents in teaching children what it looks like to love God and bring glory to Him.
Receiving a Christian education through homeschooling and attending Christian schools, Mrs. Winter firmly believes the truth of God’s word offers us all that we need to love and respect each other. To find wisdom, we must seek it out from the Word of God, for which there is no substitute.
Mrs. Winter grew up in California but moved with her family to Colorado when her children were young. She has three kids (Hannah, Morgan, and Nathanael, who attends Arma Dei.) She is thrilled to be a part of the Arma Dei Community.
3rd Grade
Ms. Edwards
Ms. Edwards spent a handful of years on the mission field before the Lord called her into education full time. She spent two years teaching adult ESL classes for a nonprofit, then worked as a paraprofessional in Littleton Public Schools. She received her BA in Elementary Education with a minor in Linguistics from MSU Denver and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Classical Christian Education. Ms. Edwards is thrilled to be in the world of classical Christian education in order to raise up 1 Timothy 4:12 students and provide them with a comprehensive academic foundation. She encourages students to explore their God-given talents and interests while nurturing a love for learning. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys coaching track and cross country, competing in running events around the state, volunteering with local ministry, and reading any quality historical fiction book she can get her hands on. Pob peth gyda Duw, dim heb Dduw ~ All things with God, nothing without God
4th Grade
Mrs. Rachel Senia
Mrs. Rachel Senia has spent almost all of her life on the West Coast, mainly in California, but most recently in Washington state. She grew up attending Christian schools, believing what Romans 12:1 says that the Christian life is a battle of the mind as it needs transforming constantly. She believes that a classical Christian education is one of the best ways to keep from being “conformed to this world” to glorify God.
Mrs. Senia graduated from The Master’s College with a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences. She has spent almost 20 years teaching in Christian schools. She loves partnering with the families of Arma Dei Academy as they take on the most precious and challenging task of training their children.
4th Grade
Mrs. Jen Lewicki
Mrs. Lewicki started her teaching career at a classical school in Virginia many years ago, teaching third and fourth grade. Since then, she has lived in Arizona, where she has had many teaching experiences, including teaching adults English as a second language and homeschooling her three children for a few years. Mrs. Lewicki earned an MA in Curriculum and Instruction from George Mason University. She considers herself a lifelong learner enjoys reading historical fiction and biographies of historical figures, and loves bringing history to life in the classroom! She has been blessed to have traveled through Europe and studied abroad in the Baltic region in college. She returned to teaching full-time seven years ago, teaching 4th and 5th grades at two different charter schools in the area.
5th Grade
Miss Baylee Prather
Miss Prather graduated magna cum laude from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a BA in Elementary Education and a concentration in Applied Developmental Psychology. Through MSU Denver, Miss Prather completed a year-long student teaching residency in Denver Public Schools where the Lord showed her the importance of placing Him in the center of education. Miss Prather is currently pursuing her Masters of Arts in Teaching degree with an emphasis in Classical Education at Eastern University. She is so excited to be a part of the Arma Dei team!
When she’s not teaching, Miss Prather loves to spend time with her family and friends, paddleboard in the reservoirs, and go to the mountains. Additionally, she loves to hang out with and train her two dogs, Missy and Milo! Miss Prather is looking forward to helping the next generation grow up to be champions for Christ.
5th Grade
Miss Emily Doeden
Miss Emily Doeden graduated from Colorado Christian University with a BA in Elementary Education with specializations in Cultural/Linguistic Diversity, Biblical Studies, Social Studies, Reading, and Literacy. She moved from North Dakota to Colorado to attend college, where she played golf. After graduation, Miss Doeden decided to make Colorado her home. Miss Doeden enjoys golfing, baking, hiking, playing guitar, and spending time with family and friends. She is passionate about students becoming more like Jesus every day and glorifying Him!
5th Grade Math
Mr. Walt Stroessner
Mr. Stroessner was born in Brooklyn, New York but raised in Aurora, Colorado. He earned his BA in Education and History from Regis University and an MA in Secondary Education from the University of Colorado in Denver. Mr. Stroessner began his teaching career in the Aurora Public School system, where he taught middle school math for seven years, followed by 23 years of teaching math at Cresthill Middle School in Highlands Ranch. Though recently retired from Douglas County School District, Mr. Stroessner is thrilled to join Arma Dei Academy, where he will continue inspiring students through his passion for math and love of the Lord.
Mr. Stroessner and his wife have two grown children; a son who is enrolled in a PhD program at the University of Colorado in Boulder for electrical engineering and a daughter who is beginning her third year of college at the University of North Dakota where she is majoring in commercial aviation. Mr. Stroessner loves to travel and hike, citing Moab in Utah as one of his favorite places to visit.
Latin
Mr. Kinnon Dodson
Mr. Dodson graduated from Ouachita Baptist University with a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies. He moved to Colorado in 2022 to pursue a Master of Divinity at Denver Seminary, where he is in the last year of his program. Mr. Dodson has a background in church ministry, including serving as a young adult minister. He is also passionate about investing in children and youth’s spiritual and intellectual maturity. Mr. Dodson has studied many languages over the years and believes they provide a platform for helping people grow in every aspect of life.
Mr. Dodson’s other passions include spending time with his wife and two sons, reading, playing piano for his church, and sharing food with family and friends.
Music
Mrs. Catherine Kochie
Mrs. Kochie received her Bachelor of Music Education from Stetson University in Deland, Florida, where she studied cello as her primary instrument. After graduating, she taught Kindergarten through eighth-grade general music at Pinewood Christian Academy and led the children’s choir program at Pinewood Presbyterian Church. Combining her love of music and missions, Mrs. Kochie worked at the International Community School in Bangkok, Thailand, teaching elementary music, middle school orchestra, and coordinating their weekly chapels. She studied choral conducting and music pedagogy at the Kodaly Institute in Kecskemét, Hungary. Mrs. Kochie is passionate about teaching the Word of God through music and building community through group singing and music-making. She loves traveling, being outdoors with her dog Bartok, and spending time with people. She is married to Michael Kochie and loves serving with him at Arma Dei Academy.
Science
Mrs. Julia Hodges
Mrs. Hodges grew up on a farm in North Texas, where she was raised alongside her eight siblings and many dogs, cats, chickens, goats, and the occasional donkey. She graduated from Hillsdale College with a degree in English Literature and Biochemistry and immediately moved to Colorado to teach at a classical charter school (and to enjoy the mountains!). Mrs. Hodges transitioned to working with autistic children doing clinical ABA therapy for the past year. Still, she felt the pull back to the classroom and is thrilled to join the Arma Dei community.
Outside of school, Mrs. Hodges and her husband enjoy exploring coffee shops, playing card games, climbing mountains, and finding new dinner recipes to add to their current favorites.
Art
Mrs. Sarah Davidson
Mrs. Davidson has been an artist for over fifteen years. She received her formal training in California through Natomas Charter Performing and Fine Arts Academy, the Oxbow School, and American River Community College. She gained experience through local showings, selling her work in open markets, and creating numerous commissions. In 2020, Mrs. Davidson taught art at Augustine Classical Academy to K-12 students. She is excited to return to the classroom and eager to be used by God in renewing young minds at Arma Dei Academy toward a Christian perspective on art, encouraging students to think and work like artists to His glory. She desires all Arma Dei students to understand that art is not mere self-expression but a powerful way to communicate God’s truth in beauty, affect culture, and be winsome for Christ.
In addition to working as an artist, Mrs. Davidson was a professional sign language interpreter for over ten years, remains fluent in ASL, and loves Deaf culture. She also started a small plant nursery in her family’s driveway. But her absolute favorite moments are very laid-back, spent with her six children (five of whom attend Arma Dei!) and her very patient husband in Englewood, CO.
Support Teacher
Miss Naomi Toews
Miss Toews grew up in a small town on the prairies of Kansas and graduated with a BA in Elementary Education from Tabor College. After teaching for several years in Kansas, she spent a year living in Thailand and serving under local church planters. Naomi moved to Denver to pursue her MA in Christian Formation and Soul Care at Denver Seminary and began teaching at Arma Dei. This is Naomi’s ninth year at Arma Dei, and it has been her joy to see her students grow academically, socially, and in their knowledge of God’s love. In her spare time, Naomi enjoys camping, playing piano, reading, international cuisine, and long walks with friends.
Academic Support Specialist
Mrs. Beth Bowe
Mrs. Bowe grew up in the midwest, but has lived in Colorado for over twenty years. She received a BA in Communications from Colorado Christian University, and a Master in Special Education in 2014. Beth has served as a special educator in public and private schools for ten years. She is Orton Gillingham certified in reading and math, and trained in Reading RX through the National Institute of Learning Development (NILD). Her passion is to help students gain academic confidence while pointing them to Christ.
Outside of Arma Dei, Beth can be found teaching God’s Word in the children’s ministry at her church. She also enjoys hiking, reading, and traveling with her husband, Patrick and their two sons.
Academic Support Specialist
Dr. Debra Letsinger
Dr. Debra Letsinger, a Texas native who always wanted to live in Colorado, moved here in 1984 when her husband entered law school at Denver University School of Law. Colorado has been home since, except for a short stint teaching in Los Angeles, California, and Stafford, Texas. She has three grown children and is enjoying the empty nest. Her favorite activities are 4-wheeling in the mountains in her Jeep Wrangler with her husband, Wendell, and enjoying a good book.
Dr. Letsinger received her BA in Mildly Handicapped from Harding University and her Master of Education with an emphasis in NILD Educational Therapy from Regent University. She achieved a PhD in Special Education from Regent University in 2022. Dr. Letsinger is a Professionally Certified Educational Therapist with the National Institute of Learning Development (NILD), and she finds it a joy to support students who struggle with their learning and guide them to becoming successful, independent learners. Dr. Letsinger has accumulated 25 years of teaching experience in the public and private sectors, with 19 of those years as a NILD Educational Therapist. Other experience includes working as a legal assistant, Children’s Ministry Coordinator, private NILD Educational Therapist, and a stay-at-home mom. She is currently chairing dissertations for students in the Special Education and Christian Education Leadership programs in the School of Education at Regent University as part-time adjunct faculty. Dr. Letsinger’s passion is to open doors to classical and Christian education for struggling learners!
Movement
Mrs. Tatum Lehman
Mrs. Lehman is a Colorado native, and after 15 years in California, she moved back to Colorado in 2014. She stumbled upon Arma Dei soon after and fell in love instantly. Tatum serves as the School Nurse and shares her contagious joy and passion for Arma Dei and classical Christian education as a Grammar Movement Teacher.
Tatum received a BA in Social Science at Azusa Pacific and a BS in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma. She brings her 12 years of experience as a Labor and Delivery Nurse and vast experience in various ministry roles.
Tatum and her husband Eric have three kids at Arma Dei and love helping them and others experience the fullness of Christ. They love to hike and fish, travel to new places, and embrace adventure. A rich conversation over a good meal with old and new friends is their favorite pastime.
House Governor, Bible & Latin
Mr. Michael Kochie
Mr. Michael Kochie received a Bachelors in Biblical & Theological Studies from Reformation Bible College and a Masters of Biblical Studies from Reformed Theological Seminary Orlando. During his education, he worked in the PCA as a youth director while completing his pastoral internship. He brings to Arma Dei over a decade of studies and teaching experience in language and theology.
Michael is married to his wife Catherine, and they moved back to a familiar area in coming to Arma Dei. Michael graduated from Thunder Ridge High School and knows the culture and needs of Highlands Ranch and Douglas County.
Bible
Dr. Aaron Denlinger
Dr. Denlinger holds degrees from Colorado Christian University (BA), Westminster Seminary California (MA), and the University of Aberdeen (PhD). Prior to coming to Arma Dei in 2016, he spent seven years in higher education, teaching church history, Latin, and theology at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland and at Reformation Bible College in Florida. He keeps an active hand in higher education, serving as Adjunct Professor and Online Instructor in historical and systematic theology at Westminster Theological Seminary (Philadelphia) in addition to his role at Arma Dei. Dr. Denlinger views education as a process of rightly ordering students’ thoughts and affections, resulting in individuals who will properly understand this world and their roles in it and will love all that is genuinely true, good, and beautiful. His overarching passion is to see students lay hold of their fundamental identity as adopted children of the True King on the basis of Jesus Christ’s person and work and to pursue that identity in lives that concretely reflect the sacrificial love and character of their Heavenly Father. At Arma Dei, he pursues that passion both in his role as Dean of Rhetoric and as Chaplain. In his capacity as Dean of Rhetoric, he is likewise committed to seeing Arma Dei’s Rhetoric program become a rich educational experience. Dr. Denlinger and his wife Louise have three children who are students at Arma Dei. Outside of school, he can be found reading, writing, translating old Latin books into English, camping, paddleboarding, lobster fishing, and creating mythical kingdoms in a reckless effort to maintain his own children’s sense of wonder, delight, and enchantment at the magical world that God has made.
Science
Mr. Evan Kim
Mr. Kim grew up in Aurora, Colorado and attended the University of Colorado Denver where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Biology. After a stint in research and education, he pursued a Master of Divinity from Denver Seminary and received a call to serve as pastor of a church in Kansas City.
After almost a decade of pastoral ministry Mr. Kim returned to his hometown and gratefully assumed the role of Logic and Rhetoric teacher at Arma Dei. He is excited to grow in his knowledge of classical Christian education while pursuing his passion for teaching others about God’s works of creation, providence, and redemption in His son Jesus Christ. Moreso, he is thankful for the opportunity to love and serve God’s children.
Science
Mrs. Kate Matott
Mrs. Matott was raised in Highlands Ranch, CO and loves the beautiful changing seasons of our state. She attended Metro State University, where she graduated magna cum laude with a degree in English and an emphasis on elementary education. Over the last seven years she has put teaching on hold to be a stay at home mom to her four wonderful children. After seeing the incredible education her own children are receiving at Arma Dei, she felt it a true honor to contribute to the learning of other students at the school. Mrs. Matott is excited to be teaching sixth grade Earth Science and showing students the true wonder of all that God has created for us!
When not teaching, Mrs. Matott enjoys baking cakes and running! She loves spending time with her husband (JJ) and their four children!
Bible & Logic
Mr. David Reimer
Mr. Reimer was born and raised in beautiful Whitefish, Montana. After high school, he attended Northwest Nazarene University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management. Following God’s leading towards vocational ministry, Mr. Reimer joined Eagle Nazarene Church in Eagle, Idaho, as the worship director.
Eventually, he shifted roles serving in college ministry and as co-pastor of an extension campus church plant. During these years, Mr. Reimer earned a MA in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and developed a deep passion for spiritual formation, discipleship, and helping Christ’s followers engage ever deeper in the Mission of God.
After eight years of full-time vocational ministry, Mr. Reimer began exploring his passion for teaching, discipling, and mentoring students serving for several years as a guest teacher in a variety of schools. He also met and married his wonderful wife, Hannah.
When their plans to serve as missionaries in Central Asia didn’t culminate, Mr. Reimer and his wife followed the Lord’s leading to Colorado and to Arma Dei Academy, where he is excited to guide students towards lives of love and service to Christ and neighbor as they explore God’s created world.
Humanities
Mrs. Karen Asher
Mrs. Karen Asher graduated cum laude from George Fox University in Oregon with an interdisciplinary studies degree in Writing/Literature and Family & Consumer Sciences. After attending George Fox, she came home to Colorado. She enrolled at the University of Phoenix, receiving her Master’s in Secondary Education and graduating summa cum laude. Over the past decade, Mrs. Asher has taught English, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Math in 5th through 12th grades. As a fervent lover of Jesus, she looks forward to the opportunity to dive into Humanities this year and not only study ancient civilizations through a historical lens, but through a Biblical perspective as well. She is passionate about cultivating exceptional writers in her class and is excited for all the growth ahead! When she is not teaching, she enjoys writing music, leading worship with her husband Jacob, serving in their church, and trying to keep up with their two boys – Isaac and Caleb.
Humanities
Miss Danielle Saba
Miss Saba was born and raised mostly in Georgia (Go Braves!) with a few years spent in Virginia. She graduated Cum Laude from Kennesaw State University with a BA in English studies and a minor in Film Studies. After graduating, she spent a school year abroad teaching children of various ages in North Africa. Upon returning to America in 2012, Miss Saba began attending graduate school at Georgia State University to pursue a Master’s in Applied Linguistics and English as a Second Language. In the same year, she also started teaching at a private classical Christian school as the 4th-grade teacher. Miss Saba graduated from GSU and received her Master’s degree in 2014. Upon graduating, she has been teaching a wide variety of grade levels– from kindergarten to 11th graders– and has developed a zeal for classical Christian education and engaging students in the discovery of truth, goodness, and beauty. She moved out to Colorado in 2019 to begin teaching at Arma Dei and has been delighted to be part of this school ever since.Though being in the classroom with her students is one of her absolute favorite things, Miss Saba also enjoys traveling, playing board games, baking, biking by rivers, hammocking with mountain views, and hanging out with brothers and sisters in Christ. Soli Deo gloria!
Humanities
Ms. Lauren Pagnard
Ms. Pagnard joined Arma Dei in the fall of 2020 and taught 6th-grade Latin, 7th-grade Logic, and 8th-grade Apologetics. She loves employing her academic specialties in Rhetorical Studies and Secondary English by teaching 8th-grade History and 7th-grade Literature.
Ms. Pagnard graduated with a BA in Communication Studies from Colorado State University and an MA from Regis Jesuit University. She spent several years teaching high school English at a local high school before joining Arma Dei’s team. Ms. Pagnard is passionate about imparting the truth of God’s word to students through historical evidence and logical reasoning. She studies apologetics in her spare time along with history and literature.
Math
Mrs. Lauren Lueders
Mrs. Lueders grew up in Grapevine, Texas. She graduated with her BS in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Dallas. She met her husband, David, while in college and got married in May 2020. Mrs. Lueders taught two years of math to logic students at Coram Deo Academy, a classical Christian school in Dallas, Texas. She is excited to begin her second year at Arma Dei inspiring a love of learning in the students under her care. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Lueders loves spending time in God’s creation with friends and family.
Math
Mr. Walt Stroessner
Mr. Stroessner was born in Brooklyn, New York but raised in Aurora, Colorado. He earned his BA in Education and History from Regis University and an MA in Secondary Education from the University of Colorado in Denver. Mr. Stroessner began his teaching career in the Aurora Public School system, where he taught middle school math for seven years, followed by 23 years of teaching math at Cresthill Middle School in Highlands Ranch. Though recently retired from Douglas County School District, Mr. Stroessner is thrilled to join Arma Dei Academy, where he will continue inspiring students through his passion for math and love of the Lord.
Mr. Stroessner and his wife have two grown children; a son who is enrolled in a PhD program at the University of Colorado in Boulder for electrical engineering and a daughter who is beginning her third year of college at the University of North Dakota where she is majoring in commercial aviation. Mr. Stroessner loves to travel and hike, citing Moab in Utah as one of his favorite places to visit.
Support Teacher
Miss Naomi Toews
Miss Toews grew up in a small town on the prairies of Kansas and graduated with a BA in Elementary Education from Tabor College. After teaching for several years in Kansas, she spent a year living in Thailand and serving under local church planters. Naomi moved to Denver to pursue her MA in Christian Formation and Soul Care at Denver Seminary and began teaching at Arma Dei. This is Naomi’s ninth year at Arma Dei, and it has been her joy to see her students grow academically, socially, and in their knowledge of God’s love. In her spare time, Naomi enjoys camping, playing piano, reading, international cuisine, and long walks with friends.
Latin & Logic
Miss Maddie True
Miss True comes to Arma Dei Academy from a classical Christian school in Bulverde, Texas. Her love for languages began in the 3rd grade at a classical Christian school, and she ultimately pursued a BA in Biblical Languages from Mississippi College. She desires to pass along this love by creatively engaging students in the classroom and helping to form their God-given cognitive skills of problem-solving and inferential thinking through the study of Latin. During her spare time, she enjoys playing cello, reading, crocheting, and spending time with friends and family.
Director of Performing Arts
Mrs. Heather Eddy
Mrs. Eddy studied opera and art history in Italy and Austria, where she performed professionally before God called her to share her love of performing arts with students. She has taught K-12 choral and instrumental music, directed musicals, worship, and kids ministry, and given private voice and piano lessons for 20 years in Denver. Classical education shaped each of her daughters, cultivating their deep love for learning, Truth, and beauty. She is excited to bring these skills, her passion for Christ, and for classical education to join God’s work at Arma Dei.
Mrs. Eddy holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance (cum laude) from DePauw University, a Master of Music in Education from the University of Northern Colorado, and completed additional graduate work at New England Conservatory and Denver Seminary. She was a founding member of a classical charter school in Lakewood, CO where she taught for six years. There, she witnessed the impact of classical education in fully cultivating the God-given potential within every student. Mrs. Eddy enjoys working with students of all ages, building a joyful community, and developing the voices and hearts of her students. Her husband Ross and daughters Grace and Ellie love to travel, camp, laugh, hike, build sets, cook for friends and family, and serve children together. Mrs. Eddy is thrilled to join the community at Arma Dei and looks forward to pursuing Christ and His glory as we learn together!
Music
Mrs. Catherine Kochie
Mrs. Kochie received her Bachelor of Music Education from Stetson University in Deland, Florida, where she studied cello as her primary instrument. After graduating, she taught Kindergarten through eighth-grade general music at Pinewood Christian Academy and led the children’s choir program at Pinewood Presbyterian Church. Combining her love of music and missions, Mrs. Kochie worked at the International Community School in Bangkok, Thailand, teaching elementary music, middle school orchestra, and coordinating their weekly chapels. She studied choral conducting and music pedagogy at the Kodaly Institute in Kecskemét, Hungary. Mrs. Kochie is passionate about teaching the Word of God through music and building community through group singing and music-making. She loves traveling, being outdoors with her dog Bartok, and spending time with people. She is married to Michael Kochie and loves serving with him at Arma Dei Academy.
Art
Ms. Sarah Phippen
Sarah Phippen pursued oil painting and bronze sculpture through the Ryder Atelier, foundry work, the ASLD, and workshops with many notable artists. Her work is represented by galleries and collected across several states. In addition to teaching skills based art classes, she also enjoys foraging, gardening, and has aspirations as a children’s book author/illustrator.
Dean of Rhetoric School & Bible Teacher
Dr. Aaron Denlinger
Dr. Denlinger holds degrees from Colorado Christian University (BA), Westminster Seminary California (MA), and the University of Aberdeen (PhD). Prior to coming to Arma Dei in 2016, he spent seven years in higher education, teaching church history, Latin, and theology at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland and at Reformation Bible College in Florida. He keeps an active hand in higher education, serving as Adjunct Professor and Online Instructor in historical and systematic theology at Westminster Theological Seminary (Philadelphia) in addition to his role at Arma Dei. Dr. Denlinger views education as a process of rightly ordering students’ thoughts and affections, resulting in individuals who will properly understand this world and their roles in it and will love all that is genuinely true, good, and beautiful. His overarching passion is to see students lay hold of their fundamental identity as adopted children of the True King on the basis of Jesus Christ’s person and work and to pursue that identity in lives that concretely reflect the sacrificial love and character of their Heavenly Father. At Arma Dei, he pursues that passion both in his role as Dean of Rhetoric and as Chaplain. In his capacity as Dean of Rhetoric, he is likewise committed to seeing Arma Dei’s Rhetoric program become a rich educational experience. Dr. Denlinger and his wife Louise have three children who are students at Arma Dei. Outside of school, he can be found reading, writing, translating old Latin books into English, camping, paddleboarding, lobster fishing, and creating mythical kingdoms in a reckless effort to maintain his own children’s sense of wonder, delight, and enchantment at the magical world that God has made.
Bible
Mr. Evan Kim
Mr. Kim grew up in Aurora, Colorado and attended the University of Colorado Denver where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Biology. After a stint in research and education, he pursued a Master of Divinity from Denver Seminary and received a call to serve as pastor of a church in Kansas City.
After almost a decade of pastoral ministry Mr. Kim returned to his hometown and gratefully assumed the role of Logic and Rhetoric teacher at Arma Dei. He is excited to grow in his knowledge of classical Christian education while pursuing his passion for teaching others about God’s works of creation, providence, and redemption in His son Jesus Christ. Moreso, he is thankful for the opportunity to love and serve God’s children.
Humanities
Dr. Janine Knedlik
Dr. Knedlik arrived at Arma Dei in 2019 after obtaining her doctorate in History from the University of Pennsylvania and helping found the first classical Christian school in San Francisco. Since joining Arma Dei she has served in a variety of capacities: as a first grade and Latin teacher, as a curriculum developer, and as the manager of multiple projects, from accreditation to Dual Credit. Dr. Knedlik is currently utilizing her gifts, talents, and passion for classical Christian education as she leads the School of Grammar and teaches Rhetoric Humanities. She especially loves partnering with other Christian parents as they shepherd the hearts and minds of all of Arma Dei’s students.
Humanities
Mr. Caleb Knedlik
Mr. Knedlik is returning to teaching after a decade in corporate America. His love of classical philosophy and literature, biblical history, and spiritual formation brought him to Arma Dei after he completed his MDiv at Denver Seminary. Mr. Knedlik is passionate about making biblical truths real and relevant to his Rhetoric students. When not teaching, he likes to read, play chess, and hang out with his five young daughters.
Humanities, Creative Writing
Dr. Clayton McReynolds
Dr. McReynolds was born in California but grew up primarily in the potato-blessed land of Idaho. He was homeschooled K-12 before earning his BA in Literature at Patrick Henry College. As a result of those educational experiences, he has a deep appreciation for both the possibilities of homeschooling and the rewards of a Christian liberal arts education.
Dr. McReynolds earned his PhD in English Literature from Baylor University in 2021. During and after earning his degree, he taught courses in writing and literature at Baylor. His research focuses on the phenomenology of the novel (i.e., how do we cause novels to happen in our minds), and he relishes every opportunity to explore literature and history in the light of God’s love with his students.
In his free time, Dr. McReynolds writes short stories and novels as if his life depended on it. He also enjoys reading everything from philosophy to literary classics to sci-fi and fantasy, watching good (and bad) films, hiking and playing games with his wife Holly, and petting his cat Athena (who is less wise than her name might imply).
Humanities
Mrs. Taylor McCallum
Taylor McCallum is excited to teach 12th-grade Humanities and formal Logic to Logic students this fall. A lover of the great books, seminar-style learning, and the liberal arts, Mrs. McCallum has been naturally inclined toward the classical Christian model and has enjoyed involving these foundational principles in her classroom.
With a degree in International and Religious Studies from the University of Arkansas (Go Hogs!), she moved to Denver in 2018 to obtain her Master’s in Biblical and Theological Studies from Denver Seminary. She has since worked for her church in Denver as the Director of Kids Ministry and taught Humanities in other classical settings.
Outside of teaching, Mrs. McCallum enjoys skiing, hiking, camping, and running with her labradoodle. She also loves gardening, reading for fun, and exploring new recipes!
Science Teacher & Curriculum Lead
Dr. Kristen Holderness
Dr. Holderness received her BS in Pharmacy and Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Colorado. She practiced as a Clinical Pharmacy Instructor at the University of Colorado Drug Information Center. While in that role, she mentored students and provided medication and formulary management support for the medical staff at University Hospital. Dr. Holderness left academia to work for Thomson Micromedex® where she managed content creation for several drug information products and developed drug information products for mobile platforms. After 13 years in the medical field, she became a stay-at-home mother to her three children, who now attend Arma Dei Academy. Through her involvement as a parent and volunteer, Dr. Holderness has become passionate about the profoundly positive impact of classical Christian education and is excited to utilize her skills to impact the students and families of Arma Dei Academy for the glory of God. Previously at Arma Dei, Dr. Holderness served as a Grammar Science teacher and a 2nd-grade teacher and is now thrilled to infuse her love of Science to further deepen the integration of Science into the classical Christian curriculum.
Math & Science
Mrs. Lauren Lueders
Mrs. Lueders grew up in Grapevine, Texas. She graduated with her BS in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Dallas. She met her husband, David, while in college and got married in May 2020. Mrs. Lueders taught two years of math to logic students at Coram Deo Academy, a classical Christian school in Dallas, Texas. She is excited to begin her second year at Arma Dei inspiring a love of learning in the students under her care. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Lueders loves spending time in God’s creation with friends and family.
Math, Apologetics, & Performing Arts
Mr. Justin Langley
Mr. Langley was born in Denver and was raised just north of Chicago. He earned his BA in Mathematics at Greenville University, where he also studied music composition and drama. In 2018, he returned to his home state of Colorado and completed an MA in Apologetics and Ethics at Denver Seminary.
In addition to teaching and tutoring a variety of subjects, Mr. Langley has enjoyed working with students in youth and camping ministries. He loves the piano, reading, carpentry, and nerdy board games. He especially loves his wife Heather and two young children (Rowan and Ezra).
Math & Computer Science
Mrs. Megan Billinger
Mrs. Megan Billinger received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Denver. After working for Lockheed Martin Information Systems and Solutions as a project manager for Department of Defense implementations, she became a stay-at-home mom and later homeschooled her children. Eager to contribute to the work being done at Arma Dei Academy, she joined the staff to assist in all things technical. Additionally, she teaches Rhetoric math and computer science.
Megan and her husband, Erik, have three children that attend Arma Dei. She enjoys studying the word of God, playing golf, CrossFit, and spending time with her family.
Director of Performing Arts
Mrs. Heather Eddy
Mrs. Eddy studied opera and art history in Italy and Austria, where she performed professionally before God called her to share her love of performing arts with students. She has taught K-12 choral and instrumental music, directed musicals, worship, and kids ministry, and given private voice and piano lessons for 20 years in Denver. Classical education shaped each of her daughters, cultivating their deep love for learning, Truth, and beauty. She is excited to bring these skills, her passion for Christ, and for classical education to join God’s work at Arma Dei.
Mrs. Eddy holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance (cum laude) from DePauw University, a Master of Music in Education from the University of Northern Colorado, and completed additional graduate work at New England Conservatory and Denver Seminary. She was a founding member of a classical charter school in Lakewood, CO where she taught for six years. There, she witnessed the impact of classical education in fully cultivating the God-given potential within every student. Mrs. Eddy enjoys working with students of all ages, building a joyful community, and developing the voices and hearts of her students. Her husband Ross and daughters Grace and Ellie love to travel, camp, laugh, hike, build sets, cook for friends and family, and serve children together. Mrs. Eddy is thrilled to join the community at Arma Dei and looks forward to pursuing Christ and His glory as we learn together!
Art
Mrs. Bethany DeVries
Mrs. DeVries was born and raised in the outskirts of Chicago before attending Hillsdale College in Michigan where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and English Literature. She moved to the Denver area to participate in a year-long discipleship/internship at a Christian residential treatment center for teens and then joined Young Life staff in central Denver for five years. After her time with Young Life, Mrs. DeVries opened a small art business for several years with the intent to glorify God through the beauty of art. In addition to teaching art in the Rhetoric school, she homeschools her three children with Arma Dei’s Collaborative Program.
Aside from spending life with her wonderful husband and children, Mrs. DeVries loves to create and teach art and endeavors to use visual arts to help elucidate Biblical truth.
Latin
Miss Maddie True
Miss True comes to Arma Dei Academy from a classical Christian school in Bulverde, Texas. Her love for languages began in the 3rd grade at a classical Christian school, and she ultimately pursued a BA in Biblical Languages from Mississippi College. She desires to pass along this love by creatively engaging students in the classroom and helping to form their God-given cognitive skills of problem-solving and inferential thinking through the study of Latin. During her spare time, she enjoys playing cello, reading, crocheting, and spending time with friends and family.
Spanish
Mrs. Ethel Medina
Mrs. Medina was born in Guatemala and grew up in a wonderful Christian home. After spending some time in the United States as a teenager, she returned to Guatemala and obtained a bachelor’s degree in elementary education while also attending business school. Mrs. Medina spent several years working as an Administrative Assistant in the Projects office of Boeing International.
After visiting and falling in love with Colorado, she and her husband, Oscar, moved from California with their three sons, Oscar Jr., David, and Joshua. Mrs. Medina comes to Arma Dei Academy with over 20 years of teaching immersion Spanish programs to Colorado students from preschool through high school. She loves to spend time with her three sons and five grandchildren, traveling, reading, sharing her culture, and, above all, sharing the love of God.
Yearbook
Mrs. Janell Turner
Mrs. Turner joined Arma Dei in the fall of 2021 and diligently served as an Administrative Assistant for two years before assuming the role of Director of Communications & Events. With a proven background in administrative work, event management, creative design, and photography, Mrs. Turner is excited to utilize her gifts to communicate and further the mission and vision of Arma Dei through various media (print, digital, and video), bringing the stories of the academy to life! Employing her organizational and leadership skills, Mrs. Turner looks forward to coordinating events and experiences that foster community across the academy.
Janell and her husband, Jordan, have a son, Wyatt, and a daughter, Lilia. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, playing sports, swing dancing, and spending time with her family.
Business Practicum
Mrs. Michelle Walters
Originally from San Diego, Mrs. Walters is the daughter of hard-working immigrant parents. She grew up in a family where innovation, risk-taking, and entrepreneurship were celebrated – and those values have been deeply ingrained in her ever since. Mrs. Walters earned a BA in Psychology from the University of California, San Diego, and an MBA from the Stern School of Business at New York University. Outside of Arma Dei, she is the Operating Partner at Summit Hill Wealth Management, a financial services firm she co-founded with her husband, Eric, in 2018. In her free time, you might find her training for her 2nd-degree black belt in Taekwondo – Fall ’24, Lord willing!
In the Business Practicum elective, students will explore a theology of work, delve into case studies of companies that have been vehicles of God’s blessing, and take over the management of the Arma Dei Swag Store. Mrs. Walter hopes her students will finish the course with insight into their strengths and weaknesses and a vision of what it looks like to be a Christian in the business world. Secretly, she hopes that the hands-on business experience will plant a seed of entrepreneurship in each of them as they start their careers in a few years – and birth another generation of Christian business leaders who know that the gospel changes everything.
Mock Trial
Mrs. Sarah Gillis
Mrs. Gillis earned her BS in Business from Colorado State University and her law degree from the University of Denver. The highlight of law school for Mrs. Gillis was clerking for a judge, which piqued her interest in litigation. She has since spent her career litigating and helping clients through trying times. Mrs. Gillis also volunteers for a Christian Legal Aid clinic, which includes the opportunity to take on Pro Bono cases.
Mrs. Gillis is a Colorado native who loves cooking, soccer, the Broncos, and everything outdoors, especially hiking and skiing. She and her husband, Rob, have three daughters and have been part of the Arma Dei community since 2017.
College Counselor
Mrs. Trish Anderson
Mrs. Anderson grew up in Littleton, Colorado, and loves to call Colorado home. After graduating from Arapahoe High School, she attended the University of Colorado, Boulder, for her undergraduate studies. She went on to receive her Master’s degree in Counseling from Denver Seminary, with the capacity to work in private practice and school settings.
Prior to joining Arma Dei Academy, Mrs. Anderson worked as an Academic and College Counselor at Valor Christian High School. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve the students at Arma Dei and considers it a privilege to walk alongside them as they navigate the college application process and the call God has on their lives after they graduate.
In her free time, Mrs. Anderson delights in time with her husband and her four children. She loves to swim, bike, run, hike, read and write. She also enjoys traveling, working in her garden, and cooking.
Dean of Collaborative Learning Program
Mrs. Tifany Borgelt
Born in Schleswig-Holstein to a German nurse and Japanese American serviceman, Mrs. Borgelt’s greatest joy is studying words, the greatest of which is the Word (logos) made flesh in Jesus Christ. Over the last 15 years, she has filled multiple professional roles within the classical Christian homeschooling community as she and her husband embarked on the adventure of a lifetime by educating their two daughters from elementary through high school.
Tifany particularly loves rhetorically engaging students in rich Socratic discussions through the purposeful integration of classical language, literature, and the sciences. On the battlefield of ideas, she has relished challenging students to spar with differing opinions through the spoken and written word in virtuous and noble ways that speak to God’s Truth, Beauty, and Goodness. She believes our duty as Christian educators is to arm our young men and women with the classical liberal arts so that they might be masters of ideas in their intellects instead of being prey to them in their emotions (Dorothy Sayers, The Lost Tools of Learning, 1947).
A graduate of Pepperdine University with a BA in Communications, Mrs. Borgelt spent a semester in their Master of Divinity program, which she set aside to work in the Christian music industry. Today she resides in Parker, Colorado with her family and still remains committed to encouraging parents and educators through private speaking engagements within the classical Christian education community.
Classsical Academic Advisor & Logic Teacher
Mrs. Sara DeYoung
Mrs. DeYoung graduated with a BA in English, and her passion for books and learning has continued to this day. She and her husband, Josh, began homeschooling their children in 2013 using a Christian, classical curriculum after she entered remission from her battle against cancer. Their oldest is currently in the nursing program at Cedarville University in OH, and their youngest is graduating from homeschooling in May of 2024.
Since 2017, Mrs. DeYoung has held several roles within the classical Christian homeschooling community. A lifelong learner, she continues to sharpen her understanding and application of the classical method through various classical training programs.
In her role as Classical Academic Advisor, Mrs. DeYoung will focus on developing a comprehensive program designed to equip parents in the classical Christian method of education that will include resources and training.
Collaborative Learning Program Teacher
Miss Kaitlin Buletti
Miss Buletti grew up in California as a teacher’s kid with a love of learning and a joy for working with young children. She moved to Colorado for college, and throughout her college years there, and during her year abroad in West Africa, she worked as a coach and tutor. Upon graduating from Colorado Christian University in 2018 with a BA in Communication, she chose to continue in the work she loved and begin her career as a teacher. She is passionate about providing an education full of love for God and wonder over His creation, and a classroom in which young students can develop socially, emotionally, spiritually, and academically into the little boys and girls that God has created them to be. She is grateful for the years she had the opportunity to teach in Arma Dei’s preschool and traditional programs, and is overjoyed to be a part of the growing Collaborative Learning Program now! When she is not in the classroom, she can be found curled up reading a good book, outdoors enjoying Colorado’s mountains, or traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Collaborative Learning Program Teacher
Miss Emma Sage
Miss Sage is thrilled to join the Collaborative Program at Arma Dei Academy. She is passionate about education and helping students become independent learners in and out of the classroom. Miss Sage has worked with students for years as a program leader, teacher’s aide, coach, and tutor. Miss Sage graduated from Colorado Christian University with a BA in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Elementary Education. She has since been teaching third grade at a classical school in Colorado, where she has grown to love this education model. She’s looking forward to incorporating her faith in the classroom and helping students pursue a relationship with Jesus.
Miss Sage was born and raised in New Mexico. She grew up hiking and camping with her family and loves to continue that here in Colorado. She also enjoys thrifting and finding new coffee shops and restaurants with her friends.
Collaborative Learning Program Teacher
Mrs. Karen Hein
Mrs. Hein graduated from Santa Clara University in California with a degree in Journalism and Marketing. She worked in public relations and marketing in the technology industry before retiring to become a full-time mom and homeschool teacher. In 2005, Mrs. Hein was introduced to classical Christian education and faithfully followed this philosophy to educate her two sons at home and with local Christian homeschool co-ops. When the Hein Family homeschooling adventure ended, Mrs. Hein opened The Hein Academy and taught literature, writing, grammar, history, and geography to homeschooled students from second grade to high school. In 2014, Mrs. Hein and her husband relocated to Colorado where she discovered Arma Dei Academy and has enjoyed teaching at various grade levels. In 2021, Mrs. Hein returned to her homeschooling roots through the Collaborative Learning Program where she delights in partnering with families to discover the joy of learning as a lifestyle while sharing the unconditional love and the saving grace of Jesus.
Collaborative Learning Program Teacher
Mrs. Anna Austin
Mrs. Austin was in her thirteenth year of teaching in Jefferson County Public Schools when the first of her two sons stepped onto the scene. Having received her Bachelor’s Degree from Colorado Christian University in Liberal Arts with an Elementary Education Emphasis and her Master’s Degree from the University of Phoenix in Curriculum and Instruction, she has pursued teaching for over twenty years.
Mrs. Austin’s passions surround stories: reading, having adventures (creating stories), digging into God’s Word, and getting to know the stories of those God puts in her path. She spent seven summers as a volunteer backpacking guide with Young Life, one summer in Kenya at a Christian children’s home, and many summers playing baseball in the backyard with her boys. She and her husband are “almost Colorado natives” and love watching their sons grow.
Mrs. Austin highly values bringing all of life into the bigger picture of God’s story. She is excited to partner with families at Arma Dei Academy as they raise their children in Jesus’ name for the glory of the King.
Collaborative Learning Program Teacher
Mrs. Jolene Steen
Born into a family that loved to travel, Mrs. Jolene Steen developed a love for the language and culture of Germany and Austria. She spent considerable time studying and living in Europe. After graduating with a BA in German from Walla Walla College in Washington State, she married her husband, moved from California to Virginia, and started her family shortly after that.
When her family joined a church with homeschooling families, she fell in love with the idea of educating their four boys at home and redeeming her own education. After reading “The Well-Trained Mind” by Susan Wise Bauer, their homeschooling path as a family changed forever, knowing God put this book in her hands to show her how he created us to learn.
When their family moved from Richmond, VA, to Denver, she joined a community of classical Christian educators and worked in various leadership roles. She recently graduated her youngest son, who will attend Grove City College this fall. Mrs. Steen gives God all the glory for guiding her down this glorious path of educating classically at home and giving her the strength to go the distance.
She is so excited for this new phase of life in classical Christian education and the opportunity to see how God will continue to shape young minds and hearts to go out into the world discipling and spreading the good news of Jesus Christ.
Collaborative Learning Program Teacher
Miss Cassy Lefever
Miss Lefever is thrilled to join the Arma Dei family as part of the Collaborative Learning Program! Her passion for learning and working with children led her to pursue a degree in education. In 2021, she graduated Cum Laude from the University of Dayton with her BA in Early Childhood Education. She has continued working with children in various capacities, but God has called her back to the classroom to teach. Miss Lefever looks forward to teaching her students through a biblical worldview, putting God at the center of her classroom!
Miss Lefever was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, with a love for God and the Steelers! When she is not in the classroom, you can find her trying new coffee shops, reading a good book, volunteering at her church, and exploring her new Colorado home.
Collaborative Learning Program Teacher & Academic Support Specialist
Mrs. Julie Bohn
With around 40 years of education experience Mrs. Bohn has taught preschool through fourth grade in Christian schools, preschool through sixth-grade special education in public schools, private NILD educational therapy, and at the college level in the teacher education department of Cairn University. She has a BA in special education, an MA in elementary education from the University of Iowa, and an MA in early childhood education with special education licensure from the University of Colorado Denver. For seven years Mrs. Bohn was a missionary, training churches in the US and internationally on including individuals with disabilities in worship, discipleship, and service. Loving travel and missions, she has continued to take short-term trips. Since Mrs. Bohn is passionate about helping children sufficiently learn the foundational academic skills to succeed throughout their academic careers, her time at Arma Dei Academy has been focused on the younger grades and academic support. Shepherding children’s hearts toward Jesus and inspiring children to become lifelong readers and learners are her favorite parts of teaching. In her spare time Mrs. Bohn enjoys reading, working in her bird, butterfly, and bee garden, and birdwatching.
Collaborative Learning Program Art & Science Teacher
Miss Aubrey Donhowe
This is Miss. Donhowe’s second full school year joining the families and students of the Collaborative Learning Program at Arma Dei Academy. She graduated with a bachelors of science from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California. After a bit of travel, she moved back to her home state of Colorado and began teaching as an aid at Arma Dei. Last year Miss. Donhowe got the joy of teaching science for the 3rd-7th grade students, and is ecstatic to be given this opportunity once more in the coming school year. Nothing brings Miss. Donhowe more joy than to see kids enjoying themselves as they discover the wonder and beauty of science and nature through the lens of an awesome and loving creator.
In her free time, Miss. Donhowe enjoys travel, fly-fishing, and anything outdoors, as well as sharing meals with friends and family and slow evenings spent with music and a great book.
Collaborative Learning Program Music Teacher
Mrs. Leah Ross
Leah Ross has taught Music at Arma Dei since 2014 and loves working with the Grammar School students and the Arma Dei Grammar Chorale. She writes children’s praise music and enjoys putting Scripture to music.
Leah grew up overseas and in Wyoming, and obtained Bachelor and Master of Arts Degrees in Elementary Education from Louisiana Tech University. She taught Kindergarten, Fifth Grade, and K – 8th Gifted and Talented in Maryland before moving back to the Rockies with her young family.
Together, Leah and her husband, Kevin, the Missions Pastor at Church of the Front Range, have traveled all over the world to build partnerships with other churches and ministries in Europe, India, and Nepal. She feels a special calling to prayer and loves to encourage others in their faith. One of her favorite Scriptures is from Psalm 145:3- 5, “Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty – and I will meditate on your wonderful works.”