Dalton Gatlin
Principal
gatlind@nccswarriors.org
Dalton has been involved in classical Christian education since third grade when he became a student at New Covenant, graduating from the school in 2004. He has been teaching in classical Christian education since 2008. In 2014, he became the Head of the School of Logic and Rhetoric at a classical Christian school in Pennsylvania. He has a B.A. in History and a M. Ed. in Christian School Administration from Regent University. He became principal of New Covenant Christian School in March 2020.
Dalton joined NCCS because of the school’s unique core values. “At NCCS, students are more than minds; they are also disciples of Christ, sons and daughters of God called to do His will. It is a blessing to align with God every day to unlock the imago Dei potential He has gifted each student while worshiping Him in every area of the school: academically, spiritually, and relationally. I am truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful New Covenant family and to have my children attend the school.”
Dalton has been married to Caitlynn (also a NCCS graduate) since 2010. He enjoys spending time with their six kids doing projects around the house and in the yard or reading a good book in the moments of calm which come and go. He attends New Covenant Christian Church.
Amber Kersjes
Director of Development
fundraising@nccswarriors.org
Amber Kersjes was employed at Auto-Owners Insurance from 2008-2022. She had held various roles within the Actuarial and Reinsurance departments, working with data and reporting. She has a BA in Mathematics and Financial Management, and an MBA in Insurance, from Olivet College. She has served as the fundraising coordinator at New Covenant since the spring of 2020.
Amber and her husband knew they wanted their children to receive a Christian education. “From the moment we stepped foot in this building, we knew this was where God wanted our family to be. It’s more than the education, it’s the family atmosphere and emphasis on relationships that sets NCCS apart. God has shown Himself time and time again throughout our years here, and I am excited to continue following His lead in my role as Director of Development.”
Amber married her high school sweetheart Drew in 2009. Their three children all attend NCCS. Drew also serves on the NCCS Board of Trustees. When not taking part in school activities, the family enjoys working on projects around their property, having bonfires in the summer, and relaxing in front of the fireplace in the winter.
Danielle Cornelius
Accounting
accounting@nccswarriors.org
Danielle worked at the Department of Treasury in Customer Service, Individual Tax Return Processing, and Business E-Filing from 2003-2013. During that time, she graduated from Mount Hope’s Bible Training Institute and completed a four-year internship with Mount Hope’s Spyn student ministry. In 2013, she left Treasury to become a stay-at-home mother of four children.
When asked why she joined NCCS, Danielle said, “Coming from a childhood in the public education system and experiencing struggles between worldly views and godly views, we sought out a more spiritually enriched and fulfilling environment for our children’s education. We greatly appreciate the way our school families come together and support one another. At NCCS, our children not only learn about God’s ways, but through staff, parents, and older students, they are shown how to live out His ways as well. It’s because of this cohesiveness and sense of belonging our school families bring that my individual family recently became members of New Covenant Christian Church.”
Danielle and her husband Clay graduated from Mount Hope Bible Training Institude under Dave Williams in 2010. They have four children. Danielle loves animals, big dogs, muscle cars, the country life, gardening, learning about healthy eating, and living life to the fullest. She is passionate about being hope-filled, generous, and helping people achieve their dreams, goals, and financial security.
Lauren Nunn
Dean of Students
nunnl@nccswarriors.org
Lauren has been teaching at NCCS for over fifteen years. She earned a B.A. in Elementary Education from Michigan State University and has a Michigan Professional Teaching Certificate in K-8 all subjects and 6-8 Language Arts.
She is at NCCS because “It is a privilege to teach and explore alongside my students and to help them grow in their unique journeys with the Lord. I’m so thankful to teach at a school where the whole child matters, discipleship is central, and glorifying God is our priority, It is an absolute joy to spend my days with my middle school students, helping them in the process of becoming who the Lord has created them to be.”
Lauren has been married to Josh, who works as the production director for Riverview Church, for over ten years. Together they have two boys, Elliot and August. When Lauren is not spending time with her boys, she loves to read, cook, and spend time outside.
Cindy Holmes
Administrative Assistant
nccsoffice@nccswarriors.org
Cindy has worked as an administrative assistant since high school when she spent four hours each day in a secretarial co-op program before heading to her afternoon job at a local law firm. With the exception of the years she stayed at home to raise her children, her career has been administrative support.
When asked why she joined NCCS, Cindy replied, “I am excited to return to New Covenant Christian School after a seven-year absence. Prior to that, I had the privilege of serving at NCCS for nine years, and returning truly feels like coming home. It is especially meaningful because all three of my children are graduates of NCCS.”
When Cindy is not at work, she enjoys camping — especially at Michigan State Parks — watching movies, playing card games, and spending quality time with her family.
Dan Kinde
Athletic Director
athletics@nccswarriors.org
Dan has been working as part of the Department of Education for the last seven years. He has a B.A. in Elementary Education and has served NCCS as a basketball coach for the last four years. Dan has always enjoyed working with children and has volunteered at Joy Youth Center, worked at multiple daycares, and taught preschool for four years in the past.
Dan joined NCCS “because of the authentic love for God and desire to serve Him and others, demonstrated among the staff. Faith in Jesus is lived out by the staff and families here at NCCS, through serving and loving one another. That is an environment I want to be a part of and contribute to.”
Dan enjoys spending time with his children, playing a variety of sports (especially basketball), thrifting, antiquing, and collecting nostalgic items.
Louise Burns
Accounting
accounting@nccswarriors.org
Louise has been working in accounting for many years. In addition to serving as the accountant of New Covenant Christian School, she has has been the accountant of New Covenant Christian Church as well as a landscaping company her family owned. Louise earned a teaching certificate from Spring Arbor University and has taken several accounting classes along the way.
When asked why she does accounting, Louise responded, “Doing accounting for New Covenant Church and School has brought joys and heartache. Working through times of drought and abundance has been challenging. God is always faithful in providing for the needs of the school and church. Bringing God’s ways into finances has been my goal.”
Louise has been married to Ron, a fellow Spring Arbor graduate and the Senior Pastor of New Covenant Christian Church, for over 45 years. They have been blessed with two children: Amy, a teacher; and Paul, a legislative director.
Louise enjoys sewing, which she uses to bless Pregnancy Services with baby quilts. She also enjoys reading, thereby achieving her goal of being a life-long learner. Her favorite authors are from Bethel Church in Redding, California.
Jasmine Guipe, K4
guipej@nccswarriors.org
Jasmine graduated from Spring Arbor University with a B.A. in Language Arts with a concentration in Elementary Education and has been teaching for five years. When asked why she joined NCCS, Jasmine said, “I decided to teach at NCCS because my faith in Christ is very important to me, and I want to be able to integrate it in my classroom! James 1:17 says, ‘Every good and perfect gift is from above.’ I want to show my students that we can experience kindness and learn new things because all Jesus has done for us.”
Jasmine and her husband live in Grand Ledge, where they enjoy kayaking, running, and walking by the river. She also loves to sing, play music, and write.
Jannet Benson, Grade K5
bensonj@nccswarriors.org
Jannet has over 30 years of experience in early childhood development, most of which are in Christian education. She has taught preschool – 3rd grade. She is certified in Early Childhood Development and has gained training in the Spalding Reading Program.
She is at NCCS “to help nurture, grow, disciple, and educate children to become ALL that God has called them to be in their families, churches, schools, and communities.
Jannet has been married to Pastor Charles for over 30 years. Together they have served as pastors in the community for over 15 years. Jan has founded a women’s conference, led Bible study groups, and co-authored the book, “Seven by Four Break-through.” Pastor Charles and Jan have three children and four grandsons. Jan enjoys spending time with family; teaching; singing; going to the beach; reading and studying the Bible; and preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Jenna Wise, Grade 1
wiseje@nccswarriors.org
Jenna graduated from Great Lakes Christian College with an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She is currently completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Liberty University. Jenna enjoyed working as a substitute teacher for NCCS and has served as a teacher’s aide for the last four years in the Lansing area. She has been teaching in children’s ministry since she was 10 years old, and the last seven years she has been a teacher for classes ranging from nursery through 6th grade.
She is excited to be at NCCS because of its strong sense of community, shared Christian values, and the welcoming environment it fosters for students, families, and educators. She is excited to help students grow not only academically, but most importantly in their walk with Christ.
When she is not setting up her classroom or planning lessons, Jenna is usually in the gym! She loves working as an all-star cheerleading and tumbling coach and helping young athletes build confidence, discipline, and teamwork. She loves the outdoors, hiking, and travelling.
Brooke Brown, Grade 2
Brownb@nccswarriors.org
Brooke has been working with kids for as long as she can remember. Specifically, she worked at a church-affiliated daycare for ten years, five of which she was the assistant director while also planning and teaching the K4 program. She also currently teaches in her church’s children’s ministry.
When asked why Brooke is at NCCS, she replied, “God led us to NCCS when we were looking for a school for my son. I began to volunteer in my son’s classroom, in the school office, at recess, and substitute teach when needed. I also never missed chapel. I love the NCCS family and looked for any ways I could help.”
Brooke has one son; he has attended NCCS since kindergarten. Brooke enjoys reading books, watching movies, and doing anything that includes her family.
Kristin Novello, Grade 3
novellok@nccswarriors.org
Kristin graduated from Michigan State University in 2011 with a B.A. in Elementary Education with minors in Language Arts and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). She taught for six years in grades 1-3 before becoming a stay at home mom.
When asked why she joined NCCS, Kristin said, “NCCS felt like home from the first time our family toured. I could see God at work in the school and the genuine joy coming from the staff and students was so refreshing. It is a true blessing to be able to teach at NCCS and guide students both academically and spiritually.”
Kristin and Andrew have been married since 2016. They have two children who attend NCCS. In her spare time, she loves to camp with her family, ride bikes, and hang out with their dogs. Her family attends New Hope Church.
Polly Drongowski, Grade 4
drongowskip@nccswarriors.org
Polly graduated from Great Lakes Christian College with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Education; Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Child Development; and Michigan State University with a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction.
Polly and Greg have been married for nearly 35 years and have worshipped at West Lansing Church of Christ for nearly their entire marriage. They have two amazing daughters.
Sarah Harris, Grade 5
harriss@nccswarriors.org
Sarah has a B.A. in Religion with a focus on education and communication. She has been teaching for over 20 years in various education roles with students of all ages.
In addition to teaching, Sarah also has the privilege of helping coach track and cross country at NCCS and to serve in various capacities.
Her life verse is 2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold new things have come.” Her heart is to help people grow into that new identity.
Sarah has been married to John for over 20 years. They have two kids that attend NCCS.
Sarah enjoys a good cup of coffee, being outside in nature, and learning new things.
Gerrit Cain
Grade 6 and Secondary Science
caing@nccswarriors.org
After several years in the field of beverage manufacturing and quality assurance, Gerrit was called to change course and teach at New Covenant, thereby returning to the teaching field. In between colleges, he substitute taught at all grade levels near his home in western New York. Gerrit earned his A.S. in Liberal Arts and Science from Jamestown Community College (JCC) and his B.S. in Environmental and Forest Biology from the state university of New York College in Syracuse, New York. After another year of substitute teaching, he relocated to Northern Michigan University to work as a graduate assistant. In between researching brook trout and salmon in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Gerrit taught laboratory classes at the freshman and sophomore levels. He later returned to JCC for two years to teach as a lab instructor in the Biology department.
Gerrit met his wife Cheryl in the Upper Peninsula. The Lord has blessed them with two boys.
In the summer of 2019, Gerrit was converted by the Holy Spirit in Kiantone Congregational Church. Gerrit has served on the Parish Council, taught junior church, and filled-in as worship leader. He is pursuing his certification as a lay pastor in the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference.
In his spare time, Gerrit enjoys camping with family, fishing, hunting, golf, and watching baseball.
Lauren Nunn
Middle School Literature and History
nunnl@nccswarriors.org
Lauren has been teaching for thirteen years and has been at NCCS for over ten years, where she also carries administrative responsibilities. She earned a B.A. in Elementary Education from Michigan State University and has a Michigan Professional Teaching Certificate in K-8 all subjects and 6-8 Language Arts.
She is at NCCS because “It is a privilege to teach and explore alongside my students and to help them grow in their unique journeys with the Lord. I’m so thankful to teach at a school where the whole child matters, discipleship is central, and glorifying God is our priority, It is an absolute joy to spend my days with my middle school students, helping them in the process of becoming who the Lord has created them to be.”
Lauren has been married to Josh, who works as the production director for Riverview Church, for ten years. Together they have two boys, Elliot and August. When Lauren is not spending time with her boys, she loves to read, cook, and spend time outside.
Karley Simmel
Middle School Math and Science
simmelk@nccswarriors.org
Karley earned her Associate’s Degree in General Studies from Lansing Community College and her Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Studies from Western Governor’s University. She has many hours of experience as a substitute teacher in the Lansing area.
After being a substitute teacher in the Lansing area, Karley saw the opportunity to teach a Christian education and jumped at the amazing opportunity. She is very grateful to be able to incorporate the Word of God into her teaching and is excited to work alongside the NCCS staff and students.
Karley grew up in the Lansing area and graduated from Holt High School. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, serving at her church, and playing music.
Pastor John Harris
Secondary Math and Science
harrisj@nccswarriors.org
John is the pastor at RestorationLife church in South Lansing, and he has been involved in education and teaching since 2004 when he began teaching in student and adult ministries. He has a B.S. in Psychology, a B.S. in Sociology, and a minor in Counseling from Southwestern Baptist University, as well as a M.A. in Christian Education and Masters Concentration in Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
In 2016, he joined a missions organization to begin working as a church planter in Texas and began substitute teaching and coaching cross country at his daughter’s school. In 2019, he was called to RestorationLife and became involved at NCCS in 2020. He and his wife Sarah have been substitute teachers at NCCS; coaches for the cross country and track programs; and Sarah has served on the Board of Trustees.
John is excited to be a part of the NCCS family because he has a passion for disciple-makers and loves the school’s focus on being a discipleship-oriented school! The ability to have his children in a classical education where they also learn to know and love Jesus is a gift and blessing from God.
John and Sarah have been married over 20 years. They have two kids that attend NCCS. He enjoys reading, music, martial arts, distance running, and anything having to do with camping and backpacking! He loves good coffee, puns and dad jokes, and his loyalties can generally be bought by contributions of Almond Joys, Reese’s Pieces, or chocolate-covered almonds and espresso beans.
Amber Kersjes
Secondary Math
kersjesa@nccswarriors.org
Amber Kersjes is a graduate of Olivet College, with a B.A. in Mathematics and Financial Management and an MBA in Insurance. Prior to joining the teaching staff at NCCS, she was employed at Auto-Owners Insurance for over 14 years. She held different roles within the Actuarial and Reinsurance departments, utilizing various mathematical and statistical methods to calculate insurance rates, analyze data, and compile reports. Amber has also served as the Director of Development at New Covenant since the spring of 2020.
Amber and her husband knew they wanted their children to receive a Christian education. “From the moment we stepped foot in this building, we knew this was where God wanted our family to be. It’s more than the education, it’s the family atmosphere and emphasis on relationships that sets NCCS apart.”
Amber married her high school sweetheart Drew in 2009. Their three children all attend NCCS. Drew also serves on the NCCS Board of Trustees. When not taking part in school activities, the family enjoys working on projects around their property, having bonfires in the summer, and relaxing in front of the fireplace in the winter.
Liza Morrow
Secondary Literature and Writing
morrowl@nccswarriors.org
Liza graduated from Hanover College in 2004 with a degree in History and Secondary Education. She taught middle school Spanish and World Cultures for a brief period before shifting to home education. For the last twenty years she homeschooled her children with a literary focused foundation and followed a classical Christian model. She is also a certified Vision Therapist and is currently enrolled at Cornerstone University pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health.
When asked why she joined NCCS, Liza replied, “I am thrilled to be able to teach at NCCS and share my love of books with students. I am especially thankful for the emphasis on relationship building in the NCCS classrooms: first with God and second with others.”
As a mother of eleven children, Liza does not have much time for hobbies but still manages to avidly read and particularly enjoys theology, psychology, and memoirs. Eight of her children will be students at NCCS and they all look forward to the new adventures as part of the school community.
Sean McDonald
Secondary Humanities
mcdonalds@nccswarriors.org
Sean earned his B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies (with concentrations in language studies, history, and government) and a M.A. in History from Liberty University. He has taught previously at other classical Christian schools.
Eric attends Free Reformed Church of Grand Rapids. He has been married to his wife Laura since 2009 and they have six children.
Steve Sochay
Secondary Bible
sochays@nccswarriors.org
Steve has been involved in Christian education for over 30 years. He joined NCCS in 1996, where he teaches primarily middle school and high school Bible and Math while also serving as the senior class advisor. He earned a B.B.A. in Business/Accounting from Notre Dame University and an A.A. in Christian Ministry from Wold Harvest Bible College. During his lengthy career in Christian education, he has been awarded teacher awards from the University of Notre Dame and Hillsdale College. He has also worked as an education consultant to several Christian schools.
When asked why he is at NCCS, Steve replied, “I teach at NCCS because it is the best place to fulfill my personal calling as a teacher and utilize my giftings within the Body of Christ. NCCS has a family atmosphere on many levels: assisting parents with their primary responsibility in educating their children; being a mentor and role model to the next generation; being a spiritual father to many sons and daughters; and experiencing my son begin his time at NCCS and watching him grow in his faith and academics throughout his primary and secondary educational years.”
Steve’s son Migizi attends NCCS. Steve enjoys family activities, camping, hiking, kayaking, reading, and Notre Dame football.
Katelyn McCausey
Music, Band, and Choir
mccauseyk@nccswarriors.org
Mrs. McCausey has been teaching music through private lessons, homeschool co-ops, and summer camps for eight years. She graduated from Great Lakes Christian College in 2017 with degrees in Music and Theology. Her time in Bible college inspired a love of studying how music and theology interact. Joining the New Covenant family in 2022 felt like coming full circle. She attended NCCS K-12. The school and its teachers played a very big role in guiding her through many “growing up” journeys — even in her family’s recent adoption journey. Her kids began attending NCCS in 2019, opening doors to come back as a staff member.
When asked what she loves about NCCS, Katie responded “that it is more than grades and athletics — it’s discipleship, growing in knowledge, and learning more about God and the world He has made. It is a wonderful opportunity to be teaching at a school where students are empowered to learn more about Christ in every area of their education!”
Katie is married to Nolan. He teaches piano, works for Reeder Pianos, and is Katie’s permanent accompanist for any musical endeavor. Katie and Nolan adopted their two children in 2020 and have two dogs. The combination of kids and pets keep them fairly busy! When there is some open time, Katie loves to read, dye yarn, crochet, and is learning how to disc golf.
Cassie Davis
Art and Drama
davisc@nccswarriors.org
Cassie is passionate about art. She received her bachelor’s degree from Spring Arbor University in K-12 visual arts education and has been working with kids and students for 18 years. Shortly after graduating, she had the joy of teaching 2/3 grade at New Covenant, as well as substitute teaching and teaching a summer art class. She took a break from teaching to open a daycare where she often incorporated art into her weekly program. In addition, she is a freelance artist/illustrator with a self-published children’s book she was inspired to write while previously teaching at NCCS.
Cassie decided to return to New Covenant because Christ is at the center of everything the school does, and the teachers and students become family. Having graduated from NCCS, coming back to teach at New Covenant in 2022 felt like coming home.
Cassie is married with two children. She is devoted to serving Jesus in everything she does. Whether it’s worshipping through art or serving in student ministry at her church, she believes that loving Jesus and loving people should be our number one priority.
Janna Birn
Physical Education
birnj@nccswarriors.org
Janna has years of experience teaching in homeschool co-ops and substitute teaching, as well as many hours volunteering in classrooms, including here at NCCS. She is excited to continue serving in a new role. She hopes to use Physical Education to encourage all her students that they have been fearfully and wonderfully made and to praise and glorify God in all they do.
Janna is married to Steve and they have four children, all students at NCCS. She is a volunteer event planner and administrative assistant at a local taekwondo ministry. She enjoys her time cooking, baking, reading, and spending time with her family.
Dayamny Tejerina
Spanish I and II
tejerinad@nccswarriors.org
Dayamny began teaching classes at the young age of eighteen from a teacher qualification course. In 2007, she obtained a Bachelors in Primary Education in Cuba, her native country. Within five years, she became the lead methodology supervisor for the teaching staff. She has over twenty years of experience in education. She has a Masters Degree in Marketing, Sales, and Advertising for Online Companies in Spain. She also heads the Sunday School teachers and children in her church.
Dayamny joined NCCS because she is committed to teaching based on the Great Commandment: to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength; and to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Nicole Gill
Secondary Math
gilln@nccswarriors.org
Nicole earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Spring Arbor University, a Master’s in Mathematics from North Carolina State University, and completed additional graduate work at Central Michigan University where she focused on studying combinatorics. She has taught college level math courses and tutored math at many levels. Her favorite part of teaching math is helping students to gain confidence and a growth mindset. After spending the past several years as a stay-at-home mom, she is excited for the opportunity to help students grow their mathematical abilities in the nurturing, Christ-centered learning community of NCCS.
Nicole and her husband Jordan have three children. They enjoy doing fun outings as a family and spending time with their church community. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and solving sudoku and crossword puzzles.
From left to right:
Drew Kersjes (President)
Pastor Ron Burns
Rich Geer (former member)
Sarah Harris
Principal Dalton Gatlin
Hal Spaeth
Ernest Tisdale
We the board of New Covenant Christian School believe the Bible is still accurate and relevant today, in all areas, including history, math, and science.
We believe the entire Bible is the Word of God and can be trusted from its very first verse.
Substitute Teachers: If you would like to apply to be a substitute teacher, please express your interest and email a resume to principal Dalton Gatlin at gatlind@nccswarriors.org.
Substitute Teachers: If you would like to apply to be a substitute teacher, please express your interest and email a resume to principal Dalton Gatlin at gatlind@nccswarriors.org.
There are no openings at this time.