FACULTY & STAFF

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MEET THE FACULTY AND STAFF

All staff members at Manheim Christian Day School are fully committed to Christian education and the teachings of Jesus Christ. They incorporate Biblical principles into learning situations as illustrated in Matthew 5–7, creating an atmosphere where students can grow in Christ-like qualities to apply in their individual lives. It is our goal to provide a safe learning environment where each student can develop and nurture a belief system that evolves into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

About

Why MCDS

Faculty & Staff

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FAQ

Courtney Frazier

Principal

Early Childhood and Elementary Education degree, Millersville University
PA Grades 4-8 Social Studies Certificate

Fauquier County Schools, Virginia 2003-2004
King George County Schools, Virginia 2004-2007
Manheim Central School District 2007-2020
Manheim Christian Day School 2020-Present

E-mail: courtney.frazier@manheimchristian.org



"I believe teachers have the ability to change lives. We can shine the love of Jesus through our words and actions and we have the privilege to help children grow in their faith."

Dean of Students

B.A. in Youth Ministry, Cedarville University
B.A. in Christian Education, Cedarville University
M.A. in Christian Counseling, Dallas Baptist University

Sky Ranch Christian Camps (Outdoor Education Instructor) 2019-2021
Manheim Christian Day School 2022-Present

E-mail: jon.sauder@manheimchristian.org

Jon Sauder

"My heart is to a be a reliable, approachable mentor who fosters Christ-centered confidence and a Biblical worldview in the lives entrusted to my care...and to develop and contribute to a community and culture that does the same."

Wendy Harley

M/W & T/Th Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Liberty University; Millersville University

Lancaster Christian Academy 1985-1986
Lititz Christian School 1987-1988
Manheim Christian Day School 1998-Present

E-mail: wendy.harley@manheimchristian.org



"I believe we are to nurture the whole child and help him/her experience God daily in every area of life."

Trish White

Fun Friday Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

B.S. in Bible and Certification in Early Childhood Education, Lancaster Bible College

Reidenbaugh Elementary School (Envision/Kindergarten Enrichment Teacher) 2001-2002
Dayspring Christian Academy (1st Grade Teacher) 2002-2003
Linville Hill Christian School (2nd Grade Teacher) 2003-2005
Manheim Christian Day School 2015-Present

E-mail: trish.white@manheimchristian.org


"I believe Christian education is a partnership between teachers and families that helps point children to Christ, By teaching the Bible as absolute truth and by centering education on Christ, children are taught to see God’s hands in all areas of learning and life."

Jean Peachey

3 Day Kindergarten Teacher

B.S. in Home Economics Education, University of Georgia
Early Childhood Certification Program, Arizona State University

Montessori School of Flagstaff, Arizona 1984-1987
Newcomb Elementary, New Mexico 1987-1991
Penn State, York 1997-2003
Manheim Christian Day School 2003-Present

E-mail: jean.peachey@manheimchristian.org


"I believe that children are a gift from God. As a teacher, it is my role to help each child develop and grow in their many God-given gifts and abilities. I do this by providing a Christ-centered environment that fosters spiritual, mental, social and emotional growth."

Lexi Nauman

5 Day Kindergarten Teacher

A. A. in Early Childhood/Early Elementary Education, Harrisburg Area Community College
B.S. in Elementary Education PreK-4th/Special Education PreK-8th, Millersville University

U-Gro (preschool teacher) 2021-2023
Manheim Christian Day School 2023-Present

E-mail: alexis.nauman@manheimchristian.org


 "I look forward to teaching my students and helping them grow in the academic skills, social-emotional skills, and better understand who they are in the image of our Father and utilizing their own God-given gifts."



Julia Nolt

1st Grade Teacher

B.S. in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Certification, Millersville University

Manheim Christian Day School 1994-1999; 2011-Present

E-mail: julia.nolt@manheimchristian.org


"All children have within them the capacity and hunger for learning. As a teacher, it is my awesome privilege and responsibility to help each child grow toward his/her God-given potential in all areas of life."

Lori Greenly

1st Grade Teacher

B.S. in Elementary Education, Misericordia University
      
Fairfax and Prince William Public Schools (Home Bound Instructor, Substitute Teacher) 1995-1998
ENVISIONS Enterprises (Pre-K Counts Director, Kindergarten and School Age Director) 1998-2013
Hildebrandt Learning Centers (Kindergarten and School Age Teacher/Supervisor) 2013-2017
Hempfield School District (Para Professional for Emotional Support Classroom) 2017-2023
Manheim Christian Day School 2023-Present

E-mail: lori.greenly@manheimchristian.org


"I believe each child is a miracle gift from God. It is my goal to provide a classroom environment where they are excited about coming to school every day. I believe every child is and individual and learns in different ways. It is my goal/responsibility to foster growth and independence to help them reach their potential spiritually, physically and educationally."

2nd Grade Teacher

B.S. in Elementary Education, Minor in Spanish, Liberty University

Manheim Christian Day School 2022-Present

E-mail: jennifer.christner@manheimchristian.org 


Jennifer Christner

"I believe that all children are created in the image of God and that all are capable of learning. It is my goal as an educator to instill a lifelong desire for learning by providing a safe and loving environment for my students to learn and grow into who God has created them to be."

3rd Grade Teacher

B.S. in Childhood Education (PreK-4) and Special Education (PreK-12), Shippensburg University

Hempfield School District (5th grade long-term sub) 2021
Manheim Christian Day School 2021-present

E-mail: hannah.mcbeth@manheimchristian.org

"My goal as an educator is to show each student how they can overcome challenges and fears, to enjoy and love learning, and to help each child find fulfillment in Christ. I desire for all students to find their potential as life-long learners in the classroom."

Hannah McBeth

4th Grade Teacher

B.S. in Humanities, Fairleigh Dickinson University
M.S. in the Art of Teaching, Fairleigh Dickinson University
NJ Grades Preschool-3 & K-5 Certification

American Christian School, New Jersey 2011-2015
U-Gro Learning Centers 2015-2016
Manheim Christian Day School 2016-Present

E-mail: kerri.kinter@manheimchristian.org

"I believe God has created each one of my students in a special way and has given them a special purpose in life. As a teacher, it is my joy to help guide my students as they learn more about this world and God’s place for them in this world. Children are a heritage from the Lord. Psalm 127:3a"

Kerri Kinter

Middle School Social Studies/5th Grade Language Arts Teacher

A.A. in Elementary Education, Harrisburg Area Community College
B.S. in Elementary Education (K-6) and Special Education (K-12), Millersville University

Manheim Christian Day School 2019-Present

E-mail: lori.henry@manheimchristian.org

Lori Henry

"I consider it an honor and a privilege to work with students and encourage them to be lifelong learners. Even the youngest of students can be an example to someone in their lives. That’s why I love I Timothy 4:12, “Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.”

Middle School Language Arts Teacher (grades 6-8)

B.S. in Education/B.S. in Bible, Lancaster Bible College
M.S. in Education, Cairn University
ACSI Professional Certification, Elementary Teacher with Lifetime Bible Waiver

Multiple Christian, international, and public schools 1997-2020
Veritas Academy (6th grade teacher) 2021-2022
Lititz Area Mennonite School (5th grade teacher) 2022-2023
Manheim Christian Day School 2023-Present

E-mail: ruth.rhinier@manheimchristian.org

"As a teacher, I believe that my main purpose is to guide my students to pursue our Creator through the exploration of truth, beauty, and goodness within His creation. In this pursuit, my students will discover their own God-given talents and abilities so that they can best glorify God in their own lives."

Ruth Rhinier

Middle School Science/Math Teacher

B.S. in Education, B.A. in Biblical Studies, Lancaster Bible College

Manheim Christian Day School 2018-Present

E-mail: rodney.zimmerman@manheimchristian.org

"My goal is to inspire my students to be curious about their world, and to seek to understand God through the things he has created. I want to help students grow academically, socially, and spiritually, and discover their unique God-given gifts."

Rodney Zimmerman

Middle School Math Teacher (grades 6-8)

B. S. in Elementary Education, Millersville University
M. Ed. in Differentiated Instruction, LaSalle University
PA Grades 7-9 Middle-Level Math Certification

Manheim Christian Day School 2004-2007
Manheim Central Middle School 2007-2019
Manheim Christian Day School 2022-Present

E-mail: melissa.nolt@manheimchristian.org




“My goals for my students are to build confidence in their mathematical abilities and to nurture and encourage their relationship with Jesus Christ. I consider it an honor and a privilege to connect with my students each day, walking alongside to strengthen and guide in both academics and their growing faith."

Melissa Nolt

Middle School Bible Teacher

B. S. in Bible, Lancaster Bible College
M. Div., M. A. in Ministry, Capital Seminary

Manheim Christian Day School 2024-Present

E-mail: ben.armstrong@manheimchristian.org




My aim is to show students that the Bible is not simply a history book or even a book of rules but truly a guide to know our Creator and how He designed us to live the life He gave to us. As a teacher, I believe the one who does the talking is the one who does the learning, so I strive to ask questions that will get students engaging with the truths of Scripture.

Ben Armstrong

5th Grade Math Teacher

B.S. in Education, Bloomsburg University
PA Grades 7-12 General Science Certificate
PA Grades 6-9 Middle Level Mathematics Certificate
Master of Social Work, Millersville University
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

School District of Lancaster (7th grade math & science) 2006-2008
Manheim Christian Day School 2023-Present

Email: liz.naff@manheimchristian.org

Liz Naff

"I believe teaching it is a privilege granted with great responsibility. My goal is to create an engaging classroom where students can be creative and collaborative, while expanding their knowledge and understanding of mathematics as well as their love of learning. I aim to create a space where students are afforded the opportunity to grow academically, socially and spiritually while strengthening their God-given gifts."


 

Music Teacher

B.S. in Elementary Education, Millersville University
Associates Degree in Liberal Arts, Hesston College

Ephrata Area Mennonite School (4th grade teacher) 2001-2002
Stafford County Public Schools, Virginia (5th grade teacher) 2005-2008
Rock Hill Public Schools, South Carolina (3rd grade teacher) 2009-2012
John Beck Elementary (2nd/4th grade long term sub) 2014-2015
Manheim Christian Day School 2020-Present

E-mail: christel.briggs@manheimchristian.org

"As an educator, my desire is to instill a love of learning in my students through hands-on activities and other creative opportunities. In addition, I desire my students to be respectful and responsible individuals that have an active relationship with Jesus Christ, so throughout their lives they will be productive members of society that influence others positively."

Christel Briggs

Director of Operations/Computer Teacher/Middle School Lead Teacher

B.S. in Bible; B.S. in Education/Health & Physical Education, Lancaster Bible College

Manheim Christian Day School 2008-Present

E-mail: justin.sauder@manheimchristian.org

"My mission is to prepare students for a life of service to God by guiding them in their understanding of the connection with the physical, mental, and spiritual components of life. Everyday I see students learning about God on the sports field, in the classroom, and in their relationships with each other. Being an alumnus of MCDS, I understand the importance of Christian education and its positive and lasting impact in a student’s life."

Justin Sauder

Physical Education & Health Teacher/Athletic Director

B.S. in Health and Physical Education (PreK-12), Eastern Mennonite University

Page County High School 2007 – 2009
Hildebrandt Learning Centers/Bright Horizons Family Solutions 2015-2017
Manheim Christian Day School 2019-Present

E-mail: joy.shelly@manheimchristian.org

"My goal is to educate, communicate, and engage students in life long healthy habits. Through care and providing positive feedback to encourage long, active, healthy lives. It is my prayer that students find physical activities they enjoy and want to participate in long after they graduate."

Joy Shelly

Art Teacher (grades PreK - 3)

B.S. in Art Education, Millersville University

Lancaster Rec (Preschool Aide) 2013 - 2014
Penn Manor School District 2013-2014
Manheim Christian Day School 2022-Present

E-mail: hannah.wright@manheimchristian.org

"God has created such a beautiful world around us. Art is one way to appreciate that beauty. My goal is to increase students' confidence in their artistic abilities by teaching new skills to help them express themselves and to enjoy God's creation."

Hannah Wright

Rebecca Shuey

Art Teacher (grades 4-8)

B.S. in Art Education, Millersville University 

John Beck Elementary School 2017
Manheim Christian Day School 2020-2021, 2024-Present
Crossroads Community Homeschool 2022-Present

E-mail: rebecca.shuey@manheimchristian.org



"As an educator, it is my job to help students to find their giftings that God has given them and to use those giftings to help them long term. My hope is that when they learn new techniques that they can find a way to create meaningful artwork."

Resource Teacher

 B.A. in Psychology, The College of New Jersey

TW Ponessa (therapeutic support staff) 2012-2013
Lancaster Lebanon IU13 (substitute paraprofessional) 2015 -2019
Manheim Christian Day School 2022-Present

E-mail: brandi.pidcock@manheimchristian.org

"As children are created in the "imago dei," there is not a "one size fits all" teaching method, curriculum, or program; therefore, educators should facilitate an engaging environment that challenges students, incorporating all styles of learning. Above all else, when we teach children to seek TRUTH and love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30-31), then the hope is that students will continually seek after His purposes, for His glory, becoming ambassadors for the Kingdom."

Brandi Pidcock

Teacher Aides

Christie Nissley

Pre-K Aide

Sharon Ginder

Pre-K/Kindergarten Aide

Caitlin Gabers

Kindergarten Aide

Olivia Shenk

1st Grade Aide


Eden Barbush

Librarian

Madison Sauder

Intermediate Aide



Megan Wenger

2nd Grade Aide

Staff

Kris Hess

Administrative Assistant
kris.hess@manheimchristian.org

Jen Kosydar

Events Coordinator; Fun Friday Aide
jen.kosydar@manheimchristian.org

Kim Metzler

Enrollment Coordinator
kim.metzler@manheimchristian.org

Rebecca Nissly

Nicole Wenger

Hot Lunch Assistant

Andrea McNece

Hot Lunch Coordinator

Lee Musser

Kelsey Fox

Facility Manager

Suzanna Stoltzfus

Katie Drakely

IU Learning Support
kathleen_drakely@iu13.org

Elizabeth Valdez

Custodian

Kristi Bradfield

Hot Lunch Assistant

Kerry Geib

Custodian

Megan Zimmerman

Custodian

Amanda Geib

Custodian

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Manheim Christian Day School is to provide a Christ-centered environment where students develop Biblical principles while receiving a quality education.

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