Our Team
Christian Covenant Academy Leadership
President and CEO
Michelle Davis, M.Ed.
Weimar, Texas
Michelle.Davis@christiancovenantacademy.org
(361)-293-1121
Michelle, the new CEO of Christian Covenant Academy, was most recently serving as the Deputy Executive Director for a nonprofit serving families across Texas and Louisiana, managing over 17 million in federal funds and 350 employees.
She also served as the CEO of a Christian school system for 6 years in Colorado where God had spoken to her about multiplying Christian schools and then connected her to Charcie Russel where the inception of CCA began. Michelle is a certified Texas Superintendent and has been a public school principal, special education coordinator, and both elementary and secondary teacher. She is a writer and speaker with over 25 years experience teaching and leading in both Christian and public education. She is married and lives in Weimar, Texas with her husband Ben. They have 4 children.
Michelle is the author of Positude and is currently working on The Last Stand, a dive into the enculturation shifts of both public and private education, which is set to publish in 2023. The testimony behind the miracle of starting Christian Covenant Academy is a powerful part of Michelle’s walk with Jesus and indwelling of the Holy Spirit. God made this school possible, and Michelle is excited to be part of God’s work and the Great Commission!
Systems Administrator.
Nathan Frank
San Marcos, Texas
nathan.frank@christiancovenantacademy.org
979-505-0501
Nathan has worked in IT support for six years, bringing his experience working with universities and schools to CCA and a servant’s heart. Nathan has worked with Google suite and Microsoft Office, as well as physical systems and computers. Nathan is currently finishing his Bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in religious studies at Texas State University, with plans to eventually return for a Masters degree.
Curriculum Coordinator
Brooke Jackson
Cuero, TX brooke.jackson@christiancovenantacademy.org
(361)243-6995
Brooke has over 20 years experience in early childhood education, and has served in a multitude of leadership roles including most recently serving as the Executive Director for the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent. In addition, she has also served as a federal grant director, principal, assistant principal, consultant, special education coordinator and teacher. She has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a master’s degree in School Administration and Supervision, along with certifications in teaching, special education, and principalship. Brooke also has years of experience as an entrepreneur, having owned several boutiques and consulting services.
“God knew the journey he had for me and placed me in each of my roles to prepare me for today” says Brooke and she is thrilled to be working with CCA as one of the Curriculum Coordinators. She is assured that God has called her to do this work for His Kingdom and is extremely excited about fulfilling that purpose.
Brooke lives in Cuero, Texas with her husband and four year old son. They also have two adult sons and two adult daughters.
Curriculum Coordinator
Cynthia Trojacek
Schulenburg, Texas
cynthia.trojacek@christiancovenantacademy.org
(979)561-6921
As a veteran in Education for 34 years, Cynthia has joined the Christian Covenant Academy family as part of the Curriculum Team. She recently retired for the second time from public education where she has served in the areas of mathematics, special education, intervention, and physical education at the K-12 levels.
Cynthia grew up in Schulenburg and came back to her hometown with her husband Gregory just a few years after being married. They raised their three children in Schulenburg as well. Their hearts continue to be filled with the love of their six grandchildren. In January of 2023, Cynthia clearly heard from the Lord that He had another assignment for her. She stepped out in faith and resigned her position in public education to serve God. Thus, the door opened for her to walk alongside the CCA team. As she has partnered with the CCA family, God continues to renew hope, penetrate hearts, strengthen faith, and reveal His hand in all areas of life. On this path of life, journeying with like-minded people to fulfill the call of God is inspiring, refreshing, and so much more.
Enrollment Coordinator
Lola Collinsworth
Ozona , TX
lola.collinsworth@christiancovenantacademy.org
Lola has 10 years of experience working in public and private schools. She has an Associates Degree in Elementary Education and has served in many positions within the schools.Passionate about fostering an environment where students can grow academically, spiritually, and personally, Lola is excited to offer my expertise as an enrollment coordinator at Covenant Christian Academy. With many years of experience in admissions and enrollment, I am dedicated to guiding families through the enrollment process and facilitating their journey towards becoming part of our vibrant school community.
“I have been looking for something and have prayed about the direction I needed to go in. It was with a conversation with Michelle Davis that I knew this is where God wanted me to be”, says Lola. Lola is excited about this new calling and is excited about fulfilling her purpose. Lola lives in Ozona, Texas with her husband and they have 2 grown children.
Christian Covenant Academy Board
Board Member and Founder
Charcie Russell
Castle Rock, CO
rslgroup@comcast.net (303)-819-3033
(361)243-6995
Encouraging families and children to trust our Lord Jesus has been the call on my life for many years. I was greatly privileged to have joined with two other mothers to incorporate MOPS as a franchise in the early1980’s. What a thrill to see what the Lord wanted to do become a reality! Later, I became involved in politics working for a congressman and as a talk show host. In a local effort in our school district we developed a school choice program that eventually went to the Supreme Court. Through all of that, the need to establish a truly biblical education for children became increasingly apparent. I believed the Lord wanted to franchise an affordable biblical school that could be housed in churches across America. The “model school” he led me to visit was Southeast Christian School and to a conversation with a wonderful woman, Michelle Davis. The idea of a School in a Box became the dream of Christian Covenant Academy. So we find ourselves today with an incredible opportunity to offer an answer to many Christian parents who cannot homeschool their children. Is 54:13 is the promise I have looked to. “All your children shall be taught by the Lord and great shall be the peace of your children.”
Adam is married to his wonderful wife, Viktoria. Viktoria and Adam have five children that have all been part of a Christian School System. Adam has a wealth of experience including over 30 years in franchise operations. Adam is known for operational development, project management, scaling, and so much more. Adam has served on the Christian School Board where his children attended elementary and middle school and has served as a valuable member of the Parent Advisory Council since its inception.
Adam currently owns ACASA Senior Care of Colorado. ACASA focuses on supporting our seniors in aging in place and continuing to live in their own home rather than needing to move to a Senior Care facility.
Adam shares a Kingdom vision for Christian school multiplication and is excited to lead the board during this foundational season.
Vice-Chairman
Hunter Floyd
Parker, CO
hunterfloyd92@gmail.com
(253) 576-9559
Hunter has been involved with Christian education for many years now. With four kids still enrolled in Christian schools, he is dedicated to ensuring as many children as possible have the opportunity to build a solid foundation in Christ through their educational experience. After a 28-year Army career and retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, he now works in the Space Sector with Northrop Grumman in Aurora, Colorado. His undergraduate degree is from Texas A&M University in Political Science and he holds a master’s degree from the US Army War College in Strategic Studies. He has prior experience as a school board member with Southeast Christian school for over three years in Colorado prior to serving on the school board of Christian Covenant Academy and he will focus on the strategic foundation and direction of the school moving forward.
Treasurer
Ruth Rabin-Franks
Weimar, TX
Ruth, Treasure of Christian Covenant Academy, has worked in management of various fields for 14 years throughout Central Texas and holds a Master of Accountancy and Master of Organizational Management. She is currently in a Quality Assurance and Control Supervisory role for a cooperative of Dairy Brands. Having a young adult son, a teen son, and a preteen daughter, the realization that our children need so much direction and a strong grounding in biblical truth so they can go out into the world. Their inner compass needs to always point towards the father. That is why she is excited to serve on this board but to also felt it in her spirit that serving the LORD through this appointment, is one of the most important things she will ever do. She and her husband have been married 20 years and they both take every opportunity to serve the LORD by serving in their church and serving their family.
Spiritual Advisor
Dr. Sheri Ross
Weimar, TX
(979)-571-9943
Dr. Sheri Ross is Senior Pastor at Gate of Triumph Church, founded in 2000. Along with leading the church beside her husband Rick, she is also an author, and domestic violence advocate. She is dedicated to helping others reach their full potential in life. Sheri holds a Doctorate Degree in Christian Theology from IMI located in Pensacola, Florida.
Secretary
Christine Heinrich, BFA
Schulenburg, TX
(832)-928-7612
Christine owned and operated The Shop Downtown in Schulenburg, Texas, where she made many lifetime friends and grew as a business owner which she carried into her new role as an Insurance Sales Executive. Christine was honored this year as the Top Producer in the United States for her company.
She brings a wealth of business, sales, marketing, and Kingdom building experience.
Christine is the author of Seasons, a collection of stories taken from the lives of women through the various experiences of life. Christine enjoys writing, speaking, and sharing the journeys of women of faith.
Christine, her husband Mark, and their 4 children enjoy small town life on a farm right outside of Schulenburg.
Board Member
Liz Bjork
Parker, CO
(720)-480-5667
I have always had a heart to help and serve others. I have three children and roughly 7 years experience with them attending a local Christian school. I am passionate about Christian education. It is with great joy that I have the opportunity to serve on the board of CCA. I am confident that CCA’s Christ centered education will advance the kingdom of God and provide top notch academics. I am thrilled to see this ministry grow under the leadership of Michelle Davis.
I served 6 years in the United States Navy, first as a Ceremonial Guardsman in Washington, DC, then as a Hospital Corpsman at Naval Hospital Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. My love for the Lord has grown so much since that time it began in my life. He led me to the Navy, and now has been using those skills from the military in my business as a Healer. My massage therapy practice serves as a ministry to women in Schulenburg and the surrounding communities through faith-based healing modalities to include trauma therapy, myofascial release, cranial sacral therapy and more. I’m very excited to serve on this board and support the vision God has given Michelle to build a Christ-centered school system. I truly feel the anointing on this mission and pray for wisdom as we all continue forward in His plan!
Currently living in Colorado, lived in Atlanta and from originally from the United Kingdom, Claire lives with her husband and 3 girls. Claire has a masters in early years education, helped set up schools globally and worked both in ministry, education and health. She has led, coached, trained and developed leaders both in education and ministry. She looks forward to serving HIS Kingdom on this board and helping any way she can. She is excited to see more families, children, teacher’s get to know who their Heavenly Father is through a discipleship modeled christian education. Also,Claire loves to develop and create an environment and culture where children and families can learn and grow in a safe, loving environment.
Christian Covenant Academy
Curriculum Team
Curriculum Writer
Alber Fares, Ph.D., Ed.D.
Oviedo, FL
In the field of chemistry education, I boast third-generation expertise and thirty years of experience as a chemistry professor.
I have demonstrated success in science education at primary, secondary, and higher education levels. I have two decades of expertise as a university professor, seven years as a science teacher in high and middle schools, and three years in a K12 administrative role.
I have served in diverse roles, such as college department chair, science director at the K12 district level, high school assistant principal, and curriculum writer.
Possesses a solid educational foundation, including
a Ph.D. in Biology (1998),
a Ph.D. in Chemistry (2013),
and an Ed.D. in Education Leadership, Curriculum & Instruction (2022).
Curriculum Writer
Amber Crafton
Dallas, Texas
Amber Crafton is an educator and a leader. She is also a proud Army veteran. She has 7 years as a teacher and an interventionist, focused in music and math. She also served as an Assistant Principal for two years, directly supporting math and science. She also wrote a school model proposal focused on bringing service-based learning into public schools which was adopted as a pilot within Dallas ISD. She excels in creative design projects, curriculum development focused on supporting all learners, and technology integration. She has three Masters Degrees, Educational Leadership, Management, and Worship Leadership. She also served as a worship leader and children’s minister for about 10 years. She is a proud wife to husband Tim, and mother to daughter Coraline and has two elderly cats. She is excited for this kingdom work because it brings together her life’s passions into a project that will significantly impact the kingdom and it enables her to use her God-given skills to help shape and equip the next generation of believers! Joel 1:3 “Tell it to your children, and let your children tell it to their children, and their children to the next generation.”
Curriculum Writer: 6-8 ELAR, Science, Bible
Brandi Thomas
New Caney, Texas
brandi.rachel91@gmail.com
I am Brandi Thomas. I live in Texas. I am currently a 6th and 7th Science teacher. I absolutely love my students and being in Education. My husband and I are both in education. He is an Assistant Principal. With 6 years of teaching experience, 9 years of curriculum development within the church, instructional support roles, and a background as an educational data analyst, I am uniquely equipped to contribute to curriculum development that reflects biblical principles, fosters spiritual growth, and empowers learners to fulfill their God-given potential. My husband and I work in the ministry together. We share similarities in our testimonies of salvation by God. We now do not curse, drink, smoke, engage in carnal entertainment, etc. We love serving God and we are looking forward to the return of our Savior. When we are not at church, we spend time with our children and family and friends. My acceptance of Christ with evidence of speaking in tongues and from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit working in me daily inspires my work, ensuring that every endeavor is aligned with God’s purpose and glorifies Him. I am excited about the opportunity to use my skills, knowledge, and experience to further the Kingdom through this role. I’m excited to put God in every aspect of a child’s life learning experiences. Train a child up in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6. That is the promise that God gave to us for our children and those to come; and I am excited to be a part of such a great work with a greater reward.
Curriculum Writer, Elementary Language Arts
Cheri Hart, MEd
Sweethome, Texas
Cheri is currently serving as an instructional coach working with individuals seeking teacher certification in the state of Texas. She has 30 years experience in public education. She taught preK, kinder, 2nd, 4th, and 5th grade. She served as a principal for 17 years both as an elementary and secondary principal. She has also served as a curriculum director, assistant superintendent, chief academic officer and superintendent. She taught a Move-It Math class at the University of Houston-Victoria. After retiring, she worked for the Texas Education Agency as a professional service provider and monitor.
She is passionate about educating all students and helping bring them God and his Kingdom through education. “I feel all children deserve this opportunity and it is our duty and obligation to provide it.” She has been married to Donnie Hart, Sr. and has three sons and 5 grandchildren.
Curriculum Writer, Social Studies
Dr. David Qualls
Seguin, Texas
MegandJuli15@gmail.com
Retired from Texas public schools after 34 years. Currently employed as a Pro Caregiver for older citizens.
I have an earned doctorate in Vocational-Technical Education and College Teaching, a Master’s of Education in Guidance and Counseling, with a minor in Special Education. My undergraduate degrees are A.A. and B. S. with a major in History and Social Work.
I am excited to be working with a team of professionals on a project that is long overdue. Education was and is my passion, but like in other fields of endeavor, God was left out of it. Our team can help lead our schools and our country back to greatness.
Heather Rise
aboutheather@me.com
Heather Rise is a dynamic woman known for her diverse roles as a university professor, entrepreneur, community activist, international speaker in Christian evangelism, and served as Board President on two Boards, the iRise Foundation and the Women of Global Change. Her leadership extends across education, entrepreneurship, and advocacy, focusing on empowering women and minority entrepreneurs globally. As the President of Women of Global Change in Las Vegas, Heather drives initiatives to support underrepresented communities, I’m going into the trenches, servicing these communities, offering education, mentorship, and resources to dismantle barriers hindering their success. Through her company, Heather Ella Rise Enterprises, she provides strategic guidance and mentorship to foster the growth of small businesses, showcasing her commitment to creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs in competitive markets.
Apart from her professional endeavors, Heather engages in international volunteer work, empowering underprivileged communities worldwide. Her dedication to economic opportunities and community resilience highlights her global empowerment efforts. As a university professor, Heather mentors future leaders in political science, history, and government, instilling in them a sense of civic responsibility and a drive for positive societal change. Additionally, her philanthropic contributions to local initiatives reflect her commitment to addressing societal challenges and promoting inclusive growth, particularly in Las Vegas, where she envisions a more equitable and prosperous economy for all residents. Heather Rise’s extensive expertise, leadership, and dedication exemplify her commitment to driving transformative change at various levels.
Curriculum Writer, 6-12 ELA Team Lead
Jasmine Randolph
Memphis, TN
Jasmine Randolph is an esteemed educator and leader. With four years of dedicated service in teaching, Jasmine Randolph has made an indelible impact on the academic and personal development of students. Currently serving as a 7th-grade English Language Arts instructor at Collegiate School of Memphis, Jasmine previously taught 9th-grade ELA and Bible studies for high school students
Beyond the classroom, Jasmine has taken on a pivotal role as the Athletic Director at Collegiate School of Memphis, where her leadership extends across 13 sports programs.
Jasmine’s dedication to education and athletics is underscored by their numerous accolades and achievements. Her unwavering commitment to student success, coupled with her ability to inspire and motivate others, makes Jasmine a true asset to the Collegiate School of Memphis community and now Christian Covenant Academy, as well.
Curriculum Writer
Jaymee Thompson
Roscoe, IL
Jaymee was born and raised in the Christian Faith and is currently raising her own family in the Church as well and attending Christian schools. Jaymee has 12 years of experience in education as both a middle school science and math teacher and a High School Assistant Principal. Jaymee has a passion for supporting students and empowering teachers to deliver the highest quality instruction.
Jaymee received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from University of Wisconsin Whitewater and her Master’s of Educational Leadership from University of Wisconsin Madison. Jaymee is continuing her pursuit of education by finishing up her dissertation for her Educational Doctorate in Leadership. Outside of the school and classroom setting, Jaymee is an AVID reader and enjoys spending time with her busy family! She has three young boys that keep her going in every direction, from soccer practice, to karate, swim lessons, tutoring and everything in between!
Curriculum Writer
Jennifer Riegel
Brandon, SD
Jennifer is a devout Christian always looking for spiritual, personal, and professional growth. She currently finds spiritual growth in exploring various Christian-texts by various authors, and most importantly, including the Bible.Jennifer finds personal growth within her spiritual growth but also her professional and educational endeavors as well. She has achieved a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with an Emphasis on English Language Arts, and she is obtaining her Master’s Degree in Instructional Design in eLearning. She currently puts her education to use as a high school English teacher and freelance instructional designer. She has spent the last 4 years teaching both middle and high school (but now primarily high school) and instructional design work. In her work, she loves engaging in educational discussions with colleagues about how best to improve educational practices. That is one reason why she is so excited to be serving CCA. She is able to embrace her passion for curriculum development and Christ as well as collaborate with other educators who are as passionate as she is. Beyond the educational setting, Jennifer loves being both in and outside. While she enjoys reading, writing, and watching her favorite shows/movies, she also loves camping, canoeing, and taking her dogs for a walk with her husband.
Curriculum Writer
Kristin Gearson
Yoakum, Texas
Kristin brings devotion to the field of education as a Kingdom driven educator with a strong passion to “be the light” to others. Her greatest longing in life is to share Christ’s light through her life as she radiates His power, grace, kindness, and all that He encompasses. Serving as a educator has been the perfect placement to live out this calling. She has 9 years experience in the classroom, 5 of those working as a teacher in public school education, currently serving as a 5th grade math and social studies teacher. Kristin grew up in Hallettsville, Texas, moving one town over to her husband, Reed’s, hometown, Yoakum, TX, after marrying in February of 2023. She has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Texas A&M University. Kristin is thrilled to be able to fulfill God’s calling on her life as His light, as she serves as an instrument in designing a reformed Christ-centered educational model school. She prays that what CCA creates inspires all to “be the light” this world so desperately needs–reflections of the One True Light.
Curriculum Writer, Science 6-12
Kyler Sowell
Poplar Bluff, MO
Kyler Sowell brings a wealth of experience to his role as a curriculum writer at CCA. With a Bachelor’s degree in Pre-Medicine from Evangel University and a Master’s degree in Education Administration, Kyler has traversed various roles in education. He began his journey as a freshman history teacher and then transitioned to teaching 7th-grade science. Kyler’s passion for educational excellence led him to serve as a teacher instructional coach and later in various principal capacities.
In addition to his administrative roles, Kyler is a dynamic professional development speaker, offering insights into techniques such as Teach Like A Champion, TikTok Teacher Tech Tips, AI in the classroom, and more. As a husband and father of five children, Kyler is deeply committed to fostering a faith-based learning environment, especially in an era where truth often lacks a solid foundation. He is thrilled to join the CCA team and the community, where he can contribute to creating an atmosphere where faith and education intertwine seamlessly.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Kyler is actively involved in his church community, serving as a co-worship leader and youth worship leader. He also co-hosts the Christian podcast for men, “Real Men Talk,” where he engages in meaningful conversations about faith, family, and life’s challenges. Through his involvement in these ministries, Kyler seeks to inspire and encourage others on their spiritual journey while strengthening his own faith.
Curriculum Writer
Lisa J Leese
Cypress, Texas
Lisa is a creative, licensed educator delivering content and engaging curriculum to foster curiosity and a love of learning to all children. With 25 years of experience in public, private, online and homeschool education, she has taught pre-Kindergarten through high school, special education, regular education, Sunday school and English as a Second Language. Lisa has also served as a team lead in educational settings, and most recently, she was a creator in a small business developing educational enrichment boxes for elementary kids and as a curriculum writer for the Academic Enrichment Team, developing Human Biology and Texas History curriculums for the Cypress Homeschool Council. Lisa is excited to be a part of CCA and creating a curriculum grounded in the word of God. She is honored to be on this team doing this kingdom work. Lisa and her husband, David, of 26 years have 5 children and live between Texas, Arizona, and Massachusetts.
Curriculum Writer
Marissa M. Cochran
Knob Noster, MO
Marissa currently teaches gifted students in grades 1st-12th, and serves on the Gifted Association of Missouri as the District 9 Director. She enjoys working with curriculum and developing trainings for faculty and staff members in a variety of subjects including differentiation, curriculum, and technology.
Marissa’s journey of faith began as a private school student. She seeks to walk in faith every day, and is excited for this opportunity to share in CCA’s Kingdom work.
Curriculum Writer, Math/Science K-5 Team Lead
Melanie Congleton
Okeechobee, FL
congletonfamily5@gmail.com
Melanie Congleton was born and raised in a small, farming community in South Florida. She is married, has three children, and two dogs. Melanie lives with her family on property of Dunklin Memorial Church, where her husband Mitchell is the Program Director of a men’s regeneration ministry. Over the last 10 years, they have worked together leading Christian marriage classes and their church’s youth group.
Melanie received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University and her Master’s of Reading Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University. She taught in public schools, private Christian academies, and homeschool settings for 15 years, ranging from Kindergarten-12th grade. Melanie transitioned out of the classroom in May 2022 to pursue the field of curriculum development. Over the last two years, she has worked on curriculum development teams to write and create curriculum and textbooks for various school districts, online academies, private curriculum companies, and ed-tech companies. Outside of work, Melanie and her family enjoy spending as much time outdoors as possible! They love boating, swimming, watersport activities, and playing pickleball. She spends time watching her daughters ride horses and competing in barrel races, as well as being involved with her daughter’s local rec volleyball team. In all that they do, they keep Christ as the head of their family and are extremely grateful for the work He has done in their lives, as well as what He is continuing to do in their lives.
Curriculum Writer
Rachel Koopmeiners
Dunnell, MN
Rachel Koopmeiners has always loved Christian education. When she was younger, Rachel attended a small Christian school. This is where she learned about the love of God and how important Christian education is at a young age. As Rachel got older, she knew that the Lord placed her heart in Christian education. She got her bachelors in Elementary Education at Bemidji State University and has taught grades K-3 in a start up Christian school. Rachel has been in Elementary Education for 6 years and is excited for this new experience.
Rachel is very excited to help CCA in their mission to spread God’s truth through education. Rachel has always loved curriculums. It is a dream to help create one and help others have easy access to education that is connected with God’s truth. She is also excited about creating engaging lessons that involve hands-on learning and deep thinking. Rachel overall feels blessed for this amazing opportunity and is excited to see where God takes us!
Rachel has a wonderfully supportive husband, and an energetic 3 year old daughter that is always keeping her on her toes.
Curriculum Writer, Mathematics
Rebecca DeHart, M. Ed.
Jonesborough, TN rebeccapdehart@gmail.com
Rebecca started her career in education in 2007 as a middle school mathematics teacher. She has been a mathematics teacher for grades 6-9, an instructional coach for grades K-8, a new teacher mentor, a professor at the University of Phoenix and California State University Monterey Bay, and created mathematics content for a non-profit tutoring company.
Rebecca was raised in a Christian home. Her parents led the youth group at their church for 25 years. Rebecca raises her children so they can build a relationship with God and know their spiritual gifts. She hopes they will be confident in themselves so they can be happy and successful in society. Rebecca feels this passion for all students, which is why she is excited to join the Christian Covenant Academy team and create a Christ-centered curriculum for students.
Curriculum Writer
Roberta J. Wilburn, Ed.D., Th.D.
Hanover, Maryland
wilburnassociatesllc@gmail.com
Rev. Dr. Roberta J. Wilburn is an ordained minister as well as award-winning diversity and inclusion expert, a bestselling author, diversity trainer, intercultural coach, and transformation servant-leader who models Christ-centered compassion, teaches biblical principles, and advocates for marginalized groups. Dr. Wilburn is also the President and Co-founder of Wilburn & Associates, LLC a consulting organization that focuses on helping to build intercultural skills in Christian leaders and empowering women in ministry to overcome limiting beliefs so they can become confident in fulfilling the call that God has on their lives. She is excited to join Christian Covenant Academy where she can use her gifts as a curriculum writer after retiring from 15 years as a professor and administrator in Christian higher education. She seeks to cultivate kingdom communities where everyone feels valued, respected, and flourishes by following the guiding principles of her life based on Micah 6:8 which states:“And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love [a]mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?” Dr. Wilburn has always tried to have her hands on the pulse of local and national concerns, and it has been recognized by others locally and nationally. In the fall of 2016, her diversity work was validated when she became the recipient of the YWCA Women of Achievement Carl Maxey Racial and Social Justice Award and the following year, she received the 2017 Insight Into Diversity Giving Back Award for Administrators in Higher Education for her work at a Christian University. She was also the first female minister to become president of the male-dominated Spokane Minister’s Fellowship. She has held numerous ministry roles in New York, Tennessee, Washington, and the District of Columbia. She has also ministered internationally.. She has a doctorate in Christian Counseling from Jacksonville Theological Seminary, and another doctorate in Education from George Washington University. She has given numerous presentations nationally and internationally and has written several publications. Her most recent book “Lifting All Voices: A Spiritual Quest for Inclusive Higher Education” will be released in Summer 2024. She has worked as an administrator and professor of teacher education in public and private higher education for over 35 years including teaching Biblical Studies at a seminary. After her second retirement, she currently holds Emeritus Associate Dean and Professor status at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington. She is married to James Wilburn, Jr. and they have 3 adult children and 3 grandsons.
Curriculum Writer & Team Lead; 6-12 Social Studies
Samarra Esteve
Cary, NC
Samarra’s journey is a testament to the profound intertwining of faith, education, and service. Raised in the embrace of the church, her earliest memories resonate with the warmth of hosting family Bible studies, even before she could fully comprehend the words within. This foundational experience ignited a lifelong commitment, shaping her path with an unwavering dedication to God’s work.
Her journey of service spans continents, from the bustling streets of NYC to the resilient communities of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. It was during her mission trip to Haiti in 2016 that she met her wonderful husband, whom she has now been married to for two years. Through these experiences, Samarra’s heart expanded with a love for both God and humanity, igniting a fervor for education and leadership. This fervor led her to embark on a career in education, where she crafted curriculum and instruction in faith-based homeschool organizations.
Continuing her pursuit of excellence, Samarra excelled academically, earning a bachelor’s degree in AP Secondary Social Studies Education from Nova Southeastern University with the highest honors. Her academic prowess, coupled with her unwavering passion for teaching, propelled her into public school classrooms, where she not only imparted knowledge but also shared God’s love. There, she taught a spectrum of subjects, from AICE European History to African American Studies, and also restructured and led the school’s National Honor Society.
As she pursues her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, Samarra is excited to bring her expertise to CCA. She is thrilled to join CCA and contribute to its mission of empowering students to live out their faith in tangible ways, both within the classroom and beyond.
Curriculum Writer; K-5
Tiara Barron
Swedesboro, New Jersey
tiara.a.barron@gmail.com
Tiara comes from a background in the Education Industry with 6 years of elementary school teaching. She graduated with a degree in Education and Psychology from Rider University, and shortly after, began her teaching career at a Goddard School in New Jersey. She currently serves as a 1st grade teacher at an elementary school in Salem, NJ where she wears multiple hats as Team lead, mentor to several first-year teachers and was recently nominated for the Teacher of the Year award in the state of New Jersey.
Tiara’s passion for teaching comes from her personal relationship with God. She believes in investing into today’s youth, and working to restore what seems to be a lost generation to Christ. She currently serves as the Media Director at Redeeming Word Church, and she also functions as the director for the church youth ministry. Tiara is recently engaged to her fiancé, Mark, and is soon to be married by the end of 2024. Tiara stands on a firm foundation in Christ and she understands that everything she does is to glorify her Lord and Savior. This partnership with CCA is an assignment that she is proud to be a part of.
Curriculum Writer, 6-12 ELA
Yalyn Pham
Westminster, California
Yalyn Pham holds both a B.A. and an M.A. in English with emphasis on Rhetoric and Composition from California State University of Long Beach in California. She has facilitated and delivered instruction in English, ESL, and basic IT in multiple postsecondary institutions in LA County and Orange County of California to diverse student populations for over 3 years. Also, she has approximately 2 years of experience assisting K-12 students with English Language Arts and/or ESL. She has flexibility with in-person, hybrid, and fully remote instruction.
An advocate for needs analysis/assessment with a blend of passive and active learning strategies embedded in course material, she believes in considering target student populations’ interests in what they look forward to learning about in their classes, as well as nudging them gently out of their comfort zone to bear, harvest, and digest good fruit from student learning outcomes. She believes that many things, including one’s professional duties, are assignments from God. Outside of academic spaces, she takes pleasure in reading The Word in the Holy Bible, bonding with other women in prayer sessions in-person, online, or phone and The Word from various walks of life that are seeking Him, praying for whoever from wherever God leads her to pray for, and writing poetry with the Lord in mind. She likes where God leads and provides her to explore, whether it’s within her state, other states, or other countries, enjoying His spiritual food first before being a foodie on Earth.
Curriculum Writer
Steven Painter
Avondale, Arizona
Steven is a curriculum writer for the 6th grade social studies class. He has ten years of teaching experience at the middle school and high school levels. This includes time as a language arts teacher, social studies teacher, and English language learner teacher. He has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of New Mexico and a master’s degree in media arts from the University of Arizona. Additionally, he has written two books about Christianity.
Despite not growing up in a church-going household, Steven came to know Jesus after college. Since then he has dedicated his life to furthering God’s Kingdom on earth. Contributing to the curriculum at CCA is part of the opportunity he has to use his God-given talents and skills to help students develop a biblical worldview.