Michelle Davis M.Ed.
President & CEO
Michelle.Davis@christiancovenantacademy.org
(361)-293-1121
Michelle Davis is a seasoned educational leader, visionary, and devoted follower of Christ, with over 25 years of experience in both public and private school administration. As the new CEO of Christian Covenant Academy, Michelle brings a wealth of expertise in leadership, school transformation, and faith-driven education.
A native of Yoakum, Texas, Michelle has served in various impactful roles throughout her career, including Superintendent/CEO, Deputy Executive Director, Elementary Principal, High School Assistant Principal, Special Education Coordinator, and teacher at both elementary and secondary levels. Most recently, she served as Deputy Executive Director for a nonprofit supporting families across Texas and Louisiana, supporting the management of over $17 million in federal funds and leading a team of more than 350 employees.
Previously, Michelle served as CEO of a Christian school system in Colorado for six years, where she received a divine calling to multiply Christian schools. That calling led to her connection with Charcie Russel and the eventual founding of Christian Covenant Academy—an endeavor deeply rooted in faith and fueled by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas State University and a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston-Victoria. She is a certified Texas Superintendent, with additional certifications in Principalship and teaching across multiple grade levels.
Her leadership is marked by strong fiscal management, innovative school improvement strategies, and a heart for building capacity within teams.
Her impact includes tripling school donations, raising teacher salaries by $1.2 million, dramatically increasing community satisfaction ratings, and writing and managing major federal grants.
A published author and dynamic speaker, Michelle wrote the devotional Positude (2012) and is releasing her latest book, The Last Stand (January 2025), which explores the cultural shifts within public and private education.
Michelle lives in Weimar, Texas with her husband Ben. Together they have four children and enjoy adventuring, hosting gatherings, and serving in their local church. Michelle also leads women’s ministry and finds joy in equipping others to pursue God’s calling in their lives.
At the heart of Michelle’s journey is her passion for Jesus, a bold faith, and a deep commitment to the Great Commission. She believes Christian Covenant Academy is not just a school—it is a God-ordained mission, and she is honored to be part of the miracle God has made possible.
Christian Covenant Academy Leadership Team
Heather Rise
Grant Writing
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.
Heather Rise’s extensive expertise, leadership, and dedication exemplify her commitment to driving transformative change at various levels.
Lola Collinsworth
Enrollment Coordinator
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.
Austin Onwudachi, MPA
Director of Online Education
Austin.Onwudachi@christiancovenantacademy.org
Mr. Onwudachi has been in the education field for more than fourteen years. He teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) and Computer Science for High School and College students. Additionally he has led both faculty and administrative professional development. He has a Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Science, a Master’s degree in Public Administration, Career Technical Education Credentials and Administrative Service Credentials. Along with his higher education background he has served as a board member and mentor for inner city youth struggling with abuse and violence.
Austin is involved in his church community outside of the classroom. In addition to bolstering his personal faith, Austin hopes to uplift and support others on their spiritual path through his participation in ministries. In order to help foster an environment where faith and education coexist harmoniously, he is excited to join the Christian Covenant Academy team and the community. “ For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul ” Mark 8:36
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.
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.
Christian Covenant Academy Board
Chairman: Adam Natale
Vice Chairman: Hunter Floyd
Treasurer: Ruth Rabin- Franks
Spiritual Advisor: Dr. Sherri Ross
Secretary: Christine Heinrich, BFA
Board Member: Liz Bjork
Board Member: Kelsey Proske
Board Member: Claire Harris
Faculty and Staff
Holli C. McNeil, Ed.S.
Secondary Math Instruction
Holli C. McNeil, Ed.S., brings over 20 years of experience in educational leadership, special education, and systems improvement. She has served in both campus and central office roles, providing oversight in compliance, instructional support, and organizational effectiveness across diverse educational settings.
Holli is deeply committed to building strong, ethical systems that support students, families, and educators. Her work reflects a dedication to excellence, accountability, and stewardship—ensuring schools are well-positioned to focus on student growth and Christ-centered learning.
She holds an Education Specialist degree in K–12 Leadership and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration and is certified as a Texas EC–12 Principal and Special Education educator. Holli is honored to support Christian Covenant Academy’s mission by helping create structures that allow students and staff to thrive.
Ruth Rabin-Franks
Secondary Math Instruction
ruthrabinfranks@christiancovenantacademy.org
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.
Jennifer Bonora
Lead Teacher
jennifer.bonora@christiancovenantacademy.org
CCA @ FFL, Dickinson, TX
Jennifer Bonora joins Christian Covenant Academy with a background in education and children’s ministry. She has experience teaching elementary education in grades K–2, where she developed a deep love for guiding students through their early academic years. In addition, she has served as a children’s pastor for over 15 years, ministering in churches and communities across the United States, Latin America, Europe and Asia.
She is a graduate of Dallas Baptist University, where she earned her degree in Psychology and Christian Ministries, and also graduated from Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas, Texas, with an associates degree in Children’s and Family Ministries.
Passionate about teaching with eternal purpose, Jennifer seeks to create an environment where students discover their identity in Christ while growing in knowledge and character. Her approach combines academic excellence with deep biblical teaching, always aiming to raise future leaders with strong values.
Jennifer and her husband Diego currently live in Texas City, Texas, and she is excited to be part of the Christian Covenant Academy team, where she can combine her ministerial calling with her passion for education.
Sara Zaleski
Originally from Wisconsin, I have spent the last 30 years living in Arizona and Colorado. With 30 years of experience in education, I have worked in various roles, including classroom teacher, instructional coach, and at the district level. My journey also includes serving as a national LETRS trainer for Cambium Learning.
In my free time, I love to be outdoors, enjoying activities with my family, friends, and my dog.
Curriculum Writers
Cynthia Trojacek, Curriculum Coordinator
Amber Crafton, Curriculum Writer
Brandi Thomas, Curriculum Writer: 6-8 ELAR, Science, Bible
Dr. David Qualls, Curriculum Writer, Social Studies
Heather Rise, Curriculum Writer
Jasmine Randolph, Curriculum Writer, 6-12 ELA Team Lead
Jaymee Thompson, Curriculum Writer
Jennifer Riegel, Curriculum Writer
Kristin Gearson, Curriculum Writer
Kyler Sowell, Curriculum Writer 6-12
Lisa J Leese, Curriculum Writer
Marissa M. Cochran, Curriculum Writer
Melanie Congleton, Curriculum Writer, Math/Science K-5 Team Lead
Rachel Koopmeiners, Curriculum Writer
Rebecca Dehart, M. Ed., Curriculum Writer, Mathematics
Roberta J. Wilburn, Ed.D., Th.D., Curriculum Writer
Samarra Esteve, Curriculum Writer & Team Lead; 6-12 Social Studies
Tiara Barron, Curriculum Writer; K-5
Yalyn Pham, Curriculum Writer, 6-12 ELA
Steven Painter, Curriculum Writer
Career Opportunities
Want to join the CCA family?