Ephrata Mennonite School Staff

Christopher Brode

Title: Elementary School Principal, 5th Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: 5th Grade

School Term Starting at EMS: 2012-2013

Level of Education: Master of Science in Education; Pursuing Ed.D in Leadership and Learning in Organizations

Education: B.S. Ed. in Elementary Education from Shippensburg University; M.Ed. in Gifted Education from Millersville University; Doctoral Student in Vanderbilt University's Peabody College

Church Involvement: Old Order River Brethren - I serve as a song leader.

Community Involvement: I enjoy spending my summers as a guest instructor at Faith Builders in Guys Mills, PA.

Hobbies: Long-distance running; playing with Microsoft Excel; genealogy; working in my garden and orchard; and reading.

Family: My wife and I have nine children.

Countries Visited: The United Kingdom (England, Wales, & Scotland), Nicaragua, Ecuador, & Canada

Life Verse: Psalm 37:11 - "But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace."

Reason for Teaching: I enjoy the satisfaction of learning new things. Being an educator provides me with opportunities to continually learn - and to bring others along for the adventure!

Brieanna Heisey

Title: Professional Developer, Elementary Specials Teacher

Subjects Taught: Elementary Specials Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2010-2011

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BS in Elemenatary Education and Early Childhood from Millersville University

Church Involvement: White Oak Church

Community Involvement: Resource Family through COBYS Family Services since 2023

Hobbies: Reading, creating "new" things out of old things, crafting, going on Road Trips with my husband

Family: Husband: Tyler

Countries Visited: Canada, Mexico

Life Verse: Romans 12:12 "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer".

Reason for Teaching: It is so rewarding to see the students grow into the men and women that God has called them to be.

Jon Cassel

Title: Business Administrator, Technology Coordinator

School Term Starting at EMS: 2010-2011

Level of Education: High School Diploma,

Education: Working Genius™ Facilitator, Everything DiSC® Certified Practitioner

Church Involvement: White Oak Church, Serves as Moderator and Minister

Hobbies: Spending time with my family and in Potter County, Photography

Family: My wife is Keri, One of our children is an Alumni of EMS (Class of 2024) and 3 children are enrolled at EMS

Countries Visited: Canada, Grenada, Nicaragua

Life Verse: 1 John 4:4 "You dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Reason for Teaching: My parents gave me the gift of Christian Education and it is an honor now to be working in a school that is continuing the legacy of Christian Education for impacting another generation to lead godly lives.

Joshua Good

Title: Head of School

Subjects Taught: Social Studies, Bible

School Term Starting at EMS: 2015-2016

Level of Education: Master's plus 15 credits

Education: BS in History from Liberty University, MS in Teaching Secondary Social Studies from Brooklyn College; City University of New York, and MS in Educational Leadership from Baruch University.

Church Involvement: Cornerstone Mennonite

Hobbies: Chess, Philosophy, Theology, Church History, Music, Sports

Family: Tonya (wife), Jackson, Jillian, and Saskia. Jackson and Jillian, graduates of Ephrata Mennonite School, join my wife and I as staff at EMS, while Saskia is a secondary student.

Countries Visited: Guatemala, Canada, Belize, Italy, Switzerland

Life Verse: Micah 6:8 "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"

Reason for Teaching: I have always liked school and enjoyed teaching and learning. I also like people, so working in a school seemed like a natural fit. I have enjoyed teaching and working in schools.

Michael Stauffer

Title: 10th Grade Homeroom, Director of Facilities & Events, Secondary School Teacher

Subjects Taught: Social Studies

School Term Starting at EMS: 2012-2013

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BS in Social Studies Education at Millersville University

Church Involvement: Harvest Bible Church. I teach Sunday School to College and Career group and help with VBS

Community Involvement: Summer Camp (Counseling and operations)

Hobbies: Frisbee, volleyball, hunting, hiking, woodworking, and almost anything outdoors and active.

Family: My wife, Chrystal and 4 children.

Countries Visited: Canada

Life Verse: Psalm 37:4-5 " Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. 5 Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."

Reason for Teaching: I enjoy working with young people. It's never boring or monotonous! More importantly, I want to impact the future. Teaching is a chance to do that. Teaching students who have the potential to accomplish great things brings a satisfaction I have never found in any other job.

Phoebe Beiler

Title: Learning Support Coordinator

School Term Starting at EMS: 2017-2018

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BS in Special Education at Liberty University

Church Involvement: Oasis Mennonite Fellowship

Hobbies: Singing, hiking, canoeing, collecting house plants, painting, photography, traveling, and various arts and crafts.

Countries Visited: Canada, Mexico, Romania, Italy, Singapore, Malaysia, Ireland, England

Life Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.

Reason for Teaching: I love to read and I think reading is important. It's one of my goals to help as many kids as I can to get excited about reading, too!

Delmar Oberholtzer

Title: Secondary School Principal, Math Teacher

Subjects Taught: Math

School Term Starting at EMS: 2018-2019

Level of Education: Master of Science In Education

Education: BS in Secondary Mathematics Education from Millersville University; MS in Educational Leadership through Bob Jones University

Church Involvement: Waterway Church; A Mennonite Evangelical Congregation

Hobbies: Reading, playing games, and debating

Countries Visited: Switzerland & Germany

Life Verse: Ecclesiastes 2:26a "For God giveth to a man that is good in His sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy

Reason for Teaching: I am a teacher because there is little that is more satisfying than seeing someone grow and mature in their understanding or abilities, and few things that are as rewarding as being a part of that learning process.

Tonya Good

Title: Community Relations Coordinator

School Term Starting at EMS: 2021-2022

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: High School diploma from Loogootee High School. Attended Heritage Bible School for 3 terms.

Church Involvement: Cornerstone Mennonite Fellowship

Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends, traveling, long walks and cooking.

Family: My husband is Josh and we are blessed with three children. Jackson, Jillian, and Saskia.

Countries Visited: Haiti, Dominican Republic, Belize, Guatemala, Africa, Canada

Life Verse: Isaiah 30:15 In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength.

Jean Wagler

Title: Kindergarten Teacher

Subjects Taught: Kindergarten

School Term Starting at EMS: 2014-2015

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: One Term at SMBI, One Term at Faith Builders

Church Involvement: Mine Road Amish Mennonite Church

Hobbies: Reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with my nieces and nephews

Countries Visited: Belize, Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, Jamaica, Grenada, Liberia, France, Italy, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ireland, Spain, Greece, Czech Republic, Poland, Germany, Iceland, Thailand, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Norway

Life Verse: Isaiah 41:10 "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Reason for Teaching: The reason I wake up and love to come to school is to see my students' excitement and enthusiasm for life and learning. I love to see the world through the eyes of a kindergartner.

Arlene Birt

Title: 1st Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: 1st Grade, Curriculum Coordinator

School Term Starting at EMS: 1987-1988

Level of Education: Master's plus 15 credits; National Board Certified Teacher

Education: B.S. in Elementary Education from Grace College, M.Ed in Education from Grace College, various grad classes

Church Involvement: Lititz Dunkard Brethren Church - Sunday School teacher, Bible School teacher, led a new believer's Bible study

Community Involvement: taught Bible school at Navajo mission, directed VBS in Indiana

Hobbies: reading, sewing, gardening, crafting, traveling

Countries Visited: England, Scotland, Wales, Italy, Mexico, several Canadian provinces

Life Verse: Deuteronomy 33:27 "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms."

Reason for Teaching: I feel called to teaching, and I love my job! I enjoy my students and colleagues and the fun of school. I am so thankful to have a job that doesn't feel like a job.

Moriah Newnam

Title: Third Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: Third Grade

School Term Starting at EMS: 2020-21

Level of Education: Masters Degree

Education: BA in Elementary Education and Special Education from Western Governors University, MA Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University, Doctoral student in Liberty University's School of Education

Church Involvement: Living Hope Christian Fellowship

Hobbies: I enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking, reading, writing, researching, sitting in nature to ponder, holding books discussions/debates with friends, scheming future international trips, and drinking coffee.

Family: I am seventh in a family of sixteen.

Countries Visited: I have been to Okinawa, Japan; Tanzania; Vietnam; and Dominican Republic.

Life Verse: Psalm 139:17-18 " How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee."

Reason for Teaching: As I was growing up, I saw my mom pour her life into children around her, whether they were her own children, those who stayed with us while they were waiting to find a forever home, or her students. I saw what happened in their lives as she prayed for them and showed them the love of Christ. I saw them grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually. I saw children who, supposedly, would never read learn to do so, because she never gave up on them. I teach because I want to show Christ's love to my students in that way. I want them to know that they are loved, and that they are an important part of God's Kingdom. I want to be a teacher who never gives up on her students, just like Christ never gave up on me.

Hadassah Martin

Title: Elementary Specials Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2021-2022

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: Graduated from Ephrata Mennonite School; two terms at Elnora Bible Institute

Church Involvement: Cornerstone Mennonite Fellowship

Hobbies: I enjoy reading, hiking, and traveling with family and friends.

Countries Visited: Nicaragua, Canada, Jamaica, Greece, Italy, France, Nepal, Aruba, Panama

Life Verse: Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Reason for Teaching: I always enjoyed school and have always wanted to be a teacher. I love the community this school brings and being part of a school that offers high quality education is an honor.

Carla Eberly

Title: Elementary Specials Teacher

Subjects Taught: Elementary Specials Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2021-2022

Level of Education: Currently enrolled in College.

Education: AA in Early Childhood Education from Northampton Community College. Currently working towards Bachelors in Early Childhood with Special Education Certification through Wilkes University

Church Involvement: Ephrata United ZIon--elementary SS teacher, Youth Leader

Community Involvement: Kid's For Christ Club with Jr. High age children

Hobbies: My dog, Zoe; Hiking; Reading

Family: Husband, Anthony and 1 daughter

Countries Visited: Canada

Life Verse: Matthew 6:10 Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.

Reason for Teaching: The reason I wake up and love to come to school is because it gives me an opportunity to invest in the next generation and love them with the love Christ showed me.

Hollie Long

Title: 4th Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: 4th Grade Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2021-2022

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Lititz Dunkard Brethren Church

Hobbies: I enjoy outdoor recreation and travelling. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends. I can be found singing with friends at shape note singings.

Countries Visited: Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Bahamas

Life Verse: Hebrews 11: 1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Reason for Teaching: Whether it's teaching new concepts or reviewing ones previously learned, I enjoy teaching. I love seeing students engaged while listening and learning, sharing smiles and laughter with them, and interacting with them day to day. These name a few reasons (among others) why I have a passion and joy for teaching. Students are a blessing and add joy and inspiration in my life.

Wilma Weaver

Title: Kindergarten Teacher

Subjects Taught: Kindergarten

School Term Starting at EMS: 2023-2024

Level of Education: Associate's Degree

Education: Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education

Church Involvement: Mine Road Mennonite Church. I am a camp counselor each summer for our local kids ministry.

Community Involvement: I volunteer at the Lancaster Youth Intervention Center.

Hobbies: When I am not at school I enjoy hiking and spending time outside. I also enjoy reading and spending time with my family.

Family: I have 6 siblings and currently have 3 nephews and 2 nieces.

Countries Visited: Grenada, El Salvador, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, Italy

Life Verse: Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold[a] of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Reason for Teaching: I love coming to school each morning and watching the hallways and classrooms fill with noise as the students enter. I love watching students have lightbulb moments when they understand a new concept and seeing how much students learn and grow in each year.

Amy Zimmerman

Title: 6th Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: 6th Grade

School Term Starting at EMS: 2024-2025

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: 5 Bible School Terms at SMBI, 1 Summer Term at Faith Builders

Church Involvement: Oasis Mennonite Fellowship. I serve on the Women's Ministry Team.

Hobbies: Reading, Gardening, Traveling

Countries Visited: I have visited Canada, Guatemala, Thailand, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Qatar, England, Scotland, The Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, France, Belgium, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. I also lived in Grenada for 8 years.

Life Verse: Lamentations 3:23-24 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.”

Reason for Teaching: There is a level of mystery in teaching that will never go away, because every student is different. I love watching the growth that happens as students work on new skills and overcome challenges.

Margaret Zimmerman

Title: 2nd Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: 2nd Grade

School Term Starting at EMS: 2024-2025

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: I attend Parkview Mennonite Church and serve as church librarian there. I'm a Sunday school teacher for a women's class and I teach VBS classes.

Hobbies: Reading, thinking, learning new things, listening to and having in-depth conversations with others.

Family: I'm married to Elton for 18 years and we have five children.

Life Verse: Psalm 66:12. you let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; yet you have brought us out to a place of abundance.

Esther Strickler

Title: First Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: First Grade

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: Two semesters and three short terms at Faith Builders Training Institute

Church Involvement: River Brethren Church

Hobbies: Spending time in nature, preferably where there is water; making pottery; experimenting with art projects; traveling

Countries Visited: Taiwan, Thailand, Malawi, Italy, Poland, France, England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Austria, Canada

Reason for Teaching: Watching students come alive with awe and wonder is one of the things that keeps me coming back to teaching.

Marcy Smucker

Title: 2nd Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: 2nd Grade

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: Currently enrolled in College

Education: Working on a degree at HACC

Church Involvement: Mission Church

Community Involvement: I help with Tuesday Church and volunteer at the Lancaster County Youth Intervention Center in Lancaster city.

Hobbies: Traveling, time with friends and family, hiking, reading

Countries Visited: France, Italy, Ghana, Kenya, Guatemala, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Denmark

Jillian Good

Title: Elementary Art Teacher

Subjects Taught: Art

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Cornerstone Mennonite Fellowship.

Community Involvement: I help periodically at my churches' kids club with crafts.

Hobbies: I play a lot of volleyball, make my own art, make music with my family, and hang out with my friends.

Countries Visited: Guatemala, Switzerland, Jamaica, Italy

Reason for Teaching: I loved art so much when I was in school so I really enjoy being in art class on the other side.

Jackson Good

Title: 6th Grade Teacher

Subjects Taught: 6th Grade

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Cornerstone Mennonite Fellowship, I lead worship there and am involved with the kids club they run in Ephrata.

Community Involvement: Cornerstone Mennonite Fellowship's Tuesday Church Program

Hobbies: Playing the guitar, hanging out with friends, reading or listening to books.

Family: My father is Joshua Good, my mother is Tonya Good, and my sisters are Jillian and Saskia Good.

Countries Visited: Guatemala, Jamaica, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Colombia, Brazil, Paraguay, Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Cuba, and Ecuador

Life Verse: Matthew 6:26 "Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?

Reason for Teaching: I love seeing and being a part of the interest, discussion, and ideas that spark from students because of something they realized or are learning about in class.

Brianna Zimmerman

Title: Elementary Music Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Shiloh Mennonite Church, worship team

Hobbies: Taking care of my house, spending time with people I love, being outdoors, experimenting with new recipes

Family: Karson Zimmerman, husband, produce farmer

Countries Visited: Uganda, Jamaica, Mexico, Canada

Life Verse: Isaiah 43:2 "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you."

Krista Weaver

Title: Math Teacher

Subjects Taught: 11th Grade Homeroom, Math

School Term Starting at EMS: 2016-2017

Level of Education: Bachelor's plus 15 credits

Education: BS in Mathematics Education from Alvernia University & PA teacher certification in Secondary Mathematics & Computer Science

Church Involvement: Blue Ball Community Church; church secretary; praise team

Hobbies: Reading, logic puzzles and games, spending time with family and friends

Countries Visited: Canada; Guatemala

Life Verse: Romans 8:31-39

Reason for Teaching: I had an elementary teacher and a secondary math teacher who made learning fun, enjoyable, and attainable, and who inspired me to become an educator myself.

Eileen Heller

Title: Backyard Ag Teacher, Teacher Assistant

Subjects Taught: Backyard Ag

School Term Starting at EMS: 2005-2006

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: 9 year member of the Herb Society of America, 2 year member rabbit breeders Association, 6 year member Pennsylvania Vegetable Growers Association

Church Involvement: White Oak Church, Vacation Bible School Teacher

Community Involvement: taught in the 4-H program for 8 years

Hobbies: crafting, spending time with family

Family: Husband George, 5 married children, and 6 grandchildren.

Countries Visited: Canada

Life Verse: "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." Proverbs 4:7

Reason for Teaching: Seeing student growth

David Schrock

Title: Secondary Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2007-2008

Level of Education: Master's Degree

Education: BA in Bible & Psychology from Eastern Mennonite University, MS in Psychology from Millersville University

Church Involvement: Pastor at Erb Mennonite Church

Hobbies: Traveling, studying history

Family: Wife (Lindsay) son (Joseph), and daughter (Naomi)

Countries Visited: Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Nicaragua, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Switzerland, The Netherlands

Life Verse: Psalm 16:11 - You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Reason for Teaching: I was powerfully impacted by teachers throughout my school years and count it a privilege to have a positive impact on the next generation.

Cindy Fox

Title: Secondary Girls PE Teacher

Subjects Taught: Secondary Girls PE Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2020-2021

Level of Education: High School Diploma plus Bible School at SMBI

Education: 3 Bible School Terms at SMBI

Church Involvement: Oasis Mennonite Fellowship, small group leaders, food committee, and leadership team

Hobbies: Having coffee w/ friends and spending time with family, watching sports, reading, cooking, working in my garden, traveling and seeing other cultures.

Family: I'm married to Charles Fox for 22 years. We have 5 children. Candace is a sophomore at Lancaster Bible College, Chayla is a Junior, Carver is in 8th, Chantelle is in 6th grade, and Caia is in 4th grade.

Countries Visited: Bangladesh, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, China, Taiwan, Kenya, Grenada, Jamaica, Antigua, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Bahamas, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, France, Belgium, Austria, Puerto Rica, Canada, Mexico,

Life Verse: One of my favorite verses is John 10:10b, "I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly."

Reason for Teaching: I had a favorite teacher/coach that believed in me, in my teen years, saw potential and spoke life into me. I want to do that for the students at Ephrata Mennonite as well.

Julie Hoover

Title: Secondary Teacher

Subjects Taught: English, Math, History

School Term Starting at EMS: 2022-2023

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BA in Biblical and Religious Studies from Sattler College

Church Involvement: New Covenant Mennonite Fellowship; Sunday School Teacher

Community Involvement: Volunteering at VBS and at the Youth Intervention Center

Hobbies: Reading, playing volleyball, cooking, and fellowship with friends and family

Family: I am the second oldest of four.

Countries Visited: Iraq and Nicaragua

Life Verse: Psalm 61:1-3: "Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer; from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I, for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy."

Reason for Teaching: I have a vision to see children grow and learn in places that are safe, inviting, and encouraging. In times of trial when I was a child, my teachers were some of the main individuals who encouraged me to keep going and persevere through the difficulty. My heart for teaching is to help the children that come through my classroom learn, grow, and find a strength in Christ to persevere through the trials of life they will face as adults.

Kendrick Weaver

Title: 9th Grade Homeroom, Secondary School Teacher

Subjects Taught: Science

School Term Starting at EMS: 2022-2023

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BS of Science in Education and BS of Arts in Biblical Studies from Lancaster Bible College

Church Involvement: New Covenant Mennonite Fellowship

Hobbies: Hunt, hike, read, hangout with friends and family, travel, and go on random adventures.

Family: I grew up with four brothers and no sisters.

Countries Visited: Ghana, Haiti, Canada, England, Qatar, Thailand, Iraq, Jordan, and Israel

Life Verse: In the beginning was the Word, and Word was with God and the Word was God.

Reason for Teaching: I developed a passion for young youth discipleship when I was in my late teens and I later felt the call of God to use that passion in the teaching ministry.

Leanna Martin

Title: 7th Grade Homeroom, Secondary School Teacher

Subjects Taught: English & Yearbook

School Term Starting at EMS: 2011-12 through 2019-20 and 2022-23

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BA In Secondary English Education from God's Bible School & College (Cincinnati, OH)

Church Involvement: Shiloh Mennonite Church where I help mentor some young women who are new believers.

Community Involvement: I serve on the board of My Brother's Keeper that works in various cities throughout Romania.

Hobbies: Reading, shopping, drinking coffee, and spending quality time with family and friends

Countries Visited: Grenada, Belize, Canada, Romania, and Nicaragua

Life Verse: John 15:5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

Reason for Teaching: To me the best part about being a teacher is getting to work with kids. Each person is uniquely created by God, and I love to see His creativity in their senses of humors, random interests, and varied talents. When you're working with kids, no two days are alike, and I find that invigorating! I also like to communicate, and I find teaching is a rich way to get to communicate day in and day out.

Riley Rhodes

Title: Athletics Director

Subjects Taught: Secondary Guys PE Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2022-2023

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BS in Secondary Education, Physical Education, & Speech. 1 Semester at Institute for Global Opportunity

Church Involvement: Meckville Mennonite Church

Community Involvement: Next Step Basketball Co-Host

Hobbies: Sports and Outdoor Activities

Family: Married to Abigail Rhodes

Countries Visited: Grenada, Thailand, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, India, and Canada

Reason for Teaching: So that I can hopefully draw the students closer to God.

Ryan Priest

Title: 8th Grade Homeroom. Bible Teacher

Subjects Taught: MS/HS Bible Classes, Student Newspaper, Bible Quizzing Coordinator

School Term Starting at EMS: 2018-2019

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BS in English from Tomas Edison State University

Church Involvement: New Covenant Mennonite Fellowship

Hobbies: Strategy games, traveling, and reading

Family: I live with my wife, Janelle, and daughter, Isobel.

Life Verse: Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reason for Teaching: I love the lightbulb moment when a student sees the world from a different perspective, especially when it comes to the Bible. I always wanted my job to be something with an eternal impact and the discipleship and mentorship that comes with teaching is an amazing opportunity.

Andrew Lamicela

Title: 12th Grade Homeroom, Secondary School Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2023-2024

Level of Education: Master's Degree

Education: BA in Liberal Arts from Thomas Edison State University; MA in Linguistics from the University of North Dakota; MA in Biblical Languages at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

Church Involvement: Mountain Spring Mennonite Church

Hobbies: Classical/choral music, soccer, chess

Countries Visited: Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, Canada, Mexico, Colombia, England

Life Verse: Psalm 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Reason for Teaching: I enjoy teaching because it gives me the opportunity to invest in the lives of young people at a formative age. I also love having a job that encourages me to keep expanding my knowledge.

Paul Harrison

Title: Secondary School Teacher

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: Master's Degree

Education: BA Physics from Millersville Univ, Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Bob Jones University

Church Involvement: Oasis Mennonite Fellowship, A/V Team, SS teacher

Hobbies: Riding motorcycle, sitting around a campfire, and using all my senses to take in the ocean waves

Family: Married to Renita, we have 4 Children - Josh, Racquel, Elliot, Jasper

Countries Visited: Ghana, England, El Salvador, Grenada, Canada

Life Verse: John 1:16 "For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace."

Reason for Teaching: I want to see students reaching their potentials, developing learning skills, and have a knowledge of God’s Word. I want to be grounded in Faith, Seasoned by Challenge, and Committed to Growth with Integrity.

Daryl Weaver

Title: MAT Director

Subjects Taught: Ministry Arts Team

School Term Starting at EMS: 2008-2009

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: Certificate Studies in Pastoral Training from EMU, Bible School Term at SMBI

Church Involvement: Martindale Mennonite, Bishop for the Martindale District

Hobbies: Reading, making music with my family, learning to disc golf, coffee shops, Philadelphia sports teams

Family: My wife (Jen) and I have 5 children, 4 of whom are students at EMS. Our oldest graduated in 2024. We all reside in Ephrata, PA...so far.

Countries Visited: Grenada, Ethiopia, Canada, Mexico

Life Verse: 2 Timothy 2:2 "and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men,[a] who will be able to teach others also."

Reason for Teaching: I find fulfillment in watching students gain confidence in their abilities and giving them opportunities to use their skills and gifts.

Emily Alwine

Title: Receptionist

School Term Starting at EMS: 2012-2013

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: White Oak Church, Small Group Leaders, Manheim Project, Small Group

Hobbies: Spending time with our family, scrapbooking, reading, playing games, or going for walks

Family: My husband Steve & I have been married for 31 years. We have 4 married children, 5 grandsons (set of twins)

Countries Visited: Bahamas, Jamaica, Nicaragua

Life Verse: Romans 8:28 "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."

Reason for Teaching: As a student I had to work hard for my grades, and really focus. I really enjoy working with the children because I know what it is like to have to give it your best. I look forward to getting to know the students more throughout the year.

Tracey Fox

Title: Learning Support

School Term Starting at EMS: 2017-2018

Level of Education: Associate's Degree

Education: Associate of Science in Nursing from Lancaster General Hospital School of Nursing

Church Involvement: Hinkletown Mennonite church: 1st grade Sunday school teacher, Vacation Bible School committee

Hobbies: Reading biographies or mysteries, Watching movies, spending time with my family

Family: Husband - Gerald Fox , 4 children, and 3 grandchilden

Countries Visited: Cambodia

Life Verse: Colossians 1:9-12 "And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light."

Reason for Teaching: I want to encourage children to help them know that God loves them and that they are created with a purpose.

Kristen Copenhaver

Title: Bookkeeper

School Term Starting at EMS: 2012-2013

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: Graduated from THMH

Church Involvement: Cornerstone Mennonite Fellowship - Sunday School Teacher

Hobbies: Baking, Flower Gardening, Sewing, and Walking

Family: Husband - Craig, 4 children (3 married), 4 grandchildren

Life Verse: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Andrea Rutt

Title: Secretary

School Term Starting at EMS: 2012-2013

Level of Education: Associate's Degree

Education: Business School for Medical Secretary

Church Involvement: Parkview Mennonite Church, Bulletin editor

Hobbies: baking, scrapbooking

Family: Husband: John; 2 married children, 2 at home (youngest enrolled at EMS), and 2 grandchildren

Countries Visited: Canada, Russia, Aruba, Guatemala, Mexico, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Switzerland, Netherlands, Germany, France

Life Verse: One of my favorite verses is 3 John 1:4--"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."

Christina Nolt

Title: Librarian

School Term Starting at EMS: 2021-22

Church Involvement: Lititz Dunkard Brethren Church

Community Involvement: I was a foster parent for 12 years. I've helped with VBS.

Hobbies: Cooking, reading, thrifting and deep conversations with friends.

Family: I'm married to Nathaniel Nolt. We have 7 children and two grandchildren.

Countries Visited: Romania and Canada

Life Verse: Hebrews 11:13-14 KJV These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

Reason for Teaching: I enjoy literature and introducing the kids to books that inspire and educate them. I enjoy the connections that I make with the kids. I love creating a place where the kids can come and feel safe and valued.

Katelyn Wagner

Title: Teacher's Assistant

School Term Starting at EMS: 2023-2024

Level of Education: Graduated from EMS in 2022

Education: One term at Elnora Bible Institute

Church Involvement: Parkview Mennonite Church

Community Involvement: In the past, I have volunteered at Woodcrest Retreat as a day camp counselor.

Hobbies: I enjoy spending time at the beach, playing volleyball and pickleball, thrifting, and trying new cafes.

Family: I am married to Caden Wagner.

Countries Visited: Jamaica, Mexico, Canada, and Costa Rica

Life Verse: Matthew 7:24-25 Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.

Reason for Teaching: I had a very positive experience here at EMS as a student and I wanted to help create an environment where more children can love coming to school!

Lynae King

Title: Food Services Coordinator

School Term Starting at EMS: 2023-2024

Level of Education: Diploma from Technical School

Education: Massage Therapy Diploma from Berks Technical Institute

Church Involvement: New Covenant Mennonite, I currently serve on the Women's Ministry committee, and teach the 4 year old Sunday school.

Community Involvement: I am the finance coordinator for Moms Connect, a local nonprofit that offers support to mothers of special needs children

Hobbies: Reading, any outdoor activity with my family and friends especially the lake and beach in the summer and campfires in the fall.

Family: Husband- Dave. Three children- Brielle, Carter, Kyrah

Countries Visited: Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Cayman Islands, Mexico, not another country- but Alaska was my favorite trip ever.

Life Verse: Philippians 4:6-8 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Reason for Teaching: I thrive on planning and working out details so the idea of getting the cafeteria and kitchen up and running sounded like a challenge that I would enjoy. And I have been enjoying it! I also love being able to see my children various times throughout the school day and watch them interact with their friends and staff here at EMS.

Corina Rutt

Title: Teacher's Aide

School Term Starting at EMS: 2024-2025

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Parkview Mennonite Church

Community Involvement: Tuesday Nights Kids Club

Hobbies: When not at school I enjoy being with my family, playing volleyball, embroidery, and generally just being outside.

Countries Visited: Greece, Turkey, Jamaica, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos, Canada

Life Verse: Psalms 34:4-6 I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.

Reason for Teaching: I was a student at EMS from K-12 and always enjoyed school. I'm excited to now be on the other side of it and I hope to help kids foster the same love for learning and good experiences that I had.

Grace Metzler

Title: Teacher's Aide

School Term Starting at EMS: 2024-2025

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Lebanon Christian Fellowship

Hobbies: Hiking, Reading, and spending time with my nieces and nephew.

Family: My Parents are Mike & Ruth Ann Metzler. I have 5 sisters and 1 brother.

Countries Visited: Canada, Colombia, and Venezuela.

Life Verse: Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Samantha Weaver

Title: Teacher's Aide

School Term Starting at EMS: 2023-2024

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: Graduated from EMS in 2023

Church Involvement: Meadow Valley Mennonite Church

Community Involvement: I volunteer with Tuesday Church, which is an inner city kids ministry.

Hobbies: Many things.....but they are all made better when I do them with friends or family! I enjoy reading, boating, and one wheeling.

Family: I am the oldest of four children in my family

Countries Visited: Canada, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos

Life Verse: Ephesians 5:1-2 "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."

Reason for Teaching: The reason I wake up and love to come to school is the kids. I love their energy and zest for life! I love experiencing life through their eyes! They bring such a joy and humility to everyday events.

Ssavannah Martin

Title: Teachers Aide

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: High School Diploma, National Registered Emergency Medica Technician

Education: I received my EMT certification in the summer of 2024 and currently volunteer as an EMT.

Church Involvement: Lititz Dunkard Brethren Church

Community Involvement: I volunteer with summer VBS every year and as an EMT on the weekend.

Hobbies: I enjoy reading books, doing arts and crafts, volunteering as an EMT, and being with friends and family.

Family: I come from a family with 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

Countries Visited: Haiti, Dominican Republic, and a trip to Myanmar is coming up in a couple months.

Life Verse: Nehemiah 9:5b-6 "Stand up and bless the Lord your God from everlasting to everlasting. Blessed be your glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise. You are the Lord, you alone. You have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them; and you preserve all of them; and the host of heaven worships you."

Reason for Teaching: Ever since I was little I wanted to be a teacher. Going through school I always enjoyed it and I missed school once I graduated. I enjoy interacting with children and seeing them grow and learn so I decided to become a teachers assistant.

Emily Wolf

Title: Teacher's Aide

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree

Education: BA in Intercultural Studies & Linguistics at God's Bible College

Church Involvement: Oasis Mennonite Fellowship, Sunday school teacher and youth leader.

Hobbies: Cooking, reading, traveling

Countries Visited: Cambodia, Thailand, China, Indonesia, India, Nepal, Israel, Mexico

Life Verse: Isaiah 55:6-7 “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon."

Reason for Teaching: I love to learn and want to help others enjoy learning and understand how valuable it is.

Renita Harrison

Title: Secondary Paraeducator

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: Undergraduate Studies

Education: Two summer terms at Faith Builders; Gen Ed courses at HACC

Church Involvement: Oasis Mennonite Fellowship, Ladies SS teacher, small group leader

Community Involvement: Cornerstone Reproductive Health (crisis pregnancy center) - volunteer client advocate

Hobbies: Fitness, reading, traveling, mentoring

Family: Mr. Paul is my husband. We have four children - Josh, Racquel, Elliot (9th grade), Jasper (6th grade)

Countries Visited: Canada, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Grenada, Haiti, Kenya, Ghana, England

Life Verse: Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe."

Reason for Teaching: I see each learner as made in the image of God, so it is an honor to come alongside students. I want to enable them to grow critical thinking skills and coach them around executive function skills so they can succeed and excel.

Amy Rutt

Title: Cafeteria

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Honeybrook Community Church--Hospitality & Food Committee

Hobbies: Spending time with my family.

Family: Spouse--Austin, Children--Scarlett, Declan, Everly, Elsie

Michele Gibbel

Title: IU 13 Reading Specialist

Bethany Fiorello

Title: IU 13 K-12 School Counselor

Sharon Groff

Title: Bus Driver & Transportation Team Leader

School Term Starting at EMS: 2007-2008

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Education: Licensed Pratcial Nurse

Church Involvement: Cambridge Mennonite Church, SS teacher, Pastor's wife

Hobbies: Reading, getting together with a fried for coffee

Family: Husband, Phil, 1 married son, 2 daughters and a son at home

Life Verse: Jeremiah 9:23-24 Thus says the Lord: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord."

Jen Weaver

Title: Bus Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2020-2021

Level of Education: High School Diploma from Fairview Christian School

Church Involvement: Lititz Dunkard Brethren--My husband and I are Youth Leaders an I teach the 3-5 year old Sunday School Class.

Hobbies: I enjoy reading, being outdoors, camping, the beach, and conversations with friends over a good cup of coffee.

Family: Heath and I have 2 children, both are enrolled at EMS.

Life Verse: Psalms 18;19 He brought me out into a broad place; He rescued me, because He delighted in me.

Reason for Teaching: I enjoy kids and was looking for a way to feel a little more involved with school. This is a good fit for my family!

Wendi Oberholtzer

Title: Bus Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2021-2022

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Martindale Mennonite Church--I enjoy teaching Sunday School and VBS as well as keeping the building clean.

Hobbies: Camping and cabin trips, reading and selling on eBay.

Family: Randy and I are the parents of 4 children who attend at EMS.

Countries Visited: Grenada and Haiti

Life Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Reason for Teaching: After hearing about the need for bus drivers, I thought it sounded like a good fit for this season of my life!

Joel Weaver

Title: Bus Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2024-2025

Level of Education: 9th Grade

Education: Attended EMS for K-9th grade

Church Involvement: New Covenant Mennonite Fellowship

Hobbies: Gardening, Hot Air Balloons, and horseback riding

Family: Wife Kim and 3 sons: Kyler, Kaden, and Jacob

Countries Visited: Indonesia

Life Verse: Isaiah 40:31 "but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Reason for Teaching: Since we are in need of bus drivers and with flexibility in my day job, I thought I would give it a chance and serve in this way.

Sarah Martin

Title: Bus Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2023-2024

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Lichty Mennonite Church--I enjoy teaching Bible School

Community Involvement: The last few years I've been helping family members who were experiencing health crises'.

Hobbies: Beekeeping, hiking, reading, and traveling

Family: My husband Leonard and I are married 19 years and have 5 children, Brad, Ryan, Aleah, Makenna and Spencer.

Countries Visited: Canada

Life Verse: Galatians 6:9-10 "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."

Reason for Teaching: I enjoy driving and saw the need for bus drivers.

Heidi Copenhaver

Title: Van Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Calvary Bible Fellowship- children's ministry, Mom's Alive ministry

Hobbies: Being outside, planting a garden, Canning, making food, crafts

Family: Husband- Kendrick, Daughter- Adalynn

Life Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare[a] and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. "

Misty Martin

Title: Bus Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2024-2025

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Host Church

Hobbies: A good book & a cup of coffee, and sitting in the sunshine.

Family: I am a mama to 5 beautiful children and a wife to an amazing hubby of 19 years.

Countries Visited: Tahiti, Bahamas, Haiti, Guatemala, Mexico, DR, Canada

Life Verse: Instead of building a higher fence, build a longer table.

Kelly Martin

Title: Bus Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2025-2026

Level of Education: High School Diploma from Garden Spot High School

Church Involvement: Weaverland Anabaptist Faith Community, I am a Sunday school helper in the second grade class.

Hobbies: Being outside, cabin trips with family, getting together with friends for coffee

Family: I am married to Jeff Martin and we have two children, Bridget and Gavin.

Life Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 " Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Reason for Teaching: I enjoy being with kids and thought bus driving would be a good fit for me and my family at this stage of life.

Darla Shirk

Title: Van Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2022-2023

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Metzler Mennonite Church

Hobbies: Working outside and reading.

Family: Husband Leonard, 1 son (married) and 2 daughters (1 married). 7 grandchildren, 4 attended EMS.

Life Verse: Philippians 4:4-7 "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness[a] be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Melissa Rutt

Title: Bus Driver

School Term Starting at EMS: 2022-2023

Level of Education: High School Diploma

Church Involvement: Bethany Grace Fellowship. I serve in the nursery.

Hobbies: Gardening, hiking, camping, crafting

Family: Husband, Andy and 3 children.

Life Verse: Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: 2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;"