Kathy Annis
kannis@teenworks.net

Tutor For:
Journalism/Yearbook
American Literature & Composition
English 5/6

About Me:
I have been married to my husband, Roger, since 1981. We have three daughters, live in St. Johns, and are active members of First Baptist Church. I graduated from MSU with a degree in Political Philosophy and from Indiana University School of Law. After passing the Michigan bar exam and working for several years at a Lansing law firm, it became clear that God had a different plan for me. He used the gift of our daughters to “give me an undivided heart and put a new spirit in me” (Ezekiel 11:19-20), and Jesus and my family have been the center of my life for over 20 years. Roger and I began teaching our girls at home in 1997, and they all enjoyed attending classes at Teenworks. When my  daughters headed to college, God opened the door for me to work at Teenworks as a tutor and day manager. I believe home schooled students are perhaps the best hope for America, and I consider it a privilege to work with Teenworks students and families.

Rose Batdorff
Ph: 517-726-1116
rbatdorff@teenworks.net

Tutor For:
Sewing

About Me:
I live south of Vermontville with my husband and six of my eleven children.  We have homeschooled all of our children since January of 1986.  We attend New Covenant Christian Church in Lansing.  I have been sewing since I was nine years old.  I have taught my own children to sew, and they have won many awards in 4-H with their projects. They use their sewing skills often.  I think being able to sew is an important skill. I believe it is very satisfying and rewarding to be able to create something beautiful and useful with fabric and thread.

Laura Bowman
Ph: 517-641-7057
lmbowman@myway.com

Tutor For:
Spanish 1 and 2
German 1, 2 and 3

About Me:
My husband and I live in rural Bath Township with our six children whom we have homeschooled since 1992. We attend Carriage Hill Bible Chapel in East Lansing and are active in the Sunday School program there. I hold a Masters degree In German and Spanish from Michigan University and have taught courses there as well as at Lansing Community College.

Rod Cranson
rcranson@sbcglobal.net

Tutor For:
Photography I
Photography II

About Me:
My experience in photography dates back to the 1960s, and I have been involved in professional photography since 1980. With my wife, Sharon, I have established and operated a professional home studio for over 20 years specializing in portraiture. In 2001 the Professional Photographers of America granted me their Certified Professional Photographer degree.

Recently I published the 3rd Edition of Crater Lake − Gem of the Cascades that features many of my photographs. My formal education was taken at Michigan State University where I earned a Bachelors of Science (BS) in geology, a Masters of Arts for Teachers (MAT) in science education and completed advanced graduate work. My professional career included teaching at Waverly High School for three years and in Lansing Community College’s Science Department for 27 years. Sharon and I attend South Church in Lansing where we are active in many of the church’s activities. We have two children and four grandchildren.

My educational philosophy is a student-centered, hands-on, problem-solving approach with the teacher serving as a tutor and resource person.

Barb Darling
darlingren@netzero.com

Tutor For:
Kidworks Art
Midworks Art
Jr. Teenworks Intro to Painting
Jr. Teenworks Intro to Drawing
Sr.TW Art I, II & III

About Me:

I have always had an interest in art. My father was a wildlife artist and I was exposed to art shows and various artists during my growing up years. I have taken drawing and painting classes at Lansing Community College. I have taught elementary art at three different private Christian Schools for a total of twelve years. I enjoy teaching children and have been a Sunday school teacher for 18 years. The joy of my life is the Lord whom I have followed since I was twelve. I have been married to Stephen Darling for 30 years - my high school sweetheart. My husband and I have four children Donald, Anneke, a graduate of Teenworks, Jennie and Stephenee. Art and children are both an inspiration and blessing in my life.

 

 

 

Robin Kennedy

kennedykids@tds.net

 

Tutor For:

Advanced Biology

 

About Me:

After being raised in a suburb of Cleveland, I attended Cleveland State University in conjunction with M.B.Johnson School of Nursing where I graduated in 1986. During this period I met and married my amazing husband, Jim, and we soon had our first son.  As a registered nurse, I quickly found employment as an intensive care nurse, yet I yearned to be home. I thought working in less stressful settings would appease this desire so I left the hospital and accepted a position as a nurse manager of an outpatient clinic and did home healthcare. Although I enjoyed serving people through my vocation, God began to show me that my priority was to use my skills to serve my family, and even more specifically, to home educate my children.

While our home-schooling journey began in Ohio, where it was extremely unpopular and highly regulated, my husband’s job led us to Michigan, where we have enjoyed home-schooling freely our four children on a small farm in Perry. After 19 years of home-schooling, my oldest is now a graduate of Cornerstone University, has just attained his M.B.A., and is getting married in May. My second son is graduating from Cedarville University with a B.S. in chemistry. My oldest daughter has completed her first year at Lansing Community College and is off to Spring Arbor in the fall to pursue a degree in public relations and advertising. My second daughter is in ninth grade. All of my children have been involved in Teenworks and I know it has contributed greatly to their success personally and in the college setting.  We are active members of Cornerstone Church in Okemos where we are involved in many ministries.  My husband and I also volunteer as 4-H leaders. We operate a small swine farm and enjoy raising and showing show pigs and lambs in state and national competitions. I enjoy working with youth of all ages and I look forward to the privilege of serving families at Teenworks.

Jim Hunsucker
Ph: 323-9138
lansingjim@comcast.net

Tutor For:
Latin 1,2 and 3 
British Literature

About Me:
Though I was born in Lansing, Michigan, I spent several years of my childhood in Texas, returning to Michigan at age ten.  After high school, I began studies at Michigan State University.  My college career was interrupted by military service.  I graduated with honors from MSU, with a major in History and minors in Latin and English.  I am now retired after 27 years of employment in Michigan state government.  At the time of my retirement, I was a departmental administrator and division director with the Michigan Secretary of State.  I have completed two years tutoring at Teenworks.

In 1970, I married Patricia.  We have two adult sons, Ron and Jim, Jr., and two grandchildren, Justin and Ruby.  As a child of nine, I received Christ as my Savior at a Billy Graham crusade in Houston Texas.  Since that time, I have endeavored to walk in faith and to serve the Lord.  Pat and I have attended South Church in Lansing for many years.  We are both active in church, serving as AWANA leaders and Sunday School teachers, and Pat is a deaconess and I as a deacon.  The Lord has blessed our lives in countless ways, and it is a privilege and a joy to worship Him in service to others.

Carol Lantz
clantz@teenworks.net

Tutor For:
Math 4
Kidworks HIstory

About Me:
My greatest joy is helping young people reach their God-given potential and discover the awesome adventure of His purpose in their life. I am an avid learner who thoroughly enjoys exploring right beside the students. I love being with each student and look forward to another great year as tutor and day manager of Midworks.

During my 31 years of married life, my primary focus has been raising our six wonderful children. We began our homeschooling adventure in 1983, and our children first attended Teenworks in 1993.  In recent years, I have been on staff as a Kidworks classroom aide, history and math tutor, and Midworks day manager.  I have also been a private tutor for math, reading, and writing.

In addition to homeschooling, I have administrated children’s church programs, developed curriculums, chaperoned youth events, and enjoyed short-term mission opportunities through our home church.

Penny Martin
pinkmouse50@hotmail.com

 

Tutor For:

Physical Science

Science 8

Science 7

Science 5/6

Science 4

 

About Me:

You will find me on our farm near Olivet along with my husband Bill and son Craig.  I have a degree in elementary education from New Jersey State College in Trenton, New Jersey, with additional classes in the field of science from Western Michigan.  I taught science for five years in the Olivet Community Schools and have been tutoring for Teenworks for seventeen years. I enjoy teaching with Teenworks because I can teach from a biblical perspective, and the students are great!

 

 

 

 

Leonard Mailand
lmailand@mac.com

Tutor For:
World History II
U.S. History
Government & Economics

About Me:
For over twenty-five years, Mr. Mailand has worked in the field of education at the college and secondary level as an administrator, teacher, and coach.  He has taught classes in Bible, apologetics, logic, history, government, economics, introductory Greek, and comparative worldviews utilizing an adaptation of  the “Understanding the Times” curriculum.  His other contributions have included curriculum development and teacher training.

Mr. Mailand is also a guest lecturer at the Student Statesmanship Institute in Lansing, Michigan, where he speaks on comparative worldviews and biblical leadership.  His passion is teaching people to think and live out of a Biblical world and life view, standing confident and ready to give a defense for Biblical faith.  Throughout the years, it has been his privilege to teach students, parents, educators, and administrators the truths found in the Bible and the importance of teaching from a Biblical perspective.

Mr. Mailand earned his M.Ed. at Seattle Pacific University.  In 2001 he founded a young men’s academic/leadership academy with the financial backing of a local church.  Several years ago he started Dominion Services, Inc., a hardwood and laminate installation contracting business. He and his wife Brenda (28 years) have 2 adult sons.  Britton, 24, who having finished a tour in Iraq as a US Marine reservist, is now a college student.  Braden, 22, is currently serving in Intelligence Services with the Marines.  Their younger children Sarah 15 and Midas 13 are educated at home.  They reside in Grand Ledge, Michigan with their dogs, cats, goats, chickens, and other critters as they become available.

Jackie Parker
Ph: 989-834-2829
allisenrae2@msn.com

Tutor For:
Midworks Drama

About Me:
One of my ways of showing my love for our Lord and Savior is through music , I love to sing and praise the Lord. Through music, kids can share their love of Jesus with others and enjoy it. I also am blessed this coming year with the opportunity to give your child a chance to open a new world through drama.
 
I have been married for 22 years and have 2 wonderful kids. I have home schooled my kids for the past 4 years, our son attends high school and I am still teaching our daughter. My family and I are very involved at our church in Owosso, in worship and congregational activities.

I have lead children’s church, directed musicals, plays and several VBS sports camps for the past few years. I have several years of preschool teaching experience and I love working with all ages of kids. One of my other loves in life besides my family is to work on cars and do plumbing. But my true love is to sing and praise God. I look forward to a fun year with your child.

Shelly Perry
timmyp@tir.com

Tutor For:
Sr. Teenworks Drama

About Me:
My family has been involved with Teenworks for eight years now.  My husband, Tim, I have home schooled our five children, ages 17-27.   I have been involved in theater and drama education in some form or another since I was a teenager.  Lately, I have been working with the Portland Civic Players in the areas of set design, props/costumes, and backstage management.  I have also worked with the Christian Home Educators Cooperative as drama teacher/director, and with numerous church productions.  I became a believer at the age of seven and am always looking for new ways to serve my Savior.

Mike Potter

Katie Schmidt
kschmidt@teenworks.net

 

Tutor For:

Senior Teenworks – Speech, Debate

Webworks- World Geography

Jr. Teenworks- American History, World Geography, World History I, Speech

Midworks – Beginning Computers

Kidworks – Practical Skills

 

 

 

About Me:

I came to know Christ as a young child of six and have since grown in the faith and knowledge of my Savior. I was blessed with wonderful parents who gave me the opportunity to be home schooled though high school, and I enjoyed my time as a Teenworks student.  During the past three years, I have continued by education, completed my B.A. in English through Thomas Edison State College, and worked as a Teenworks & Webworks tutor and secretary.  I heartily enjoy working with children of all ages and am privileged to be a part of the ministries of Teenworks & Webworks. I actively seek to share a Biblical perspective in each subject matter that I teach and endeavor to set a godly example for my students. The 2010-2011 school year is going to be a fantastic year of study and I look forward getting to know you better.

 

 

Stephanie Schmidt
mrs.sschmidt@gmail.com

Tutor For:
Kidworks Writing
English 4 

About Me:
I am very excited to be tutoring again for the coming school year. We have been a part of Teenworks organization for the past eight years. During the previous five years, I have been on staff working in various positions. These include teaching Kidworks Writing, English 4,  Midworks Cooking and Crafts, as well as working as a classroom aide in the Kidworks program. I look forward to sharing the privilege of teaching your children next year. 

I was saved at the age of eight, and I am active in my church today.  I have lived in Michigan all my life and have spent the last 27 years with my husband. We have three children.

 

Shawna Shaw

kas0624@hotmail.com

 

Tutor For:

Algebra ½

Math 7

Math 5
Math 6

 

About Me:

Greetings! My name is Shawna Shaw. No, my parents did not give me that name. My husband did! Believe me. It can be quite a conversation starter.

 

My college years took me to Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio where I earned a bachelor's degree and was certified in elementary education (kindergarten - 8th grade). It was also there that I met my husband.

 

Following two years as a legal secretary after graduating from college, I taught at Norwood Christian School third grade for two years. My husband's job brought us to Michigan where my first job was in the mortgage department at Bank One. My second and current job is that of "mom."

 

My husband and I and our four children have been very involved in the home school community for 13 years. We attend South Church where our family enjoys serving together in many aspects of the church. The Lord brought us to Kidworks/Teenworks in 2000. I am looking forward to being a part of the learning process at Teenworks as I continue teaching elementary and junior high math for the 2009-2010 school year.

 

 

 

 

Dean Sims
Tutor For:
K-3 Science
Physics
Advanced Physics

About Me:
I was raised in the inner cities of L.A. and Detroit.  Although a city kid, I always wanted to learn about nature, animals, and living things around me.  Education was always important to me and I became the only one in my family to graduate from high school and college. 
Sports played an important part in keeping me out of gangs and allowed me to excel in wrestling in high school and college.  Through wrestling I was able to attend the Pan-American games and trained in Asian countries to pursue an Olympic gold medal.  At a wrestling tournament in 1977, I received Jesus as my Savior. 

I received my Associates Degree in Science from O.C.C. and two Bachelor of Science Degrees from M.S.U. I am currently working on a degree in education from Olivet College. 
Between college years I lived out west hiking the Rocky Mountains and even worked as a cowboy for a short time.

I married my wife Theresa in 1987 and we live in the Grand Ledge area with our five children ranging in ages from 4 to 14 years old. 
In my spare time I love to hunt, fish hike, camp and rock climb. I also play the banjo and the mandolin.  In addition, I enjoy training in karate with three of my children at the Williams Center for Martial Arts.  In 2005 I earned my Black Belt after twelve years of training.  Recently my joy of training hard with my family was realized when my oldest son, Ethan made his Black Belt.

Pam Smith
psmith@teenworks.net

Tutor For:
Kindergarten Skills

About Me:
My husband and I became Christians a few months before our marriage in 1979. That wonderful event of salvation changed the course of my life and laid the foundation for everything I have encountered since. We have been blessed with four daughters, one who is married and given us our first grand daughter. We began home schooling in 1995, and this year our youngest daughter will graduate from high school. Teenworks has played a vital role in our home education program.

Our family has always been actively involved at Mount Hope Church in Portland. Currently I serve as the Christian Education Assistant, working specifically in the Children’s Ministry department. 

I attended Lansing Community College to study child development and earned my Child Development Associate credential.  This education increased my understanding of the development of young children and enhanced my ability to create developmentally appropriate activities and lessons for them. I find great joy in teaching children and in sharing their excitement as they discover God’s amazing creation.

I have worked as an aide in the Kidworks program. In addition to tutoring the Kindergarten students I also serve as the Day Manager for the Kidworks program.

Cindy Thelen
ccthelen@hotmail.com

Tutor For:
Sr. Teenworks Music History and Theory II
Early American History
Modern American History
20th Century Music History & Performance
World Geography

About Me:

I was raised in a non-Christian family, and was saved as a teenager. I have been married for 31 years and have 5 children. I've been homeschooling for 24 years. Three of my children have graduated from high school and college. My oldest daughter is married, practicing law, and the proud mother of my first granddaughter! My oldest son is an audio/visual consultant and the proud father of my second granddaughter and first grandson.  My next daughter graduated with a music degree from CMU and is married to a man in the Air Force. My youngest daughter is finishing up her teaching degree from Cornerstone University. My youngest son is heading off to his first year of college. I have a degree in music and elementary education and enjoy working with students!

 

 

 

 

Paul Case
pcase@teenworks.net

Tutor For:
Computer I 
Computer II

About Me:
Paul and Barb (his wife of 20 years) have three children whom they home school. Paul studied Music Performance and Computer Science in college, and was a commissioned officer in the Army National Guard and Army Reserve. Currently, he works for Electronic Data Systems in the sales and marketing organization. Paul is a Microsoft Certified Professional, and he has trained and supported clients in a variety of software applications during his tenure with EDS. Paul is also the founding conductor and president of Home School Music Association, and he is a member of First Baptist of St. Johns, where he leads the church orchestra.

Rosemary Wolthuis
Phone: 616-527-0778
mrsw@iserv.net

Tutor For:
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
Jr. Teenworks Drama
Sr.Teenworks Drama
Jr. Teenworks Speech
Sr. Teenworks Speech

About Me:
Many years ago, my husband and I home-schooled our four children, and they have all attended college.  One of our sons served in the Navy and another is currently in the Air Force.  We also have eight grandchildren.  I was saved at age 23 while living in Texas, and I have tutored with Teenworks since its inception.  While I love teenagers and enjoy teaching math, I want them to understand that as we look around our world we can see many evidences of God’s creative orderliness.  The study of math is one way we can begin to appreciate His design in the earth and in the universe.  Math is more than adding figures, solving equations or proving theorems.  We can find the consistency of numbers in the design of a snowflake, the shape of a palm frond, or the curve of a wave in the ocean.  The beauty of a pinecone, the kernels of corn on the cob, the shape of a seashell, and the music we hear all point us toward our Creator.  Numbers, algebra, and geometry are all around us and the more we study the more we can understand our world and the more we can worship the God who created it all for us.  We are striving toward a strong foundation in math and its importance in our complex society, but we also can learn more of God and His world.

Emily Smith
emilyfayesmith@comcast.net

Tutor For:
Physical Science (online)
Biology
Chemistry
Advanced Chemistry

About Me:
I was born and raised in Flint, MI and went on to Michigan Technological University where I earned a BS Chemistry degree.  I spent a year at Wayne State University studying Organic Chemistry.  I worked as a chemist for 3 years in the Detroit area, but left the job to follow my husband Eric to the Lansing area.  At the age of 25, Christ opened my eyes to his love and forgiveness and I have been a Christian since then.  I am a stay-home mother of 2 and I have been blessed with the opportunity to share my love of science by teaching chemistry, biology and physical science to homeschoolers.

Jeff Burdick
jburdick@teenworks.net

Tutor For:
Government & Economics (Webworks)
Advanced Government & Politics (Webworks)

About Me:
I am president and co-founder of Teenworks Tutoring in Grand Ledge, Michigan.  I have operated this organization for 24 years and continue to do this today.  I’m also owner and president of Generational Farms in Wesley, Iowa. My formal training includes attending Hyles-Anderson College in Indiana, University of Kansas, and Michigan State University, along with many other classes that have prepared me for leadership in both businesses. My passion is teaching others a biblical worldview and politics.  I have worked with home schoolers for 25 years, teaching America's Providential History, US Government and Economics, and World Political Philosophy. I hope to impart my passion for understanding the past to better deal with the future. I believe that the dismal state of the country today is the result of not understanding the system of government that was established by the founders and that the correction for today’s problems is contained in that original system. I have had many opportunities to sit on multiple boards and panels and work with leaders to promote a free enterprise in agriculture and business in general.  I have also testified before U.S. House of representatives’ hearings on US agriculture policy and written many articles on the subject of a biblical worldview, economics and biblical issues. I am the father of two children and the grandfather of eight grandchildren. I’ve been married to my wife, Wanda, for 37 years. We reside in Wesley, Iowa.

Wanda Burdick
wburdick@teenworks.net

Tutor For:
Psychology (Webworks)
Speech (Webworks)
Speech & Debate (Webworks)

About Me:
Rejoice in the Lord Always and Again I say rejoice.  Phil. 4:4

I am the co-founder of Teenworks and have been the director since 1984. Prior to this, I was a teacher in the Christian school setting.  Presently, I am a speech, debate, and a freelance writer. I still direct the Teenworks campus from my home in Iowa.  I have written and compiled upper level English and literature curriculums and have been teaching for over 25 years.  I have coached debate and speech for over 20 years and have had students win local, state, and national competitions
 
I feel that my greatest qualification is first, that I am a sinner miraculously saved by grace, and second, I have stood before the throne of God in prayer for my children and countless other children, in order that Satan would not devour our next generation. My heart's desire is to teach Biblical truths to students so that we can redeem America for God.

My husband and I home schooled our children and I am looking forward to assisting with our eight grandchildren's education as they are being home schooled.  I currently live in Wesley, Iowa on a large farm, with my husband and family.

Tutor Name:
Travis Nightengale
517-543-1674
travis.nightengale@gmail.com

Tutor For:
Consumer Math
Boyworks

About Me:
Travis Nightengale is a Christian husband and father who is saved by the death of his savior Jesus Christ.  This is the basis for all understanding.  With this understanding comes a desire to bear spiritual fruits to honor the free gift of Jesus. Glory be to God in all that we do.

Travis is a lifelong resident of the City of Charlotte.  His formal education includes studies at LCC and Davenport College receiving a Certificate in Bookkeeping. He has held many management roles for others as well as running several startup companies of his own.  For three years he worked as a licensed Insurance Agent.  His current company is a specialized staffing company that works in the area of the Automotive Industry.

For the last 16 years he has been married to Cheri Nightengale, formerly from the Frankenmuth area.  They have 5 children Cyle (15), Caleb (13), Justin (11), Jordyn (9) the only girl, and Elijah (8).  They first started researching homeschooling 15 years ago, but as Travis was serving on a Christian School Board, they have only been homeschooling for the last 7 years.  Cheri enjoys learning about organic eating and holistic healing. 

Travis has taught in the church for a variety of age groups (adults, high school, and 5th grade).  He has preached, performed marriage counseling, and worked on his local congregation’s Leaderships and Education boards.  Currently Travis teaches Gym for the CACHE home school group and works with Troop and Pack 3 Scouting programs.

Laurel Landers
landersfam@juno.com

Tutor For:
English I
English II

About Me:
My husband Mark and I have been married for 31 years.  We have four children, ages
12-30, and three grandchildren.  We have just completed our 25th year of home education.
I consider myself a life-long learner, and I desire to instill a passion for learning in others.

Here in my home for the last three years, I have taught all subjects to the children of two other families alongside my own.  I also taught English and Pre-Algebra for two years in a Flint-based program similar to Teenworks.

I look forward to working with the young people attending Teenworks.  I am passionate about language and its role in all of our God-given relationships.  God called Himself the Word, and that Word became flesh and dwelt among us.  We are now His epistles, written by His Spirit.  May we all continue to grow in using His precious gift of language wisely and effectively.

 

Jennifer Yancey
jycubed@comcast.net

Tutor For:
Introduction to Computer Programming (Online)

About Me:
I have a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from Mississippi State University.  I spent 10 years working in software development and enjoyed it greatly.  I have taught Computer Programming and Web Design for the last 3 years at a homeschooling tutorial in Nashville TN.  I have three children Joshua, 12, Joy, 10, and Jonathan, 9, whom I have schooled at home since Kindergarten.  One of the greatest joys of my life has been my marriage of 19 years to my husband John.  The majority of my time is spent schooling my kids and activities with my church.  When I have free time, my favorite pastime is playing card games with any person who will play with me or online when no one is available.   

Wendy Marrison
bmarrison@yahoo.com

Tutor For:
Kidworks PE

About Me:

I have been married to my wonderful husband since 1988.  We have two children, and live north of Lansing.

I was saved in 1988 and have been an active member at my church since 1997. My involvement at my church includes teaching Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, CEF training and serving in the nursery.  I have taught Preschool and Kindergarten at Laingsburg Christian School for the past five years. 

I love the opportunities God has given me to work with children and consider it a gift that should never be taken for granted.  I am so excited to be a part of Kidworks and look forward to working with your children.

Anna Dippold
adippold@teenworks.net
adantigua365@hotmail.com

Tutor For:
American Sign Language

About Me:
I will graduate from Lansing Community College’s Interpreter Training Program with a certificate in Sign Language Interpreting in the summer of 2008. I attended Teenworks for a few years of my high school education. I took two sign language classes while at Teenworks, then I dual-enrolled my senior of high school – Perry High School and LCC – where I began in secondary education my study of American Sign Language (ASL). Since I graduated in 2005, I have been involved in sign language in one way or another. I spent one year in Antigua with a missionary family and volunteering in a deaf school. I live at home with my family in Perry, Michigan. After finishing the sign program at LCC, I will be continuing on my education over the next few years, with the intent of missions, Lord willing. I am excited about working with students in this great field that we can use as a tool to glorify God our Savior. I pray that He will work through me and the students this semester.

Being confident of this that He who began a good work in you will be faithful to carry it unto completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

Mrs. Frederick
ruthann.frederick@gmail.com

Tutor For:
Introduction to Computers
7th English
8th English
High School Composition & World Literature Survey

About Me:
I came to know the Lord at five years old but lacked solid teaching and discipleship until after my husband Todd and I were married in 1989 and had our first child in 1991.  We fellowship at First Baptist Church in Sebewa.  It is our pleasure to have four children.  We have two girls, 16 and 14, and two boys, 14 and 10. We are blessed.

Education & Experience:    
I hold a B.S. in English Education with a minor in psychology and a drama concentration from Liberty University.  I have been certified previously by the State of Virginia and the American Association of Church Schools, and have 18 CEU’s in computer application software.  I also attended New Tribes Bible Institute and New Tribes Missions Institute in the late 1990s before we became missionaries in the training program with New Tribes Bible Institute in Jackson, MI.  2009-2010 will be my eleventh year with Teenworks.  I have learned what works and what doesn’t and how to individualize instruction for students and families with diverse needs.  I look forward to partnering with you to meet your family’s needs.

 

 

Jay Rudolph
rudyvalley@wmtel.net

Tutor for:
Journalism, Webworks

About Me:
Jay Rudolph has nearly 25 years of journalism experience beginning as a radio announcer in Fond du Lac, WI, where he later served as Sports Director and Farm Director for several years at KFIZ-AM. During college at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Jay worked as a documentary production associate for Wisconsin Public TV, as a sports intern at WISC-TV, as a sports assistant at the Wisconsin State Journal, and as a board op at a talk radio station in Madison. He has served the Lord for the past nine years as News Director for Kinship Christian Radio in northern Iowa and southern MN as well as Operations Manager for KJYL Christian Radio in Eagle Grove, IA. His diversified background in journalism/communications has been a great asset as he trains others for careers in a variety of fields of journalism.

 

Joy Solbach
tjsolbach@awcmail.com

Tutor for:
Intro to Computers Webworks

About Me:
My name is Joy Solbach and I have been teaching computer software classes for 20 years. I have taught in the business world and for the past 12 years I have been teaching at the local community college. I am very excited to have this opportunity to teach online!  My teaching philosophy is to make sure that the students not only understand how to perform the tasks, but that they also understand why we do what we do.  I strongly encourage questions and always enjoy seeing my students gain understanding of the software as we progress.

Kim Whitteberry
American Literature- Webworks

kwhitteberry@teenworks.net
616.822.8582

I was home schooled my entire life and after graduating from high school, earned a BA in English from Thomas Edison State College. Throughout high school and college, God blessed me with many opportunities to tutor and share the gift of English with students. I have tutored privately as well as at Teenworks. God has truly blessed me in so many ways but the greatest gift is the gift of His Son and saving faith through Jesus. I firmly believe that English is a gift from God, which can be used as a powerful tool in sharing the gospel. With proper training, students can become effective writers that challenge those around them to question the “norms” and encourage godly discernment as the basis of all decisions.

Gena Dewey
tdew@core.com

Teaching:
German 1; Webworks

About Me:
I am a Christian homeschool mom of three children (6th, 7th, & 8th grade).  God has blessed me beyond my comprehension with the most talented, fantastic, intelligent husband, who is always nearby to help me in technical difficulties.   We all get to live in paradise up in northern Michigan, where snow is bliss!
 I have been teaching German to children and adults since college where I earned a double major in German and Communication.   I became fluent during my two extensive stays in Germany.   It was a German homeschool class that brought me into homeschooling my own children, who were just toddlers at the time. I decided to take my class online and write my own curriculum in 2008, because I saw a need in the homeschool world for learning and greater immersion.   Germany has become a “Christ-less” place and so it was imperative that I also teach my students how to share the gospel.  I have no idea why the Lord has placed this gift in my hands.  I only try and remain obedient to this call and will do my best to prepare those He gives me.  

 

Erin Annis

eaannis@gmail.com

 

Tutor For:

Michigan History and U. S. Geography

Ancient History

Kidworks Science

 

About Me:

I was homeschooled from 5^th grade through 12^th grade, and I graduated with Teenworks in 2005 after attending classes there throughout high school. I will graduate from Hillsdale College in May 2009 with a music minor and a B.A. in history. I was saved when I was six years old and currently attend First Baptist Church (when I’m at home in St. Johns) and Countryside Bible Church (when I’m at school). I play in the First Baptist orchestra for Sunday services and special events whenever I am home from college.

 

I have loved history since my mom first gave me a historical novel to read, and I have continued to deepen my knowledge and appreciation of history through my course of study at Hillsdale. I supplemented my history classes with English, music, and language classes, and I look forward to drawing all these elements into the history courses I will teach at Teenworks. I have also extended my practical knowledge of history with summer internships at the Michigan Historical Museum and the MSU Museum, and by trying my hand at different historical crafts including wheat-weaving, carving, cross-stitching, making chainmail armor, and playing the Great Highland Bagpipes. 

 

As a graduate of a liberal arts college, I completed several college level science courses, as well as gaining a strong high school science background through the Apologia curriculum. Some of my fondest home school memories include the science experiments my sisters and I completed with my dad in our kitchen.

Tutor:
Chris Gallo

Tutor for:
Webworks Geometry

About Me:
I currently work full-time for a local bank, where I have been for the past fifteen years. Prior to this, I taught Math and Science from 3rd grade through 12th at a private academy in Lansing, after graduating with a B.S. in Physics from MSU. At MSU I taught undergraduate Physics labs and tutored undergraduate students.

My wife and I homeschool our four children, ages 5 to 13.

Nancyanne Robbe
nancyanne@portlandmounthope.org

Tutor For:
Midworks Drama

About Me:
I have committed my life to teaching and raising up children in the ways of the Lord. I gave my heart to the Lord in 1976 and married my husband of almost thirty years in September of 1979. We have three children, two of them married, and four fabulous grandchildren.  I am blessed to see my children actively serving the Lord and raising their children in godly homes!

I have served in children’s ministries for over thirty years, taught kindergarten in a Christian school, and been involved in worship and drama ministries for over twenty years. Having directed several Easter and Christmas plays for both children and adults, I have enjoyed being both on stage and behind the scenes for many productions. For Easter 2008, I co-directed a community passion play in Portland in which several of the area churches participated. I am currently employed at Mount Hope Church as the Christian Education Director. I was the music tutor for Kidworks for the 2006-2007 school year and loved working with the children. It is a great joy to work with the students, families, and staff of Teenworks.

Erika Annis
eannis1@gmail.com

Tutor For:
Beginning Computer Concepts
English 5/6
Latin I & II
Advanced British Literature and Composition

About Me:
My parents began homeschooling me in 5^th grade, and I attended Teenworks throughout high school. I graduated from Teenworks in 2005, and I will graduate from Hillsdale College in May 2009 with a music minor and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. After graduation from Hillsdale, I’ll be living at home with my parents while I consider graduate school.

Along with a Political Science major, my college education has included extensive writing and a rigorous course of study in Latin and English. I enjoyed using a modified version of Mrs. Frederick’s writing strategies to complete my college writing assignments. I also have experience tutoring in computer and have substitute taught for Teenworks computer classes.

I was saved as a young child and regularly attended First Baptist Church of St. Johns while growing up. I became a member there in 2005, and I look forward to getting back to my home church after graduation.

As a Teenworks graduate, I am very excited about the opportunity to return and teach alongside many of the people who made my years at Teenworks wonderful. Homeschooling played an integral part in my development as a human being and as a Christian, and I look forward to encouraging others as they pursue this unique learning experience.

 

Jenny Wilcox
E-mail address:  wilcox2001@hotmail.com

Tutor For:
Kidworks Music

About Me:

This year will be my second year teaching at Teenworks as the Kidworks Music tutor. Music is a large part of my life and I have been involved in various facets of it over the years. I am involved on the worship team at Duplain Church of Christ and have led Vacation Bible School music for several years. In the past, I have been a private flute and piano instructor, band, orchestra, and choir accompanist, and 5^th grade band teacher in the public schools. I continue to do some accompanying for Solo and Ensemble festivals. 

Music is not my only “hobby”, however. Many people say that I am almost Amish – I make almost everything from scratch including laundry soap and grinding my own wheat flour. My husband and I have a large garden that I put up every year by filling oodles of canning jars. J I enjoy sewing, quilting, and basket weaving as well.

Despite all my interests, I believe that my main job is to love God, be a good help-meet to my husband and a good mom to my children, pursuing God’s will for our lives.  God has worked in my life in so many ways that I never expected, and I am constantly growing and learning.

 

I am married to Kevin, have been blessed with two wonderful children, and live near Elsie. I am excited to continue teaching at Teenworks and see where the Lord leads.

Sukrit K. Dass

sukritdas@yahoo.com

 

Tutor For:

Physics

Pre-Calculus

 

About Me

 

From my high school days I had a keen interest in pursuing Science and Math studies, and I found out that I have great inclination in those areas.  Because of that when I went to the university I concentrated my studies in the area of pure science majoring in Physics, Chemistry and Math and received my B.Sc. degree from the University of Dhaka in the year 1966.  I also studied M.Sc. (Pure Math) in Karachi University from 1966-1967.  Later, in 1980 I went for upgrading and completed two Master’s degrees from the Philippines, one in Teaching and the other in Theology.

 

I have been teaching Physics, Chemistry, Math, and Bible in secondary schools and colleges in different Asian countries.  It may be mentioned that in Asian countries math and science maintain a high standard, and I enjoyed teaching those challenging subjects.  Before coming to America, I taught AP Physics, Chemistry, Math, and Bible for 20 years in a big International school in Bangkok from 1989 to 2009.  

 

I have been married to my wife Monica since 1968.  She also taught language and other subjects for over 42 years. We have two lovely children.  We live in Grand Ledge, and we are members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Lansing.  Our daughter Molly is also a teacher at Teenworks, teaching history in the elementary level.  From Molly we received two extraordinary grandkids—Ishaan, 12 and Joya, 8—both are studying at Teenworks.  Our son, Merle and his wife Ethel, are also teachers - teaching Bible and Language in the same school in Bangkok where we had taught before.

Larry Wilson

larry_a_wilson@yahoo.com

 

Tutor For:

Computer I

Computer II

 

About Me:

Larry and Melissa (his wife of 23 years) have four children whom they have homeschooled since 1997.  Larry received his Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science from Grace College in 1988.  Since college, he has worked for Electronic Data Systems (which is now part of Hewlett Packard) in programming and database administration.  His customers have included General Motors and multiple State of Michigan departments.  Larry is a member of South Church in Lansing where he works in the Jr. High youth ministry and serves on the deacon board.

Carrie Hartges

carriesuehartges@hotmail.com

 

Tutor For:

Spanish I

Spanish II

 

About Me:

My husband and I live in Mason with our four great kids that we have been homeschooling since 1997. We attend Trinity Church in Lansing. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education with a dual minor in both Social Science and Spanish. I graduated from Michigan State University and taught at Lansing Christian School until the birth of our first son. Last year I taught 500+ students, K-6^th Grade, at Dansville Public Schools running their elementary Spanish language program. I have also taught high school Spanish levels I, II. III. Teaching in general and teaching Spanish in particular is a passion of mine.

 

Barbara Vincent

vincentbarbarac@gmail.com

 

Classes:

Introduction to Business

Consumer Math

English II

Advanced British Literature and Composition

 

About Me:

I was a young mother of two when a neighbor lady befriended me and introduced me to Christ. That was 34 years ago, and I will always be grateful for that dear sweet lady. It left a great impression on me of the need to tell others of the hope there is in Christ.

 

I am now a mother of 7, and a grandmother of soon to be 9 grandchildren. Just when my husband and I thought our nest was empty, God brought a little four year old boy to our home. We are currently in the final stages of adopting him. When our children were young, we made the decision to homeschool. We actually did so in the day when homeschoolers kept their doors locked and their children out of the public eye.  It is exciting to see where and how homeschooling has grown.  

 

After five years of homeschooling, we began to place our oldest children into a local Christian school, Gilead Baptist Academy.  I eventually taught junior high and high school there for 8 years. When our oldest graduated from high school, I entered the business world, working for a large corporation as a manager for their regulatory compliance department. However, five years ago the Christian school that is associated with the church that our family attends, First Baptist of Laingsburg, was in need of teacher. The pastor approached me to teach, and left the corporate world to teach at Laingsburg Christian School. I have taught in many different areas, fifth and sixth grade, junior/senior high English and Literature, Drama, Speech/Journalism, and Introduction to Business. I have also directed the school’s Christmas and Spring Productions for the last five years.  

 

I am looking forward to the opportunity of working with the students at Teenworks. God is great and I always stand amazed at His plans for our life.

 

Education:

Masters in Business Administration, Grand Canyon University

Bachelors in Business Administration, Northwood University

Associates in Business/Paralegal, Lansing Community College

 

Molly Dean

aodean@comcast.net

 

Tutor For:

Kidworks History

Midworks MI History & Geography

Midworks Medieval History

 

About Me:

My husband and I live with our two children on the outskirts of Grand Ledge.  We love the Lord and do our best to serve Him wherever and whenever we can. 

 

I was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Christian Church when I was in my early teens.  Throughout the years, God has led me and helped me to grow, but He is not done with me yet.

 

All my life I have had a private Christian education.  I received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from a Christian college in Singapore.  After completing my program, I worked for three years in a Christian international school in Bangkok, Thailand, teaching elementary students.  I came to the United States to further my education and earn a master’s degree in elementary education from Andrews University, a comparatively small Adventist university in Berrien Springs, Michigan. 

 

When my husband and I got married, we decided that I would stay home and raise the children.  By the grace of God the children flourished, and their performance at school was above average.  However, we realized that they needed more challenge and the freedom to set their own pace for their scholastic advancement.  This is what led us to join the Teenworks family.  We have been very blessed to be a part of this program.  I am amazed at how well the children are doing and thank God that He has again led our family to a good place.  I desire to serve Him and my neighbors according to His will and purpose.

 

Janice Mills

steve_mills@juno.com

 

Tutor For:

Kidworks Science

Midworks Math 5/6

 

About Me:

Being born into a Christian home with God honoring parents was the backdrop of my formative years.  Early in life I made a profession of faith, which was cultivated through regular church attendance, Awana participation, and Bible quizzing. As a young adult I attended Gordon College, just north of Boston, and completed a degree in middle school education with a math minor. From there I taught nine years in Vermont during which time I met my husband.  Over our first ten years of marriage, we had five children.

 

My life has had many interesting opportunities and adventures which would make up quite a list, but my most important relationship and the continuous thread woven throughout my life is my relationship with God, my Savior.  All of the other events would make great reading and very humorous storytelling, but their significance would be incomplete without acknowledging Christ.  The older I grow the more I see how God has orchestrated the events in my life to draw me to Him.  I am thankful for the opportunity to serve at Teenworks and to experience the blessings and growth God has in store for me through this venture.