Meet Our Team
Kerri Bounds
Director
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Why Christian Education
There is no greater privilege in having the opportunity of utilizing God’s gift of teaching than to instruct young children and guide them on a path to a relationship with Christ. The presentation of all subject matter through the lens of Biblical truth is essential for true wisdom. Apart from it, academic subjects are merely knowledge. After teaching in the public school system for 11 years, God brought me to Christian education when we decided to place our children in a Christ-centered environment for Pre-K and Kindergarten. For the last 15 years, I have had the opportunity to serve a community of believers that refined me not only as a Christian educator but as a wife and mother. During this time, the Lord revealed to me, through my students and my own children, the importance of Biblical truth being poured into young souls. Doing so plants the seed in a child to come into a loving relationship with their heavenly father, and in turn, they will have no doubt of the goodness of God in their lives. Proverbs 22:6- “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Why I Love Serving at Redeemer Day School
Servant Leadership is at the heart of my desire to work in supporting teachers, parents, and the precious students of Redeemer Day School. From the moment I first entered the doors of our school, a sense of calm and peace flooded over me which only comes from the presence of the Lord! Witnessing the obedience of the children towards their teachers, and seeing the teachers’ respect for their students, is a breath of fresh air in a world that is often consumed with self. Christ is the core of who Redeemer is, and our teachers exude the desire for their students to fall in love with Jesus! What a consecrated place to serve. I am humbled and blessed.
Favorite Bible Verse
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
On a Personal Note
I have been married to Charlie, my high school sweetheart, for 29 years. God has given us two children: Mary Charles and Marshall. I am a native of Smyrna, Georgia and the daughter of lifetime Atlantans. I can certainly speak to the many changes that have occurred in the metro area over my lifetime. If you are ever in doubt on the demarcation lines of the Smyrna/Vinings city limits, just bring that question to me, and we can figure that out together! God has greatly blessed me in this blended area. In my free time, I enjoy reading, shopping, and spending quality time with my wonderful family and my precious friends.
Contact Me
404-985-6005
kbounds@redeemerdayschool.org
Teachers
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Why Christian Education
I believe that Christian education is a “priceless” investment in your child! Especially in today’s counterculture, we need to equip our children to face the future. We need to teach them to know what they believe and why. We need to teach them to love Jesus, or the world will teach them to hate Jesus. God commands us in His Word to go out and have dominion over the earth, and we need to prepare our children to do just that. I believe it is important to start training them when they are very young to look at the world through the lense of the Bible.
Why I Love Teaching
I love teaching two year olds and seeing the joy and wonder in their faces as they make new discoveries and learn new concepts. It has been a privilege to have had the opportunity to teach His little ones for the past 25 years. I love watching these little ones grow and develop right before my eyes. It is amazing to see their academic and character development from the beginning of the year all the way to the end of the school year. It is also a joy to partner with the parents and come along side of them and encourage them in their parenting.
A Favorite Bible Verse
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. — Psalm 119: 105 How wonderful to be in His Word and walk in His will! I have had this scripture on the wall of my classroom for the last 16 years.
On a Personal Note
I am an Atlanta girl, born and raised right here. I have been married to my husband Randy for over 35 years and we have a son, Chandler, a beautiful daughter-in-law and two granddaughters! When I have some free time I love to travel, especially to the beach!
Contact Me
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Why Christian Education
Christian education teaches the truth about God’s word which provides a biblical foundation that encourages a child’s physical, mental and spiritual growth. It trains up the children to know the truth in the Bible, equips them academically and spiritually to serve and glorify God, and to confidently defend their faith.
Christian education focuses on Godly character, moral and ethical development as the child discovers their identity in the Lord. The children learn social and behavioral expectations as they mature in the school year while learning math, science, reading, writing, art, and music to round out their school day.
Why I Love Teaching
I love teaching because I get to be a small part of shaping and planting seeds in little one’s mind, body and soul. I get to lay a brick in the foundation of their life, that is Christ. I absolutely love pointing to our Creator in all that we do and speak. To hear their little prayers for family and friends and sing praises to the Almighty God are the reasons I love teaching.
Favorite Bible Verse
Proverbs 3:5-6 has always been a favorite of mine. It brings me comfort and peace as I remember who is in control.
“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.”
On A Personal Note
I am married to a wonderful Godly man. We are from California, moved to Atlanta in 2010, and we love our new home. Our baby girl completed our family in 2011. She attended Redeemer Day School and now attends a local Christian school. We are blessed to call Church of The Apostles our church home, and we receive solid Bible teachings from Godly leaders and teachers.
Contact Me
vjohnson@redeemerdayschool.org
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Why Christian Education
Christian education allows the opportunity to point children to their Creator in all that they learn and provides an environment in which God’s Word is the foundation of the curriculum.
As Christian educators we have the incredible privilege to direct children to the beauty and order of God’s creation, to teach them His truths, to help them love each other as God loves us, and come alongside their families to encourage them as they raise their children in our fallen world.
Why I love teaching
Being surrounded by little ones has always been one of my happy places. Whether I’m witnessing their joy at a new discovery or watching them courageously persevere through a challenging task, there are endless opportunities for me to learn as much from my students as they also learn from me and their environment each day. As a follower of Christ, I believe that nurturing the heart is of utmost importance. When you walk down the hallways or peek in the classrooms at RDS, joy is evident on the faces of the teachers and students alike. The teachers take joy in their calling to teach and point their students to their Creator, and the students take joy in learning in a teacher-directed environment. The staff at RDS feels like family. Beginning each day in Bible study with these dear coworkers and encouraging each other in Christ is a rare gift I cherish. I am blessed and honored to be a part of this amazing community.
Favorite Bible Verse
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
This verse has been a lifelong encouragement to me and is a reminder that without the Lord’s help, I can do nothing. He will provide the strength, stamina, knowledge and help in all things. I love reciting this verse with my students whenever they are discouraged.
Psalm 28:7
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; in Him my hearts trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him.”
In the past few years, I have quoted this verse daily. God promises to protect and guide us. Reflecting on His promises brings such gratefulness and peace to my soul.
On a Personal Note
I am a true Georgia peach at heart and I’m thrilled to have returned to my home state after living in Florida for the past 20 years. My husband and I were recently married in 2021 after God reconnected our paths several years after we each suffered the loss of our first spouses. We have a son and daughter in college and enjoy spending time with them when they are home on break. We also cherish time with our extended families and enjoy traveling, being outside, watching college football, and entertaining our Yorkie and cat.
I attended Georgia Institute of Technology and later earned a BS in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University. Throughout my adult life, God has provided many opportunities to work with children from serving as a Sunday School teacher, substitute teaching in special needs classes, or teaching first graders. For the past 14 years I had the honor of teaching first grade in an amazing classical Christian school in Orlando, FL. I love seeing life and learning through the eyes of little ones. It is a joy to wake up each day and have the opportunity to guide, teach, and nurture these precious children.
Contact Me
Jwilson@redeemerdayschool.org
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Why Christian Education
As a Christian parent, I believe that the Bible exhorts us to teach our children formally and informally God’s truths (Deut. 6:7 and 31:12). It is our responsibility to present the Gospel to our children through word and deed with the hope that our Savior will draw them into a relationship early in their lives. I believe a Christian education can assist parents in this awesome task. A Christian education should integrate God’s Word in all areas of learning: math, literature, science, art, music, sports, even play time. It should also provide a community of Christian administrators, teachers, and parents that reflect the love of God to our children allowing them to see God’s grace and develop thoughts, values, and attitudes that reflect Jesus.
Why I Love Teaching
I have been blessed with the opportunity to teach in various settings: middle school, a dyslexic school and preschool. The Lord has used each opportunity to allow me to come along side children and determine the best ways to teach them about His amazing creation – from scripture lessons to math lessons. I love teaching because it allows me to create fun, challenging and motivating lessons that inspire children to love to learn. It brings me such joy to see their eyes twinkle with excitement when they have grasped a new concept and show a willingness and eagerness to learn more! I love to learn with my class and my prayer is that God will continue to teach us both as we discover how to glorify and enjoy Him together each day.
A Favorite Bible Verse
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. — Isaiah 41:10
The verse has been a beautiful reminder to me in times of fear and anxiousness to trust and rest in Him.
On a Personal Note
The Lord has blessed me with a wonderful husband who has been my best friend since middle school and three beautiful children. One of my greatest joys is creating a loving and beautiful home for them. It may be through cooking a meal, planting flowers in the garden, or a decorating project. Although I receive great pleasure at the completion of each creative endeavor; my prayer is that ultimately the beauty that surrounds us will be a sign pointing to the glorious beauty of God.
Contact Me
cleblanc@redeemerdayschool.org
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Why I Love Serving at RDS
I am so thankful for parents who saw to it that I heard about and was exposed to the gospel from infancy. I accepted Christ at age 7 and have enjoyed a life of blessing and joy, trial and temptation, deliverance and growth. My degree in Elementary Education came from Liberty University in 1986. I have over 17 years of teaching experience in both the public and private school settings and was fortunate to have home schooled my three grown daughters for much of their early schooling. It is with great anticipation and a thankful heart that I join the staff at RDS! I am ready and excited to work with young children and families once again, partnering with parents to lead their little ones into a knowledge of and a relationship with Jesus! To God be the glory! Great things He has done!
A Favorite Bible Verse
3 John 1:;4-“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the TRUTH.”
John 17:17-“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your WORD is truth”
Psalms 119:160-“The ENTIRETY of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments.”
This is my continuing motivation and prayer coming into RDS. I know the reputation and biblical foundation is strong here at RDS.
On a Personal Note
God is always on time! After several years of mysterious, chronic health issues, the difficult year we all experienced with Covid was actually used by God to bring about my healing and this job opportunity at Redeemer Day School. I had a diagnosed case of Covid in November 2020 which led to a hospitalization for a pulmonary embolism in January 2021. Due to several tests at that time, the cause of my years of pain and failing health was discovered and resolved with a “simple” antibiotic treatment. Almost immediately I felt reborn! If ever I understood redemption, it was then. I was at my lowest both emotionally and physically when the Lord and my medical team brought me out of darkness into the marvelous light once again! I can testify (and take every opportunity to share) that God is GOOD and His promises are true. My health journey has become a great testament to the power of prayer and of my trust in the Great Physician. II Corinthians 12:9-“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
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Why Christian Education
What makes me say, “Every day in Kindergarten Class is a great day”? First, teaching young children is important. It has lasting value. It shapes young lives. Christian education is distinctive. Teaching academic subjects is not separate from training in the Christian faith.
In a Christian school, everything – all subjects and concepts and values – is taught from the perspective that God created the universe and all that is in it for His own glory. How wonderful to be able to teach little children these truths! Little children can grow up knowing that God loves them. They can know that God has established right and wrong, and that the way they live matters.I began teaching Kindergarten almost 25 years ago. Each fall I can hardly wait to meet my new children and their parents.
Why I Love Teaching
It is thrilling to see the wonder in little children’s faces when they see something—like butterflies emerging from cocoons—for the first time. They are delighted when they achieve new skills in reading and writing and I get to share in their joy.
Like my students, I enjoy learning. Throughout my life, gardening, touring gardens, traveling, and learning about history have been great sources of joy and education for me. Before I became a teacher, as a newlywed and newcomer to Philadelphia, I enrolled in a course so that I could become a guide in Independence Hall. Reading about the creation of great gardens by interesting people like Capability Brown in England and the green spaces of America created by Frank Law Olmsted is inspiring. Travel and reading feed my imagination and motivation for teaching, allowing me to both learn and share what I have learned with others.
A Favorite Bible Verse
Scripture teaches us about all of life, but the following passage is particularly focused on how Jesus valued little children.
In Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
This passage reveals both Jesus’ tender invitation for children to come to Him as well as the value of being child-like. Being a teacher of little children is having the daily opportunity of tenderly showing them how Jesus loves them. There is a window of opportunity with little children that we do not want to miss. They are so eager to learn and will easily follow if we will tenderly lead them.
On a Personal Note
My husband, Jim, and I have seen our five children become parents of their own children. We desire to support them in raising the next generation to know and love the Lord Jesus. Many of the families at RDS are like our children. It is a real joy to get to know them and be a support to them in rearing their children. These are the reasons that I say “Every day in Kindergarten is a great day!”
Contact Me
cheiskell@redeemerdayschool.org
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Why Christian Education
Second only to a godly family upbringing in the home, Christian education is the best way to “train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6). Scriptural truth, honorable values, and righteous living are being instilled in these remarkably receptive children all throughout the day in a Christ-centered classroom. I consider teaching Spanish at Redeemer Day School and at Metro Academic Studies (both of which are housed out of my home church) as an extension to the ministry work I am already involved with at The Church of the Apostles since 1992. If you have a prayer request you would like to share with me, please feel free to e-mail me at karenprovb1717@gmail.com.
Why I Love Teaching
The most fulfilling aspect of teaching is that it provides an avenue for me to pour into these precious children the notion of how much God loves them. Each child is a unique and treasured gift to our Heavenly Father. It is my aspiration to instill in my students the sense of God Almighty’s all-embracing love, His all-sufficient grace, and His all-encompassing sovereignty. As we learn Spanish vocabulary, memorize Bible verses in Spanish, study Spanish-speaking countries, and take a close look at authentic articles from Central & South America, I want God’s presence and power wrapped around every bit of it! Furthermore, I earnestly believe that our Lord and Savior has put every beloved child in my path so that I can intentionally and regularly pray for each one of them by name. Our signature Bible verse in Redeemer Spanish is: “Dios es amor!” Juan 14:6 (“God is love!” John 14:6)
A Favorite Bible Verse
One of my favorite Bible verses is the life verse I use for my own son, my Miracle Micah, who brings me a wealth of joy! Given my son’s name, Micah, and my own spiritual gift of mercy, I feel this verse beautifully captures my family’s desired relationship with Jesus as well as with the body of Christ.
“He (God) has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? “To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8
It is worth noting that my Micah is now 6’-8”, so he is truly the living, breathing version of Micah 6:8!
On a Personal Note
Having grown up in Huntington Beach, California and graduating from Long Beach State University as a business major and a Spanish minor, I was blessed with a great opportunity to play volleyball collegiately, internationally, and professionally in Europe. Moreover, I was able to put my degree in Human Resources Management to good use in the corporate world as well as in my own HR consulting business. These athletic and professional endeavors motivate me to encourage my students to reach their highest potential in pursuing their goals while glorifying God Almighty in the process. The incredible power of prayer compels me to intentionally pray for my beloved students. My family and I have been very actively involved members at Church of the Apostles since 1992. My Miracle Micah is an Eagle Scout who was homeschooled, graduated from Metro Academic Studies in 2017 (where I have taught since 2013), and is currently double majoring in Physics and Political Science at Kennesaw State. I plan to graduate from KSU in May of 2024 with my Master’s in Business (MBA). These are all such rich gifts from our Heavenly Father, including the joy of being a part of this wonderful Redeemer Day School family in Christ!
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Why Christian Education
I enjoy being a part of the RDS staff because I am surrounded by people who love and desire to openly share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Redeemer fosters a loving environment coupled with structure and discipline not only for children to develop a love for Jesus and for learning, but also for adults to grow and mature as parents. We prefer to be the main influence in our children’s lives, but what a gift to know that when our children are not with us they are being lovingly poured into by like-minded people at RDS. It’s such a joy and a blessing to be part of a staff that loves the Lord and uses their influence in such a positive manner to nurture and grow the minds of even the youngest of children. I also enjoy working with children; it is a great opportunity for me to still be all mom and help out at Redeemer!
Favorite Bible Verse
There have been so many different verses that have been favorites of mine depending on the season of life, reminding me that my trust and confidence should remain in Christ alone, because He is enough for me. Right now I have found comfort and encouragement in
Philippians 1:6, “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus”.
On a Personal Note
I was born and raised right here in Georgia but went to college at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. After graduating, I missed Georgia so much that I came home. I was between here and New York pursuing a career in music; however, the Lord had other plans for me. One afternoon I received a call from The Heiskell School to come and teach first grade. I thought I would only be there for a year or two but fell in love with teaching and the school. I spent almost 8 wonderful years, two in first grade and six in second grade, teaching at Heiskell. While I was teaching, Cameron and I were married. I didn’t quite understand the gift the Lord had given me while teaching at Heiskell. It prepared my husband and me in so many ways. We are eternally grateful for my time there. We have three precious daughters, who remind us daily of how kind God has been to our family. As a family we love movie nights, nurturing our veggie garden, spending time outside, and cooking together. I enjoy studying the Word further at BSF and love being plugged into our church, Mount Vernon Baptist Church.
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Why Christian Education
I believe that a true Christian education instructs the whole child and shapes their mind and their heart. It provides a safe place for parents to partner with the teachers and the school community to instill Biblical truths and Christian values. Educating our children is a significant responsibility and the community in which they are educated shapes their worldview. A school where God’s truth is the cornerstone provides children and families a place to grow in their relationship with the Lord and gives them an opportunity to flourish.
Why I Love Teaching
It is a privilege to get to serve alongside such a wise and faithful group of teachers and staff. Redeemer is a light in a dark world! It is a place where we can pray for each other and talk about who God is and what He is doing in our lives. It is a place where teachers partner with parents and walk alongside them to encourage and equip them. Our children attended The Heiskell School, and we were greatly blessed by teachers and parents who impacted our family’s walk with the Lord. I understand how a school community can eternally impact families, and that is why I love serving at Redeemer Day School.
Favorite Bible Verse
2 Timothy 1:7 has carried me through many seasons of my life.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
On a Personal Note
I grew up in a small suburb of New York City. Alec and I have been married for 23 years and we settled in Atlanta to be closer to his family while raising our three children. We have two amazing daughters in college, and we are currently homeschooling our entrepreneurial son who runs a neighborhood lawn business. Our favorite things to do as a family are to go to the beach, ski, golf, and cheer on the Braves and the Bulldogs. I used to love long distance running, but now I love catching up with friends while speed walking throughout Atlanta!
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Why Christian Education
God’s Word is clear, “These words, which I am commanding you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall write them on the door posts of your house and on your gates.” Deuteronomy 6:6-9
God has given parents the responsibility of educating their children. That education is to be based on God’s Word and Christian principles. As Christian educators, we are given the privilege, by parents, to join them in this precious process. We are actively involved in praying for our children and their families, in sowing the seeds of God’s Word in their hearts, in training children in Christian values, and most importantly, in pointing them to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Why I Love Teaching
Teaching has been my passion for over forty years because of my two loves. My first love is for Christ and His Kingdom, and my second love is for children. My desire has always been to train, introduce and nourish children in the knowledge of who our God is, who we are as His people and our great need for a personal relationship with Him. I do not feel that there is a higher calling! I praise God for the opportunity to share Christ and depend on the Holy Spirit to draw these little people to Himself. What a joy!
A Favorite Bible Verse
I have many favorite Bible verses, but the one that seems most appropriate at this stage of my life is from Psalm 78:4. “We will not hide (the glorious deeds of our Lord) from our children, telling the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.” The Great Commission is still in effect!
On a Personal Note
I tell people all the time that I am the richest woman that I know, and I am not talking about my pocketbook! I have had the privilege of teaching with my daughter for 25 years. I have taught with my granddaughter for five years. I have taught all six of my grandchildren and two of my great grandchildren! How blessed can anyone be?
Staff
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Why I Love Serving at Redeemer Day School
I am excited to join the Redeemer Day School staff because its mission statement aligns with my own philosophy on educating young children: Christ-centered, teacher directed, academically challenging, and one which also serves parents in the biblical worldview training of their children. I am honored and humbled to serve this community by supporting and mentoring Redeemer’s parents. Realizing the challenge parents face in today’s culture, I desire to come alongside this parental community and offer encouragement and support. I have such admiration for parents and teachers who are striving to train and teach children from a Christ-centered approach to education. It is with great anticipation that I look forward to sharing with this community what God has taught me as a Christ-centered educator, wife, mother, and grandmother.
A Favorite Bible Verse
My life verse is Galatians 2:20 which says, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.”
On a Personal Note
Have you heard the saying, “You can take the girl off the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the girl?” Born and raised on a dairy farm in northern Indiana, I was blessed with a wonderful childhood. Along with my husband of almost 46 years, we have raised two children, who were both taught by “Miss Connie” (Heiskell) when they were in kindergarten! For enjoyment, I love to read, take online classes at Hillsdale, meet friends for coffee or lunch, engage in personal or small group Bible studies, travel, and walk on the beach. One of my greatest joys is reading via video chat to our grandchildren who are currently living in Burundi, Africa, with their parents who are serving as medical missionaries. Lap time would make my heart happier, but I’m thankful for technology – I never thought I’d say that!
I would love to have coffee with you and talk about your choice of parenting topics, so please give me a call or text at 678-313-9810.
Contact Me
jbrostrand@redeemerdayschool.org
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Why Christian Education
Public schools are certainly equipped to teach strong academic skills. However, God expects parents to provide an education for their child that goes far beyond strong academic skills. In addition to teaching the necessary academic skills, a priority needs to be placed on teaching children to know and love God.
A great goal and prayer for parents and teachers is found in Philippians 1:9-11 (TLB)
“9 My prayer for you is that you will overflow more and more with love for others, and at the same time keep on growing in spiritual knowledge and insight, 10 for I want you always to see clearly the difference between right and wrong, and to be inwardly clean, no one being able to criticize you from now until our Lord returns. 11 May you always be doing those good, kind things that show you are a child of God, for this will bring much praise and glory to the Lord.”
The values listed above can best be taught in an environment that promotes and supports Christian education.
Why I Love Teaching
I love teaching because this is the profession God has equipped me to pursue.
Favorite Bible Verses
I have numerous “favorite” verses. Currently two key passages of scripture for me are Isaiah 40:8 and Matthew 22:37-40.
“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.” (Isaiah 40:8 ESV)
“And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend on all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:37-40 ESV)
On a Personal Note
After leaving The Heiskell School, I started Seeking His Kingdom Ministries with a desire to encourage people to spend more time reading God’s Word and applying Biblical principles. I have been married to my wife Linda for 53 years. Linda and I enjoy biking, kayaking, and visiting new places in the US. I also enjoy photographing birds and working in my yard. Linda and I are members of The Church of The Apostles where we volunteer for various activities. I am a former member of the Vestry at The Church of the Apostles.
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Why I Love Serving at RDS
I love being in community with like-minded families, and my children and I have made many sweet friendships.
Favorite Bible Verse
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
On A Personal Note
I grew up in the west valley of Phoenix and after graduating from Arizona State University, I trekked east to work at Walt Disney World. During my nine years at Disney, I worked in various roles in Human Resources, internal communications, sales, training/facilitation and finance and earned my Master of Human Resources from Rollins College. The best part of my time at Disney was meeting my husband Chris. We wed in 2009 and together have two elementary school aged children, Hattie and Luke. We moved to the Atlanta area in 2014 and love exploring our city, cheering on the Braves and camping in our RV. I enjoy reading, hiking, trying new restaurants, walking my dog and weekends at the lake.
Contact Me
mharper@redeemerdayschool.org
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Why I Love Serving at RDS
It has been incredible to see firsthand, as a parent, the impact of teaching the content children need to know through the lens of God’s Word. Sometimes, we (parents) often deceive ourselves into thinking we need to be and do all for our children, but it truly does take many people to come alongside and help (many of these teachers taught our own children!). Watching these teachers bring Christ into ALL areas of a child’s education has been amazing to see, and I marvel at witnessing how the teachers do this with such wisdom and grace.
I love serving at RDS for many reasons, but most of all I love serving the teachers and families with whom I come into contact. As a mama of five, and one son-in-law, I totally resonate with the feelings of RDS parents who are leading busy lives, learning in those fun ‘teachable moments,’ how to be the parents God intends us to be. We can feel a sense of failure sometimes in this area, but also, God’s grace is made all the more evident to us. Some of my favorite conversations with RDS parents have been in the carpool line!
There is still such an empty slate in a child’s life waiting to be filled. It brings me great joy to be able to help the teachers with their daily tasks so that they can focus their time filling those slates with truths about our Creator while teaching letters, numbers, reading, Bible time, singing or playing. Watching the teachers instruct and the wisdom they are sharing with the students and the parents has been such a gift to me!
Favorite Bible Verse
...” you whom I have upheld since your birth and have carried since you were born. Even to your old age and gray hairs. I am he; I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you. I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”
I love this verse because it shows how faithful God is in our lives-from beginning to the end, Amen!
Isaiah 46: 3-4
On a Personal Note
I met my husband, Jamie, in Big Sky, Montana of all places! We now have six children after our daughter's wedding - one daughter, one son-in-law and four sons. Jamie and I are currently in five different stages of life with our children: married, college, high school, middle school, and elementary! Life.is.FULL in a wonderful way! Our motto is: 'Never a dull moment, only dull senses.". In the summertime, we love heading to the North Georgia mountains or to a family farm just over the southern Georgia border for a respite. Favorite pastimes for me are swimming, gardening, reading, encouraging young mothers and praying for family and friends.
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Why I love serving at RDS
I am honored and thankful to serve at Redeemer! As a Christian educator and parent, it is my joy to work in a school that is Christ centered and focused on glorifying God in all that we say and do.
My goal is to utilize my God given gifts to love, nurture and teach little ones about Jesus. I also strive to serve others in the school, wherever needed, enjoying fellowship built upon Christian principles.
A Favorite Bible Verse
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good: his love endures forever. Psalm 107:1
So often, during hardships, we fall into negativity and worry. However, this verse reminds me that I have SO much to be thankful for and my loving God is with me always, no matter what trials I may face.
On a personal note
I grew up in Denver, Colorado, but obtained my teaching degree from the University of Texas in Austin. While in college, I met my husband and we married shortly after graduation. In those early years of marriage,
we moved many times as he pursued his medical education and training. But we have lived in the Atlanta area now for 20 years. God has blessed our family with four daughters, a son in law and one wonderful grandson!
As an educator, I've enjoyed various teaching positions, including elementary and special education, Pre-K and Kindergarten. I am so thankful to God for all He has provided and especially now, to be a part of Redeemer Day School!
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Why I Love Serving at RDS
I love serving at RDS because it is such a great place to be! That means teachers, staff, and kids! All the teachers and staff at RDS are so sweet and kind. I love seeing their smiling faces and having hugs each day. I appreciate their love and care for me as a person. These ladies have taught me things and been a blessing in my life. I also enjoy the privilege of helping with the children, whether reading a story, keeping little ones in line, or reminding them to listen and obey Miss Page’s instructions. I enjoy making the kids laugh and playing with them on their level. Sharing a hug is a special part of my day. I love working at RDS!
A Favorite Bible Verse
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
I appreciate this verse because it reminds me that Jesus gives me help when times or things are difficult. He is always with me, and He knows what I am going through. But also, I can have a part in serving with Jesus, even when life is tough, because He gives me the power to live.
On a Personal Note
I was born in Brisbane, Australia. My grandparents went there as church planters, and it is where my dad and mum met in college. When I was 12, God called our family back to the USA, where He has had my dad teaching New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary here in Atlanta. I was homeschooled, along with 3 of my brothers. My youngest brother finished RDS last year. Three of us, including me, have Fragile X syndrome, which makes learning, and sometimes life, a challenge! But God is good and brings good through it all.
I enjoy singing, hanging out with people, watching old shows like “I Love Lucy” or British shows like “Victorian Farm” or “The Great British Bake-Off.”
I love holding and caring for babies. I enjoy little kids, playing games or being silly together, making them laugh. I have a number of friends with disabilities, and I really value them and the time I get to be with them. I love texting my family and friends all over the world and keeping up with how they are doing.
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Why I Love Serving at RDS
Our first daughter (we now have three!) started at Redeemer Day School with Miss Page in 2018. My husband and I both went to traditional schools, but wanted something much different for her. We witnessed the most beautiful integration of different areas of education with God's Word. Throughout the whole day, our daughter learned to view the world through a Biblical lens; for instance, seeing nature as God's beautiful artistry, play time as a chance to move her body made in the image of God. RDS radiates the love of Jesus through encouragement, training, values and expectations. The culture is quickly changing and RDS helps to shepherd a deep love of God at an early age so that our children can be rooted in faith. I'm so grateful to be able to help this amazing school in any way I can.
A Favorite Bible Verse
Psalm 73:26
"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
Job 19:25
"For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He shall stand upon the earth."
Psalm 27:1
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
On a Personal Note
I grew up in a small college town in Ohio, then went on to Wittenberg University (another small college town in Ohio). After graduating, I found myself in the big city of Chicago where I worked in Education and Development for a large law firm. One wintry day in December of 2008, I boarded a Delta flight to NYC and there in the seat next to me was Griffin, a handsome young man from Atlanta. We talked the entire flight there...and the entire flight back to Chicago (which we were miraculously on together). There's more to that story and Griffin tells it much better than I do using lots of gestures and accents. As it turns out, I married that man in 2011, moved to Atlanta and we now have three precious daughters. We both think of that "Meet Cute" as an incredible wink from God. In my spare time I love to play tennis, cook, garden and travel with my family.
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Why I Love Serving at RDS
Serving At RDS brings joy to my heart as I work side by side with an amazing family of believers.
A Favorite Bible Verse
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.
You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:11-13
On a Personal Note
I grew up in Valdosta, Georgia. I attended Valdosta State University and received a Bachelor Of Science Degree in Nursing. I married Keith Greenway who was stationed at Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta. We moved to Homestead Air Force Base in Miami, Florida for a year. After the year was up we moved to Atlanta, his home town. I gave up Nursing and worked at Metropolitan Hospital for many years as a pharmacy technician. I also assisted doctors who performed laser procedures on patients. When Metropolitan closed I got a job at Covenant Christian School, where my daughter attended school, as an Admission Coordinator. We enjoyed going to school together. After my daughter graduated from CCS (11th grade) I decided to take a break. I went back to work and got a job at The Heiskell School. When Heiskell closed I went back to CCS as an Assistant. I left CCS in 2022 and was blessed in 2023 when the RDS door opened for me.
Keith and I have one daughter and she and her husband have a daughter Jordin, who is the joy in our lives. To God almighty be the glory!!