• Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Art, Art Education and Art History from Dordt College
• Working on a graduate degree from the University of Nebraska
• I am in my fifth year at Pella Christian

It was as a student at Pella Christian that I discoved what a special place this is. My experience as a teacher has shown me the same loving Christian community I encountered as a boy. It is truly enriching to work in such an atmosphere. This is a group of people that not only work together; we also pray together and share triumphs and burdens.

My interest in art began during a specific class project, a Sioux village diorama for Mrs. VanDyke's class in second grade. I still remember the exhilaration I felt when the vision in my mind became a reality. My interst in art continued to be nutured through many other experiences at Pella Christian. 

Eventually I learned that I loved art, not just as a school subject but as a way of living. I want to live an aesthetically faithful life, savoring the beauty of God's creation. It is He who brought into being the colors, textures, patterns, and forms all in exquisite nuance. It is He who gives us senses to perceive and minds to interpret and hands to make. I want to share these truths with my students, directing them to fully appreciate the glory of God manifested in the visuals of our lives.

Fun Facts:

• I first became interested in teaching when I filled in as a teacher for the local gymnastics program.
• In my free time I like to be outside with my family, read quirky novels, and paint.
• My favorite artist is Bobby Chiu. He's an incredibly talented illustrator and teacher.
• One major goal of mine is to illustrate a children's book and get it published.
• I love 1 Thesalonians 5:2 "Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."