Our Preschool Faculty have been chosen for their expertise, as well as their love for children. They have extensive knowledge and experience in Early Childhood Education and Development. They are dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing environment for the children. On-going education and training keep staff up-to-date in Early Childhood Education, CPR and first aid.

All faculty are under the direction of Frank Canepa, GCS Administrator, and Pastor Thomas P. Frisinger, GCS Superintendent and Senior Pastor of Faith Journey Church.

Preschool Staff

Suzie Hockett, Preschool Director / M-W-F AM 4's Teacher

Mrs. Hockett has been teaching for 14 years; all 13 of those years at Gaarde Christian School. She has an Oregon transfer degree, with an emphasis in early childhood education.

Linda Scott, Pre-K Teacher AM and PM Teacher

Mrs. Scott has over 30 years of teaching experience and several of those years have been spent at Gaarde.  Last school year Mrs. Scott taught First and Second Grades in a small Christian bilingual school in Honduras.  We are happy to have her back among us.

Denise Gunderson, M-W-F 4's Teacher

Mrs. Gunderson has been teaching preschool for 24 years; 21 of those years have been at Gaarde Christian School. She completed early childhood education courses with the Association of Christian Schools International.

Paula Kurtz, M-W-F 3's and T-Th 3's Teacher

Mrs. Kurtz has a bachelors degree in Child Development and Psychology, and has been teaching for 35 years. She has been teaching at Gaarde Christian School for 13 years.

Stacei Sperl, Pre-K Teacher

Mrs. Sperl operated her own State certified Pre-School and Daycare for five years, 2004-2009. She has a Liberal Arts degree from Jefferson University of New York.  This is her first year at Gaarde Christian School.