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Meet Ken Juday

August 21, 2024
By Oakland Christian School

What is your role this year?  

Math teacher: Honors Algebra 2; Personal Finance; Pre-Calculus; AP Calculus

Tell us about your family.

I am married. I have 3 daughters and my wife has 4 daughters and 2 sons. Together we have 9 children and 12 grandchildren. There is always something happening. We also both take care of our mothers. 

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

I like to play chess and darts. We go swimming and kayaking at the lake. I like to read and go for walks.

Why do you choose to work at Oakland Christian School?

I like the Christian mission of Oakland Christian School and many in our congregation send their children to OCS.

What is your favorite Bible Verse?

Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Tags: Secondary

Meet Julie Brouwer

August 12, 2024
By Oakland Christian School

What is your role this year?  

I'm excited to join the team at OCS serving in the kitchen.

Tell us about your family.

My husband, Matthew, and I have been married for 13 years. We are blessed to have two boys who keep our life so full of joy and opportunity to grow in God's grace. Our oldest will be in 2nd grade this year and our youngest will enter Kindergarten. We love to adventure with our boys in the daily things at home or through travel. We love spending time with extended family here in Michigan and in my home state of Washington. We're thankful for the friendships God gives our family through OCS, church, and community, and look forward to meeting more of the OCS family.

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

I love to read and enjoy being a part of a book club. I like to play with my family whether that be a bike ride, a sport, or another activity.  We like to travel both to the UP and Washington to see family and travel to new places. This summer I've especially enjoyed sharing my love for the Olympics with my family. I enjoy baking, mostly cookies, but occasionally something else. I love being a part of the international Bible study program of Bible Study Fellowship and how it has fostered my growing love for God and His Word and for others.

Why do you choose to work at Oakland Christian School?

We're passionate about Christian education and so blessed by our family's experience at OCS. I'm excited to be a part of supporting this community and seeing the students and staff more. It brings me so much joy and I pray God will help me to share His joy.

What is your favorite Bible Verse?

"I can do all this through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13 has been a favorite from when I first memorized it at a young age. It reminds me that in all circumstances God is my strength, and my strength doesn’t rest in myself but in Him. His strength knows no limit. This both comforts me and challenges me, correcting my thinking to not limit God but choose to trust in faith His will. 

Meet Leslie Hawkins

August 08, 2024
By Oakland Christian School

What is your role this year?  

Physical Education 6-9 grades

Tell us about your family.

Family of 5- Doug (husband) 3 children: Alexis-25, Kayla-22, & Nicholas-19 & our dog Chaser-12

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

Read, crafts, golfing, kayaking, walking, gardening, hiking & traveling.

Why do you choose to work at Oakland Christian School?

Worked for 26 years in public school & still love teaching. Wanted to be surrounded with more brothers & sisters who walk the same path as Jesus.

What is your favorite Bible Verse?

Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Also, Luke 15:3-4, ”Then Jesus told them this parable: ‘Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?’"
 

Meet Shannon Owens

August 01, 2024
By Oakland Christian School

What is your role this year?  

I’ll be teaching Second Grade this year!

Tell us about your family.

My husband and I just celebrated our two year anniversary! We have a golden retriever named Sunny. My mom lives in Erie, PA where I grew up. I have an older sister who lives in Kent, OH and she’s a photographer. My little brother is living in Pittsburgh, PA currently and works at Highmark. We’re all spread out but love to catch up often!

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

I love being with my husband and my dog, embroidery, cooking, reading, hiking, drinking coffee, and exploring my new state! We moved here from Cleveland, Ohio in January.

Why do you choose to work at Oakland Christian School?

Coming from a previous Christian school, I know how amazing it is to be able to share Jesus’ love with the students, staff, and families. I am overjoyed to be back in a Christian School. From the short amount of time I’ve been here, I can already tell this place is very special. I cannot wait to begin teaching here.

What is your favorite Bible Verse?

2 Corinthians 12:9 “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

This reminds me that I am not in control, and I can do nothing apart from Christ!
 

Tags: Elementary

Meet Diana Mejia

July 31, 2024
By Oakland Christian School

What is your role this year? 

I'm happy to be a Kindergarten Assistant for the Spanish Immersion Program.

Tell us about your family.

I've been married for 25 years to my lovely husband Everardo. He is a Mechanical engineer working for General Motors. We have the blessing of being parents of 4 kids and a dog. Our oldest son Ever graduated from Oakland University in 2023 with a Computer Engineering degree, and is currently looking to pursue a masters degree. Jorge is currently studying Information Systems and Business Analytics at DePaul University in Chicago and he's looking forward to his study abroad program this fall. Our youngest, the twins who attend OCS, Aaron and Elizabeth are excited to start 8th grade. Aaron is passionate about his involvement in OCS robotics and soccer. Elizabeth loves her church group and she's practicing tennis. We also have a lovely 4 year old mini golden doodle called, Bumper. 

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

I love spending time with my family and friends. We love watching a family movie, playing board games, taking our RV to go camping and fishing. 

Why do you choose to work at Oakland Christian School?

I wanted to be part of a community where my values and faith align with it. OCS has been a great place for my twins, they have grown deeply in their faith and love to Jesus as well in their academic skills. Therefore, I humbly want to be an instrument that helps in the spiritual growth and development of the kids where God called me to serve.

What is your favorite Bible Verse?

2 Timothy 1:7 " For God did not give us a spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control."

Tags: Elementary

Meet John Rama

July 25, 2024
By Oakland Christian School

What is your role this year?  

I will be teaching high school Statistics, AP Statistics, Algebra 1, and Honors Algebra 1.

Tell us about your family.

My wife, Lynne, and I will be celebrating our 28th anniversary in August. Lynne is currently a Professor and Program Director of the Medical Laboratory Science program at Eastern Michigan University. We have two wonderful children, Ben and Elaine. Ben will be a junior at Central Michigan University this year. He is working toward a degree in Business and plays club lacrosse for Central. In the fall, Elaine will begin her freshman year at Michigan Tech University and is planning to pursue a Biomedical Engineering degree. She plays soccer and cello and really loves snow.

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, vacationing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, downhill skiing, cross country skiing, volunteering at church, playing games, and exercising.

Why do you choose to work at Oakland Christian School?

I am excited about the opportunity OCS is giving me to share my love of Jesus and passion for mathematics with students. I am looking forward to being part of their high school journey and hope to encourage them to grow in their faith and challenge them to deepen their understanding and appreciation for mathematics.

What is your favorite Bible Verse?

Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Tags: Secondary

Meet Jared Frantz

October 20, 2023
By Oakland Christian School

Join us in welcoming Jarred Frantz, our new 9th and 10th grade Bible teacher, to Oakland Christian School!

Jarred comes to us with a passion for deepening our students' connection with God. He's leading the way for our 9th graders through "The New City Catechism," a series of thought-provoking questions that will help students grow closer to God and understand their faith on a deeper level. 

For our 10th graders, Jarred is guiding them through "The Triumph of Christ," a comprehensive study of the entire Bible with a focus on the book of Acts and Paul's epistles. 

Jarred's favorite Bible verse, John 3:30, reflects his dedication to serving God with humility: "He must become greater; I must become less." 

Let's give Jarred Frantz a warm Oakland Christian School welcome and support him as he helps our students grow in their understanding of the Lord, the scripture, and the world around them It's going to be an incredible year of growth and discovery!

Meet Emily Bourque

October 06, 2023
By Oakland Christian School

Join us in welcoming Emily Bourque to Oakland Christian School!

Emily Bourque has joined us as the 6th-grade Bible Teacher. Emily's enthusiasm for teaching is truly inspiring! She is most excited to watch our 6th graders grow in their love for Jesus this year. 

Her favorite Bible verses, Ecclesiastes 3:1-4, remind us of the beauty of God's timing:
1     There is a time for everything,
   and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2     a time to be born and a time to die,
   a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3     a time to kill and a time to heal,
   a time to tear down and a time to build,
4     a time to weep and a time to laugh,
   a time to mourn and a time to dance,

Let's give Emily a warm Oakland Christian School welcome and support her in her mission to guide our 6th graders this year. We're excited to see the incredible impact she'll have on their lives! 

Meet Kristy Tolbert

September 29, 2023
By Oakland Christian School

Help us welcome Kristy Tolbert to the OCS Family!

With 23 years of dedicated experience in education, Kristy brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our 6th Grade Transitional Program, where she is teaching ELA and Social Studies.

As a former Social Studies Curriculum Specialist, Kristy is passionate about helping our students explore the world and their place in it. Her expertise and dedication to fostering a love for learning are sure to make a positive impact on our OCS 6th Graders!

Kristy and her family have recently made the move to Oakland County from West Michigan, and they are excited for new experiences and to learn more about the community.

Philippians 2:5 is an important verse to Kristy. It reflects her commitment to fostering meaningful connections with others, mirroring the mindset of Jesus in all her interactions.

Join us in extending a warm welcome to Kristy Tolbert! 

Meet Brian Eddy

September 29, 2023
By Oakland Christian School

Introducing Mr. Brian Eddy, our new Secondary Principal! With 20 years of experience, including roles as a science teacher, coach, elementary principal, and high school principal, Mr. Eddy brings a wealth of expertise to our OCS community!

Coming from Imlay City Schools, where he led as the high school principal for 6 years, Mr. Eddy is dedicated to guiding students all the way to graduation. He believes in the value of each student's journey and is committed to their growth both academically and spiritually.

Mr. Eddy's favorite verse is Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Welcome, Mr. Eddy!  We are honored to be able to join you in this new chapter of learning, growth, and inspiration at OCS!

Meet Alejandra Mituta

September 29, 2023
By Oakland Christian School

Introducing Mrs. Alejandra Mituta, a vibrant addition to our OCS Family! As a third-grade Spanish Immersion teacher, she's igniting young minds with language, culture, and Biblical Truth! Alejandra's passion for storytelling comes alive as she reads, capturing her students' imaginations with every word. Her favorite verse is Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." 

Let's give a warm welcome to Alejandra as she embarks on this exciting journey with our students! 

Meet Alex Morgan

August 30, 2023
By Oakland Christian School

Help us give a warm Oakland Christian family welcome to Alex Morgan! 

We are thrilled to have you on board as our 7th and 8th grade Math teacher and Middle School Yearbook teacher. Alex says she can't wait to see how God works through her to help students fulfill their purpose this year! 

Alex's favorite verse is Proverbs 3:5, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." 

We pray that the Lord uses you in mighty ways this year!  We are so happy to have you on the team!

Meet Terri Clark

September 11, 2022
By Oakland Christian School

What’s your new position at OCS?

Elementary Principal

Where are you from?

San Diego, CA

Where do you go to church?

The Lakes

Tell us about your family!

I have 4 grown children, a beautiful daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I love to ride bikes, cook, read, and spend time with family.

What are you most passionate about?

Helping children and teachers grow in their walk with God, bringing glory to God in the roles He has called me to.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at OCS?

Being a part of God's story at OCS!
 

Tags: Elementary

Meet Faith Badyna

September 08, 2022
By Oakland Christian School

What’s your new position at OCS?

I will be working with Mrs. Ales in food service along with helping on the OMEGA team.

Where are you from?

Ortonville, MI

Where do you go to church?

Bridgewood Church

Tell us about your family!

I have two kids. Dean is 6 and in 1st grade. Jaimee is 4 and attending preschool at a school new OCS. They are my world. I am also lucky enough to have all my siblings and parents so close to us. They are my biggest support system.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

Well, I’m an open book so there might not be much that you don’t know about me. I tend to talk and talk, maybe too much.

What are you most passionate about?

I think my biggest passion is being a mom and being a good mom for each of my kids. I have recently become passionate about reading. I like story books but I’ve loved books about the Bible and how they make you think differently and see deeper into the passage you are reading.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at OCS?

I’m excited to meet new people. I’m excited to see where this takes me and most of all I am excited to be surrounded by Christian people who uplift each other.
 

Meet Adam Normand

September 01, 2022
By Oakland Christian School

What’s your new position at OCS?

High School Mathematics and Bible Teacher, Head of Mathematics Department.

Where are you from?

Originally from a small town outside Austin, TX

Where do you go to church?

Woodside Bible Church, Troy

Tell us about your family!

I am married to Kattie who also teaches at OCS. We met while teaching at an international school in Casablanca, Morocco, and got married soon thereafter when God united our lives together as one. We have two wonderful children, Phoebe and Marek, who are both Middle School students at OCS.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

Most people don't know that I have been an educator in public, private, and international schools in Casablanca, Morocco, outside Portland, Oregon, Austin, Texas, Fort Wayne, Indiana, Doha, Qatar, and Wrocław, Poland. Throughout all these experiences, God has been wondrously faithful to me and my family, and I have learned and grown in ways I never could have imagined.

What are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about growing in my faith and helping others to grow in theirs. Without the Gospel, I am breathing to death. With the Gospel, I have found purpose in life.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at OCS?

I look forward to building God's kingdom by being discipled and partnering with my OCS colleagues, families, and churches in making disciples. I find the greatest joy and satisfaction when I see someone grow in their faith, especially the young people God has entrusted to my care. May He alone be magnified.

 

Meet Chris Malmstrom

August 25, 2022
By Oakland Christian School

What’s your new position at OCS?

Dean of Christian Life

Where are you from?

Swartz Creek Michigan

Where do you go to church?

TBD, the Malmstrom family is still visiting churches.

Tell us about your family!

My wife Lauren and I were married in 2008 and we have three children: twin boys Zander and Theo are 10 years old, and one daughter Charlotte, who is 7 years old.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I am an avid golfer.  I've played since I was 10 years old.  I love how challenging it is.  Even after playing for more than 25 years, I'm not very good, but I love the game!

What are you most passionate about?

Fostering opportunities for spiritual growth in the next generation of Christ-following leaders.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at OCS?

Partnering with OCS families to help raise their children to look to Jesus instead of everything else that competes for their attention.
 

Meet Kathrine Normand

August 18, 2022
By Oakland Christian School

What’s your new position at OCS?

Educational Support - Secondary

Where are you from?

Central Michigan

Where do you go to church?

Woodside - Troy

Tell us about your family!

I am married to Adam (HS Math and Bible guy), mom of Phoebe (grade 8) and Marek (grade 6). We have two furry friends - Mango and Zeek.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I love to do pyrography.

What are you most passionate about?

I'm passionate about creating an environment where students thrive and enjoy their learning.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at OCS?

Getting to know the students and staff.
 

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