STAFF
Who We Are
At Joshua Christian Academy, our staff is more than a team. We are a Christ-centered family committed to bringing hope, inspiration, and encouragement to the urban children and families of Des Moines. Our teachers and staff are committed to helping our students grow academically and spiritually. At JCA, we don’t just teach, we walk alongside each child to help them develop a personal relationship with Jesus, their classmates, and members of their community.
Administration
Breck Appell serves as the Director at JCA Main. He holds both a B.A. and M.S. from Pensacola Christian College. Mr. Appell loves working at JCA because, in his words, “the students are the best.” His favorite part of his role is spending time with the students and encouraging them in both their academics and their walk with Christ.
Mr. Appell grew up in upstate New York in a family that faithfully attended church every time the doors were open. His father regularly led the family in nightly devotions, and from an early age, his parents made it clear that salvation was not something inherited from family or church, but rather came through a personal relationship with God through the finished work of Jesus Christ. As a young boy, Mr. Appell realized he was a sinner in need of salvation. He knew that Jesus had died on the cross and risen from the grave to pay the price for his redemption. One evening, after family devotions, Mr. Appell prayed to God and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. That decision set the course of his life and ministry.
About 30 years ago, Mr. Appell and his wife moved from their rural hometown in New York to the Midwest, where they have built their life together. Family is deeply important to him, and one of his greatest joys is spending time with his grandchildren.
With more than 30 years of experience in education, Mr. Appell has served in a wide variety of positions ranging from elementary classrooms to the college level. He has worked at several schools throughout his career, with his longest tenure at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, where he served for nearly 20 years. His dedication to education has always been rooted in his desire to see students grow both academically and spiritually.
Outside of his work, Mr. Appell enjoys playing with his grandchildren and cherishes every opportunity to invest in his family.
His guiding verse is Psalm 8:4: “What is man that You remember him, the son of man that You look after him?”
I grew up in a Christian home and was saved at seven through curiosity about how to get to heaven. At a young age, I saw the world was evil, but God is good. I was baptized by immersion and matured greatly in my faith, but through middle and high school, I chased the world in ways that left me unsatisfied, sad, and dark. I studied Elementary Education at Faith Baptist Bible College, where my faith truly blossomed. I enjoyed playing basketball and volleyball as a captain and spiritual leader for four years. My relationship with God was established and prepared me for what came next. About two summers ago, my 19-year-old brother was hit by a drunk driver and killed instantly. The night he was taken to heaven, he texted our family, telling us God and His Word are REAL and we can be united as Christians through the Word. God planned my brother's life for this moment. I was shaken, but God showed me again that His Word is real. This pushed me towards my true desire, which I thought it was teaching, but was truly just to impact others, reach the community, and spread God's Word. Through my life experiences, God has revealed Himself to me through my talents and the joy in my life.
My testimony brings me to what I LOVE about my job. I love the mission at Joshua Christian Academy and the people. God led me here very clearly. I was not sure why at the time, but I know this is what He wanted for me. I love education and I love spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. People need to be loved and kids need to be loved. I love that we work to give students the best education and supporting their small minds. I also love getting to know the families and staff. The environment is beautiful here at JCA!
I am now pursuing my Masters in Educational Leadership from Pensacola Christian College! I attend Community Baptist Church where I am involved in the children's teaching ministries, children's worship, adult worship, and college group worship. I have nine siblings and we lived all over growing up including Georgia, Florida, and Kansas. I finally ended up in Ankeny, Iowa for college. I am married to Joshua Forgie and we have two dogs and a cat. I love painting and playing the acoustic guitar in my free time.
My life passage is Ecclesiastes 3:1-15: I believe God is completely in control and He wants us to do good on the earth! A trust so sweet that we can have hope each day and enjoy what He has given us. I pray that when I am in heaven one day, I will be told "well done, my servant". The Lord will sustain us.
Mr. Taylor serves as the Director at JCA South, where his mission is to impact and grow the Kingdom of God through Christ-centered leadership and discipleship. He earned his Master of Divinity and Master of Christian Education from Midwestern Baptist Seminary.
Originally from just south of Des Moines, Mr. Taylor brings a wealth of experience as an author, speaker, and worship leader. His heart for ministry and education is rooted in a desire to see students grow spiritually, academically, and personally as followers of Christ.
Outside of his work at JCA, Mr. Taylor finds great joy in being a dad and leading others in worship and truth.
Becky Langholz grew up in the country near Liscomb, and attended Northwestern College in Orange City, IA where she received her BA in Music Education.
Her teaching career started as a K-12 music teacher at Clay Central School in Royal, IA. From there, Becky has taught secondary music at Interstate 35 schools, four years at Ankeny Christian Academy, and then to junior high in the Des Moines Public Schools District.
While Becky was preparing to retire from public school, Chris Hurley’s son Tim, both greatly involved at JCA, suggested that she consider teaching at JCA for a time. “From the first time I walked in the door I knew He brought me here to serve Him by serving His children and their families in this amazing faith family called JCA.”
Becky has been married to her husband Kelly for 32 years and together they have two children. Their daughter lives in Colorado with her husband and two children, and their son and his wife live in West Des Moines.
Mrs. Hurley grew up on a dairy farm near Oelwein and graduated from high school there. She attended and graduated from the University of Kansas on a basketball scholarship and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. She later earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Upper Iowa University.
Chris was a member of the original design team that founded JCA in 2008, serving as the board President for 14 years. She has also served as a teacher, coach, referee, high school coordinator, building maintenance supervisor, and athletic director through the years of growth and development.
She and her husband, Chuck, have been married since 1984, and have 10 children, 6 girls and 4 boys, and 18 grandchildren. Their youngest child, Abby, graduated from JCA after attending from 1st through 12th grade, being a member of the first class of 9 at JCA in 2009. Abby has now returned to JCA as a third-grade teacher at the Main campus.
"Being a part of the JCA family has grown my faith in ways that are incredible, "says Mrs Hurley. "He has provided for our every need, and it is His school. God has also brought some amazing people to serve there that have become some of my most treasured friends."
Callista grew up in Pella, Iowa and has two older siblings. Callista grew up in a faith-filled home that instilled the love of Jesus at a young age. Growing up she attended various Christian camps, conferences and mission trips through her church. Through these experiences she saw the impact God has working through His people. Callista has always had a passion for working with kids through working at daycares, teaching dance, and nannying. She knew post graduation she wanted to be in an environment making a difference in the lives of our youth, but didn’t know what that would look like. She graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies, where she still struggled knowing what a career was going to look like. Really leaning on the goodness of God, He blessed her with her current position at Joshua Christian Academy. Getting to use her gift of creativity, organization, communication and love for others, she has felt at home here at JCA.
In her free time she loves to be creative painting, drawing and sewing. She has an event floral business called The Eternal Bloom she has recently enjoyed really delving into working with brides to create the wedding of their dreams. She also loves exploring outside in the warmer months and spending time with family and friends.
Tosha comes to JCA with two Bachelor’s degrees from Iowa State University in Marketing and Management and an Associates in Applied Science degree in commercial art. She has diverse professional experience in all three fields and some she did not receive educational training in.
Tosha learned about JCA through a friend that had a family member attending as student. She was initially in pursuit of Christian education for her middle-school son when God surprised her with an opportunity to join JCA as an employee also. There is no doubt that it was God moving in her life to bring her to JCA. She is very excited to be a part of expanding God’s kingdom here on earth through the mission at work at JCA.
Tosha placed her trust in Jesus when she was 36 years old. Since then, she has seen God’s faithfulness in big ways and is learning how to surrender her life and follow Jesus more and more every day. Tosha is involved in the women’s ministries at church and loves serving the Lord by opening her home for women’s groups to gather and grow in the knowledge and closeness to God.
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, Oh Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14
Olivia Van Arkel serves as the Admissions Manager at Joshua Christian Academy. She loves seeing students grow and change throughout the year and enjoys being part of their daily school experience.
Olivia grew up in Oskaloosa, Iowa, and moved to Ankeny in 2022. She has two older sisters, one living in Florida and the other in Oskaloosa.
In her free time, Olivia enjoys spending time with friends, exploring new coffee shops, and relaxing in a hammock.
Tina is from Prairie City, Iowa. She spent over 30 years in corporate America, mostly in the financial services arena.
While at Principal Financial Group, she managed a team responsible for sales compensation. She enjoyed talent development and helping others achieve their career goals.
Tina, a wife to Mike; a mother to Joshua, Jacob and Lucas; and a mother-in-law to Takiesha and Arianne. Two of her sons currently serve in the Air Force, and a third son is a Navy veteran.
“Since inception, I’ve seen God’s hand in the mission at Joshua Christian Academy, and I’ve also come to admire the various servants that I have the privilege to work alongside.”
Kourtlin Jackson grew up in Des Moines. He has always had a love for youth sports. His parents instilled in him at a young age the principle of hard work, and if you want to be good at anything, hardwork is the start. Kourtlin graduated from Iowa State with his Bachelor's degree in 2015. After leaving Iowa State he finished his last year of college basketball at the University of Southern Miss where he received his Master's in Sports Management.
Through his collegiate experience, his love for Christ just grew and he got baptized in 2016 where he explains was a pivotal point and step for him in his walk with Christ. Kourtlin defines his journey as one that has been carried by prayer. He learned and stands by the fact that there is so much power in prayer.
Before coming onboard at JCA he has worked at YMCA's where he led summer camp and youth programs, he has coached aau basketball and coached at Johnston high school boys basketball, he has worked for a ministry in Des Moines called Freedom for Youth where he oversaw all K-12 after school program and he started the program called Community Sports Movement.
Kourtlin believes his experience and education has prepared him to work at JCA and he is so thankful that this opportunity has come for him to unleash all of the passion he has for youth sports.
I graduated from Central College with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. I began my teaching career at Stowe Elementary in East Des Moines. Next, I became a full-time mother to five and returned to teaching in 1982.
God called me to full-time ministry at Des Moines Christian School where I served as Director of Early Education for over 25 years. Upon retirement, I was drawn to the planning table for Joshua Christian Academy, where I have served in many capacities since the beginning.
“I am a child of God, a disciple of Christ, a mother of many, a grandmother to more, and a faithful servant in ministry. “
Mr. Clark grew up in Keokuk, Iowa and earned his AAS in Computer Programming and Analysis from Indian Hills Community College. After college, he spent four years as a web developer before the Lord called him to be a stay-at-home dad for the next 13 years. Mr. Clark and his wife then enrolled their children at JCA and he came on as staff, which has been a great way to utilize his skills for God’s glory and stay involved in his children’s education.
Mr. Clark has been married for 19 years and has four children, ages 7 to 16. Martial arts is a passion enjoyed by the whole family; specifically Kempo martial arts for the last four years.
“I didn't come to Christ until my mid-twenties. Prior to that I was part of the traditional party scene. But at a low point in my life I found Christ. I've been walking with Him for the past 20+ years”
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10
JCA Main Campus
Located at 1740 Garfield Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa, JCA Main serves as our main office. We serve students in grades K-7 at this location. Visit our other two locations for more grades.
Breck Appell serves as the Director at JCA Main. He holds both a B.A. and M.S. from Pensacola Christian College. Mr. Appell loves working at JCA because, in his words, “the students are the best.” His favorite part of his role is spending time with the students and encouraging them in both their academics and their walk with Christ.
Mr. Appell grew up in upstate New York in a family that faithfully attended church every time the doors were open. His father regularly led the family in nightly devotions, and from an early age, his parents made it clear that salvation was not something inherited from family or church, but rather came through a personal relationship with God through the finished work of Jesus Christ. As a young boy, Mr. Appell realized he was a sinner in need of salvation. He knew that Jesus had died on the cross and risen from the grave to pay the price for his redemption. One evening, after family devotions, Mr. Appell prayed to God and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. That decision set the course of his life and ministry.
About 30 years ago, Mr. Appell and his wife moved from their rural hometown in New York to the Midwest, where they have built their life together. Family is deeply important to him, and one of his greatest joys is spending time with his grandchildren.
With more than 30 years of experience in education, Mr. Appell has served in a wide variety of positions ranging from elementary classrooms to the college level. He has worked at several schools throughout his career, with his longest tenure at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, where he served for nearly 20 years. His dedication to education has always been rooted in his desire to see students grow both academically and spiritually.
Outside of his work, Mr. Appell enjoys playing with his grandchildren and cherishes every opportunity to invest in his family.
His guiding verse is Psalm 8:4: “What is man that You remember him, the son of man that You look after him?”
Ms. Wojcik graduated from William Penn University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Reading. She has had various teaching experiences including teaching in New York, Iowa, Michigan, and Arizona. She has held positions in special education and with Sylvan Learning Center as a tutor. Ms. Wojcik has three children. She served in the children’s ministry at BSF for three years.
“I know, without a doubt, that God has called me to be here at JCA. I am more than excited to see what God will do at this school and through the students who attend here. I consider it an honor to work with the amazing staff that God has placed at JCA. I look forward to teaching the children academics while incorporating the love of Christ freely into every part of our day. What a blessing it is to be a part of Joshua Christian Academy.”
Des Moines native Tanekia Wright spent 18 years in Des Moines Public Schools prior to joining Joshua Christian Academy. Proverbs 22 influenced her decision greatly- "train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Mrs. Terry teaches 2nd grade. She graduated from DMACC with an Associate Degree in Science and is currently working towards her Bachelor’s degree in Education. Mrs. Terry came to sub a few times for Science and Social Studies, and ended up being a permanent substitute for second grade. I enjoyed being in the classroom with students, but most of all, I loved what
God was doing here at JCA. The scripture that God placed on Mrs. Terry’s heart is Ecclesiastes 3, a time and place for all things.
"Eleven years ago, it was my time to do and be where God wanted me to serve."
God was doing here at JCA. The scripture that God placed on Mrs. Terry’s heart is Ecclesiastes 3, a time and place for all things.
"Eleven years ago, it was my time to do and be where God wanted me to serve."
Ms. Hurley teaches 3rd grade at Joshua Christian Academy. She graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Biomedical Sciences. For Ms. Hurley, JCA truly feels like home. It's the teachers and staff who have been like family to her, and she is excited for the opportunity to give back to the school that poured so much into her life. She especially loves getting to know her students and celebrating their unique personalities.
Ms. Hurley grew up in Pleasant Hill, Iowa, in a joyful and busy household as the youngest of ten siblings. She was introduced to Christianity in her home as a child and, at the age of eight, accepted Jesus as her Savior and was baptized. Since then, she has continued to grow in her faith, learning to trust the Lord with every part of her life.
Family is very important to Ms. Hurley. She is a proud aunt to twelve nieces and five nephews, and she treasures her time with them. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, playing board games, being active, reading, and spending time outdoors in nature.
Ms. Shade graduated from North High School. She had a long career with a number of distinguished organizations including the State of Iowa, NW Bell Telephone, DMACC, and Drake University before retiring in June of 2010. She holds an Associate's Degree from DMACC, a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education from Drake, and a Master's in Theology from Kingsway Seminary. Since 1998, she has co-pastored Amazing Grace Ministries and Outreach Church with her husband and founder, Rev. George Shade, Jr. She started teaching at JCA in 2018.
“I am grateful that the Lord saw fit for me to teach at JCA. I call it “A Dream Deferred.”
Mrs. DeMuynck brings a deep love for students and a passion for Christian education to her role as JCA’s 6th Grade Teacher. Originally from eastern Iowa, she moved to Kelley in 2004 to complete her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at Iowa State University.
She has attended church her whole life, but she shares that it wasn’t until finding her current church family that she truly understood what it meant to follow Christ. Now, she strives to welcome as many people into God’s family as possible. Mrs. DeMuynck loves JCA’s mission and is excited to serve in a school community where students can grow both academically and spiritually. Watching her students succeed is one of her greatest joys.
Before joining JCA, Mrs. DeMuynck taught preschool and later served as both a tutor and Center Manager at a local tutoring center. After the center closed, she began tutoring independently, working with students from PK–8 as well as several older students receiving special education services.
Mrs. DeMuynck is a proud wife and mother of two adult children, Brandon and Melissa, and “dog mom” to her two beagles, Max and Sammy—affectionately known as “the boys.” In her spare time, she enjoys coloring and doing puzzles, often on her phone. Her favorite Scripture is Psalm 23, a passage she turns to often for comfort and strength.
Mrs. Monroe teaches 6th grade at JCA. She studied at DMACC, earned her CDA, and is currently working toward her bachelor’s degree in Education. She was drawn to JCA for its faith-based mission and loves the opportunity to share God’s Word with students.
Born and raised in Des Moines, Mrs. Monroe accepted Christ at an early age and continues to enjoy her faith walk. She has been married to her husband, Scott, for 42 years, and they have three grown children and six grandchildren.
Before joining JCA, Mrs. Monroe worked in Early Education for 17 years. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and creative projects. Two verses that guide her are Philippians 4:13 and John 16:33.
Mrs. Monroe shares, “I planted a seed of faith in JCA when it was just a vision. I always wanted to work here, and now I am.”
Born and raised in Des Moines, Mrs. Monroe accepted Christ at an early age and continues to enjoy her faith walk. She has been married to her husband, Scott, for 42 years, and they have three grown children and six grandchildren.
Before joining JCA, Mrs. Monroe worked in Early Education for 17 years. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and creative projects. Two verses that guide her are Philippians 4:13 and John 16:33.
Mrs. Monroe shares, “I planted a seed of faith in JCA when it was just a vision. I always wanted to work here, and now I am.”
Mr. May grew up in rural Southwest Iowa, a middle child in a large family of nine children. He graduated from Lewis Central High School in 1984.
He attended Nebraska Christian College and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministries. and a Bachelor of Theology in Youth Ministry, with a Missions minor. He returned to school in 2009 to complete work on a Bachelor of Science degree from Wayne College in Secondary Education, Social Sciences.
Mr. May and his wife served for a time in ministries in Nebraska and in southeast Iowa. He taught 6th through 9th at Iowa Christian Academy, West Des Moines. Following Iowa Christian’s closure, he served as a substitute teacher in several local schools –including Madrid Public, Ames Christian School, and Joshua Christian Academy. From August 2019 through May 2022, he served as the 5th/6th Grade teacher at Ames Christian School, in Ames, Iowa.
Mr. May's wife, Alice, is a staff member at McFarland Clinic-Ames, practicing medicine at the Mary Greeley Medical Center, in Ames, Iowa. They have four grown sons –three of which are married, and they have three wonderful daughters-in-law and six energetically active grandchildren.
During free time in the evening or on weekends Mr. May likes to work with my wife gardening, and he enjoys reading, hiking, and otherwise spending time enjoying the beauty of God's creation.
“While serving God at Iowa Christian, I had worked with two of our current or past JCA staff members. When God opened the window of opportunity for me to serve Him here at JCA, He used them to extend His calling to me during the summer while I was literally standing in the middle of a bean field. God (and Mrs. Porter) called me to come and serve as a co-laborer here at JCA for this next generation of students. And whether you are on your knees in your bedroom or standing in a sweltering soybean field, when God calls you come.”
"...God is love. This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another....We love because He first loved us." I John 4:8-11,19
Mr. Schaaf graduated from Bob Jones University with a bachelor’s degree in Church Music. Mr. Schaaf was drawn to JCA for its biblical focus on education and excellence.
Originally from Nevada, Mr. Schaaf grew up around cowboys, and his family owned horses. At the age of four, Mr. Schaaf realized that he did not truly love Jesus. Although he knew of the great things Christ had done, he was too self-centered to care. God then impressed upon him the reality of eternal separation, and Mr. Schaaf recognized the need to make things right. Even at that young age, he understood that Jesus had taken all his sins upon Himself and that he needed to follow Him. His experience reflects the story of the disciples turning children away from Jesus, only to be rebuked, as He welcomed them to come. Mr. Schaaf approached Jesus with a heavy need on his heart and continues to strive to live out the love Christ so freely offered in every area of his life.
Mr. Schaaf comes from a large family with seven brothers and one sister, all of whom are active in ministry. He married his wife, Sarah, in 2023, and together they care for their beloved (and very fluffy) poodle.
In his free time, Mr. Schaaf enjoys peaceful and quiet activities such as composing music, kayaking, drinking tea, and especially studying God’s Word. With more than 13 years of experience as a private music instructor teaching violin, cello, piano, guitar, voice, and ukulele, Mr. Schaaf also taught middle school at Marshalltown Christian School for two years before joining JCA.
A verse that guides his ministry is Jesus’ words in Matthew 19:14: “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.”
Mr. Baker serves as a Teacher Associate at JCA, where he is entering his fourth year of teaching. Currently working toward his bachelor’s degree, Mr. Baker’s heart for education is rooted in his love for Jesus and his commitment to sharing the Gospel. He is passionate about building meaningful relationships with students and walking alongside them in both their learning and life journeys.
Before teaching, Mr. Baker worked in construction, a field that taught him perseverance and dedication, qualities he now carries into the classroom. He finds joy in his family, alongside his wife and their three children. Mr. Baker takes great pride in being a father and cherishes the love and character of each of his kids.
Outside of school, Mr. Baker enjoys reading, hunting, fishing, and staying active through exercise. His life and Mr. Baker are a constant reminder of God’s faithfulness, even in moments of weakness. One of his guiding verses is Philippians 1:6: "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
Before teaching, Mr. Baker worked in construction, a field that taught him perseverance and dedication, qualities he now carries into the classroom. He finds joy in his family, alongside his wife and their three children. Mr. Baker takes great pride in being a father and cherishes the love and character of each of his kids.
Outside of school, Mr. Baker enjoys reading, hunting, fishing, and staying active through exercise. His life and Mr. Baker are a constant reminder of God’s faithfulness, even in moments of weakness. One of his guiding verses is Philippians 1:6: "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
Mrs. Ousley Voss received her Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education from Drake University. Her 30-year teaching career includes being employed by Des Moines Public Schools as a special education teacher, 1st and 2nd-grade classroom teacher, ELL teacher, and a tutor for Sylvan Learning Center. Ms. Ousley Voss is a Resource Teacher at JCA. She is a member of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church. She and her husband Brad have two adult sons.
“I have a desire to teach in a Christian school where I could share the love of Jesus with the children every day.”
Mrs. Dunlap grew up in Des Moines and brings many years of teaching experience into her Resource Teacher role at JCA. She received her Bachelor’s degree from Drake University and her Master’s at College of St. Scholastica in Minnesota. Nan loves the smaller, more personal feel at JCA and enjoys being able to work directly with students in the different grades.
Mrs. Dunlap is mother to three children and five grandchildren. She enjoys reading, baking for family, book clubs, community service projects, helping with older neighbors and crafts.
Mrs. Dunlap loves learning scripture alongside the students and growing in her faith through the teaching at JCA in addition to her personal life.
Mrs. Lois Edwards is from Des Moines, IA. She received her B.A. from Graceland University and her Master's from Drake University. She has previous experience as an educator in the DMPS district, as well as DMACC. Lois is blessed with a husband, three children and four grandchildren.
"I joined JCA to help children develop a love for Jesus Christ through a Christ-centered education!"
I graduated from Simpson College with a BA specializing in K-12 Music and Business Management. The first ten years of my professional career were spent as a manager in student transportation. I made the most wonderful decision to join JCA as a teacher in 2023. God called me to serve as Children's Choir Director and Youth Bible teacher back in 2012 and I have served faithfully for 13 years at Imani Family Church, located in WDM, IA. I am married with five children, with my youngest two attending JCA. I made the choice to send my own kids to JCA, and my family is blessed. Yours will be too! In my spare time, I enjoy doing service projects, ministering, working with computers, singing, and spending time with my kiddo’s.
Mrs. Hartman teaches Art at Joshua Christian Academy. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, along with minors in Sustainability and Project Management. Mrs. Hartman is passionate about sharing both her love for Jesus and her love for art with students. Though new to JCA, she has already been blessed by the kindness and helpfulness of the staff.
Mrs. Hartman grew up in Hayward, Wisconsin, where she was raised in a Christian home, attended Sunday School, and spent summers at Christian camps. During college, she worked as a summer camp counselor, where her faith became deeply personal and her relationship with Jesus came alive. Today, she continues to seek growth and a deeper understanding in her walk with Christ.
She and her husband, Will, recently celebrated their first wedding anniversary. Her husband is currently in medical school studying to be a podiatrist. Together, they enjoy spending time outdoors, especially hiking, camping, and playing soccer.
Before joining JCA, Mrs. Hartman worked as a commercial interior designer on projects ranging from public schools and libraries to hockey arenas. Alongside her career, she has loved serving kids through Sunday ministries and teaching them about the Bible.
Her guiding verse is Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
JCA West Campus
JCA West opened in 2020 and has since grown to serve students K-6th grade. Located in a beautiful historic building in the Drake University neighborhood, we are blessed to share this space with Hope + Elim church. Visit our other two locations for more grades.
I grew up in a Christian home and was saved at seven through curiosity about how to get to heaven. At a young age, I saw the world was evil, but God is good. I was baptized by immersion and matured greatly in my faith, but through middle and high school, I chased the world in ways that left me unsatisfied, sad, and dark. I studied Elementary Education at Faith Baptist Bible College, where my faith truly blossomed. I enjoyed playing basketball and volleyball as a captain and spiritual leader for four years. My relationship with God was established and prepared me for what came next. About two summers ago, my 19-year-old brother was hit by a drunk driver and killed instantly. The night he was taken to heaven, he texted our family, telling us God and His Word are REAL and we can be united as Christians through the Word. God planned my brother's life for this moment. I was shaken, but God showed me again that His Word is real. This pushed me towards my true desire, which I thought it was teaching, but was truly just to impact others, reach the community, and spread God's Word. Through my life experiences, God has revealed Himself to me through my talents and the joy in my life.
My testimony brings me to what I LOVE about my job. I love the mission at Joshua Christian Academy and the people. God led me here very clearly. I was not sure why at the time, but I know this is what He wanted for me. I love education and I love spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. People need to be loved and kids need to be loved. I love that we work to give students the best education and supporting their small minds. I also love getting to know the families and staff. The environment is beautiful here at JCA!
I am now pursuing my Masters in Educational Leadership from Pensacola Christian College! I attend Community Baptist Church where I am involved in the children's teaching ministries, children's worship, adult worship, and college group worship. I have nine siblings and we lived all over growing up including Georgia, Florida, and Kansas. I finally ended up in Ankeny, Iowa for college. I am married to Joshua Forgie and we have two dogs and a cat. I love painting and playing the acoustic guitar in my free time.
My life passage is Ecclesiastes 3:1-15: I believe God is completely in control and He wants us to do good on the earth! A trust so sweet that we can have hope each day and enjoy what He has given us. I pray that when I am in heaven one day, I will be told "well done, my servant". The Lord will sustain us.
God led Mrs. Heidt to JCA and has filled her with a passion to serve our students and their families. Prior to JCA, Mrs. Heidt worked as an actuary out of college and then stayed home many years to raise our children. During those years, she did a lot of volunteer work at school and church and with Cub Scouts. As her children got older, she worked as a Special Education Associate in the Waukee School District. Mrs. Heidt worked in that position until she felt called to leave, and that calling led her to JCA.
Mrs. Heidt is originally from Michigan, has been married to Jim for nearly thirty years and is blessed with 3 children. She loves to read and also enjoys making cards and stitching things.
Mrs. Heidt is originally from Michigan, has been married to Jim for nearly thirty years and is blessed with 3 children. She loves to read and also enjoys making cards and stitching things.
“I went to church as a child, but I didn't have a relationship with Jesus until after my own children were born. After having our children, my husband and I felt the desire/need to bring them up in the church, so we found a church home. I volunteered there for many years, taking on more and more, but looking back, the work I was doing was probably more for me than for God. One day as I was going up the stairs in my house, I felt called to sit in the patch of sunlight that was there, and I felt His presence and a strong rush of His love as I did so. That was many years ago, and my heart still leaps when I see a patch of sun on the stairs! Since that time, my hunger and thirst for Him has grown; I want to know Jesus more and more. I love the summer when I can spend extended amounts of time with Him, and I love the school year when I can serve Him more actively as a teacher at JCA. Whatever the season and whatever my hand finds to do, I strive to do it with all my might, and I do it all in the hope that I bring glory of God.”
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. - Galatians 2:20
Mrs. Johnson grew up in Iowa as a pastor’s kid and graduated from Evangel University with a degree in Biology.
She and her husband, Tyler, have three kids who are currently attending JCA West. After homeschooling for several years, they decided to take a step of faith and enroll at JCA. She loves getting to inspire all students to explore the beauty of God’s creation.
In addition to time with her family, she enjoys gardening, raising chickens, trying new recipes and playing multiple instruments - including piano, ukulele and the harmonica.
“I grew up going to church and Christian school, but didn't surrender my life to Jesus until after college when I truly understood the gravity of my sin and my need for a Savior.”
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
Mrs. Hartman teaches Art at Joshua Christian Academy. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, along with minors in Sustainability and Project Management. Mrs. Hartman is passionate about sharing both her love for Jesus and her love for art with students. Though new to JCA, she has already been blessed by the kindness and helpfulness of the staff.
Mrs. Hartman grew up in Hayward, Wisconsin, where she was raised in a Christian home, attended Sunday School, and spent summers at Christian camps. During college, she worked as a summer camp counselor, where her faith became deeply personal and her relationship with Jesus came alive. Today, she continues to seek growth and a deeper understanding in her walk with Christ.
She and her husband, Will, recently celebrated their first wedding anniversary. Her husband is currently in medical school studying to be a podiatrist. Together, they enjoy spending time outdoors, especially hiking, camping, and playing soccer.
Before joining JCA, Mrs. Hartman worked as a commercial interior designer on projects ranging from public schools and libraries to hockey arenas. Alongside her career, she has loved serving kids through Sunday ministries and teaching them about the Bible.
Her guiding verse is Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Mrs. Gray teaches Elementary Music at Joshua Christian Academy. She holds a B.S. in Elementary Education from Southwest Minnesota State University. With two of her daughters attending JCA, Mrs. Gray was drawn to be part of their education and quickly discovered her love for teaching music in a Christ-centered environment. She treasures the opportunity to openly share her faith while watching students grow in both their musical abilities and their love for Jesus.
Mrs. Gray grew up in a small town in southwest Minnesota with a population of just 700. She first heard the message of salvation in third grade but did not fully understand her need for a Savior until high school. At age 22, while living in North Carolina, she realized that following Christ meant not only believing in Him as Savior but also surrendering to Him as Lord. That same year, she was baptized and began wholeheartedly living out her faith.
Family is a central part of Mrs. Gray’s life. She has been married to her husband, Bob, for 21 years, and together they have eight children, five boys and three girls. Before joining JCA, she worked in public schools for four years, then spent 15 years as a stay-at-home mom, including 10 years of homeschooling her children.
In her free time, Mrs. Gray enjoys baking sourdough bread, reading, and running. Her guiding verse is Isaiah 6:8: “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.’”
Mrs. Gray grew up in a small town in southwest Minnesota with a population of just 700. She first heard the message of salvation in third grade but did not fully understand her need for a Savior until high school. At age 22, while living in North Carolina, she realized that following Christ meant not only believing in Him as Savior but also surrendering to Him as Lord. That same year, she was baptized and began wholeheartedly living out her faith.
Family is a central part of Mrs. Gray’s life. She has been married to her husband, Bob, for 21 years, and together they have eight children, five boys and three girls. Before joining JCA, she worked in public schools for four years, then spent 15 years as a stay-at-home mom, including 10 years of homeschooling her children.
In her free time, Mrs. Gray enjoys baking sourdough bread, reading, and running. Her guiding verse is Isaiah 6:8: “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.’”
Miss Moriah King finished her Associate’s Degree from DMACC this spring, earning her degree in Elementary Education. Miss Moriah is a JCA alumna and greatly enjoyed her time as a student. She had many teachers and staff members who made a meaningful difference in her life, and she is excited for the opportunity to do the same for others. She deeply cares about and supports JCA’s mission.
Miss Moriah has lived in Des Moines her entire life. She was born into a Christian home and always knew that God existed, but her true understanding of the Gospel came during her senior year of high school. Since then, her faith has continued to grow, and she is now part of a college ministry, Campus Fellowship, which has encouraged her in her relationship with the Lord.
She has five siblings, all of whom have attended JCA at some point, and her youngest sister is currently a student. Miss Moriah comes from a very close family and enjoys spending time together. Outside of work, she spends much of her time with the young adults ministry, Campus Fellowship, and enjoys hiking, reading, sewing, and trying new things.
Miss Moriah has lived in Des Moines her entire life. She was born into a Christian home and always knew that God existed, but her true understanding of the Gospel came during her senior year of high school. Since then, her faith has continued to grow, and she is now part of a college ministry, Campus Fellowship, which has encouraged her in her relationship with the Lord.
She has five siblings, all of whom have attended JCA at some point, and her youngest sister is currently a student. Miss Moriah comes from a very close family and enjoys spending time together. Outside of work, she spends much of her time with the young adults ministry, Campus Fellowship, and enjoys hiking, reading, sewing, and trying new things.
JCA South Campus
JCA South is the newest addition to Joshua Christian Academy opening in 2022. It is located at 1000 Wade Street, across from the Blank Park Zoo. JCA South serves students in grades K-5th and 8th-12th. Visit our other two locations for more grades.
Mr. Taylor serves as the Director at JCA South, where his mission is to impact and grow the Kingdom of God through Christ-centered leadership and discipleship. He earned his Master of Divinity and Master of Christian Education from Midwestern Baptist Seminary.
Originally from just south of Des Moines, Mr. Taylor brings a wealth of experience as an author, speaker, and worship leader. His heart for ministry and education is rooted in a desire to see students grow spiritually, academically, and personally as followers of Christ.
Outside of his work at JCA, Mr. Taylor finds great joy in being a dad and leading others in worship and truth.
God orchestrated every detail for me to join the JCA family and I give Him all the glory. I have a certificate of achievement in Cross Culture Studies and a bachelor’s degree in Early Education with an endorsement in Special education.
I work at JCA because God has called me to ministry on serving our urban youth. My passion is loving and working alongside the community I live and grew up in which is the southside of Des Moines. My favorite part about my position is partnering with my families and the community we create together.
I accepted the Lord as my personal Savior during my junior year of highschool and God called me to finish highschool in three years and go to Bible college to study culture ministry. I went off to Bible college, fell in love with my husband and we have been serving short term missions trips and full time ministry in our community the past twenty five years while raising our amazing three kids. My family and I have been members at Grace Church for twenty-three years. I love to garden, spend time with family and friends. I love adventures and you will often find me planning some kind of memory making experiences. Life is a journey and we are embracing every moment.
“Spread joy wherever God is using you, sparkle and shine your light bright; embracing the day the Lord has given us.”
but they that wait upon the Lord will renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 KJV
Mrs. Kessler teaches 1st grade at Joshua Christian Academy. She graduated from Grand View University with a degree in Elementary Education and an endorsement in Strat I Special Education. She wanted to work at JCA because Christian education is of great importance to Mrs. Kessler, and she loves the privilege of instructing kids with truths and values from the Bible. Her favorite parts of teaching are praying with her students, talking with them about Jesus, and sharing why she loves God so much.
Mrs. Kessler grew up in Indianola with her family and now lives in Easter Lake with her husband. She was raised in a home that went to church on Sundays and prayed before meals. She is grateful to her parents for providing opportunities to learn about God and for sending her to a Christian elementary school. While she did not fully take responsibility for her faith until college, God used trials to show her that He is faithful through everything and has never left her. Mrs. Kessler is eternally grateful for His unconditional love and grace, and she now sees the importance of healthy Christian community and regularly reading His Word.
Family is one of Mrs. Kessler’s favorite subjects to talk about and is very important to her. She has two fantastic parents who helped her become who she is today, and she is the oldest of four children, two brothers and one sister. She and her family also have a Bernerdoodle dog named Hershey. Mrs. Kessler was recently married and loves life with her husband.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, going on walks in nature, and listening to worship songs. Last year, she taught 3rd grade in her first year of teaching, and she is excited to begin this new season with 1st grade.
Her guiding verse is 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, and love, and self-control.”
Mrs. Kessler shares, “I am so grateful and thrilled to be an educator at JCA! I cannot wait to see what the Lord will do this year!”
Mrs. Weissinger serves as a 4th Grade Teacher at Joshua Christian Academy's South Campus. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, she brings three years of teaching experience to JCA. Before joining JCA, she taught at a K-12 school in Phoenix, where she spent one year teaching middle school math and two years teaching 1st grade.
Mrs. Weissinger enjoys spending time outdoors and practicing archery in her free time. She is excited to be part of the JCA community and to help her students grow throughout the school year.
Mrs. Hockmuth serves as JCA South Librarian and High School Teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Speech Communications from Iowa State University and is passionate about helping students grow both academically and spiritually. Mrs. Hockmuth desires for students to understand how deeply God loves them and to develop authentic relationships with Jesus and others.
Originally from LeGrand, Iowa, Mrs. Hockmuth is thankful for the strong Christian values she was raised with and for a faith that continues to grow through both struggles and victories. She and her husband enjoy spending time with their blended family, which includes nine children and a growing number of grandchildren. In her free time, Mrs. Hockmuth enjoys gardening, canning, baking, traveling, and, most of all, being a grandma.
Mrs. Hockmuth is excited to get to know the students and staff at JCA and is thankful for the opportunity to work with students of all ages and help them grow in their faith and education. Her favorite quote is, “You can’t get it done unless you start.”
Mrs. Olson loves getting to know the students and making a difference in their lives as a teacher’s associate at JCA.
Mrs. Olson and her husband, Lee, are blessed with two adult children. Outside of her time in school, she enjoys scrapbooking and crafts.
“As a middle school student, I was confronted with my need for a Savior and a realization of my sin. My mom and I both accepted Christ at the same time in May of 1984.”
When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalm 61-2
Ms. Sommers came to JCA because God led her here in His perfect timing. She came to JCA with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education from University of Missouri-Columbia and 22 years of previous teaching experience. JCA has given her the opportunity to know students from many backgrounds and with many amazing gifts.
“The Lord led me here and showed me what a good fit it is for me. These kids have won my heart. I believe in the way we daily learn God’s Word, worship together, and have an opportunity every day to share the gospel.”
“I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior when I was 7. I have loved God’s Word my whole life and seek to know it more deeply every day. Because of this foundation in knowing God through His Word, I can trust God to be close to me when I need Him most. God has not let me down. His Word is true.”
The Lord is my strength and my song. He has become my salvation. Isaiah 12:2
Mr. Thomas comes to JCA with a Bachelors of Science in Exercise and Sports Study from Upper Iowa University.
Mr. Thomas loves being able to freely share his faith and have discussions that encourage students and himself to better understand why we believe what we believe and appreciate the knowledge God has gifted us with.
When he is not teaching, Mr. Thomas enjoys spending time with his family, friends, and church family. He also enjoys running, some recreational sports, and exercising.
“I grew up in a Christian home and had a lot of knowledge about Christ. I wrestled and abandoned my faith in the middle of college and after graduating college felt the Lord convicting me and calling me back to Him. I faced a couple of tough circumstances that lead me to look up and seek Christ fully, no turning back and His grace has shined upon me ever since.”
Mr. Keck serves as a Social Studies Teacher at Joshua Christian Academy. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Bob Jones University and has a heart for touching lives for Christ through his work with students.
Originally from Nebraska, Mr. Keck grew up on a farm and ranch and was raised in a Christian home, coming to faith at an early age. Before joining JCA, he spent five years in pastoral ministry following a 28-and-a-half-year career in law enforcement in Nebraska.
Mr. Keck has been married to his wife, Kayla, for 32 years. Together, they have five children and one daughter-in-law. Four of their children live in the Des Moines area. In his free time, he enjoys reading, gardening, hiking, and spending time with his family.
Mr. Keck is grateful to be part of the JCA community and especially appreciates the encouragement and prayers of his fellow staff members. One of his favorite verses is Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates His love toward us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.” He especially loves the words “but God” and the reminder of God's grace and love they represent.
Mrs. Hoyt serves as the Art Teacher at JCA South. She holds an Associate of Arts degree from Marshalltown Community College and a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts with a minor in Art History from the University of Northern Iowa. She felt God opened the door for her to join JCA and is passionate about sharing His faithfulness and goodness with others while helping students discover their God-given creative potential.
Originally from Marshalltown, Iowa, Mrs. Hoyt grew up in a Christian home. Through struggles and questions throughout her life, she found Christ to be faithful and present, strengthening her faith and deepening her understanding of His goodness and grace.
Mrs. Hoyt has been married to her husband since 2012, whom she met while attending art school, and they have three children. She enjoys long prayer walks and hikes, writing poetry, playing piano, and creating art.
Before joining JCA, Mrs. Hoyt worked as a tutor with Sylvan Learning and through AmeriCorps, and she volunteered for more than five years teaching art to middle school students at Freedom for Youth Ministries. She is also an active artist in the Des Moines metro arts community, serving with the North River Arts Council and regularly participating in art shows and festivals.
Her favorite Scripture is Psalm 25:14-15, which reminds her to keep her eyes on the Lord and trust Him to guide and rescue her.
I graduated from Simpson College with a BA specializing in K-12 Music and Business Management. The first ten years of my professional career were spent as a manager in student transportation. I made the most wonderful decision to join JCA as a teacher in 2023. God called me to serve as Children's Choir Director and Youth Bible teacher back in 2012 and I have served faithfully for 13 years at Imani Family Church, located in WDM, IA. I am married with five children, with my youngest two attending JCA. I made the choice to send my own kids to JCA, and my family is blessed. Yours will be too! In my spare time, I enjoy doing service projects, ministering, working with computers, singing, and spending time with my kiddo’s.
JCA Board of Directors
Howard Vroom
President
Larry Stelter
Vice President
Greg Smith
Treasurer
Samona Yentes
Secretary
Mark Densmore
Board Member
JB Johnson
Board Member
Nichole Redd
Board Member
Judson Vos
Board Member
Steve Johnson
Board Member
