Staff and Faculty

Meet Mr. Hope

I am deeply honored to serve as Head of Manhattan Christian School. MCS has a rich, long-standing history in the Gallatin Valley, and from its founding the school has been deeply rooted in God’s Word. I cherish the vibrant community that makes up Manhattan Christian—families representing more than 40 churches across the valley. As I shared in my “Deep Hope,” it is my desire that every member of our school community grows in understanding and embraces their distinct role in the body of Christ.

A few more “get to know you” facts:

Family: I am married to Heather (3rd grade teacher) and God has blessed us with five amazing children who all attend MCS.  We also have a beloved Siberian Husky named Soldotna.

Education and Previous Teaching: I have earned a B.S. in Music Education from Pensacola Christian College, a Masters of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education from Liberty University, and a Masters of Education from Dordt University in Educational Leadership and Administration. I spent 23 years teaching music, math, and Bible in Christian Schools in Anchorage AK, Austin TX, and Salt Lake City UT before coming to MCS. During my last few years in Salt Lake I was also the Middle School dean. I was also on church staff in Salt Lake as the minister of music for 14 years.

Favorites: We love outdoor activities including riding motorcycles, camping, hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.  We love being part of our local church community.

What I love about MCS: I love the community that exists at MCS. There is something uniquely special that comes from a school with such a long and rich history. As an administrator, I deeply desire to come alongside teachers in order to help them grow as professional educators.

Meet Mrs. Kutylo

Family: I am married to Billy Kutylo and we are blessed with two boys, Will and Colt.  We also have two labradors, Cooper and Maybelle. 

Education and Previous Teaching: I graduated with a B.A. in Liberal Arts from Pepperdine University.  During my time there, I also completed my K-8 teaching credential.  Additionally, I spent three of my years there running competitively for the women's track and cross country team.  After graduating from Pepperdine University, I taught for the Newhall School District located in Southern California.  During that time, we felt God calling us to Montana and that is how we ended up here!  I have spent the last three years teaching for the Belgrade School District as a fourth grade teacher.  During my time with Belgrade, I was involved in standards based instruction teams and helped coach our middle school cross country and track teams. I am currently enrolled in a Masters in Educational Leadership program through Montana State University and I am excited to see what the Lord has in store for us at Manhattan Christian! 

Favorites: During our free time, we enjoy camping, skiing, and spending time outdoors together.  We also love to travel to visit out of state family members! Being newer to the area, we love to try all of the different restaurants that the Gallatin Valley has to offer. Like most educators, coffee and sweets are a means of survival!

What I'm Excited for at MCS: I am excited to be a part of an educational community that is rooted in faith.  I am eager to walk alongside staff parents and students in a God glorifying way. 
 

Meet Mr. Westa

Family: Joel and Deborah: 4 kids, 8 grandkids

Education and Previous Teaching: Served for 25 years in the USAF and retired as a Colonel. He has a bachelor's degree in music education from The King’s College, a Master of Music from Penn State University, a Masters in Operational Planning from the US Army Command and Staff College and a Masters in National Security Strategy from the Naval War College, He is a graduate of the Harvard Senior Executive Fellows program, the Van Lunen Fellows program, and holds three executive certificates from Notre Dame in Non-Profit Leadership and Management and Advanced Negotiation, and a certificate from Cornell University in Business Strategy. He also pursued his EdD in Human and Organizational Learning from George Washington University.

-Naval War College, Taught risk assessment, and decision making and implementation.
-USAF Weapons School: Advanced Weapons Employment
-Superintendent, NorthPointe Christian School Grand Rapids MI
-President/CEO Christian Schools International

Favorites: Hunting, gardening, cooking, the outdoors. Love hunting in Canada and traveling in Europe. I love great food, a good cup of coffee, a great book, sitting in front of the fireplace, and Fall and Winter.

What I love about MCS: I love the community that makes up this school, from the students, parents, faculty, staff and Board. We're united in carrying out the mission of the school!

Meet Mrs. Venhuizen

Family: Husband, Tim and kids, Brenna, Beau, Avery, Elliot

Education and Work History: Dordt University - Associate Degree in Administrative Assistance, Bachelors Degree in Business Administration. This is my sixth school year working at the front office.

Favorites: Spending time with family and friends and reading.

What I love about MCS: My favorite thing about working at MCS is getting to know the awesome students, staff, and parents here. I love being a little part of the big picture!

Meet Mr. Glaus

Family: Wife, Lexi and son, Grady

Education and Previous Teaching: I got my bachelor's degree in biology at the University of Montana-Western while playing basketball. Then I finished my master's in athletic training at Montana State Univeristy-Billings. I was the athletic trainer at Park High for seven years and their head basketball coach for five. In addition to being the athletic director, I coach boys basketball and teach strength and conditioning class. 

Favorites: I love to be outside hunting, fishing, hiking, and golfing. I still love to play basketball and watch as many college games as I can. I'm a big fan of the Jayhawks, rib eyes, and spending time with my family.

What I love about MCS: I love being able to put a focus on Jesus in athletics.

Family: Fiancé & MCS kindergarten teacher, Genevieve Morrison

Education and Previous Teaching: I attended the University of Sioux Falls for my undergraduate in psychology and am currently enrolled at Liberty University completing my Masters in Education for School Counseling!

Favorites: For activities, I love to play basketball, and golf! I also enjoy singing and playing guitar in my free time:) My favorite food is probably a good burger, and  since I’m new to the area I would love recommendations on nearby restaurants! You can probably find me at a local coffee shop drinking black coffee as well.

What I love about MCS: I am very excited to assist in a Christ centered education for the students and form meaningful relationships with the students, family, and faculty at MCS!

Meet Mrs. Cok

Family: Wife to Shaun Cok and Mom to Ezra (5) and Theo (1)

Education and Previous Teaching: I taught Preschool at MCS for 3 years and then Kindergarten for 3 years at MCS. I stayed home with Ezra. Then, I taught Special Education PreK-3rd grade at Monforton for one year. I stayed home with Ezra and Theo while completing my Master's in Special Education.

Favorites: I love camping, shopping, and reading. I also love to cook and bake. Cheesecake and lattes are my favorites.

What I love about MCS: I am thrilled to begin this new position and to develop relationships with teachers and staff. I am also excited to be at MCS while Ezra continues his school journey.

Meet Mrs. Williams

Education and Previous Teaching: Oklahoma State University, Bachelors of Science, Elementary Education. Student teaching: Stillwater, OK 5th grade (7 months); Long-term substitute position: Stillwater, OK 4th grade (3 months)

Favorites: Some of my favorite things to do include Antiquing, Thrifting, Country Swing Dance, and going on Outdoor adventures. I love travelling to learn about historical places and people. Especially learning about historical towns, different cultures, and history of buildings etc.

Favorites: Drink: Coke Zero with a Lime / Coffee: Iced Americanos with Cream, Shaken Espressos / Restaurants: Revelry, Sidewinders, Texas Roadhouse / Candies: Smart Sweets

What I love about MCS: My favorite thing about teaching at MCS is the community. I love the community that I have found here, the welcoming atmosphere and smiling faces. I love the joy and excitement that surrounds this school. I also love that we get to live out and express our faith daily in our learning environment.

Family: My family is so special to me! My amazing parents Jeff and Patti, my brother Ben, my sister Cecilia, and my soon to be husband Mr. Cooper Dixon! 

Education: I attended the University of Sioux Falls where I received my degree in Elementary Education, and also studied Special Education and Vocal Performance! It is my first year of teaching, and my first year at MCS!        

Favorites: I love spending time with my family, my fiancé and my friends, baking, painting, and singing! I also love spending time in God's beautiful creation. My favorite treats/snacks are donuts and dots pretzels! My favorite coffee order is an iced caramel latte:)   

What I Love About MCS: I am so excited to love all of the amazing students, to work with our incredible admin and staff, and to see how God grows each us in during this school year! MCS is such a special place, and it means so much to me to be back, as I am an alumni and attended the school from 5th grade-12th grade. 

Meet Mrs. Freed

Family: Aaron Freed, Henry 4, Leo 1, Dogs-Seeley and Onyx

Education and Previous Teaching: Undergrad: Bachelors- Elementary Education Bachelors- Bible Study from Trinity Bible School in North Dakota. Graduate: Masters- Reading PreK-6th Reading Literacy from Walden University. I spent nine years in West Yellowstone teaching Kindergarten, then three years in Manhattan Christian: one year in 4th grade and two years in Kindergarten. 

Favorites: Reading / Fly Fishing / Running /Hiking /Kayaking; Traveling: Italy- I loved the food / Japan- Loved the people, culture, and food / England- Did not love the food...but the Jurassic Coast was beautiful; Favorite Treats: White Mochas / Caramels / Bread /Maple Donuts; Favorite Stores: TJ Maxx / Target / Country Bookshelf / Heyday; Favorite Restuarants and Food: Rise and Shine / Sophie's / Los Jarochos / Sushi / Ramen; Most Locally Roasted Coffee (Morning Glory, Ghost Town, Yellowstone, Treeline, etc.); Other Favorites: Glacier Lilies / Sunflowers /Trees

What I love about MCS: My favorite thing about teaching at MCS is the culture we have of being a family in Christ.

Family: My husband is Luke, and I have three children: Brooklyn (15), Dakota (10), and Levi (3). I also have a boxer named Brock. 

Education and Previous Teaching: I have a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from California State University, Los Angeles and a 
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Mathematics from California State University, Long Beach. I have 18 years of experience teaching First Grade and two years of Kindergarten experience, both in Santa Clarita, California.

Favorites:

• Favorite Hobbies: Shopping, decorating, planning parties, baking, walking, vacationing, spending time with family  
• Favorite Snacks: hummus and pita, cheese and crackers, chips and salsa, bread and butter
• Favorite Sweet Treats: homemade rice krispie treats and brownies
• Favorite Drink: Diet Coke, Iced Tea, and Lemonade
• Favorite Restaurants: Jam, Five on Black, Spitz
• Favorite Hot Coffee:  any medium roast with vanilla or hazelnut creamer
• Favorite Cold Coffee: Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso with vanilla cold foam from Starbucks

What I Love About MCS: I am excited about teaching at Manhattan Christian because it offers the opportunity to integrate faith with learning in a close-knit, values-driven community. The smaller class sizes will allow me to form meaningful, individualized connections with students, supporting both their academic growth and spiritual development. I'm also looking forward to working alongside fellow educators who share a commitment to Christian values and a passion for nurturing students in a Christ-centered environment. Living in Montana adds an extra layer of excitement, with its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings providing a wonderful backdrop for both teaching and personal reflection.

Family: I have three children at MCS and two dogs, Roxy and Remy; two cats, Shadow and Ghost; one horse, Cash; and 13 chickens!

Education and Previous Teaching: Life Christian Academy High School, Central Washington University (BA in Elementary Education). I taught 5th and 2nd grade at Hedden Elementary in Washington state.

Favorites: I love reading, ATV riding, river floating, and hiking; cookies, DQ, and pizza! 

What I Love About MCS: I am excited to get back into the classroom after a long hiatus while I stayed at home with my kiddos. I am most excited to teach at a Christian school where I can share about Jesus and help to instill Godly characteristics in the next generation, and to do so alongside an amazingly supportive faculty and community.

Meet Mrs. Hope

Family: Nathanael is my husband of sixteen years; Judah, Nora, Téa, Micah, and Ezra are our Eagles from 9th grade down to 4th; Soldotna is our favorite crazy Siberian Husky

Education and Previous Teaching: B.S. in Elementary Education and M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning. 14 years teaching in Christian schools, from Pre-K to 5th grade, this year being my third at MCS in the third grade

Favorites: spending time with my family and my fur-babe, of course; visiting beUTAHful places coffee, sweet tea, tacos, nachos - food is my love language

What I love about MCS: living faith out loud in the classroom; growing together a love for learning about God's creation and our place in it as His uniquely created children.

Meet Ms. Anderson

Pet: labradoodle named Keiva

Education and Previous Teaching: Graduated from Montana State University in 2022 with Elementary Ed. 

Favorites: I love to read, spend time outside and hang out with my family! I also love to travel, especially roadtripping! It is so fun to discover different parts of the world. This past summer I went on a 25-state roadtrip across the North East with a couple of my friends. My favorite things include Sidewinders, Sidewall, Oat milk lattes, chocolate candies, nerd clusters,chips and salsa, Target and Amazon.

What I love about MCS: I love getting to talk about Jesus with my students everyday and being part of a community that boldly shines the light of Jesus.

Meet Ms. Val 

Family: Husband ,Reuben; daughter Zoe; dogs, Elly & Minnie

Education and Previous Teaching: Elementary Education from Dordt College. Previous teaching history: 2 Years Preschool at Rock Rapids Daycare, 3 years Middle school in Hills Christian, Kindergarten/Middle School Math & Science Hills Christian, 1 year One-on-One student aide Pella Christian, 2 years 5th grade Edgerton Christian School, 1 year Middle School and High School Math at Southwest Minnesota Christian, 1 year 1st Grade at Heritage Christian, 2nd year of Preschool at Manhattan Christian

Favorites: Like to read, I like plants, crocheting, art, cooking, and baking. My favorite stores and restaurants are Amazon, Texas Road House, Pickle Barrel, Genuine Ice Cream

What I love about MCS: I love the community we have at school. The greater community and also the staff community feel like family.

​Meet Mrs. Sytsma

Family: Husband, Joel, Ethan, Jonas, Gabby, three dogs-a great Dane and two mutts, five cats, a rabbit, three goats, lots of chickens

Education and Previous Teaching: I went to MCS for 13 years, then attended Calvin College (now University) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. My degree is in secondary education with a double major in English and U.S. History. My first job was in Michigan for three years teaching middle school language arts and history, and now I have been at MCS going on 17 years teaching ELA and history to middle school. 

Favorites: Reading, knitting, writing, camping, hiking, counted cross stitch, love traveling to the east coast with students and going to battlefields of the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. I love Olive Garden, Super Chix, Sidewinders, coffee-dark roasts, chips and salsa, popcorn, Target, Michael's, and Hobby Lobby.

What I love about MCS: I love getting to share my faith with my students and form relationships with them that allow me to be there for them and encourage them in their Christian walk. I always learn with them, and we have a lot of fun together.

Meet Mrs. Brown 

Family: Married to Jacob Brown this July!

Education and Previous Teaching: Graduated from MSU with a degree in English Education. This is year 2.5 at MCS for me. I did my student teaching at MCS with Kim Adams, taught 5th grade last year, and am now teaching middle school!

Favorites: I love anything outdoors whether its backpacking, skiing, or running. My favorite stores are Hobby Lobby and Barnes and Noble, my favorite restaurant is Stuffed, and I love any coffee but especially mochas.

What I love about MCS: My favorite thing about MCS is the sweet and welcoming community and people.

Meet Mrs. Leep 

Family: Husband, Jake Leep

Education and Work History: I graduated from Manhattan High School in 2020, and am currently finishing my Education Degree at the University of Montana-Western. I spent part of my first year here student teaching with Mr. Kimm and the rest of my time teaching Middle School math and science!

Favorites: I love reading, hiking, being outdoors, working on my family farm, and traveling to the lake in the summertime! My favorite restaurant is Mountains Walking, I love a half-sweet vanilla latte with an extra shot of espresso, anything chocolate, especially brownies!

What I Love About MCS: My favorite thing about teaching at MCS so far is the amazing kids that I get to work with! Each of them is unique in their own way and bring something special to each class. I look forward to seeing each student every day and hearing the new fun fact they have to tell me!

Family: My husband Andrew and our CRAZY golden retriever Morris

Education and Previous Teaching: I have my BS in Elementary Education with a concentration in Middle School Science from Taylor University & I am currently working on my MS in Science Education through Montana State!    I previously taught Middle School ELA and Bible at Rehoboth Christian School (in New Mexico) for two years. While there, I was also an assistant basketball coach for the girls varsity and JV teams.

Favorites: When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll likely find me on a hiking trail, casting a fly rod, buried in a book, or exploring new places with my husband and our dog! I LOVE playing and watching basketball; March Madness is the best time of the year in my opinion! I also enjoy cooking, collecting unique mugs, and antiquing!    As far as favorite restaurants and coffee shops go, I am new to the area, so I am working on finding local favorites-- I am open to suggestions! My favorite treat would be any good baked good or gummy peach rings, my favorite food would be enchiladas (with NM green chili of course), and even though I do not have a favorite place to get coffee here yet, I always get a vanilla latte wherever I go (you can never go wrong with that!).

What I Love About MCS: I’m really looking forward to joining the MCS community and building meaningful connections with both students and staff! I am also excited to be teaching science: teaching science lets me explore the wonder of God’s creation in a hands-on, exciting way, and I’m grateful for the chance to grow in faith and serve Him alongside such a vibrant, Christ-centered school family.

Meet Mrs. Adams

Family: Thane Adams, Nathan (19), Emma Lehr (24) spouse Tanner, Dogs: Tod & Milo, Cats: Owen & Tiger Lilly

Education and Previous Teaching: BA from Concordia College Moorhead, MN,  and Library Endorsement from MSU. Two years in Three Forks 97-99, 10 years at MCS: Elementary library for three years, HS English, and electives

Favorites: Reading, Crocheting, the Oregon coast, Mountains Walking, Americanos

What I love about MCS: Teaching students to explore how God has written their story.

Meet Mrs. Ayers

Family: Brian, Sydni, Kyli, Brody, Quinn - Horse

Education and Previous Teaching: BA in Business Education, minor in Physical Education Trinity Christian College. I've taught at Lake Worth Christian, Lantana, FL - 2 years; Hays-Lodgepole High School, Hays, MT - 1 year; South Fremont High School, St. Anthony, ID - 9 years; Manhattan Christian High School - 16 years

Favorites: Coffee, nachos, cowgirl boots! I also love horses, baseball, good books, MT hot springs, back roads, & mountain views!

What I love about MCS: Who I get to work with!

Meet Mrs. Leep

Family: Husband, Shane and kids, Dylan, Sam, & Jackson

Education and Previous Teaching: Montana State Secondary Education. I've taught at MCS in the middle and high school for 23 years.

Favorites: Spending time outside in the yard or on the farm.

What I love about MCS: Interacting with the students

Meet Mrs. Taber

Family: Husband, Jesse Taber, dog is Riggins

Education and Previous Teaching: I have a Bachelors Degree in English Teaching from Montana State University. I started my collegiate career at Waynesburg University in Waynesburg, PA where I played volleyball for 2 years. I am in year 5 of teaching English at MCS.

Favorites: I love to read, watch movies, travel to anywhere, drink coffee, play board games with my husband. Restaurant- Seven Sushi, Coffee- Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha, Candy- Dark Chocolate, Treats- Cinnamon Rolls, Store- Hobby Lobby

What I love about MCS: My students!

Meet Mr. TeSlaa

Family: Wife, Kristin; Kids, Simon, Daniel, Louise

Education and Previous Teaching: Broad Field Social Studies from Montana State University. I have taught US History, World History, Principles of Democracy, Economics, World Issues, Psychology, Geography, Media Tech, Bible 9, Bible 10, Bible 11, Bible 12, PE, Weight Training.

Favorites: Wood working, I love to go to Yellowstone. Texas Road House, Burger Bob's, anywhere with a good steak.

What I love about MCS: I love the community of the school. It feels like a family here.

Family: My husband Brett is a mechanical engineer working with the Marines designing military vehicles.  Bria is a freshman at MCS and Micah is a 6th grader at MCS.

Education and Previous Teaching: I locally attended Amsterdam Elementary and Manhattan High School.  I went to Dordt University where I double majored in Elementary and Special Education.    I taught at San Jose Christian School for 22 years.  I taught 4th, a 4/5 combo, 5th, 4th and 5th Resource, and the last three years I was the director of our resource room and the middle school student advocate.

Favorites: I love being in nature, Vikings football, traveling, Sharks hockey, spending time with family. I love brownies, ice cream, Twix, Poppi, Flavored Carbonated Water, Diet Coke, Sidewinders, Chipotle, Rice Thai, Outback, and The Wok. I am not a coffee drinker, but I love chai and lemon tea!

What I Love About MCS: I am excited to make connections with the community. It is fun to be back and reconnect with many people that I haven't seen for many years. I have loved getting to know the staff and being welcomed in by them. I am blessed to be teaching Bible, and I am humbled to walk alongside the middle schoolers and grow their faith.

Meet Mrs. Hoekema

Family: Husband - Darin. Children - Kyanna (12th), Isaac (11th)

Education and Previous Teaching: Elementary education degree with minors in math and psychology; 19th year (all but 4 in special education)

Favorites: I love the Lake and Hawaii. My favorites are fancy coffees and Crumbl cookies.

What I love about MCS: Teaching children that Jesus loves them as well as teaching with Christian co-workers.