Faculty & Staff

Denise was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where her early experiences in both church and school sparked her lifelong passion for teaching. She came to faith at a young age while attending West End Baptist Church, a moment that shaped her walk with Christ and her sense of calling. Her caring and compassionate teachers at E. L. Connolly Elementary further inspired her to pursue education as her vocation.

Denise earned her Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Georgia. She has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2023, where she teaches middle school math and considers it a privilege to help students grow both academically and spiritually.

Denise has been married for 27 years to her husband, Roger—affectionately known as Brooksie—and together they enjoy a quiet life with their Cavapoo, Daisy Mae. Outside of the classroom, Denise is an avid reader who gravitates toward theological works by Martyn Lloyd-Jones, John MacArthur, and R.C. Sproul, as well as historical fiction, mysteries, and beach reads. She also enjoys playing piano, especially hymns and praise music, and cheering for her beloved Georgia Bulldogs.

Mallory joined Saint Simons Christian School in 2024 and teaches Middle School Spanish. She grew up in Lilburn, Georgia, and her first mission trip to a small town in Peru during eighth grade sparked a lifelong love for the Spanish language and culture. That early experience continues to influence her passion for teaching and inspiring students to explore the world beyond their own.

Mallory and her husband have been married for 12 years and have two wonderful children. Their home is full of life with four cats and a rotating group of foster dogs from the Glynn County Animal Shelter.

Outside of the classroom, Mallory is a nurse, scout mom, and outdoor enthusiast. She loves reading, volunteering, and traveling with her family whenever possible. She treasures the opportunity to teach in a Christ-centered environment, where she can help students not only learn a new language but also grow in faith and character. For Mallory, SSCS is a special place where faith, learning, and laughter naturally come together.

Brenda grew up on St. Simons Island, where her love for teaching began in first grade and never faded. Inspired by her own first-grade teacher at St. Simons Elementary, she knew from an early age that she wanted to help children learn and grow just as she had been encouraged to do.

Brenda earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Georgia College and State University, and her Master’s and Education Specialist degrees in Early Childhood Education from the University of West Georgia. She has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School family since 2017, teaching first grade and sharing her passion for learning and her love for Jesus with her students every day.

Brenda’s ministry extends beyond the classroom. She has served on mission trips to Romania, China, Russia, Nicaragua, and Honduras—teaching English, visiting orphanages, and sharing the gospel with children. She even teaches her first graders to sing “Jesus Loves Me” in Chinese and recently authored a children’s book inspired by her mission experiences.

Married to her husband, Don, for more than fifty years, Brenda is the proud mother of two sons and one daughter, and the joyful grandmother of three grandsons and one granddaughter. When she isn’t teaching, she enjoys traveling with her family, walking East Beach (covering more than 300 miles each summer!), gardening, and continuing her mission work through Christmas shoebox ministries.

Aimee has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since August 2022, serving on the Advancement Team as well as teaching music and assisting in the middle school. Born in Binghamton, New York, Aimee grew up moving frequently across New York, Minnesota, and Colorado due to her father’s work with IBM. These experiences taught her how to quickly build relationships and appreciate the importance of staying connected with others. Raised in a musical family, she first sang in church at age four alongside her sister, and music has remained a central joy in her life ever since.

Aimee and her husband, Shane, have been married for 22 years. They have three children: Parker, Titus, and Lyric, who each bring energy and creativity to their family life. The family enjoys spending time together at home, playing board games, watching movies, and spoiling their dog, Molly. Aimee also shares her love of music with the wider community as the pianist at Jekyll Island United Methodist Church, leading worship and special musical events.

She treasures being part of SSCS, where colleagues and families have become like an extended family. Aimee values the opportunity to serve God daily, both in her classroom and through music, and finds joy in guiding students to explore and celebrate their gifts while growing in faith.

Rochelle has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2025, teaching a range of subjects across upper elementary and middle school, including ELA, history, Bible, and Latin. She grew up in Glennville, Georgia, and attended Long County High School. Raised by her father, a dedicated single parent, Rochelle learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and personal responsibility—lessons that continue to shape her both personally and professionally.

She and her husband, David, are raising two children, Revere and Dahlia Belle, who inspire her daily. Outside of teaching, Rochelle enjoys exploring local history, visiting museums, and bringing those experiences into her classroom. She also loves spending quality time with her family at the beach, trying new restaurants, and creating memories at theme parks.

Rochelle treasures SSCS for its Christ-centered community and the support and encouragement of her colleagues. She feels especially blessed to have the opportunity to teach her son Revere, blending family and faith in her daily work.

Mary Ellen has been part of the SSCS family since 2021. A native of Macon, Georgia, Mary Ellen attended Breanu University and spent 15 years moving around the country with her husband while he served in the U.S. Air Force. Those experiences broadened her perspective and deepened her appreciation for community and connection. Mary Ellen and her husband have one daughter, Charlotte, who attends SSCS, as well as two dogs who keep their household lively. She loves spending time near the water, going for beach walks with friends, and getting lost in a good book. For Mary Ellen, SSCS is more than a workplace—it’s an extended family. The close-knit relationships and shared faith make every day a blessing.

Allyson has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2021, teaching second grade. She grew up moving to various places across the United States and spent part of her childhood in South America, which exposed her to diverse cultures and communities. Attending Catholic, private, and public schools throughout her youth fostered a deep appreciation for education in all its forms and inspired her lifelong passion for teaching. After retiring from public school, she felt called to SSCS to continue serving students and families in a Christ-centered environment.

Allyson and her husband, Dave, have a daughter, Grace, who is currently in pharmacy school, and a white lab named Maggie. Originally from Atlanta, they moved to St. Simons Island about twenty years ago to enjoy a smaller community, excellent educational opportunities, and a faith-filled environment.

Outside of work, Allyson enjoys spending time at the beach, connecting with nature, and enjoying quality moments with family and friends. She also loves reading, gardening, and decorating her home. She treasures SSCS for the opportunity to integrate biblical values into every aspect of learning, from Bible history lessons to weekly memory verses and chapel, and she especially values programs like Bible Buddies that help students grow in faith and build meaningful friendships.

Kristee has taught at SSCS since 2017 and has 7 years of teaching experience. She earned her B.S. in Middle Grades Education from the College of Coastal Georgia. She holds a Georgia Professional Teaching Certificate with certifications in Science, Mathematics, Reading, and Language Arts. She attends Community Church Brunswick

Deborah has served at SSCS since 2003 and has 36 years of teaching experience. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education and is ACSI certified and Orton-Gillingham trained. She previously served as TSS Specialist and K-2 Resource Teacher in Glynn County and has received Teacher of the Year honors both at SSCS and C.B. Greer. She attends Community Church.

Olivia has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2024, serving as a kindergarten aide. She grew up on the campus of the Paul Anderson Youth Home in Vidalia, Georgia, where her parents served for 15 years. That experience instilled in her a heart for ministry and a lifelong perspective of serving others. More recently, caring for her grandparents during their cancer diagnoses deepened her faith, teaching her to rely on God’s strength in times of weakness and to respond with gratitude in all circumstances.

Olivia lives in Brunswick with her family and is blessed with her parents and four siblings. She enjoys spending time outdoors—hiking, backpacking, camping, fishing, walking, and traveling with friends who share her love of adventure.

She values SSCS for its ministry-minded environment and loving, faith-centered community. Olivia treasures working alongside colleagues who share the same goal of serving God and guiding children to walk with Him every day.

Pat was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, before moving to St. Augustine, Florida, where she graduated from St. Augustine High School. Growing up in a Christian home, Pat was blessed with parents who modeled faith and faithfulness, shaping her lifelong walk with the Lord. She was baptized at the age of twelve, and her relationship with her older sister—who came to faith later in life—became an especially meaningful testimony of God’s grace and restoration.

Pat attended the University of Georgia and Georgia College & State University. She has been part of Saint Simons Christian School since 2015, serving as Resource Coordinator and providing vital academic and spiritual support to students and families alike.

Pat is the proud mother of three daughters—Julianne, Lori, and Shannon—and grandmother to a large and joyful family of grandchildren. Outside of school, she enjoys volunteering, cooking, and gardening, and finds joy in nurturing others both in and out of the classroom.

Pat deeply values being part of the Saint Simons Christian School community, where prayer, unity, and purpose are central. She especially loves chapel and the school’s Bible Buddies program, cherishing the opportunity to make a lasting spiritual impact on the students and families God has placed in her care.

Diana grew up in Brunswick, Georgia, where her heart for education and ministry began taking root early in life. As a student, she participated in short-term mission trips that had a lasting impact on her faith and worldview—first to Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, where she taught local elementary students, and later to Seoul, South Korea, where she spent ten weeks leading conversational English classes and Bible studies for college students. Those experiences solidified her passion for serving others through both education and discipleship.

A graduate of the University of Georgia, Diana has been faithfully serving at Saint Simons Christian School since 1994, where she now serves as Director of Curriculum and Instruction. Over her many years at SSCS, she has played a vital role in shaping the school’s commitment to academic excellence and Christ-centered education.

She and her husband, Kevin, have been married for 39 years and are blessed with three adult children—JR, Bekah, and Wade—and three treasured granddaughters. Diana loves a good walk on the beach and rarely goes a week without finishing at least one or two audiobooks. She also cherishes time spent with friends, especially the spontaneous, laughter-filled kind.

Mark has served as Headmaster at SSCS since 2014. He brings 27 years of teaching experience and 16 years in educational leadership. He holds a B.A. in Secondary Education (World and American History and Psychology) from Dordt College and an M.Ed in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. He holds a Lifetime Certification with ACSI and attends The Coastal Church.

Lisa has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2014, serving as a 4th–5th grade classroom aide. Growing up as the daughter of a Naval Aviator, she moved frequently across the country, living in places such as Key West, Brunswick, Jacksonville, Monterey, Newport, Virginia Beach, and Washington, D.C. This lifestyle taught her adaptability, independence, and resilience.

Lisa and her husband, David, have been married since 1987 and are proud parents of twin sons, along with two daughters-in-law. They also have two grandchildren, Walker and Palmer, who bring joy to their family life. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys spending time with family, listening to classic rock and Motown, and taking road trips whenever possible.

She treasures the SSCS community for its warmth, faith-filled environment, and close-knit relationships that make each day meaningful.

Daniel grew up in Southern California, where his love for athletics and teamwork began early. He played college basketball and competed in the long jump, experiences that instilled in him discipline, perseverance, and a deep respect for mentorship. His greatest coaching influence came from his father, who taught him the importance of putting others first—an approach Daniel carries into his leadership as Athletic Director.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Ergonomics from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a Master’s degree in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University. Daniel has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2018, where he enjoys mentoring students, building strong athletic programs, and helping young athletes grow in both skill and character.

Daniel’s wife, Helen, taught at SSCS for 25 years, and together they have four sons, four daughters-in-law, and five grandchildren who bring great joy to their lives. Outside of work, Daniel enjoys playing pickleball and traveling with Helen—they’ve visited 49 states and ten countries together.

Leigh has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2018, serving as a first-grade assistant. She grew up in North Carolina, enjoying the beauty of both the coast and the mountains, and cherishes the blessing of being raised in a Christian home by godly parents. Those early experiences shaped her faith and her approach to nurturing children in both academics and character.

Leigh and her husband, Roger, have been married for 23 years and are proud parents of three children: Hank and Caroline, who are attending the College of Coastal Georgia, and Max, a sophomore at Glynn Academy. Outside of work, Leigh enjoys spending time with her family, going on cruises, attending football and baseball games, reading by the pool, and fully enjoying life in the beautiful coastal community she calls home.

She loves being part of SSCS because it allows her to talk about God with her students, guide them through challenges, and end each day in prayer. For Leigh, serving God through her work at the school and sharing each day with faith-filled colleagues is a true joy.

Elizabeth has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2019, teaching middle school ELA and providing middle school resource support. She grew up in Detroit, Michigan, and High Point, North Carolina, and her faith and perspective have been shaped by mission trips and teaching abroad experiences.

Elizabeth and her husband have two sons in middle school, and their family includes two large, lovable dogs who always think they belong in her lap. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and running long distances.

She treasures being part of SSCS because it allows her to openly teach Biblical truth in every subject and conversation. Elizabeth values the opportunity to pray with and over her students and their families, seeing it as a daily gift that will never grow old.

Brandy brings 18 years of experience in teaching and educational leadership. She holds an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and an MPA from Valdosta State University, as well as a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. She has a gifted endorsement, is Orton-Gillingham trained, and attends Community Church – St. Simons.

Stephanie has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2014, teaching Middle School Mathematics. Over the years, she has also taught Middle School ELA and Social Studies, bringing a well-rounded and faith-centered approach to her classrooms.

She grew up in Forsyth, Georgia, and two defining experiences have shaped her journey. At age 14, during a Challenge Weekend with her church, Stephanie surrendered her life to Christ while the band played “Here I Am to Worship.” That moment marked the beginning of her walk with the Lord. Later, in college, she felt God redirect her path from becoming a nurse anesthetist to pursuing a career in education—a calling that continues to inspire her passion for teaching and mentoring students today.

Stephanie married her high school sweetheart, Steven, and together they’ve built a life centered around faith and family. Married for nearly 17 years, they have three children—Dawson, Coleman Tate, and Everlee—all of whom have attended Saint Simons Christian School since Pre-K. Their greatest hope is that their children grow to love and serve Jesus with all their hearts.

Outside of school, Stephanie loves spending time with her family—whether they’re at the beach, traveling, or simply making memories together. She also enjoys reading and finding quiet moments to recharge.

What Stephanie loves most about Saint Simons Christian is seeing the long-term impact of a Christ-centered education. Having taught at SSCS for over a decade, she finds great joy in watching her former students grow into faithful young adults who now serve as examples in the community—and even role models for her own children.

Misty grew up attending Christian schools, an experience that shaped her deep appreciation for faith-based education and a Biblical worldview. From her early years in New England through high school in Georgia, she was surrounded by teachers and mentors who helped her understand what it meant to be known, loved, and rooted in God’s truth. After high school, Misty participated in several mission trips with organizations like Youth With A Mission (YWAM), experiences that broadened her global perspective and strengthened her identity in Christ.

Misty earned her Associate of Science in Nursing from the College of Coastal Georgia and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Georgia Southern University. She joined Saint Simons Christian School in 2020 and serves as the school nurse, where she cares not only for students’ physical needs but also their emotional and spiritual well-being.

She and her husband, David, have been married for more than twenty-five years and have three lively teenagers, along with two cats and a dog who, as Misty jokes, “thinks she’s one of the teens.” When she’s not at school, Misty enjoys spending time with her family—often at games, events, or simply laughing together at home. In her quieter moments, she loves getting lost in a good book.

Austin has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2025, teaching 4th grade. He grew up in San Diego, California, where he attended Pathways Church, a place that profoundly shaped his faith. It was there he committed his life to following Jesus, inspired by Matthew 16:24, and felt called to live an abundant life in Christ.

Austin comes from a close-knit family that brings him great joy, including his parents and brother. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys nature walks, hiking, working out, and spending quality time with his brother.

He treasures being at SSCS, where God led him from California to a community of men and women who live with deep, unconditional love for Him. Austin values the opportunity to grow in his own faith daily and share those lessons with his students, guiding them not only academically but spiritually as well.

Mindy joined SSCS in 2021 and brings 8 years of experience teaching in Christian schools. She holds a B.A. in Missions from The Baptist College of Florida and an Art Certification from FACCS. She attends First Baptist Brunswick.

Ginger has been faithfully serving SSCS since 2012. She holds a B.S. in Accounting from Purdue University and supports the school with her administrative expertise. She attends First Baptist Brunswick.

Chelsea grew up in New Windsor, Maryland, where her early experiences shaped a life of service, discipline, and compassion. In 2009, she joined the U.S. Army and spent two years stationed in South Korea, an experience that deepened her sense of responsibility and global perspective. Following her military service, she transitioned to civilian life as an IT Project Manager for the Maryland Lottery before pursuing her passion for helping others.

Chelsea holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She joined the Saint Simons Christian School family in 2025, where she teaches computer classes to K5 through 5th grade students and enjoys watching them learn and grow in confidence.

She and her husband, Trey, have been married for twelve years and have three sons—Cooper, Colby, and Bennett—along with a dog named Jake and a cat named Sunshine. Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys spending time at the beach, walking her dog, volunteering at church and school, and making memories with her family.

Amanda joined SSCS in 2024 and brings over 8 years of teaching experience. She holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of North Florida and is Orton-Gillingham trained. She attends Community Church.

Laura joined the SSCS team in 2024. She studied Community Health Education and Human Services at Georgia College and State University. She attends First Baptist Church Brunswick.

Heather has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since 2022, teaching K5. Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, she was nurtured in a faith-filled home and inspired by a youth pastor who poured into her life, modeling what it means to live as the hands and feet of Jesus.

Heather and her husband, Josh, have been married since 2002 and are the proud parents of four children—three daughters and one son. Outside of school, she serves part-time as the Preschool Minister at First Baptist Church Brunswick and spends much of her time supporting her children in their after-school activities.

She treasures being part of SSCS, where she has formed close friendships with colleagues and finds daily encouragement and support from the staff.

Nick Zichattella joined the SSCS staff in the summer of 2025 with a strong background in both education and ministry. He has over two years of classroom teaching experience and spent more than 15 years serving as a youth minister. Nick holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Armstrong State University and was named Paraprofessional of the Year at Winterville Charter Academy for the 2022–2023 school year. He is passionate about guiding students academically and spiritually through authentic relationships and servant leadership.