Faculty & Staff
Denise Brooks joined the Saint Simons Christian School faculty in 2023 and brings both a strong academic background and a deep passion for discipleship through education. With a B.S. in Special Education from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s in Mathematics Education from the University of Georgia, Denise is committed to helping students grow in both knowledge and faith.
Born and raised in Atlanta, Denise accepted Christ at the age of seven while attending West End Baptist Church—a moment that has shaped the trajectory of her life. She credits her compassionate elementary school teachers and her church upbringing for inspiring her to pursue a career in education.
Denise and her husband, Roger—affectionately known as Brooksie—have been married for 27 years and enjoy a peaceful life alongside their beloved Cavapoo, Daisy Mae.
Outside of the classroom, Denise is an avid reader with a love for theology, historical fiction, mysteries, and beach reads. She plays piano and especially enjoys worship music and classic hymns. On Saturdays in the fall, you’ll likely find her cheering on her favorite SEC team—Go Dawgs!
What Denise loves most about SSCS is:
“The faculty and staff are truly Christ-centered and love each other like family. It’s a blessing to work with people so deeply committed to the academic and spiritual growth of our students. I’m honored to play a small part in the impact we’re making together.”
Mallory Carellas joined the faculty of Saint Simons Christian School in 2024 and brings a passion for language, culture, and faith to the Middle School Spanish classroom. She holds degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and blends her academic excellence with a heart for service and missions.
Originally from Lilburn, Georgia, Mallory’s love for Spanish began during an eighth-grade mission trip to a small town in Peru. That early experience sparked a lifelong appreciation for Hispanic culture and language—a passion she now shares with her students.
Mallory and her husband have been married for 12 years and are the proud parents of two children. Their home is lively and full, with four resident cats and a rotating crew of foster dogs from the Glynn County Animal Shelter. Outside the classroom, Mallory is a dedicated nurse, scout mom, and outdoor enthusiast. Whether reading, volunteering, or traveling with her family, she approaches life with joy and purpose.
Mallory loves being part of the close-knit, faith-filled community at SSCS, where she can guide students in discovering a new language while also helping shape their character and worldview. For her, it’s a place where learning, laughter, and love for the Lord go hand in hand.
Brenda Clifton has been teaching first grade at Saint Simons Christian School since 2017, bringing a passion for early childhood education and a deep love for sharing the gospel with young learners. A proud native of Saint Simons Island, Brenda’s journey as an educator was inspired by her own first-grade teacher—igniting a lifelong dream that she now lives out daily.
Brenda holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Georgia College and State University, as well as a Master’s and Educational Specialist degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of West Georgia.
With a heart for missions, Brenda has served children around the world—from orphanages in Honduras and inner-city schools in Atlanta to teaching English and leading worship in China, Romania, Russia, and beyond. One of her most treasured experiences inspired her to author a children’s book based on her time in Romania. She also teaches her first-grade students to sing “Jesus Loves Me” in Chinese each year, cultivating both cultural appreciation and a heart for global ministry.
Brenda and her husband Don have been married for over 50 years and are blessed with three children and four grandchildren. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys traveling with family, walking on the beach (logging over 300 miles each summer!), gardening, and—of course—missions.
What Brenda loves most about SSCS is:
“The amazing opportunity to share and teach Jesus with the children and families in my class each year—and the love and support of families throughout the school.”
Aimee DeHaven brings joy, warmth, and a deep love for music to the Saint Simons Christian School community, where she has served since 2022. With a background in elementary education and a lifelong passion for worship, Aimee blends creativity and encouragement into everything she does—whether assisting middle school students, supporting the advancement team, or leading in musical settings.
Originally from Binghamton, NY, Aimee’s childhood included multiple cross-country moves due to her father’s career with IBM. Those transitions taught her how to build lasting connections and adapt with grace—skills she uses daily in her work with students and families. Raised in a musical family, she first sang in church at the age of four and has been leading others in worship ever since.
Aimee graduated from Houghton College with a degree in Elementary Education in 2003. She met her husband Shane during their freshman year and the two have now been married for 22 years. Shane holds advanced degrees in theology and chiropractic care and is also a local business owner. Together, they’re raising three amazing kids—Parker, Titus, and Lyric—who keep their home filled with creativity, music, and laughter.
Outside of school, Aimee serves as the pianist at Jekyll Island United Methodist Church and frequently leads worship services across the community. A passionate musical theater fan, she dreams of one day singing the National Anthem at the MLB World Series.
What Aimee cherishes most about SSCS is the Christ-centered culture and deep sense of community:
“This place is not only where I work, but the people here have become like family. It is a privilege to serve God in an institution where we can proclaim His name every single day. As Martha Munizzi has written, ‘I was created to make Your praise glorious!’”
Rochelle Dukes brings a deep love for both learning and history into her diverse teaching role at Saint Simons Christian School, where she serves students in grades 4 through 8 across multiple subjects. With a passion for classical education and a heart for discipleship, she seeks to make each lesson meaningful and rooted in truth.
Rochelle holds a B.S.Ed. in Middle Grades Education (4–8) from Valdosta State University and a M.Ed. in Curriculum Instruction – Accomplished Teaching from Georgia Southern University, where she also earned an endorsement in Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
Originally from Glennville, Georgia, Rochelle was raised by her father, a dedicated single parent who instilled in her a strong sense of perseverance, responsibility, and work ethic. His example remains a powerful influence in her life and teaching philosophy.
She is married to her husband, David, and together they have two children, Revere (10) and Dahlia Belle (7). Rochelle treasures being able to teach Revere each day and considers her family the heartbeat of her life and ministry.
Outside the classroom, Rochelle enjoys diving into local history, exploring museums, and visiting historical sites. She also loves beach days, discovering local restaurants, and theme park adventures with her family.
What Rochelle values most about teaching at SSCS is the Christ-centered community:
“Being in a school where Christ is at the center of all we do is such a gift. I’m especially grateful for the support of the staff and the blessing of teaching my own son as part of our shared journey of faith.”
Mary Ellen Etheridge has been faithfully serving at Saint Simons Christian School since 2021 as a classroom aide for 2nd and 3rd grade. With a heart for both students and community, she brings warmth, dependability, and joy into every classroom she supports.
Originally from Macon, Georgia, Mary Ellen’s life was shaped by her family’s many moves during her husband’s 15 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. The experience of living in diverse places and connecting with people from all walks of life helped develop her adaptability and deep appreciation for community.
Mary Ellen attended Brenau University and now lives in Brunswick with her husband and their daughter Charlotte, who attends SSCS, as well as their two beloved dogs. Whether she's enjoying a good book, walking with friends, or soaking in the peace of the nearby beaches, she finds refreshment in the simple joys of life.
What Mary Ellen treasures most about SSCS is the family-like atmosphere:
“It doesn’t feel like I’m going to work each day—it feels like I’m spending time with close friends and family. That sense of care and connection is something truly unique to this place.”
Olivia Hendley joined the Saint Simons Christian School team in 2024 as a Kindergarten aide, bringing with her a heart for ministry and a love for working with young children. Her perspective on life and faith has been deeply shaped by her upbringing at the Paul Anderson Youth Home in Vidalia, Georgia, where her parents served in ministry for 15 years. That experience instilled in her a lifelong view of every opportunity as a chance to serve and glorify God.
More recently, Olivia spent a year caring for her grandparents during their cancer diagnoses and treatments—a season that revealed God’s sustaining presence and taught her what it means to be thankful and faithful in all circumstances. Through these experiences, she has come to know the strength of God in weakness and the beauty of trusting His unchanging hand.
Now living in Brunswick with her parents and four siblings, Olivia enjoys the peaceful beauty of the marsh and loves spending time outdoors. Whether hiking, backpacking, fishing, or simply enjoying a walk, she thrives in God’s creation and finds joy in the journey—especially when someone else is navigating!
What Olivia treasures most about SSCS is the Christ-centered community of like-minded, ministry-driven individuals. She is grateful to serve alongside a team united in purpose: to honor God and help children walk closely with Him every day.
Pat Jenkins has served as the Resource Coordinator at Saint Simons Christian School since 2015. With a heart for students and a deep commitment to faith-based education, she plays a vital role in supporting the academic and spiritual development of each child entrusted to the school’s care.
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Pat moved to St. Augustine, Florida during high school. Her early years were marked by a strong Christian upbringing, attending church faithfully with her parents. A pivotal moment in her faith journey came at age 12, when she was baptized—a decision that set the foundation for a life of faith. Later, a renewed bond with her sister through their shared relationship with Christ had a profound influence on her spiritual growth.
Pat earned degrees from both the University of Georgia and Georgia College & University. Today, she enjoys life with her three daughters and their families. Two daughters live in the Atlanta area, while one resides on Saint Simons Island. She is a proud grandmother to several grandchildren, ranging from teenagers to young adults.
Outside of school, Pat enjoys volunteering, cooking, and gardening. She cherishes the time spent nurturing both plants and people.
What Pat loves most about SSCS is the Christ-centered culture and sense of family:
“Being a part of our Christian family—praying together, supporting each other, and knowing we’re having a meaningful impact on children’s lives—is such a gift. Chapel and Bible Buddies are two of my favorite things about being here.”
Diana Josey has been a foundational part of the Saint Simons Christian School community since the early years, bringing decades of educational leadership and a heart for missions and discipleship to her role. As Director of Curriculum and Instruction, she champions academic excellence grounded in biblical truth and works closely with faculty to equip and encourage both teachers and students.
A Brunswick native, Diana’s faith and passion for teaching were deeply shaped by early mission trips to the Bahamas and South Korea. In Eleuthera, she taught local elementary students, and in Seoul, she spent ten weeks leading Bible studies and conversational English classes for college students—experiences that ignited a lifelong love for both education and ministry.
Diana holds a degree from the University of Georgia and has devoted much of her life to Christian education—not only as an educator, but also as a parent. She and her husband, Kevin, have been married for 39 years and raised three children, all of whom were blessed to attend SSCS. Their son JR recently returned home to help care for Kevin and now serves as the family’s resident chef. Their daughter Bekah lives in Tampa with her husband and their three daughters, while Wade resides in Austin, TX, where he works in music production and composition.
Outside of school, Diana enjoys long walks on the beach, deep conversations with friends, and listening to audiobooks—often finishing one or two per week. She thrives on meaningful connection and cherishes the gift of community.
What Diana loves most about SSCS is:
“Our school blends Christ-centered teaching with academic excellence. The faculty sincerely care for each student, going to great lengths to instruct, love, and equip them. It’s a Spirit-filled and nurturing place—one that I’m proud to be a part of as we guide hearts and grow minds.”
Lisa Lyle has been faithfully serving Saint Simons Christian School since 2014 as a classroom aide for the 4th and 5th grades. With warmth, adaptability, and a deep love for children, she plays a vital role in supporting both students and teachers each day.
Growing up in a military family as the daughter of a Naval Aviator, Lisa experienced life in a variety of places—Key West, Brunswick, Monterey, Newport, Virginia Beach, Washington D.C., and more. Moving every couple of years shaped her into someone who is resilient, flexible, and quick to adapt—traits that continue to bless the SSCS classroom community.
Lisa graduated from George Mason University and has been married to her husband, David, since 1987. Together they have twin sons, two wonderful daughters-in-law, and are proud grandparents to an “amazing” grandson, Walker, and granddaughter, Palmer. Family is the center of Lisa’s life, and time with them is her greatest joy. She also loves classic rock, Motown, and hitting the road for a spontaneous road trip.
When asked what she loves most about SSCS, her answer is simple and heartfelt: “The community.”
Daniel Moore has been serving as the Athletic Director at Saint Simons Christian School since 2018. With a passion for sports, mentoring students, and glorifying God through athletics, Coach Moore brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the SSCS athletic program.
Originally from Southern California, Daniel earned his bachelor’s degree in Ergonomics from UC Santa Barbara, where he played college basketball and competed in the long jump. He later received his Master’s in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University. His coaching philosophy was shaped by his greatest mentor—his father—who taught him the value of servant leadership and putting others first.
Daniel and his wife, Helen, have built a legacy of Christian education and family-centered ministry. Helen served as a beloved teacher at SSCS for 25 years. Together, they have four sons, four daughters-in-law, and five wonderful grandchildren.
Outside of school, Daniel enjoys playing pickleball and traveling with Helen. Together, they’ve explored 49 U.S. states and 10 foreign countries—always seeking adventure and connection.
What Daniel loves most about being part of the Saint Simons Christian community is:
“It’s wonderful to see kids that love so well.”
Leigh Noonan has faithfully served the students of Saint Simons Christian School since 2018, bringing warmth, encouragement, and a steady presence to the first-grade classroom. A North Carolina native, Leigh grew up enjoying both the coast and the mountains, but it was the foundation of a Christ-centered home that most deeply shaped her life. Now as a parent herself, she recognizes the profound blessing of being raised by godly parents and strives to reflect that same love and wisdom in her work with students.
Leigh holds degrees from East Carolina University and UNC Greensboro. She and her husband, Roger, have been married for over 23 years and are raising three incredible children. Hank and Caroline are currently attending the College of Coastal Georgia, while Max is a sophomore at Glynn Academy.
When she’s not at school, Leigh can often be found making memories with her family—whether cruising together (a family tradition), enjoying Disney trips, attending football or baseball games, or simply reading by the pool and soaking up the beauty of coastal life.
What she loves most about Saint Simons Christian School is the ability to freely share God’s love with students:
“I love being able to talk about God with our students, talking through problems and ending with prayer. It is such a blessing to serve God by working at Saint Simons Christian School. I have found such joy spending my days with godly friends and colleagues.”
Elizabeth Olson has been part of the Saint Simons Christian School faculty since 2019, where she teaches Middle School English Language Arts and serves as a resource teacher. She brings a wealth of experience and a heart for students with diverse learning needs, holding dual Bachelor’s degrees in Special Education and Elementary Education from Cedarville University, along with a Bible minor. She also earned her Master’s in Special Education from National University.
Elizabeth grew up in both Detroit, Michigan and High Point, North Carolina, and her life has been deeply shaped by mission trips and the opportunity to teach abroad. These experiences have broadened her perspective and deepened her commitment to integrating faith and education in meaningful ways.
At home, Elizabeth enjoys life with her husband, their two middle school-aged sons, and two oversized dogs who seem convinced they’re lap dogs. When she’s not in the classroom, you’ll likely find her reading, running long distances, or spending time with her family.
For Elizabeth, the heart of SSCS lies in its Christ-centered mission. She treasures the opportunity to teach biblical truth in every subject, pray over her students and their families, and be part of a school community where faith is woven into every aspect of learning.
Stephanie Ramage has been faithfully serving at Saint Simons Christian School since 2014, where she currently teaches Middle School Mathematics. Over the years, she has also taught Middle School English Language Arts and Social Studies, bringing a well-rounded perspective to the classroom. Stephanie holds a degree from Georgia College and State University and is a passionate educator who sees teaching as a calling, not just a career.
Raised in Forsyth, Georgia, Stephanie experienced a life-changing moment at age 14 during a Challenge Weekend at her church, where she committed her life to Christ. That moment of surrender, while the worship team played “Here I Am to Worship,” continues to guide her life and teaching. Another defining experience came in college when she felt the Lord redirect her path from nursing to education—a decision that confirmed her passion for shaping young lives through teaching.
Stephanie is married to her high school sweetheart, Steven, and together they have three children—Dawson, Coleman Tate, and Everlee—all of whom attend SSCS. She treasures time with her family, especially beach trips, new adventures, and quiet moments reading a good book.
What Stephanie loves most about being part of the Saint Simons Christian community is watching her students grow into godly young men and women. Some of her earliest students have become role models in the community—and even for her own children. She is deeply grateful to be part of a school that nurtures faith, fosters excellence, and equips students to make a lasting impact for Christ.
Misty Ricks has served as the school nurse at Saint Simons Christian School since 2020, bringing not only professional medical care to campus, but a warm and compassionate presence that supports the hearts and minds of every student she encounters.
A proud product of Christian education herself, Misty grew up attending Christian schools from elementary through high school—an experience that deeply shaped her biblical worldview and sense of identity in Christ. After graduating, she traveled the world on mission trips with organizations like YWAM, expanding her global perspective and strengthening her walk with the Lord.
Misty holds an Associate of Science in Nursing from what is now the College of Coastal Georgia and earned her BSN from Georgia Southern University.
She and her husband David have been married for over 25 years. Together they’re raising three vibrant teenagers—plus two cats and a dog who thinks she’s one of the kids.
When she’s not offering ice packs, prayer, and encouragement on campus, Misty can be found cheering on her teens at various sporting events, playing games with her family, or diving into a great book during quieter moments.
What Misty loves most about SSCS is:
“I absolutely love not just giving band-aids for boo-boos, but being able to love and care for the hearts of each child and their family as they grow through the years. Knowing I can be a support to the entire family and share the heart of the Father makes being at SSCS a joy!”
Austin Ross joined the Saint Simons Christian School faculty in 2025, bringing with him a sincere passion for teaching and a heart committed to following Christ. Originally from San Diego, California, Austin's journey of faith began at Pathways Church, where God stirred his heart through the words of Matthew 16:24:
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
That moment of surrender marked the beginning of a life devoted to walking with Jesus and helping others do the same.
Austin earned his degree from San Diego Christian College and felt God's clear direction to relocate to Georgia to join the SSCS community. Since arriving, he has found deep joy and growth in being surrounded by fellow believers who model unconditional love and a vibrant walk with Christ.
Outside the classroom, Austin enjoys exploring nature through walks and hikes, staying active through fitness, and spending meaningful time with his brother and family. His joy in teaching comes from being able to pour what he’s learning in his own walk with God into the lives of his students each day.
What Austin loves most about SSCS is the people:
“God brought me here from across the country, and I see His purpose in it every day. I’m grateful to be part of a team that helps me grow in my faith, and I love getting to do the same for my students.”
Chelsea Turner joined the Saint Simons Christian School team in 2025, bringing with her a unique blend of technical expertise, leadership, and a heart for service. As the K5–5th grade computer teacher, Chelsea loves helping young learners gain confidence with technology while grounding everything in a Christ-centered perspective.
Chelsea holds a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Maryland and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. Her professional journey has included military service in the U.S. Army—where she was stationed in South Korea for two years—and later, a role as IT Project Manager for the Maryland Lottery.
She and her husband Trey have been married for 12 years and are the proud parents of three boys: Cooper, Colby, and Bennett. Their family also includes a dog named Jake and a cat named Sunshine.
Outside of school, Chelsea enjoys walking Jake, volunteering at church and school, relaxing at the beach, and spending time with her family.
What Chelsea loves most about SSCS is:
“It truly feels like a family. We’ve met amazing friends since being here, and everyone has welcomed us with open arms.”
Heather Wills joined the Saint Simons Christian School faculty in 2022 and brings both warmth and experience to her role as Kindergarten teacher. A native of Savannah, Georgia, Heather grew up in a strong church community, where her youth pastor played a pivotal role in shaping her faith. Those early experiences instilled in her a deep desire to serve others with the love of Christ—a calling that continues to guide her in the classroom today.
Heather earned her degree from Armstrong Atlantic State University and has been married to her husband, Josh, since 2002. Together, they are raising four wonderful children—three daughters and one son—who keep them busy and full of joy. In addition to her work at SSCS, Heather serves part-time on staff at First Baptist Church Brunswick as the Preschool Minister, further investing in the lives of young children and families.
Outside of work, much of her time is spent on the road shuttling her kids to their various after-school activities. But whether at church, at school, or at home, Heather lives out her calling to love, encourage, and disciple the next generation.
What she cherishes most about Saint Simons Christian School is the close-knit team of educators: “I have become very close with many of the teachers and am blessed daily to be around and encouraged by them.”
