Bridge Campus FACULTY
Mr. Wade Ortego
Head of Schools
Bio
B.S., Business, Bryan College in Dayton, Tennessee; M.Ed., Abilene Christian University.
As a leader in classical Christian schools, my great passion is to assist families in the education of their children toward a Biblical worldview that acknowledges Christ as the author and perfecter of the Christian faith. I am committed to the classical Christian model of education and enjoy introducing families to its many benefits. I put a strong emphasis on maintaining and building a student culture.
I was most recently Headmaster of the Classical Christian Academy in Post Falls, Idaho. Prior to that, I led the Classical School of Wichita in Kansas.
My wife, Rachel, and I have been married for over 25 years and have three boys: Matthew, age 21; Elijah, 20; and Jedidiah, 9.
Church Affiliation: The King’s Congregation
Mrs. Mandi Moore
Bridge Campus Dean
Bio
M.A. Physical Therapy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center; B.S. Multi-Disciplinary Science, Texas Tech University – College of Education; Secondary Education Teaching Certification: Composite Science Grades 6-12 – State of Texas.
While prayerfully researching education options for our oldest child, my husband and I became convinced that classical Christian education is the most effective method for raising our children to love the Lord whole-heartedly, think deeply from a Biblical worldview, love truth, goodness and beauty, and share the gospel winsomely.
This conviction led us to serve on the founding board of Cross Classical Academy (CCA) in 2010. When my husband accepted a cardiology position in Boise in 2015, our family relocated to Idaho where our two children continued their journey in classical Christian education at The Ambrose School.
We are deeply committed to the school’s mission and are daily blessed by the community of exceptional staff and families. It has been an honor to serve at the Ambrose Bridge Campus since its conception in 2016.
As a family, we enjoy spending time outdoors: hiking, mountain biking, running, rafting, camping, skiing as well as cooking and enjoying time with family and friends.
Church Affiliations: Christ the King Anglican Church – Meridian; Cross Classical Academy – Board President
Dr. Heather Jennings
Academic Dean
Bio
Ph.D. in English Literature, University of California Davis; M.A. in English Literature, Boise State University; B.A. in Government, Patrick Henry College.
My engagement with classical Christian education spans nearly twenty years, from taking courses on the literature and history of Greece and Rome in high school from Andrew Kern, a leading thinker and teacher in the cCe movement; to teaching 5th then 12th grades at The Ambrose School; to writing my dissertation on habits of learning in medieval England. I appreciate how classical Christian education situates learning as an expression of loving God with all our minds, equips students to be life-long learners by approaching education not simply as dispensing information but as the formation of habits, teaches students to make connections among all subjects they study, and prepares students to be culture-makers by engaging with the art and ideas that have shaped our world.
I grew up in Boise, Idaho, and spent the past six and a half years in the Sacramento and beautiful San Francisco Bay areas, pursuing my doctorate and teaching at the University of California Davis and Sonoma State University. My husband Brian and I have two preschool aged daughters; we love to read and discuss what we’ve read, entertain, do CrossFit, and spend time in beautiful surroundings by camping, mountain biking, hiking, and traveling.
Church Affiliation: Holy Trinity Anglican Church
Miss Hilary Dotters
Upper School Assistant Dean
Upper School Humanities
Bio
Master of Studies from the University of Oxford, M.A. in Jewish Studies from the Graduate Theological Union, B.A. in Philosophy from Biola University.
Classical Christian education appeals to me because of its aim for students to become reflective, attentive people who grow into life long lovers of truth. I have chosen to work at The Ambrose School because of its vision for students to become whole persons, to develop sound thinking, and to cultivate rightly ordered loves. It is from great literature that I desire to teach my students and, with them, to enjoy the time-tested stories that have inspired imaginations, to experience the rhetoric that stirred nations, and to know the movements of history roused by great men and women throughout the ages. The power of the Word transforms, and nothing compares to the encountering and sharing of a great book and its ideas. My vision is to invite students into this conversation. In all this, I want my students to recognize the Good, the True, and the Beautiful; and, in this recognizing and remembering, be moved to conform their lives to it.
When I am not teaching, I am very likely studying theology or trying to wrangle up students to go to Rwanda with me or seeking out long conversations with friends. And if not these, I can often be found outside doing something, usually in the form of bird hunting, fishing, or working in the garden.
Church Affiliation: Holy Trinity Anglican Church
Mrs. Bonnie Green
Admissions Director
Bio
I was first introduced to Ambrose by the recommendation of a number of families. After touring the school myself, I quickly learned this is where I wanted my children educated. I myself was educated in a Christian school, but what a difference to be in an environment where Christ is woven throughout the entire day, in every subject. I began spending time volunteering at the school as often as possible, and by my children’s second year I joined the staff as the Bridge Office Manager. The following year I took over the Admissions Director position. It is a joy to work in a community of like-minded believers, and to be a part of the ministry that God is doing through Ambrose.
My husband, Chuck, and I have been married for over 19 years and have three boys: Derek, Gavin, and Ryan. As a family we enjoy spending time outdoors; camping, snowboarding, dirt biking, boating, and traveling.
Church Affiliation: Eagle Christian Church
Mrs. Guin Carson
Grammar School Assistant Dean
Bio
Classical education has been at the heart of my teaching since my oldest son’s first-grade year of homeschooling. It was then I realized that traditional curriculum and methods might teach him how to read but they would not feed his soul. Our homeschooling endeavor took on new life as I began researching and training in classical methods. Our family enjoyed seven years of homeschooling, but we also spent eight years in small private Christian schools. I have taught a variety of subjects, but my passion has always been literature. Watching students’ eyes light up as they discover timeless truths within great books is my favorite moment in the classroom. And now, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue the great conversation with students in the Ambrose Bridge Program.
My husband and I have been married for over 20 years and have lived many places in the United States, ranging from the Deep South to the Pacific Northwest. But we are pleased to call the Treasure Valley our home. Here we have raised our three sons and have participated in a myriad of ministries. He now serves as a pastor, and I am pleased to partner with him in service to the body of Christ. In our free time, we try to keep up with our adroit border collie, Hugo.
Church Affiliation: Star Community Church
Mrs. Ellen Baumann
Registrar
librarian
B.A., Anthropology, The University of Texas at Austin; JD, Southern Methodist University (Dedman) School of Law, Dallas, TX
My husband, David, and our family moved here from Texas in 2009, and our four boys have all attended The Ambrose School. We love living in the Treasure Valley, especially the mild winters, the cool[er] summers, and the beautiful surroundings.
I served as Librarian and Testing Coordinator at Locust Grove for ten years, and am now the Registrar and Librarian on the Bridge Campus. My husband and I teach Chess at all three campuses, and run a local non-profit chess organization.
My passion is to connect students, parents, and staff with resources and information and to instill a life-long love for books and reading.
mrs. Jodee Nassir
Events Director
upper school instructor
Bio
B.S. Elementary Education (Grades 2-8), Mathematics concentration, University of Maryland; M.A. Public Policy and Leadership, Liberty University.
I began teaching in 1997 starting with 4 th grade, and later moved on to middle school mathematics and reading. The U.S. Air Force gave our family the opportunity to experience eight different schools and learning methods; from public school to homeschooling. Our family favored the Classical Christian model where our children learned that Christ is at the center of all that we do, and where their affections are continually trained toward Truth, Beauty, and Goodness. While stationed in Virginia, our headmaster at Summit Christian Academy found out that we were Boise bound for retirement and recommended the Ambrose School as the “gold standard” of Classical Christian schools.
After his retirement from the Air Force, my husband accepted a leadership position at the Saint Alphonsus Medical Group. We were finally returning home to Boise where my family has lived for over thirty years. Our oldest son graduated from Ambrose in 2021, and currently attends the College of Idaho. Our two younger sons are enrolled in the Ambrose Bridge Program.
Our family enjoys spending time outdoors skiing, hiking, hunting, and hanging out together. We attend and serve at Rock Harbor Church in Meridian. I love serving in an administrative capacity at the Ambrose Bridge Campus!
Church Affiliation: Rock Harbor Church
mrs. laura kirkpatrick
office manager
We were first introduced to classical education when seeking out schools for our oldest child over a decade ago. While we were hesitant to dive into an education so different from our own, we were drawn to the way the school integrated Christ into all things as well as the emphasis on educating the whole child, not only through the imparting of information, but also the pouring into their spiritual development. Since then, we have moved several times, experiencing the classical model in different schools as well as having the opportunity to homeschool for several years. This past year all three of our girls joined the Bridge campus where we have been able to see them thrive in the hybrid model. I look forward to joining Bridge staff and supporting the community we have been so blessed to be a part of.
I was raised in North Carolina, graduated from UNC-Wilmington, and married on the coast before my husband and I made our way west, eventually landing in Idaho seven years ago. We enjoy boating, hiking, four wheeling, gardening, traveling to Montana where my family now lives, and being outside as much as possible during the summer. However, when winter rolls around, you will find me bundled in fifteen layers, browsing airline websites while I plan as many trips as possible back to a warm, Florida beach.
mrs. bonnie judson
events assistant
Bio
B.A. Public Relations and Communications; Minor in Hospitality Business Management
My husband and I are high school sweethearts and we have been in the United States Army for 16 years. This experience has given us a blessed opportunity to travel all over the world and be the salt and the light in many different communities and neighborhoods.
When our first child was about to enter her school years, we quickly decided to Homeschool to ensure that educational values would align with our personal ethos . After a few years of homeschooling, we were introduced to Ambrose Bridge and felt like this was a perfect match. We have three young children all enrolled in Grammar for the past few years. I hope that you have seen me around volunteering in classrooms, out at recess and at “Moms In Prayer.”
The military has allowed me to hold a diverse career, roles ranging from data analysis at the Associated Press to high security clearance government work, along with serving as an Event Coordinator and Operations Manager for local businesses in the Treasure Valley. However, my true passion lies in witnessing the transformative power of education and the love of Christ when they come together in a love of lifetime learning, which is actively evident at Bridge. I’m honored to be a part of this community and to serve you and nurture the love of learning among the students.
Miss Jaya Beck
RECEPTIONIST
I am currently pursuing a degree in Biblical Studies from Calvary Chapel Bible College. My family and I moved to Meridian in 2019, and we attend Living Hope Bible Church. I serve in worship ministry, young adults, and children’s ministry. Snowboarding, hiking, and boating are some of my favorite past times.
Mrs. Anne Thomas
PreK Instructor
B.S Biology – Idaho State University, A.S. Nursing – Boise State University
When my husband, Mike, and I began our family, I ended my career in nursing to homeschool and raise our children in order to nurture their hearts towards Christ in all things. This led me to find and realize the value of Classical Christian Education. When relocating back to Meridian, I discovered the Ambrose Bridge Campus, where my older two children attend. My youngest child awaits enrollment at a Classical School for special needs. I have learned through my homeschooling journey that my greatest joy comes from teaching children that God’s plan is always perfect and that they can find hope and joy in daily trials.
I enjoy building community and planning adventures for family and friends such as camping, rafting, fishing, mountain biking, sports, music, skiing and exploring all of Idaho.
Church Affiliation: Faith Community Bible Church
Mrs. Christina Smith
Kindergarten instructor
B.S. Worship Studies, Liberty University, 2021
My introduction to Classical Christian Education began while my husband was serving as the youth pastor for a local ministry in Meridian, Idaho. Several of the students we worked with attended The Ambrose School and we found ourselves on campus often for games, Pastor Appreciation brunches, coffee shop meets, and thesis presentations. I was soon afforded the opportunity to observe a few classes in the Upper School of the Locust Grove campus while pursuing an education degree, and I fell in love with the dynamic I saw in the classroom between the students and the faculty alike. While my major changed, the passion sparked in those observations has never left me. Soon after, our daughter was coming close to entering Kindergarten and my husband and I could not bring ourselves to be more enthusiastic about any other setting but the one we had come to know at The Ambrose School. We loved the thought of our girls coming to a school invested in their relationship with Jesus and their entire personhood in partnership with us as parents.
Now God has afforded me the opportunity to serve the school and students as an intern within the Bridge campus and I could not be more excited. I hope to assist the teachers placed in mentorship over me in any way I can as we pour the love of Christ into the children we are blessed to work with.
My husband and I have been married for almost 10 years, and in that time, God has blessed us with two precious girls. Together we serve our church out of our home and have been blessed by how God has moved in the lives of those we minister to. In our free time our family enjoys being outside, are avid readers, and love family movie nights.
Church Affiliation: Limitless Church
Mrs. Kim Jacky
Kindergarten Instructor
Bio
B.S., Cum Laude, University of the Ozarks; taught and directed a homeschool group for seven years using the classical Christian education model; speaker and trainer at multiple classical education conferences for almost 12 years; during the 2018-2019 school year, substituted at Bridge in various classrooms.
I have a passion for classical education and development of children. I love to share biblical truth and am excited to be part of a school that allows the Lord to be first and foremost in education.
I am married to a wonderful and supportive husband and have two daughters who both attend the Bridge Campus.
Mrs. Sherry Fish
1st Grade Instructor
Bio
B.A., Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles; M.A., Education Summa Cum Laude, Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education & Psychology
We first heard about Christian Classical Education when my oldest daughter was just a toddler. Having been a teacher for 6 years in the public school system, I was very intrigued by an education model centered on the biblical worldview in a traditional way of teaching and seeks to form Godly character in students. It was exactly what we would want our girls to have. Then the Lord led our family out of California in 2016. We came to Boise not knowing anyone or having any family, but we knew God had brought us here for a purpose. We purchased our home in the Three Corners community behind where the Ambrose Locust Grove Campus is located, unbeknownst to us at the time, that would be the beginning of our connection to Christian Classical Education in Idaho. We enrolled our daughter in kindergarten the following year and have been impressed by the fruit of the classical model ever since!
I have a passion for education excellence and building faith in the next generation. I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to help further Gospel-centered education in the lives of Ambrose students alongside their parents.
I am married to an amazing husband and have two daughters who both attend Ambrose Bridge. In my spare time, I enjoy baking bread & cooking, fellowshipping with friends and traveling with my family and our 2 dogs.
Church Affiliation: Capital Christian Church
Mrs. Gwyne parker
1st Grade Instructor
Bio
B.A., Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles; M.A., Education Summa Cum Laude, Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education & Psychology
We first heard about Christian Classical Education when my oldest daughter was just a toddler. Having been a teacher for 6 years in the public school system, I was very intrigued by an education model centered on the biblical worldview in a traditional way of teaching and seeks to form Godly character in students. It was exactly what we would want our girls to have. Then the Lord led our family out of California in 2016. We came to Boise not knowing anyone or having any family, but we knew God had brought us here for a purpose. We purchased our home in the Three Corners community behind where the Ambrose Locust Grove Campus is located, unbeknownst to us at the time, that would be the beginning of our connection to Christian Classical Education in Idaho. We enrolled our daughter in kindergarten the following year and have been impressed by the fruit of the classical model ever since!
I have a passion for education excellence and building faith in the next generation. I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to help further Gospel-centered education in the lives of Ambrose students alongside their parents.
I am married to an amazing husband and have two daughters who both attend Ambrose Bridge. In my spare time, I enjoy baking bread & cooking, fellowshipping with friends and traveling with my family and our 2 dogs.
Church Affiliation: Capital Christian Church
Mrs. Ann Kesl
2nd Grade Instructor
Bio
M.S. in Speech and Language Pathology with an emphasis in Developmental Disabilities, University of Nevada Reno
In the past, I worked within the special education system of the public schools, home schooled my own children for 10 years, and taught within a University model run school. I am enjoying the classical Christian education at The Ambrose School with my family and am impressed daily by the staff and students. I value the opportunity to work in tandem with parents, empowering them to provide the best education for their children within the Ambrose Bridge Program. I consider it a real pleasure and true gift to build those relationships. It is my desire for children to walk out of my class not only knowing how deeply they are loved by Jesus but also to love learning.
My husband Jim and I have four children, three of whom are students at Ambrose. Being a military family, we have had the pleasure of living in many places. We came to Idaho five years ago and finally feel at home. It is our plan to remain here permanently. When I’m not shuttling children around, I enjoy CrossFitting, reading under a snuggly blanket, and trying new foods.
Church Affiliation: Eagle Christian Church
Mrs. Marie Beck
3rd Grade Instructor
Bio
B.A., Sociology, Cedarville University; currently working through the Liberty University education graduate program.
I love to get to know people’s stories and the experiences that have shaped them. I home educated my kids in the classical philosophy for nine years. My passion is to walk the journey of life and parenting with other moms, encouraging and empowering them.
I enjoy all things ‘school’ and education, especially elementary age kids, and feel privileged to be part of the Ambrose Bridge family.
For the past 22 years, my husband, Matt, and I have worked together in full-time church ministry, including church planting in the Pacific Northwest then, worship and family ministry in northern California. A year ago, we moved here to the Treasure Valley where my husband grew up. Together we have four amazing kids, and enjoy having people into our home for food and laughter, reading, hiking, and playing music.
Mrs. Catherine Pierce
4th Grade Instructor
Bio
B.A., Communications, Regent University.
I have over six years of teaching experience as a Latin teacher at classical Christian schools. I value how classical Christian education fosters the faith, teaches reason, sparks the imagination, and develops a love for truth, beauty, and goodness.
I am originally from the Washington D.C. area and moved to Idaho with my husband. I have a passion for books, baking, biking, and am a proud mama of two adopted cats.
Mrs. Katie White
5th Grade Instructor
M.A. in Teaching, Northwest Nazarene University
My husband and I have four children. We have lived in Idaho for 13 years and in the Treasure Valley for the past 7 years. My four kids attend Ambrose and I am excited to watch them grow in their faith and knowledge. In my free time, I enjoy baking, taking fitness classes, and attending my own children’s hockey games.
I think the Classical education model is one of the best ways to educate children. I love the focus on making well-rounded and virtuous children who will then carry those traits into adulthood. I appreciate the focus of ensuring children learn the why behind receiving an education, and not just learning because it’s something every child does from ages 5-18. The curriculum is engaging and exciting, and I enjoy the traditional classroom setting and focus on the classics. I am excited to begin my teaching career at The Ambrose Bridge Campus!
Mrs. Carrie Bost
6th Grade Instructor
B.A. Elementary Education and Special Education, Northern Arizona University; M.A. Reading and Curriculum Development, Arizona State University
I began my teaching career in Phoenix, Arizona teaching at a middle school for 10 years. I taught English, reading and American history to 6th-8th grade students. I also tutored children with special needs, primarily those with a diagnosis of autism or various learning disabilities. After our children were born, I stepped away from teaching full time … only to jump back in when we homeschooled for a season. Upon our arrival in Idaho, I began substituting at The Ambrose School, Locust Grove campus and did that with great regularity for six years until joining the Bridge community last year.
I am overjoyed to be teaching at Bridge campus and love teaching about The Good Life, through rich Scripture verses and literary texts, historical events, mathematical equations and scientific wonders!
I lived in the deserts of Phoenix, Arizona for way too many years before moving to Boise, in 2017. We have loved the change of scenery and having a season other than summer! My husband, Ben and I have been married for 20 years. We have 3 children, Joshua, Eli, and Audrey, and a 12 pound toy goldendoodle, Maisy.
Church Affiliation: Hill City Boise
Mrs. Kate Stucker
Art Instructor
Bio
B.S. in Family Consumer Science from University of Idaho, 2002; M.S. in Educational Technology from Boise State University, 2005
For a decade I taught Family Consumer Science, Life Skills, and Business Technology classes at the middle school level in Meridian. For a few of those years I also worked as an Educational Technology Specialist and taught professional development courses to fellow educators at the district level as well as online for Idaho State University.
The Ambrose School has been a blessing beyond what I could have imagined for my son and our family over the last three years. Being a part of the Ambrose community I have developed an appreciation for Classical Christian Education and the foundation of truth it sets in the hearts and minds of students. I look forward to stepping back into the classroom, as the 5-Day and Bridge program Graphic Design instructor, to come alongside students and encourage them as they develop publishing skills, creativity, and take ownership over the publication of the yearbook.
I am a native Idahoan and enjoy multigenerational family time and all that comes with living with and raising our kids around our extended family. I thrive in time I can spend being creative whether it is gardening, cooking, baking, knitting, sewing, painting, or woodworking.
Mrs. Imelda Nedelcu
Music Instructor
Bio
I am excited to join the Ambrose Bridge family this year teaching Music. My family and I recently moved to the Boise area from Portland, Oregon where I taught 7th-12th grade Music at a Classical Christian school. I have also worked as a vocal coach and beginning piano instructor. I hold a certificate in Music Theory and have 25 years of choral experience.
I began studying music at the age of seven, taking private music lessons including piano, voice, accordion, and violin. I developed a passion for music and singing which followed me into adulthood. I have enjoyed the privilege of many years in choral and orchestral music and leading various singing groups and ensembles.
My husband, Ovi, and I have five children, four of whom attend Ambrose Bridge and our oldest who is attending Northwest Nazarene University. I consider it a great blessing to use my passion for music and love for teaching in classical education.
Mrs. Karli Stobie
Upper School Humanities
Bio
B.S., Business Management & Human Resources emphasis in Foreign Language from the University of Idaho.
Studied Historical & Geographical Settings of the Bible at Jerusalem University College and held an internship at the International Foundation, Washington D.C.
I spent a decade in business development and marketing consulting before homeschooling my four girls in the classical Christian tradition. I have also tutored with Classical Conversations and taught history for several years at another classical school. All four of my girls are enrolled in the Bridge Program.
My greatest joy comes from helping people, big and little, see the wonder and glory of God and His purpose in all things. Whether it is integrating the gospel while teaching math or helping people see how God reveals himself throughout history and in the order and wonder of science, I have developed a passion for teaching and love watching as eyes light up with understanding.
In my free time, I enjoy writing and speaking, dreaming up business ideas with my husband, Joel, and adventuring with my girls. As a family we love to hike, camp, Crossfit, run Spartan races, read great literature and spend time around the table feeding peoples’ bellies and souls.
Mr. Josh Baker
Upper School Science
Bio
B.S., Civil Engineering, Boise State University; M.S., Civil Engineering, Boise State University; Professional Engineer (State of Idaho)
My wife and I were guided to Ambrose by our pastor when our first daughter was ready for kindergarten. The Holy Spirit then opened many doors for us to be able to jump into this beautiful community and we couldn’t be happier.
Over the past few years, I have seen that the battle for our country lies in the education system. Ambrose and other Classical Christian Schools offer a truthful alternative to the path of other educational systems. Our foundation is built on the rock that is Christ, every other subject is held in submission to him.
I’m overjoyed to be given the opportunity to teach Physics and Chemistry at Bridge. I want to give a practical knowledge and useful skills to our students. I wish to show them that we are fearfully and wonderfully made; that science reveals the wonders of God’s creation.
When I’m not teaching you can find me exploring Idaho with my wife Abby, daughters Aspen and Wren, and dog Duke. There are few things I enjoy more than a cold September morning hearing a bugling bull elk or a frozen January morning chasing chukar in the cliffs.
Church Affiliation: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (LCMS)
Mrs. Abby Baker
Upper School Science
Bio
B.S., Biology (Zoology emphasis), Boise State University.
During my final year at BSU, I interned at the Boise Zoo directly under two lead zookeepers and performed a field study with the Raptor Biology Department observing nesting pairs of American Kestrels.
I am devoted to pursuing truth with wonder and reverence. The almighty hands that have laid the foundations of the Earth also directed my path to the Ambrose Bridge Campus—first and foremost as a mom and homeschool parent and now as an educator. It is my deepest hope to come alongside my students as they delight in the natural world. For most of human history the scientific endeavor was not severed from the truth of God’s word, through teaching in a Classical Christian setting I am excited to share the mysteries and miracles of God as they intertwine with the tangible and ordered world of Biology. Whether studying a single plant cell, to the complexity of genetics and the double helix or even the biologic processes that sustain an African Elephant—all of nature bears witness to the creative power and glory of the triune God—I will endeavor to equip my pupils with the ministerial use of our human reason as we allow God’s word to stand in its magisterial role as the source of all truth and wisdom in the classroom and in all things.
Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my husband, two daughters, and yellow lab, pampering my flower and vegetable gardens, hiking in the foothills and jogging on the greenbelt, practicing archery, and my favorite pastime with my family is adventuring in the Pacific Northwest with our Jumping Jack trailer and getting lost in the woods for a while! I also enjoy spending time with family and church family to share tasty vittles and conversation—as often as they will allow!
Mrs. Rachel Smith
Upper School Math
Bio
B.S, Mathematics, University of Texas.
I was born and raised in Texas, and graduated from the University of Texas in 2005. I then began my teaching career at a classical Christian school in Austin, where my eyes were first opened to the wonders of classical education. In 2009, I had my first child and began to homeschool in the classical tradition, always in pursuit of the true, the good and the beautiful in my home. I have continued my private study of mathematics and classical education ever since.
I moved to Idaho with my husband, Levi, and our three children in 2016, where they currently attend the Bridge Program and take advantage of all the outdoor life that Idaho has to offer.
I am currently pursuing a Masters of Science in Mathematics at Indiana State University.
Miss Mikaela Twait
Upper School Humanities
Bio
College of Western Idaho; Associate of Arts, Liberal Arts; Boise State University; Bachelor of Arts, Secondary English Teaching
I graduated from Boise State University in 2019 with a BA in Secondary English Teaching. I am currently pursuing a Master of Humanities and Classical Education at the University of Dallas and will graduate in 2024. I believe wholeheartedly in the importance and relevance of classical education in the modern world and am passionate about cultivating virtue and igniting wonder in my students while calling them to academic excellence. My background in homeschooling and classical education as a K-12 student uniquely informs my perspectives on hybrid and enrichment learning. I am in love with all Great Books, but especially those of the ancient world. When I am not teaching, you’ll find me listening to good music, admiring good art, cooking good food, laughing with good friends and going for long walks.
Mrs. Caitlyn Yates
Upper School Math
Bio
B.S. in Mathematics, Biola University and Torrey Honors Institute, 2017.
I joined Ambrose faculty in 2018 after teaching previously for one year at a classical Christian school in Texas. My childhood education consisted of a little bit of everything: private Christian school, public charter school, and homeschooling. My sophomore year in high school, my parents enrolled me at Ambrose. I quickly fell in love with classical education because I personally experienced how it changed me. It strengthened my faith, molded my loves, and grew my intellect. Although I pursued a degree in mathematics, my love for classical education prompted me to continue my classical education in college through the Torrey Honors Institute at Biola. I discovered my love for teaching in high school where I had the opportunity to be a TA. After teaching a full week of math lessons my junior year, I realized that not only did I enjoy teaching but I felt that God was calling me to share the education I had received with the next generation of students.
My passion is the integration of faith and mathematics. Throughout history, most great mathematicians were also theologians and philosophers. This is because they not only saw all knowledge as integrated and centered on Christ, but they saw a deep connection between the subjects— a connection we have greatly lost in modernity. I believe that classical education can be extended beyond humanities to the math classroom as well. Just as we ask big questions of Great Books, we can also ask questions of mathematics and discover truths about creation and the Creator. I believe that a mastery of mathematics can be achieved by anyone. I strive to teach students how to think critically and problem solve rather than memorize procedures they likely do not understand. I hope to expose students to the beauty and creativity in mathematics and pass on a love for the subject and for its Creator.
I met my husband Brandon at Biola University (in math class!) and we were married in 2017. I was born and raised in Boise and am grateful to be back in the Treasure Valley. When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me paddle boarding with Brandon, trying new recipes and restaurants, traveling, or working on projects around our house.
Mr. Rick Strader
Upper School Drama
Bio
I started on the stage at the age of seven playing Pooh Bear in Winnie the Pooh in a children’s theatre production. From there I performed on stage at the Springer Opera House in Columbus, GA in over 45 musical productions (mostly as a chorus member and small roles). At 16 I went to audition for summer stock in NY on a dare and found myself being contracted for the next seven years and into my college years as a professional actor. I went on to travel across the US in national touring productions. I have performed as Snoopy, King Arthur, Mordred, Artful Dodger, Oliver, Dauntless, Peter Pan, MC (Cabaret), Puck, Hamlet, Joseph, John the Baptist, Job, Tom Sawyer and 10 characters in a show called Greater Tuna to name a few.
I have been a director of over 120 plays and musicals over the years, as well as in roles as production mgr., stage mgr., tech. director, set designer and lighting and sound design. I have been in front of and behind the TV and Movie camera as well. Locally I have worked with Idaho Shakespeare, Opera Idaho and Ballet Idaho along with directing productions for over 15 years at Northwest Nazarene University.
My media and film experience has spanned the years with parts in the acclaimed TV series North & South along with other performances for the likes of PBS and local advertisements in various cities. I have been on the production side or on screen in films shot in Columbus, GA (Green Berets), Fort Worth, TX (Logan’s Run), and Montgomery, AL (Norma Rae).
I met my wife Melissa when I was stage manager for Ballet Idaho. We have been married for 23 years and have a son Nickolas attending the University of Idaho.
Church Affiliation: Heritage Bible Church
Mrs. Grace Olmstead
Writing Department Chair
UPPER SCHOOL HUMANITIES
Master of Studies in English and American Studies, Oxford University; B.A. in Journalism, Patrick Henry College.
Throughout my life, I have benefited from instruction received though classical Christian educational institutions. It is my privilege to now be a part of the Ambrose School’s vision in shaping students’ loves and thus drawing their hearts to Christ. The Ambrose School recognizes the formative power of introducing students to great thinkers and great texts and thus encouraging the formation of their moral imaginations. I loved discussing great novels, beautiful poems, and powerful works of philosophy—and hope that in these discussions, my students and I can more fully explore what it means “to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever.”
I grew up in Fruitland, Idaho. I moved to Northern Virginia for college in 2009, and there met my husband. We have lived in Virginia for over a decade. Last year, we moved to Oxford so that I could complete my graduate students in English and American Studies. I’ve greatly enjoyed learning more about literature and place, considering questions surrounding phenomenological perception and the poetic imagination.
My husband and I have three children: ages six, four, and eighteen months. We love camping, hiking, playing with our dog Hobbes, discovering new board games, and reading books aloud. We are delighted and honored to be a part of the Ambrose Bridge Campus community.
Mr. Joel Stobie
upper school science
B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Idaho
The world tells of the glory of God and I believe education should reflect this reality; from connecting the subjects back to the True and Beautiful to creating a passion for lifelong learning. I love observing nature, learning the order behind it, and praising God for his design. I’m excited to help the students discover these realities in mathematics.
I have been married to my wife Karli for almost 20 years, and we have been blessed with four daughters. Our family has been in the Bridge Program since the second year of the program, and we have loved how the hybrid model allows for our engagement with our children’s education. I was born and raised in North Idaho and our family loves to find adventures of all kinds in the outdoors.
Mrs. Ellie Taucher
Upper School Humanities
B.A. in English with a Minor in Bible from The Masters University
I have loved living in Idaho for the past two years, prior to which I have lived in Texas, Colorado, and California. I came to Ambrose after ten years of homeschooling my own children in the Classical tradition. During that time, I served as a tutor for Classical Conversations’ Foundations and Essentials programs, as well as serving for a year as Support Representative. I was drawn to Ambrose because of my love for Literature, and my belief in the value of the Classical model.
Outside Ambrose, you might find me searching for French bakeries, local coffee shops, and unique restaurants. Most often, however, I will be reading all the books and discussing them with friends and family over a large cup of tea.
Mr. Glenn Mabey
Upper School Science
I am a native Idahoan! I love the outdoors and my hobbies include hiking, backpacking, rafting, biking, hunting, fishing and doing these activities with my friends. I also love to cook and read.
I am married to my lovely wife Wendi, and together we have chickens, dogs, cats and horses at our property.
I went to The Master’s College for one year to earn a one year Bible certificate. After that, I got my Earth Science degree from Boise State University and then taught and coached for 31 years at Centennial High School. I taught Earth Science and Concurrent Credit Geology.
I love to encourage and develop the hearts and minds of students, and feel so very blessed to be a part of the Bridge Campus team.
Mrs. Rachel wallace
Grammar school intern
Bio
Rachel attended Boise State University, studying English for Secondary Education and Political Science, and Spirit Life Bible College in Irvine, California. After spending 17 years in the title and escrow industry, most recently leading a successful, five-member team and training to be the manager of her department, she felt the Lord leading her to leave the industry to focus on her family. Since then, she has worked in bookkeeping at The Ambrose School, taught a Personal Finance preceptorial at the Locust Grove Campus, served as a substitute teacher, and obtained both a Classical Educator Certificate and a Scholé Educator Intensive Certification from ClassicalU.
Rachel has always possessed a passion for education, whether it be teaching children about Jesus in Sunday School, equipping teammates to be successful in the title and escrow industry, or arming new real estate agents with information to help them succeed. Rachel loves learning, and considers herself to be a life-long learner. She firmly believes that, second to Jesus Himself, Christian Classical Education is the most valuable thing we can share with our families and our world. She is passionate about helping students discover who they are as children of God, discover the wonders He left for them to find, and shepherding them as they learn to think God’s thoughts after Him.
Rachel is thankful to share this “Great Adventure” with her husband Erik, her daughter Austin, and her three bonus sons, Andrew, Christian and Greyson, and she became a grandma in April of 2024. Rachel plays the piano and leads worship at her church, and she loves to cook and bake.
mrs. janaye hanaoka
grammar school intern
My faith is an incalculable blessing to me. I grew up as a Christian and I strive to incorporate kindness and grace into everything I do. After being a child of God, I am a wife, mom of 3, and new art instructor intern! I bring a love of creativity and learning to the classroom, fueled by my background in homeschooling (using the classical model) and my own artistic endeavors (painting). My formal education is in dental hygiene and I have been helping people with preventive dental care for 7 years. When I’m not teaching, I can be found baking homemade bread and making yogurt. I also love to cook, exercise, walk, and read. Our family also enjoys exploring the beauty of Idaho – we love camping by the river with our dog!
mrs. jamie smith
grammar school intern
Bio
Jamie Smith holds a BA in Liberal Studies/Teaching and a Masters in Reading Instruction from California State University East Bay. Jamie taught 4th and 5th grade for several years in California before moving to Idaho in 2020.
Jamie spent her childhood being the “helper” at her mom’s in-home daycare, and was instilled with a love of learning and a curiosity for her surroundings. Though newer to Classical Education, Charlotte Mason’s concept of “children are born persons” rings true in both scripture and personal experience. She is a member of the congregation at Christ Reformed Church in Nampa. Jamie loves doodling cartoon pictures to impress her kids, hosting parties, and making people laugh.
Jamie is married to Tyler Smith who teaches Latin at the Locust Grove campus. They have 4 children, Abigail, Henry, Elijah, and Emma.
Mrs. sheri yengst
M.B.A University Massachusetts, Amherst, B.S Oklahoma, Real Estate Certificate, UCLA
My parents started a private Humanities school in California when I was a young child. It was through my front row seat that the importance of parent involvement education rooted in God’s Word was imparted to me. With my Mom as a Shakespeare teacher and my Dad as an Engineer I had the best of both worlds, seeing humanities integrated in math and science.
My journey in teaching began after a full career working for fortune 500 company. I was given the opportunity to substitute teach a university course that one of my colleagues taught. I fell in love with sharing my testimony, skills and insight to the next generation, so I returned to get an MBA. I have over 10 years teaching experience at the college level in Accounting, Strategy, Finance, and Economics. With over 2,350 verses in the bible concerning money, possessions, and stewardship, we cannot ignore that money is weaved in nearly every aspect of our lives. I also enjoy keeping my toes in the corporate world as a freelance consultant for a private equity firm.
I have been married to my very own rocket scientist for 18 years and we have three children together.
miss Kimberly smith
intern
Med, Special Education (Minor: Curriculum and Instruction), Texas State University. B.S., Kinesiology (Minors: Business and Psychology), Texas A&M University
I was homeschooled through the fifth grade on a cattle ranch in the great state of Texas where my passion for books, guitar, long hikes and bike rides in the woods, and all things flora and fauna took root and bloomed. After volunteering at a Special Olympics event on campus in college, the Lord lit a match upon a very unexpected path and the next day I was meeting with a professor who had been nudging me all year to consider going to grad school to become a teacher. Special education and grad school fit me like a glove. After graduation, I taught in both public and private schools (special education and general ed) in primary, middle and high school settings across various subjects. My private school experience was with a school that had its grounding and philosophy in Charlotte Mason, my first taste of the aromatic realms of classical education.
I left education for a time to work as the Special Needs Director at a church and then later for a para-church ministry reaching out to the disability community. The body of Christ is diverse, messy and beautiful. And I believe that each member of this holy body is fearfully and wonderfully made, equally purposed, uniquely gifted and wholly needed for such a time as this.
I moved to Idaho in 2022 and I am looking forward to this return to the classroom! Each student, a unique image bearer of the King – what a gift to get to partner in stewarding such treasures alongside families here at Ambrose! I am looking forward to learning all about the inner workings of the Bridge program and connecting with students, their families and staff.
In my free time, I enjoy Aunt life with my nieces and nephew, hikes with my hound dog Huckleberry, teaching classical guitar, and trying new Thai dishes as often as I can!
