Staff

Parents: Roger and Jayne
Siblings: Jodi and Megan
College: Calvin College
Degree: BA in Secondary Education English, History Endorsement
CEO, 7-12 Social Studies Teacher, Bible
Professional and Educational Background:
After graduating from Covenant Christian H.S. in DeMotte, IN, I attended Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI, majoring in Secondary Education English coupled with a History minor. I graduated in the May of 2014.
Childhood and Family Background:
I was born and raised in DeMotte, IN. I attended a Christian school throughout my educational career, from preschool all the way through college. I also come from a family of teachers – my mom, both my sisters, several of my aunts, and a couple cousins.
I currently attend New Holland Christian Reformed Church. I enjoy singing in the praise team during the morning service.
Honestly, most of life is within the school during the year. When I’m not at school, I enjoy watching Netflix, the Cubs, football, and college basketball, as well as reading a good book! I also love to play pick-up sports – anything from volleyball to beanbags!
Christian education is a passion of mine. Teachers have a lot of contact with students, and the opportunity to influence students in their faith walk is one of the many reasons that Christian schools are so great. Not only can teachers set an example, but we can also invite students to consider problems in whatever field they are studying from a Christian point of view. Christian education gives students every opportunity to grow in their faith, and I very much want to be a part of that process.



Classes taught:
I currently teach junior high English and literature as well as 1st, 2nd, and 6th grade English. I am also the cheerleading coach.
Position description at DCS:
Junior high language arts teacher Elementary aid
Professional and Educational Background:
After graduating from Winner High School in 2004, I pursued a degree in English education at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, South Dakota. I graduated in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree and began my first journey as a teacher in Alexandria, South Dakota at Hanson High School. I taught 8th, 9th, and 11th grade English, 12th grade literature, and an ACT prep course. I also had the experience of teaching 9th grade English at Milbrook Colony. I began teaching at Dakota Christian in 2009 after getting engaged, and it’s definitely been a blessing!
Childhood and Family Background:
I was born and raised in Winner, SD. I currently live in Geddes, SD with my husband, Travis, who farms and has a hay hauling business with his dad and brother. We have a 3 month old son, Max, who is such a blessing and joy to our lives.
Church Life:
While living in Winner, I attended the Missouri Synod Lutheran church. My husband is a very devout Catholic, and ever since we dated, I attended church services with him in Mitchell at Holy Family Catholic Church and now in Geddes at St. Anne’s Catholic Church. I believe that attending church as a family is so important and I have learned so much from my husband regarding his faith and religion.
Life Outside of DCS:
When I’m not teaching, I’m usually doing something family oriented. I love spending time with my husband; in fact, we have recently begun playing in our second pitch tournament together in Geddes! I’ve learned that you have to create your own fun when living in a small town. I also continue to travel to Mitchell quite often to spend time with my mom; I even call it my home away from home! After moving into my husband’s bachelor pad (literally) I like to keep myself busy decorating, painting, and of course buying! I have a love for shopping and sometimes consider it a problem, as do most women! A good book, movie, and “occasional” workout generally will suite me as well.

Classes taught:
Elementary Reading, K-12 Libarian
Position description at DCS:
Aide for 1st/2nd & 3rd/4th
Professional and Educational Background:
I graduated from Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, SD in 2002. My first job was 3/4th grade teacher at Platte Christian School. I taught at PCS for 4 years. After this, Dakota Christian School opened and I wanted to be home more with my children. In the years since DCS opened I have been an aide and doing lots of substituting.
Childhood and Family Background:
I grew up on a farm 4 miles from New Holland. I am the oldest child with three younger brothers. I married Bob Middendorp in 1999 and we moved to Platte in 2001. We have two daughters who are our miracles. Danica and Alyssa both attend school at DCS. Bob and his brother co-own the Dutch Oven Bakery, which is a family run business. The odd hours of a bakery keep our family very busy.
Church Life:
Our family attends the Platte Christian Reformed Church. I am a Sunday School teacher, sing with a praise team, and I am currently on two different committees.
Life Outside of DCS:
In my time outside of school I love spending time with my family. They are my life and my passion. I devour a good book whenever I get a chance. Bob also keeps me busy doing a little bookwork and few different jobs for the bakery.
Why I Teach at DCS:
I teach at DCS because it's a great place to be! DCS is full of students who shine their light for the Lord, and it's amazing to watch them grow and learn. I enjoy being a part of such a caring staff and being able to do what I love.


I grew up in Bloomington, Minnesota with my mom and dad, and younger brother. My aunt grew up in Platte (Eva Hansum Hedman), so I am very excited for this new adventure in Platte and at Dakota Christian School.




