Staff
Select a Profile
- Barry De Haan
- Josie De Haan
- Joanna Engels
- Peter Engels
- Rachel Faller
- Kevin Garrison
- Ben Kroese
- Renae LaJesse
- Kayla Leininger
- Jenna Masur
- Corinne Middendorp
- Jared Peters
- Kaycia Peters
- Steve Randall
- Abby Smikle
- Harriett Sybesma
- Marla Tegethoff
- Lois Van Dusseldorp
- Jody Van Zee
- Shauna Vander Pol
- Kim Zomer
Rachel Faller
K-4 Music
Classes taught:
K-4 Music
Position description at DCS:
I teach three mornings of preschool and two afternoons of kindergarten through fourth grade music at DCS. I am also the chapel advisor.
Professional and Educational Background:
I began my education career at New Holland Christian Grade School and went on to graduate from Dakota Christian High School. I received my elementary/early childhood teaching degree from Augustana College and obtained my master’s degree in early childhood education from the University of South Dakota.
Childhood and Family Background:
I grew up on a farm northwest of New Holland, South Dakota. I am the oldest child and only daughter of Alvie and Lonnie Timmermans. Aaron and Nathan are my two younger brothers. Growing up, we attended New Holland Christian Reformed Church and spent much time with our extended family.
My husband, Dan, and I were married in 2000. After an almost four year “detour” in southwest Nebraska, God moved us (along with our daughter Emma) back to South Dakota. That “detour” was when God’s grace became real to me. We experienced what the love of Jesus looked like through people that became our family away from home. Praise God that the Bible knowledge I had acquired growing up had finally moved to my heart! We now live on the edge of Armour, where Dan is a lineman for Northwestern Energy. Our house is filled with lots of activity from Emma, Jaden, and two foster babies.
Church Life:
The Lighthouse in Corsica is my home church. I am co-commander of the Awana program there. I also am involved with the music and worship.
Life Outside of DCS:
When I’m not doing something that involves music or children (DCS, Worship at The Lighthouse, Awana, New Holland GEMS, playing piano for other churches and events), I like to spend time in God’s Word, scrapbook, and hang out with family and friends. The Timmermans’ family curse of looking for a good deal is part of my genes. My love for shopping takes many forms—malls, auctions, and garages! !
Why I Teach at DCS:
God has placed me here in His perfect time to nurture, love, and grow with the students at DCS. As an act of my love and worship for my Savior, I desire to bring glory to His name, in and out of my classroom. I have the awesome privilege and great responsibility to teach the students the truth of God’s Word and to live that out in my own life. Jesus died for me, the least I can do is live for Him!
Kayla Leininger
Kindergarten Teacher
Classes taught at DCS: Kindergarten
Position description at DCS: Kindergarten Teacher
Professional/Educational Background:
I graduated from Dakota Wesleyan University with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education in December of 2013. Soon after, I took a position as a Reading and Math Specialist in the West Central School District. I then filled in as a long-term substitute teacher in fifth grade to finish the school year. In the fall of 2013, I began teaching as a third grade classroom teacher in the West Central School District. The following school year, I moved to the Tripp-Delmont School District as a first grade teacher. I spent two years there before come to DCS to teach kindergarten.
Family/Spouse:
My parents are Todd and Goldie Leininger, who currently reside in Sioux Falls. I have an older sister, Amy Kastner, who is married to Brent Kastner. They reside in Rapid City. I also have a younger brother, Bret Leininger, who is finishing his graphic arts degree in Sioux Falls.
Childhood/Family Background:
Growing up as an Assemblies of God Pastor's Kid, I grew up all around the Midwest and attended many different schools. Some of my favorite childhood memories are camping and spending time at grandma and grandpa's house.
Church Life:
Growing up as a pastor's kid, I was always very involved in the Assemblies of God church we were a part of. I have always loved working with kids and began teaching Sunday School and Children's Church as soon as I was able. I am currently attending Calvary Baptist Church in Platte.
Life Outside of DCS:
When I am not teaching, I enjoy a variety of activities. I love to sew, bake, and cook. Reading is my escape from the world and the way I like to relax. I am very family orientated and love spending time at home with my parents and siblings. We like to camp, hike, and kayak together. Most recently, I began running a camp for children in the foster care system ages 6-12 for one week each summer. Royal Family Kids Camp has become the passion of my heart and I consider it an honor to serve these kids with an incredible week to experience what it means to be a child of God.
Why I Teach at DCS:
I have always wanted to be a teacher, even as a little girl. When I was a senior in high school I spent an hour a day in a first grade classroom, working one on one with students who needed extra help. I often worked with a young boy who struggled with math. We spent a lot of time working together and he continued to struggle. I will never forget the day he began to grasp the concepts we were working on and the way his eyes began to sparkle and a grin spread across his face. It is that moment and that look that confirmed my calling to teaching. Having spent several years in the public school system, I am delighted to be entering the world of Christian Education. There is something simply wonderful about praying with and for your students and studying God's word together. It is my greatest joy to get to come to school each day and know that God is at the center of our classroom and that I am surrounded by an incredible group of believers. I love that my students come with an incredible sense of wonder and an unquenchable curiosity. It is a joy to be their teacher and learn alongside them. I love coming to work each day. My favorite part of the day is when we pray together. I love praying with my students and hearing them pray. It is an incredible experience.
Jenna Masur
7/8 English, 9/10 Bible, 11/12 British Lit, 9/10 Comp, 9/10 World Lit, 7/8 Lit
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.
Why I Teach at DCS:
When I was applying for teaching positions during my last semester of college, I included a teaching philosophy on my resume that read something like this, “I strongly believe that all students have gifts and talents and it is my goal to find and observe those gifts and apply them to everyday life including school work. After all, content is never understandable unless you can make it reality.” After being blessed with the opportunity to serve students at Dakota Christian School, my teaching philosophy or “faith statement” as I like to refer to it now reads, “All students were specially made in the image of God and he has granted each one unique and extraordinary talents. My goal as a Christian teacher is to show students how to use and apply these gifts spiritually while giving service to our Lord.” As you can see, the idea of my teaching philosophy and faith statement are the same, but the manner in which I apply these ideas is evidently different. Without explanation, I feel this proves how Dakota Christian School has blessed and positively changed me not only as a person, but as a teacher.
Although I had teaching experience, I did not have experience as a Christian educator. I had noticed and observed other teachers around me at DCS and was amazed and in awe at their dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to Christian education. In a sense, I felt like I was in a maze, not quite sure how to start, or what direction to take. I thought to myself, “How can I live up to these teachers with their influential prayers and teaching styles?” Through the help and guidance of prayer and a few anonymous people, I learned that a Christian teacher’s responsibility is to be a role model by showing students how to live righteous lives through my own actions. Now I can verbally state how the Lord has worked wonders and miracles in my life without feeling nervous or embarrassed and I have the opportunity to use the power of prayer any time of the day I want!
Corinne Middendorp
Elementary Reading, K-12 Librarian
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.
Jared Peters
7-12 Math
Parents/Spouse/and or Family: Doug and Ruth Peters, one sister Nikki, two brothers Jason and Justin
College: SDSU in Brookings, SD
Degree: Bachelors of Science in Mathematics
Classes taught: Math 7, Math 8, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, Pre-Calculus
Position description at DCS: Junior High and High School Mathematics Teacher
Professional and Educational Background:
Graduated high school from Madison High School in Madison, SD. Went on to graduate from SDSU in 2015. Taught for 2 years in Hendricks, MN where I was a junior high and high school math teacher.
Childhood and Family Background:
Grew up on a small acreage 15 minutes east of Madison, SD. Growing up I spent a lot of time outside playing. I loved to tear around on 4-wheelers, dirt bikes, and snowmobiles.
Church Life:
My church life has been very mixed. I believe I was baptized Lutheran. But, growing up I attended various Christian Reformed Churches. In my later high school years I would frequently stay with my aunt and uncle; where I would attend a Catholic church with them. In the last few years I have attended a Faith Lutheran Brethren Church.
Life Outside of DCS:
I love to hang out, relax, and talk to friends. I love listening to music and watching TV shows and movies.
Why I Teach at DCS:
I work at DCS because I want to work with a fun and supportive staff, and better myself spiritually. I love the small class sizes where I can get to know each student and get to know them personally.
Kaycia Peters
5th/6th Grade, Yearbook Advisor
Spouse/Parents/and or Family:
Spouse: Jared Peters
Duane and Cheryl Hettver
Younger brother, Keaton
College:
Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa
Degree:
Elementary Education with specialties in Special Education and Reading intervention
Classes taught:
I’ve taught 5th and 6th grade for two years in Hendricks, MN and one year of 2nd grade.
Position description at DCS:
I teach all the subjects to 5th and 6th grade. They’re an awesome bunch of young leaders with hearts for Jesus.
Professional and Educational Background:
I was homeschooled from 3rd grade until graduation. I attended Northwestern College in Orange City and student taught in Hull, Iowa, LeMars, Iowa, and Tauranga, New Zealand.
Childhood and Family Background:
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.
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.
Church Life:
I grew up attending Riverside Reformed Church in Bloomington. In Hendricks I attended and was involved in the Lutheran Brethren church. I am still looking for a good church here in Platte. It is hard to decide!
Life Outside of DCS:
I enjoy baking pie, sewing, DIY projects, gardening, dancing, playing piano, and anything that involves being outside in God’s creation.
Why I Teach at DCS:
I want to teach children how to love God and love learning about His amazing design in the world. It is also an amazing thing to be able to worship with my co-workers and talk about what God is doing in our lives and the lives of our students
Lois Van Dusseldorp
Art Teacher
Classes taught:
New Holland Christian School Grades 5-6, Librarian, Junior High Literature, Grades 5-8 Art
Platte Christian School and New Holland Christian School Music Grades K-8
Position description at DCS:
Art Teacher Grades 5-8
Professional and Educational Background:
I graduated from Dordt College in 1973 with a major in Elementary Education and a minor in Library Science.
Childhood and Family Background:
I grew up with three sisters on the family farm at Kanawha, Iowa. I graduated from Kanawha Christian School but did not have the opportunity to attend a Christian high school. Because I had no brothers, I learned how to do many things on the farm including milking cows and driving the tractor for various reasons.
I married Ivan Van Dusseldorp in 1975. We met at Dordt College. Ivan’s teaching career did not materialize because of the Vietnam War. After his discharge from the Navy, he began farming on the family farm where we presently live. God has blessed us with three children. Our daughter, Rachel is married to Vincent Mutambuki. They have two children, Grace and Will and live at Des Moines, Iowa. Our son, Mark, and his wife, Lisa live near us and Mark farms with us. They have a daughter, Paisley. Our youngest daughter, Ruth, works at the Platte Hospital and is married to Eric Audiss. They live in Platte and Ruth is also going to DWU at Mitchell studying to become an accountant.
Church Life:
My husband and I are members of Platte Christian Reformed Church where I am also librarian. We enjoy Bible Studies and other church activities and the fellowship of a small congregation.
Life Outside of DCS:
I enjoy sewing, cooking, quilting, paper stitching, making scrapbooks and gardening. I am always reading. I will often be reading several different books at the same time. I love to buy books for our grandchildren. We travel to Iowa quite often to visit our family who live there. During elections I have quite a passion for the political process and often help with campaigns and the voting procedures.
Why I Teach at DCS:
The Lord was very instrumental in the plan of my life by leading me to a teaching position at New Holland Christian School during the 1970’s. The door to part time teaching was opened for me when certified librarians were required in South Dakota Schools.
As our new Dakota Christian School was planned I felt the call to organize the two libraries at our new school and to accept the position of librarian. I enjoy seeing young students catch the excitement of reading. The development of new technology has impacted the way library resources are used. Sets of hard cover encyclopedias are replaced by electronic resources. Librarian and educators have a huge task in keeping up with the technology that is used for research and discovering the world that God has created. I enjoy the challenge.
Art is also a fascinating subject which can be used for God’s glory. It is exciting to see the creativity and talents that the Lord has given to each individual student.
Jody Van Zee
Preschool
Position description at DCS:
Preschool
Professional and Educational Background:
I graduated from Unity Christian High school in 1992. I graduated from Dordt College in 1996. I taught 1st /2nd grade at Alameda Christian School in Alameda, CA for 2 years after graduation. I began teaching at New Holland Christian School in the fall of 1998. When New Holland Christian combined with DCHS to make Dakota Christian School I continued on as their 1st/2ndgrade teacher.
Childhood and Family Background:
I grew up on a farm near Maurice, IA. I am the second child of four. My dad was a farmer and my mom was a fulltime homemaker.
I married a widower, Bruce Van Zee, in 2000 and became both a wife and a mom to his three children (Joshua, Kendra, and Zachary). God made us a family and for that we are thankful. In 2003 we were blessed with our youngest child, Brandon, who attends DCS. Another blessing was added to our family in 2010, our beautiful granddaughter, Roxanne Leigh. Joshua lives in Sioux Falls and sells Kirby Vacuum cleaners. Kendra lives in Platte with her daughter Roxanne, while taking online courses for graphic design. Zachary stays active participating in many extra-curricular activities at DCS.
Church Life:
My family and I attend New Holland Christian Church. I enjoy attending the Bible Studies offered at our church. I am currently serving on the church education committee.
Life Outside of DCS:
When I am not busy with school I am an avid fan of Zach’s sporting events. Reading is my way to relax and I enjoy the opportunity to sit down with a good book. I also love to fix puzzles, play games, and of course spend time with my granddaughter. Going back to IA and spending time with family on the farm is always something that I look forward to. I am a country girl at heart.
Why I Teach at DCS:
I believe that God created this entire world. I believe that we are all sinful and are saved by the grace of God. I believe that God sent His Son into this world to die on the cross and bring us salvation. The Bible is the true Word of God which has been given to us as a guide for our lives. Jesus is my comforter, Savior, and ever-present friend. I am thankful each and everyday for His presence in my life. Psalm 46 is my favorite Psalm. I especially love Psalm 46:1. It states, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” God is my Rock! He is the sure foundation of my life. Even when I feel that I can’t go on, He picks me up and carries me to a place of peace.
I love DCS and I love teaching! The Bible says that some are called to be teachers. I truly feel that teaching is my gift from God. I know that I am in no way a perfect teacher, but I do have a perfect Savior who guides me each day as I teach his chosen treasures. I can’t imagine doing anything else each day. I try to let my light shine by portraying the love of Christ to my students. I know we all fail and fall short. We need to remember though, that God washes away our sins. It is my comfort knowing that I never enter my classroom alone but that Jesus walks beside me each and everyday. It is important to me to have my students see Jesus’ love bubbling out of my life.
Kim Zomer
7-12 Bible
Classes taught:
7-12 Bible
Position description at DCS:
I teach vocal music for grades 5 – 12, including the high school choir, and general music classes for 7th-8th grades and 5th-6th grades.
Professional and Educational Background:
I graduated in 1988 from Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in English. Shortly after graduation I found myself teaching English and some Spanish at Dakota Christian High School. I only taught 2 years at that time, then started a string of diverse jobs, including being a florist and a newspaper journalist. After several years I went back to teaching as a music assistant in the Corsica Public Schools. I taught there 6 years and then moved with my family to Ada, Michigan. For 9 years I worked in our church as an office administrator and used my musical abilities to lend support to the worship. When we returned to South Dakota, I began part-time work at Corner Market in Corsica, as well as working with the administrative and worship coordination duties at our church. I now have added part-time music teaching at Dakota Christian School.
Childhood and Family Background:
I grew up in the Grand Rapids, Michigan, area, attending Ada Christian School and Grand Rapids Christian High. My family is in the excavation business so my growing up years were spent around lots of heavy equipment and dirt. But I always loved music and playing the piano so I’ve played anywhere and everywhere I get the chance to. I have a brother and sister who still live in the GR area with their families. My parents enjoy traveling so their visits to SD are sprinkled into their plans and we always look forward to that.
Church Life:
I attend the united churches of Corsica Christian Reformed and Grace Reformed in Corsica. One of the best ways I find to fully participate in worship is to help with the service planning and then play piano and lead choir and praise teams for the services. God surprises me again and again with the truth that He actually leads us to how He wants us to worship Him. He is so involved in the details of our lives!
Life Outside of DCS:
I continue to work 3 days a week at Corner Market aside from the 2 days I am at Dakota. I love the contact with community people as well as the wide variety of work I get to do there, from stocking shelves to working with the computer entry of sales.
Most important and enjoyable to me though is the time I get to spend with my family. We are thankful for the chance to travel to Michigan about once a year to visit friends and family there as well.
Why I Teach at DCS:
Christian education is close to my heart. I believe knowledge is a gift of God, and that He especially rejoices when we choose to see the world through His eyes. Teaching at DCS gives me the opportunity to be His hands and hopefully His voice teaching students to see the world of music through His eyes. I especially appreciate the chance to develop a love for music and sharing its message with an audience in an excellent way. I believe God calls us to live vibrant, excellent lives that glorify Him. Music is the perfect outlet to do that at even a very young age. As a Godly teacher though, I hope to teach students how to transfer that excellence to all areas of their lives