Faculty
Rev. Mark Allais, Pastor – 5th and 6th Religion
N.Dip. Mechanical Engineering, WITS Technikon, South Africa;
Masters of Divinity (MDiv), Academy of the New Church Theological School
Masters of Divinity (MDiv), Academy of the New Church Theological School
Read Mark's bio
I left a career spanning 10 years in Mechanical Engineering to follow a call to serve the church in a deeper way. I left my home--Johannesburg, South Africa—with my wife and two daughters and embarked on an incredible journey across the world. We first spent 2 years in Bryn Athyn PA so I could finish my MDiv studies which I had started back in South Africa. I am now fresh out of collage and glad to be posted here in Glenview as an Assistant to the Pastor for 2 years before moving onto my next assignment.
Although I have finished studying at collage my learning has really just begun. I consider myself lucky to be able to start my career among a great team of teachers and leaders. I look forward to being a part of the energy that students bring to class and school activities, and at the same time being able to impart moral and spiritual values for their walk through life with the Lord. This will be a fun learning experience.
Although I have finished studying at collage my learning has really just begun. I consider myself lucky to be able to start my career among a great team of teachers and leaders. I look forward to being a part of the energy that students bring to class and school activities, and at the same time being able to impart moral and spiritual values for their walk through life with the Lord. This will be a fun learning experience.
Laura Barger – K-2 Homeroom
B.A., Bryn Athyn College of the New Church
M.S. in Written Communications, National Louis University
M.S. in Written Communications, National Louis University
Read Laura's bio
Back in 1985, when I received my baccalaureate in Religion and English from the Academy of the New Church College, teaching was the furthest thing from my mind. I wanted to write fiction. But earning a living presents certain demands, so in a burst of practicality I accepted a part-time job with the Glenview New Church Schools in 1988. The rest, as they say, is history – or to employ another cliché… I never looked back. After that first year, I became a full-time teacher in the GNCS system. I’ve been teaching kindergarten or kindergarten/first grade/second grade ever since. One of my great educational joys is team-teaching with my teaching partner, Sarah Berto, in our combined K-2 multi-age classroom. Another joy is building relationships with the five-to-eight-year-olds who learn and grown under our care each year. My continuing love of fiction-writing got a boost in 2000 when I received my Masters degree in Written Communication from National Louis University. I enjoy serving GNCS by turning my hand to writing every now and then, along with my teaching duties. If you attend one of our annual Christmas programs put on by the faculty and PreK-8 students, you may experience a script or play crafted by yours truly. Providence led me to work at GNCS, where two of my loves – writing and teaching – go hand in hand.
Sarah Berto – K-2 Homeroom, Head Teacher for Early Education
B.S. in Education, Edgewood College of Education
Read Sarah's bio
I have been teaching for 23 years. I received my BSC teacher’s degree in South Africa (where I was born) and taught 3, 4 and 5 year olds for 6 years in a preschool, after which I taught combined classes of 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders for 7 years. In 1998 my husband and our three small children moved to Glenview, where I have taught for 10 years. My children (now teenagers) encourage me to give myself time to do the things I love, such as listening to music/singing, gardening and landscape painting. I find these passions inspire me to teach beyond the written word, enriching the children and unlocking their creativity.
Four years ago I was invited to lead our preschool. As director I have helped link our preschool with our K- 2 program through art, drama and musical activities such as those in Our Christmas Gift Making Workshop, Poetry and Talent Show as well as the Easter and Whole School Christmas Plays. In growing up in a sister school to GNCS I was encouraged to be courteous to others, and to work creatively in the world around me. This is what I want for my students.
Four years ago I was invited to lead our preschool. As director I have helped link our preschool with our K- 2 program through art, drama and musical activities such as those in Our Christmas Gift Making Workshop, Poetry and Talent Show as well as the Easter and Whole School Christmas Plays. In growing up in a sister school to GNCS I was encouraged to be courteous to others, and to work creatively in the world around me. This is what I want for my students.
Rev. Peter Buss, Jr., Pastor – School Pastor, 3rd and 4th Hebrew
B.A. in Classical Studies from Davidson College; MA in Divinity from the Academy of the New Church Theological School; MBA from the University of Notre Dame
Read Peter's bio
I am in my 13th year at the Glenview New Church and Schools. I served as Assistant Pastor for six years, and the rest as Head Pastor. I’ve had the opportunity to teach Religion classes all those years. Before coming to Glenview, I served in a congregation and school in the Washington D.C. area for three years.
I greatly enjoy the interactions I have with students on a day to day basis. The thing I like most about teaching in the Glenview New Church School is the opportunity to have a good time with students talking about some pretty important stuff. It’s not just the classroom experience, but the whole range of interactions, from saying hi in the morning, having chapel together, getting down to work together, and visiting in the hallways. This is a place where relationships are built and time is invested in the welfare of each student. That’s a culture in which I thrive.
I greatly enjoy the interactions I have with students on a day to day basis. The thing I like most about teaching in the Glenview New Church School is the opportunity to have a good time with students talking about some pretty important stuff. It’s not just the classroom experience, but the whole range of interactions, from saying hi in the morning, having chapel together, getting down to work together, and visiting in the hallways. This is a place where relationships are built and time is invested in the welfare of each student. That’s a culture in which I thrive.
Cindy Edmonds – 3rd through 6th Social Studies
B.S. in Education, Bryn Athyn College of the New Church
Read Cindy's bio
I made the decision to become a teacher at the ripe old age of eight when my dear second grade teacher suddenly became very ill during reading circle and had to leave the room. She stood up, handed me the teacher’s manual and left the room. Before the class was discovered teacherless, we had completed the lesson and were quietly working at our desks. Of course, I had previous teaching experience whenever I could rope in my little brother, or even the dog or a doll, for an alphabet lesson. Never waivering I looked forward to the day when I would teach real, live, and maybe even willing students. This happened in 1975 and continues to this day (with some time off to raise four children). I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to reach out to so many amazing children in so many ways.
Emily Horigan – 7th and 8th Homeroom (7 and 8 LA, 4-8 Math)
B.A. in Mathematics, Eastern Illinois University
Read Emily's bio
I have known that I would be a teacher since I was 13 years old. I admired the elementary school teachers that I had here at the Glenview New Church Schools and I wanted the opportunity to make school as meaningful for students as they did for me. In high school I discovered my love of mathematics. My freshman geometry class was when math began to “click” for me. Since I enjoyed and understood much of the mathematics in high school I helped my peers and was able to explain the material to them so they could understand too.
I do not think that mathematics is only for some people. Everyone can understand and enjoy mathematics but we do not all learn it in the same way. During my time at Eastern I continued to tutor peers in mathematics and began learning how to teach. I am excited to have the chance to help students become life long thinkers and learners to help them continue to work towards being a person they are proud to be.
I do not think that mathematics is only for some people. Everyone can understand and enjoy mathematics but we do not all learn it in the same way. During my time at Eastern I continued to tutor peers in mathematics and began learning how to teach. I am excited to have the chance to help students become life long thinkers and learners to help them continue to work towards being a person they are proud to be.
Roxanne Junge – Senior Preschool
B.S. in Education, Bryn Athyn College of the New Church
Read Roxanne's bio
After fourteen years of teaching preschool I still have more ideas for the classroom than we can possibly fit into each day! I love nature. In fact I get pretty excited about bugs and fall leaves and anything the children want to show me. As long as I get to spend time with 4-year-olds, I don’t think I’ll ever get old. My husband and our four grown children may disagree, but that’s OK. I enjoy being involved in various local organizations. Music is another ongoing passion of mine. Singing and playing my African drums gives me a lot of joy.
Sue Lee – After Care
Read Sue's bio
Coming soon!
Deb Lehne – Before Care, 1-6 Library Resource Center, 1-4 Language Arts Support
B.A. in Secondary Education, University of Michigan, cum laude; certification in history and psychology;
M.A. in Education (major in Reading and minor in English), University of Michigan
M.A. in Education (major in Reading and minor in English), University of Michigan
Read Deb's bio
Deborah has taught in a variety of settings including high schools, adult education classes, as well as in elementary education throughout her over 20 year teaching career. She has a strong interest in reading and literature which is reflected in the curriculum she teachers to the blended third and fourth grade classes. Deb’s love of nature is also in evidence in the many activities her students do outside throughout the school year. One of her favorite quotes concerning education is: “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” (Albert Einstein)
Deb hails from a family that values education highly. Her maternal grandfather was a music teacher, her older daughter is a teacher, and her younger daughter is currently attending college, majoring in education. Her husband of 32 years has also taught on the university level, while working on his doctoral degree. Another quote that exemplifies Deb’s interest in education comes from Francis Bacon: “Wonder…is the seed of knowledge.” By encouraging a sense of wonder in her students, Deb endeavors to implant a sense of excitement and delight in learning, paving the path for them to be lifelong learners.
Deb hails from a family that values education highly. Her maternal grandfather was a music teacher, her older daughter is a teacher, and her younger daughter is currently attending college, majoring in education. Her husband of 32 years has also taught on the university level, while working on his doctoral degree. Another quote that exemplifies Deb’s interest in education comes from Francis Bacon: “Wonder…is the seed of knowledge.” By encouraging a sense of wonder in her students, Deb endeavors to implant a sense of excitement and delight in learning, paving the path for them to be lifelong learners.
Jennifer Overeem – K-8 Art, K-2 Penmanship, K-4 PE, 7th and 8th Drama
B.A., Columbia College in Chicago; member of the National Art Educators Association
Read Jennifer's bio
Generations of fine artists and craftsmen have been synonymous with my family name. Creative expression was a way of life growing, with the tools and inspiration always around me. My education has included music, theater, dance and visual arts from its very beginnings. I continue to explore new possibilities for expression and revisit old interests when ever possible.
I grew up with nature around me and a curiosity that led me to see my environment in a different way. Blessed with 5 keen senses, I seek opportunities to nurture and stimulate them on a regular basis with walks in the woods and beaches. Trips to museums and zoos connect me with things I might not otherwise experience. Watching people keeps me grounded in who I am and why I am here.
During my 16 plus years of teaching formal art classes at GNCS I have focused on helping students discover their creative spirit and connect art to their other studies. Skill development and exposure to different materials and ideas are the means by which the students build an understanding and enjoyment in making art. I challenge my students to push themselves outside of their comfort zones and to see the things around them from new perspectives. Currently, I am working towards an advanced art education degree; I have designed costumes, worked with make up and set designs and acted in community theatrical productions; and I am an amateur photographer, water colorist, fiber and soft sculpture artist.
I have lived in Wyoming, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and grew up in Illinois.
I grew up with nature around me and a curiosity that led me to see my environment in a different way. Blessed with 5 keen senses, I seek opportunities to nurture and stimulate them on a regular basis with walks in the woods and beaches. Trips to museums and zoos connect me with things I might not otherwise experience. Watching people keeps me grounded in who I am and why I am here.
During my 16 plus years of teaching formal art classes at GNCS I have focused on helping students discover their creative spirit and connect art to their other studies. Skill development and exposure to different materials and ideas are the means by which the students build an understanding and enjoyment in making art. I challenge my students to push themselves outside of their comfort zones and to see the things around them from new perspectives. Currently, I am working towards an advanced art education degree; I have designed costumes, worked with make up and set designs and acted in community theatrical productions; and I am an amateur photographer, water colorist, fiber and soft sculpture artist.
I have lived in Wyoming, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and grew up in Illinois.
Phil Parker – 7/8 History, 5-8 Science, 5-8 PE, 5/6 LA, Head Teacher for Upper School
B.S. in Education, Bryn Athyn College of the New Church
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When I was in seventh grade I had a male teacher for the first time in my life and this was so exciting for my classmates and me. Why? We had somebody who played hockey with us and challenged us in new ways. As it came time for me to choose a career path I thought back to my seventh grade teacher and realized what a huge positive impact (not just in his hockey playing ability) he had made on my life, and I realized that as an upper grades teacher I could do the same. Each day of my life I am committed to making that positive difference in all of the students’ lives by having conversations with them, discussing religion, reflecting with them on their choices, talking about morality, and many more interesting and exciting conversations. I look forward to all of these conversations, and I am grateful that the Lord has blessed me with an ability to communicate with many. Take care!
Rev. Mark Pendleton – 3rd & 4th and 7th & 8th Religion
B.S. in Physical Therapy, Temple University
Masters of Divinity (MDiv.) from the Academy of the New Church Theological School
Masters of Divinity (MDiv.) from the Academy of the New Church Theological School
Read Mark's bio
I had three years experience as a licensed Physical Therapist before returning to school for my MDiv. I am in my 18th year of ministry in the New Church, with 7 of those years being at the Glenview New Church and Schools. Before coming to Glenview, I was pastor of the New Church of Phoenix for 4 years, Associate Pastor of the Oak Arbor Church in Rochester, Michigan for 4 years, and Associate Pastor of the Caryndale New Church in Kitchener, Ontario for 3 years.
My greatest pleasures in teaching religion are in fostering healthy teacher-student relationships, helping students learn stories from the Old and New Testaments with affection and delight, helping students learn to think from religious principles, and seeing students grow in their relationships with one another and with the Lord. It is also my pleasure to be a part of a larger faculty of educators that works with care and diligence to set a safe and loving context in which students can learn and grow, both spiritually and naturally.
My greatest pleasures in teaching religion are in fostering healthy teacher-student relationships, helping students learn stories from the Old and New Testaments with affection and delight, helping students learn to think from religious principles, and seeing students grow in their relationships with one another and with the Lord. It is also my pleasure to be a part of a larger faculty of educators that works with care and diligence to set a safe and loving context in which students can learn and grow, both spiritually and naturally.
Rachel Pennie – Administrative Support
Read Rachel's bio
Rachel's bio to come
Emma Rentas – Preschool Aide, Spanish Exposure (Pre-2nd Grade)
Read Emma's bio
Coming soon!
Rebekah Russell – 3-6 Homeroom (3 Math, 3-6 LA), Head Teacher for Middle School
B.S. in Special Education, Bloomsburg University
M.Ed. in Family Studies, Loyola University
M.Ed. in Family Studies, Loyola University
Read Rebekah's bio
Rebekah Russell teaches 5th and 6th grades and assists the principal with various administrative duties. She has taught various combinations of 3rd-6th grades for the last 19 years. She was also co-principal then principal of the school for eight years. Rebekah’s received her Bachelor of Education degree in Special Education and her Master of Education degree in Family Studies. She loves bringing learning to life for her students using their innate creativity to support both the academic and life lessons presented to them each day. She is particularly interested in family systems and their impact on children. She loves the opportunity to work with the Lord to touch the hearts and minds of her students for good each day. Rebekah is married and has a five-year old daughter.
Bonny Scheer – 3rd through 8th Music
B.A. in Music Education, Indiana University; M.A. in Music Education, VanderCook College of Music
Read Bonny's bio
Coming soon!
Jeff Smith – Spanish Teacher, Grades 7 & 8
Currently enrolled at Northeastern University in Bilingual Elementary Education
Read Jeff's bio
Coming soon!
Kara Smith – All-Day Preschool
B.S. in Biology, Northeastern University; Certified in Early Childhood Education
Read Kara's bio
My name is Kara Smith, otherwise known as Miss Kara to the preschool children. I currently teach 3, 4 and 5 year olds full day program. I grew up and have lived in Glenview my whole life. My undergrad is biology and I am currently working on my Early Childhood Education certificate. As a child I attended the Glenview New Church School and high school. This was a unique and wonderful experience for me and gave me a closeness to the Church here that I would not have had. This is why it was so wonderful to teach here because it is fulfilling to be able to teach the children the same things I was once taught. It also gives me the opportunity to use my creativity in art, projects, and games to teach the children. My husband, my 3 children and I live within the community and love being a part of it. Our children also really enjoy attending the elementary school here. My favorite hobby and fascination is my collection of animals. I use these as a teaching tool to help educate children about animals and how to take care of them. I love that every day is different especially with kids of the preschool age. I also enjoy meeting new people and getting to know them on a personal level. I think knowing people on a personal level can be an important thing in introducing people to the Church. It also gives me a chance to promote our school for the continuing grades. I also like to travel to different places around the United States. My husband and I at least once a year go on a trip to somewhere within driving distance or further. We have been to California’s Lake Tahoe, Phoenix, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon. We also enjoy family trips to places such as Wisconsin, Colorado, Florida, and Upper Michigan. I love living and teaching here.
Erik Synnestvedt – Director of Schools
B.S. in Biology and in Chemistry, Bryn Athyn College
Read Erik's bio
Erik's bio to come
Judy Teel – Director of Church and School Operations
Read Judy's bio
Coming soon!