Meet the VWCS Team

Years of experience

• Head of School – 2 years
• Principal – 2 years
•  High school Science teacher – 7 years

Why you work at VWCS

I love children and hope to help every child I can grow in the ways of the Lord and attain their own dreams.

Hobbies

• Sports
• Family

• Doctor of Education – Curriculum and Instruction. Liberty University. 2016.
• Education Specialist – Education Leadership. Liberty University 2012.
• Master of Divinity – Professional Ministries. Liberty University. 2013.
• Master of Arts – Pastoral Counseling. Liberty University. 2011.

Genesis 1:1-2. Everything starts with God.

As I enter my 21^st year in the field of education, I am overjoyed that God called me to serve as the principal of Victory World Christian School. Working in a Christian environment with amazing students, parents and staff has been phenomenal.

With my family, I enjoy sightseeing and visiting amusement parks. Outside of spending time with my family, the opportunity to solve a good mystery before it is revealed in fiction novels and movies is very exciting.

• University of West Florida, Bachelor’s degree in English Education
• Tarleton State University, Master’s degree in Educational Administration
• University of Texas at Austin, Ph.D. in Educational Administration

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This is one of my favorite Bible verses because it applies to everything in my life, and it lets me know that everything is possible when I put God first. 

I have served in my current role as the Director of Curriculum and Education and the IB Coordinator at VWCS for three years. However, my journey in education started right here at Victory World Christian School, 13 years ago, when I was hired as the 2^nd grade teacher. Having just graduated from The University of Georgia with a BA in English Literature with a minor in music, and having years of experience in high school and college serving in my church’s children’s ministry, I felt the Lord had called and equipped me to be a teacher from a young age.

God continued to call me deeper into the field of education when I graduated with my Masters of Arts in Teaching at Emory University. After graduation, I went on to teach middle school English language arts at Lilburn Middle and then 5^th grade back at VWCS. I have a total of 11 years of experience in education and I now have the great blessing and joy of sharing my knowledge and experience with other teachers.

When I am not at VWCS, I enjoy spending time with my husband and two children, exploring the many different places to eat and play that the greater Atlanta area offers. I take great joy in sharing about my Chinese culture with my children, co-workers, and friends, and I believe that the way culture is embraced and celebrated at VWCS is one of the reasons I love working here.

• University of Georgia, B.A. English Literature, minor in Music
• Emory University,  Masters of Arts in Teaching

Like VWCS, I have grown since those early years as a teacher, and I believe that God will continue His good work in me as I remember His word, which says that “[He will] equip you with everything good that you may do his will” (Hebrews 13:21).

I am excited about joining the Victory World Christian School family as a Math support and Technology teacher! I have always had a passion for children and technology. Quickly after finishing my education, I realized I wanted to teach and have been teaching for 11 years.

Teaching is more like a hobby that I get paid for.  There is no other job around where you can work with children, be creative, learn new things, have weekends off and most of all, have fun!  I love teaching because it allows me to help make a positive impact in the lives of children. There is no better feeling in education than to see the excitement in a child’s eyes when they learn something new or when they accomplish something that they thought they couldn’t.

When I am not working I love spending time with my family!  You can’t get time back so I try to cherish every moment with my friends and loved ones making memories that will last forever.  We like to travel a lot together!

Devry University, Bachelors in Telecommunications, Masters in Instructional Technology

I know that none of my accomplishments were done without God. One of my favorite scriptures is Psalms 28:7, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.” I know that my help and my strength all come from God.  Those times when I need a little extra motivation, this is the scripture I read.  

I’ve been with VWCS for 6 Years . My hobbies include home decorating and baking.

I love working at VWCS because of the Christian environment where I can pray and exercise my faith in Jesus openly with our students, teachers, co-workers and families.

MBA

Matthew 6:33 ‘But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.’

Dr. Cleaster Jackson, is an experienced educator and has worked as a teacher, school social worker, counselor, principal, and director of special education.  At Victory she serves as our Director of Student Support and provides direct reading support to students, oversees the student support meetings (G.R.A.C.E.), and provides learning opportunities to our best and brightest students.

She loves being a part of Victory World Christian School where the administration and staff puts God and children first.

Cleaster received her Bachelor of Science and Master Degree from the University of Wisconsin and Doctorate degree in Special Education from the University of West Virginia; she also has some post training at Harvard University.

I have held a career in my industry for the last 15 years. My position at Victory is my first job outside of my degree. Most would wonder how those careers would parallel what I am currently doing. My specialization and experience is sourcing and product development in regards to apparel. Believe it or not, my position as Director of Development requires me to use those same tools; instead of sourcing fabric and ideas for new garments, I source opportunities and ideas for our students. My ultimate goal, while holding this position, is to lay a strong foundation of support for our students.  This could take place in the form of new programs, fundraisers, experiences, and/or partnerships.

I am a mother and a wife who enjoys creating memories with her family. I have a love for accessories to the extent that I have learned how to make many of the everyday things we wear. I enjoy reading, a good cup of tea, working in my planner, collecting Starbucks mugs from all over the world, spending time with family and friends, and listening to all types of music.

• B.S. in Apparel Engineering
• MBA in International Business

Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding: in your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

I was originally hired as a teacher’s aide and administrative assistant. However, I am now the Director of Admissions. VWCS is my first experience in working at a school although I did spend some time working with youth in an educational environment at the Dekalb Regional Youth Detention Center during my senior year in college.

My husband and son are my most precious gifts on this side of Heaven so while I enjoy crafting, working out, marriage ministry, cooking and traveling, I prefer to spend my free time making memories with them. The value and support of family is a big part of why I am happy to work at VWCS!

Georgia State University, B.S. in Criminal Justice

Isaiah 41:9-10, “I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This was the first verse in The Bible that I read after getting baptized and dedicating my life to Christ at the age of 22.

Kimberly S. Walker (Kim) has been an Administrative Assistant for Victory World Christian School since May 2017.  She manages the day to day office tasks of the school as well as support staff and students’ general needs. Originally from Tampa, Florida where she attended Hillsborough Community College, she has been a resident of the Metro Atlanta area since 1987. Kimberly is an ordained minister of the Gospel and has received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion/Biblical Counseling from Luther Rice University. She is an Associate Minister at Liberty Temple Christian Church, where she oversees the Outreach and Evangelism Team, teaches Bible Study and Sunday school.

Kimberly enjoys poetry and has published a book of poetry call “Unlocking Secret Places.”  She is passionate about history and is currently writing a book regarding her own family history dating back to slavery in America.

Hillsborough Community College

While she loves all of Scripture, she particular likes Matthew 6:33, because she always wants to be found seeking God in all things, ^“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

It’s hard for me to believe, but the 2018-19 school year will be my 11^th year as librarian at VWCS.    I served as librarian at another Christian school for two years before coming to VWCS and have several prior years of experience volunteering in the libraries of the schools my son attended.  Other work experience includes serving as a remedial reading teacher, as well as administrative positions in a university setting and at an insurance company.

Hobbies I enjoy include reading, music, crafts, and fitness walking.

I view my work at VWCS as one way I can serve Father God and others.  I also see it as a way to praise Him.  It is my pleasure to try, to the best of my ability, to make available books and other materials that support learning and reading enjoyment.

Appalachian State University

• B.S. in Elementary Education
• M.A. in Reading Education
• Library Science training,  Georgia Perimeter College

One of my favorite Bible passages is Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” I need his wisdom and direction every day.

Years of experience

I worked as a Lead Teacher and an Assistant Teacher for 2 years in a Childcare Facility.

Why you work at VWCS

I started working for Victory after volunteering my time as a shuttle bus driver & becoming the classroom mom; plus I was seeking a job with the school to be closer to my son, but after working here I made a second family with the teachers and staff members.

Hobbies

Reading, Writing, and Organizing my Happy Planner

• Bachelors in Early Education
• Associate in Paralegal Studies

Psalms 23:1″The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”

I spent the first 52 years of my life in America’s heartland. The high school I attended was surrounded on all four sides by corn fields. The county I resided in is ranked third nationally in agricultural production.

After many years as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I felt God calling me to teach. So, I went back to school and received my training at Indiana Wesleyan University. Since then I have been a substitute, have taught at a residential facility for boys and briefly at a maximum security prison.

My wife works for a missionary-sending organization here in the Atlanta area. We have three sons. Two are in college and one will be entering high school this year. I have enjoyed the warmer weather and the beautiful nature the South has to offer. I love to learn, especially when it comes to History. I like sports and old cars. And I look forward to having a positive impact on your children’s lives.

• Grace College and Theological seminary, B.S. in Psychology and Business
• M.A. in Counseling Psychology

I am thrilled to join Victory World Christian School as a lead teacher in the science and mathematics department. I have always been a hands on learner, often teaching with friends and colleagues, assisting in college and university teaching, and serving as STEM teacher and director for two elementary and after school programs.  I appreciate the many learning experiences that are gained with living each day in the Lord. As sung by Curtis Mayfield, I seek “the righteous way to go” in every situation as described in Matthew 6:33 by “seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.”

Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, working on OHOMOM LLC with nonprofit organizations, enjoying and creating music, artwork, good times, and having memorable laughs. I also like to be active in sports like golf, tennis, basketball, and marching band.

• Jackson State Mississippi, Bachelors in Biology
• Georgia-Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Masters in Biomedical Science

My daily motto is to “eat, drink, and do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31), smile more, and share in joy with others.  I hope to bring enthusiastic learning and inspiring fun to the classroom. 

I love teaching the younger grades because I enjoy seeing the students’ excitement when they learn something new. Their joy and innocence is infectious, and makes learning so much fun! I have taught for 27 years in many capacities. Previously I was a Pre-Kindergarten teacher. Additionally, I taught my own four children through high school.

One of my favorite hobbies is spending time outside with my family. We love hiking and the outdoors in general. So many of our best memories come from our outdoor adventures.

Mercer University, B.A. degree in Communications, minor in English

My favorite Bible verse has always been Numbers 23:19, “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” This verse has been a source of comfort and encouragement throughout the years. This school year will be phenomenal!

When I was growing up, my grandmother made a “school room” in her house and as a little girl I would play “school” with all my friends. I knew at a young age that God had called me to work with children, but it wasn’t until college that I realized I wanted to teach at a Christian school. I have been teaching for 27 years (25 – preschool, 2 – kindergarten) and I love it!

I love being with people. I also enjoy singing, going to concerts and attending Broadway shows. I love having the privilege of sharing the gospel with my students and their families. And I consider it a joy that I can use the Word and prayer all throughout my day as I guide and teach my students.

Lancaster Bible College, BA in Bible, Associates in Early Childhood Education  

My life verse is Proverbs 3:5, 6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.”

I was born and raised in Georgia.  I am married to my best friend and we have been blessed with two sons and a daughter.  I felt certain at an early age that I was meant to teach. God has made it clear to me that Christian Education is my calling and my place in ministry and service to Him and I have loved serving Him at Victory World Christian School for the past eight years. The community and family that I have found at Victory is priceless. I also enjoy drawing, painting, reading and spending time outdoors. I love to bring my interests, passions, and love of the Lord to the classroom to inspire and shape young minds. I look forward to meeting you all and having a great and exciting year together!

Oglethorpe University

• BA in Education
• Masters in Elementary Education

My passion and purpose in teaching is to facilitate an atmosphere of learning for students of all ages with a solid foundation of a biblical worldview and academics.

As an Educator/Facilitator for 19 years, I have taught students of all ages ranging from K-12^th grade; Middle School Science; and a College Professor of Health Care Science courses.  This coming school year at Victory World Christian School, I will be teaching Science Lab and Art. Also, I will be a flexible Teacher’s Assistant.

My hobbies include: Walking, Bowling, Skating, Volley Ball, Swimming, Embroidery, Arts & Crafts, Reading and Journaling/Writing.

• Nova Southeastern University, M.S. in Science Education
• American College of Healthcare Sciences, Graduate Certificate in Holistic Nutrition
• American College of Healthcare Sciences, Graduate Certificate in Anatomy and Physiology
• Tennessee State University, B.S. in Health Care Administration
• Tennessee State University, A.S. in Dental Hygiene

One of my favorite bible verses is Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV). “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.”

I was born in Boston, MA and earned his B.S. in Community Health from Worcester State University in 1998 and his M.S. from Springfield College in 2005. I was an Adjunct Professor at Springfield College and Worcester State University teaching Community Health and Sociology for six years before moving to Georgia in 2014 to finish up the Footprints in the Concrete documentary and soundtrack.  I am currently working on the feature film and soundtrack He’s The Same.  I am the music producer of over two hundred fifty songs with placements on national TV shows and films, including CBS Televisions’ – 90210, MTV and Paramount Pictures’ – Spring Break Lawyer, NBC’s – Just Deal and ABC’s – Lincoln Heights. I am also the film producer of five films and with nine awards in national and international film festivals.

This is my second year as the VWCS Music Teacher and I am excited to return!  I am honored that the parents and staff are bringing me back.  I teach because I remember how I hated most of my classroom experiences, and I want to instill joy in the student’s learning process.  The classroom should be something they look forward to and this is why I teach.

My hobbies are driving, bargain shopping, swimming, recording and film making.

• Worcester State University, B.S. in Community Health
• Springfield College, M.S.

 Proverbs 3:5-6 which says Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

I am happy to be teaching Drama & P.E. my second year at Victory World Christian School. My husband and I have been in full-time ministry for 27 years. I have a variety of experience working with students including:  3 Years as a Director at an After-School Enrichment Program, 3 Years as a Full-time Elementary Teacher, 10 Years as a Substitute Teacher and 16 Years in Youth Ministry. My hobbies include traveling, singing, playing piano, reading, writing, playing games with family, and watching movies.

Why do I teach? I love young people! I am more comfortable with them than I am with people my own age! But beyond that, I want to live a life of significance. No matter what I do, I want it to make a difference in people’s lives. I believe teachers are one of the most influential voices in the life of a child. I strive to use my creativity and knowledge to give students the best education I can, but equally important to me is giving them a safe, loving, supportive, and encouraging environment where they can flourish. Teaching in a Christian school allows me to impart my passion for God through how I treat my students and how I teach them to treat others. My goal is for students to encounter Jesus while receiving an education. Thank you for entrusting your students to me this year!

Athens University, Bachelor of Science Degree in Middle and Elementary Education

This Bible verse guides me daily in my pursuits: I have not departed from the commands of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread (Job 23:12).

Years of experience

This coming year will be my 13^th year.

Hobbies –

• Reading,
• Traveling with my family
• Singing

Why you teach

I teach because I know it’s what God has called me to do for this season of my life. I teach because I want my students to know truth, love, integrity, and wisdom. It is a privilege to be able to influence a child’s life every day in the classroom.

• Bachelor of Arts in Communication Across the Lifespan
• Teaching certification through Georgia TAPP
• ACSI certification

Proverbs 19:21: The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps. (ESV)

Teaching is most definitely a calling and I am so honored that God thought I was worthy of the calling. I teach because it is my gift from God – to empower – to help a child find their way to God and in doing so, help a child change the world. I have been teaching for over 17 years.  I have taught several elementary grades including kindergarten, first, third, fifth, and sixth grades. My hobbies include writing poetry and short plays, reading, and singing.

• Rider University, B.A. Journalism
• Long Island University, M.A. Education

The Bible is so powerful as a whole. My favorite Biblical verse is 1 Corinthians 10:13 “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” I love that verse because it leaves no human reason for sin.

This is my second-year teaching in Victory World Christian School. Last year I had the privilege to teach K-4, and this year I am so excited to be teaching Kindergarten. I have worked with children for over 10 years. I knew from serving in ministries at church that I had a passion for children. I always enjoyed helping children learn and grow academically and spiritually. My hobbies are playing musical instruments, and finding new adventures with my family.

• Kennesaw State University, Psychology
• Liberty University, B.A. Early Childhood Education

Matthew 6:33 is a verse I hold dearly to guide me in all of my pursuits, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

I am a veteran elementary school teacher of eleven years.  I have experience teaching kindergarten, second grade, and K-5^th grade as a Math Specialist.  I also have three years experience as a county Math Instructional Coach. The last few years have been spent homeschooling my own two children which has definitely furthered my experience in exceptional ways.

When it comes to my hobbies, my interests vary from engaging in research, playing simple board games to kickboxing.  I love reading and writing my own literature, traveling and spending quality time with my family and friends.  I also tend to be a very active person and enjoy many high energy and athletic activities such as dancing, rollerblading, volleyball, and basketball to name a few.  When it comes to my professional life, I have always known I wanted to teach.  When I was in fourth grade, I wrote a paper about my future ambitions in which I stated that I desired to move to the state of Georgia and become a teacher.  It was during that time in my life where God revealed His calling for me.  School was one of my favorite places and I sincerely loved learning about everything.  I came to realize that everyone did not share the same joy of learning as I did and even as an elementary student myself, my heart went out to them wanting to help them experience this joy of learning that I had discovered.  That desire in me for others to not just learn, but to love learning never diminished, it just became more intense as I entered college and soon after, I began my career as an educator.   Once God revealed the connection between loving the act of learning and His desire for us to spend our lifetime learning who He is, and learning to love Him with all our hearts, minds, souls, and strength; it was confirmation to why I was called to teach.

•  Indiana University,  Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education
• Central Michigan University,  Master of Arts degree in Education
• Currently pursuing Capella University, Psychology

I have been a disciple of Christ for almost seventeen years and one of my favorite Bible passages is 2 Kings 6:16 which states, “‘Don’t be afraid,’ the prophet answered. ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’” This passage displays God’s sovereignty over all, including the enemy.  This is a daily encouragement that helps my family walk in obedience and victory instead of in fear or discouragement from what our physical eyes may see in this world, trusting and believing in an all-powerful God and His unfailing love for every aspect of our lives.  

 I have been homeschooling or teaching in Christian schools for 23 years. Apart from spending time with my family, I enjoy reading, sewing, and hiking. I have a passion for teaching because I get to use my gifts to serve God as I invest in the lives of children.

• Kingswood University, B.S. Christian Education
• Walden University, Graduate Courses

My favorite Bible verse is Hebrews 10:24, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

Mrs. Stephanie Hokkanen attended high school in Malaysia where she gained a love for travel and diversity of culture. After being a stay- at- home mom and fitness instructor for many years, she taught preschool for 2 years at Greater Atlanta Christian School.  She loves teaching because she loves investing in the next generation and cultivating within them a love for learning.  She wants to see young people awakened to the love of Christ and empowered to live for Him.  This is her first year teaching K5 at VWCS.  She has been married for 12 years to Nick. They have three kids aged 5,7, and 9 and the entire family attends Victory World church.

The College of William and Mary, B.A. Economics

Her life verse is Prov. 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

I am a New Orleans native who moved to Georgia 19 years ago. I have a Master’s in Education and have been teaching for 30 years. I’ve taught children from preschool age to Middle School. If you’d ask me to choose my favorite grade level that would be difficult because I love working with students in every grade level.

I am not your traditional teacher; I have always thought outside of the box and I encourage my students to do the same. I love watching students grow in my class, and accomplish things they thought were impossible in their minds. I love preparing my students for the world while equipping them with the Biblical principles and values they need.

I’ve been teaching at VWCS for 4 years and serve as the Upper Elementary Lead. I feel blessed to be able to operate in God’s purpose for my life as a teacher at Victory World Christian School.  My hobbies are travelling, baking and decorating cakes, and anything artistic and creative.

M.A. Education

My favorite Scripture is Isaiah 54:17, “No weapon formed against me will prosper.”

Hola! I’m so excited to be joining the Victory World Christian School as the Spanish teacher. I have a love for arts and crafts as well as travel.  I’ve been teaching early childhood for over 12 years. I love to teach because it allows me to be creative everyday, and help children discover their true talents and gifts through learning. I am blessed to begin a new chapter at Victory World Christian School!

Georgia State University, Bachelor’s in Art and Science

One of my favorite Bible verses, “(Isaiah 40:31) but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

I have years of experience with education, tutoring, and mentoring. I thoroughly enjoyed my first year as a teacher at Victory World Christian School this past year. My hobbies include traveling, reading, writing, going to the movies, shopping and listening to music.  I teach because I feel that I owe a responsibility to those coming up after me by impacting their lives inside and outside the classroom. I also teach because I wasn’t fortunate enough to have someone tell me in school that I was smart enough and therefore, I never knew I was. I don’t want any student to feel that way, especially those in my class.

• North Carolina A&T State University, B.A. Liberal Studies
• Elon University School of Law, Juris Doctor

My favorite bible verse is 2 Corinthians 12:9 “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” This verse allows for me to be open about my story with faith and how God always has me in his hands. 

I came to Atlanta via Brooklyn, New York, but I am originally from Jamaica. I came to the US after high school and lived in Brooklyn from July, 1973 to December, 2003 when I moved to Atlanta, Ga. While in New York, I attended Christian Heritage Church where I taught Sunday school and worshiped for many years.  I also worked as a computer operator while always longing to go back to college.  At the age of forty, I walked away from my job by faith and started college.  While there I decided to pursue a teaching degree.  After completing college, my church decided to start a school, and I was asked to work in the Pre-K department which I did.  I worked with the two year old, three year old and the four year old students.  This was a great experience and the Lord taught me a lot about myself and his children there. Then I moved to Atlanta where the Lord again opened the door for me to teach at the Suzuki Child Care center.  This was another great experience but it was not long before the Lord would have me to teach at Victory World Christian School, and to attend church there. I have a total of 19 years of teaching experience. I love the children.  It gives be joy to watch them come alive as they learn something new.

In addition to my passion of worshiping the Lord and teaching His children, I enjoy spending time with my mother, son, daughter, and grandchildren.

Bachelor’s degree in Teaching