STAFF
EPWORTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STAFF
OFFICE STAFF
David Bryant
Education:
Bachelor of Arts, Education, Western Governors University
Years of teaching experience:
5
Why did you choose to work in education:
In 2021, Epworth needed a part-time music teacher to finish out the school year, and I was available to jump in. After the first day, I was hooked and knew this was the new path God had planned for me!
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
One thing I love most about being at Epworth is seeing students succeed, both in the classroom and as a student athlete. I also think our Middle School teaching team is the best team in the history of teams 🙂 !!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
I love being with my family, coaching (baseball & volleyball), rucking, and grilling/cooking.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
When I was young, my dream job was to be a rodeo clown!
Favorite Bible verse:
Hebrews 12:1-3 (especially v. 3 in the Message version!!)
Debbie Bryant
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, Salisbury University
Certifications and Endorsements:
Certification grades 1-8
Years of teaching experience:
45
Why did you choose to work in education:
As a child, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. As I sought God's will for my future, He confirmed that teaching was His will for my life. It is my desire to make a difference in the lives of our students.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
First graders are so much fun. They are excited about learning and every day is a new adventure.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Event planning and decorating, being a Green Bay Packers and West Virginia University fan
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
Initially, I thought I would teach at ECS around 5 years and here I am 33 years later, with 32 years in 1st Grade
Favorite Bible verse:
Psalm 37: 23-24
Tanya Brown
Education:
High school
Years of teaching experience:
10 years at ECS/CWC
Why did you choose to work in education:
I prefer to be busy. There is always an opportunity to be busy in a school.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
There is a team mentality.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Time with family, watching hummingbirds
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I married my high school sweetheart.
Favorite Bible verse:
Isaiah 43:2
Jeanine Moore
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Human Resources, University of Delaware; Master of Arts, Economics and Entrepreneurship for Educators, University of Delaware
Certifications and Endorsements:
Reading Specialist K-12; Special Education K-12; Teacher of Elementary Grades K-6; Elementary Teacher 1-8; Teacher of Middle Level English Language Arts 6-8; Teacher of Middle Level Social Studies 6-8
Long Neck Elementary Teacher of the Year
Indian River School District Teacher of the Year
Presidential Award of Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (DE - Mathematics)
Indian River School District Social Studies Teacher of the Year
Middle States Council for the Social Studies - Collin Skinner Award
Years of teaching experience:
29
Previous work experience:
5th Grade English Language Arts and Social Studies; 4th Grade Math and Social Studies; 6th Grade Math, Science, and Social Studies; Reading Specialist; 8th Grade Special Education
Why did you choose to work in education:
I decided to work in education because teaching is a role where you wake up each morning knowing that your actions matter. Every lesson, every conversation, every bit of guidance contributes to something far bigger than yourself. Teachers influence their students’ futures in powerful ways. I wanted a chance to make my impact felt far beyond my classroom walls.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
I love working with small groups of students, especially those who need extra help to be successful. I also enjoy working with teachers and helping them learn and implement new instructional strategies.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Crafting, crocheting, reading (historical fiction and thrillers mostly), Legos
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I got to shake President Obama's hand in the East Room of the White House and explore some of the other first floor rooms that are typically off-limits during a regular tour.
Favorite Bible verse:
Philippians 4:6 - Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Maurica Kinnikin
Cathie Tyler
Dave Rementer
Cathy Evans
Bill Vannicola
Maintenance Engineer / Groundskeeper
EPWORTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STAFF
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTER
Liz Culver
EPWORTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STAFF
ELEMENTARY STAFF
Kim Hastings
Ashley Gschwandtner
Erin Dukes
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude, Lee University
Minor in Religion, Lee University
Minor in English Education, Lee University
Certifications:
Licensed Early Childhood Education Teacher
Years of teaching experience:
5
Previous work experience:
Preschool Lead Teacher
Classroom Aide
Why did you choose to work in education:
I chose to work in education because I love seeing that “spark” in a child’s eyes when they discover something new. Working in Christian education is a true blessing because I can bring my faith into every lesson and inspire children to want to learn more about God and our amazing world.
What is one thing you are excited about?:
Our family has been part of the Epworth community for years, so I am super excited to be an integral part of the school’s future.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
I love watching my boys play soccer, reading, traveling, exercising, playing board games, and spending time outside.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I am a Disney fanatic and visit a Disney park at least once a year!
Favorite Bible verse:
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the Church by Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
Julie Brining
Melissa Calloway
1st Grade
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Education, Wilmington University
Certifications and Endorsements:
Dual Certified Special Education (k-6)
Years of teaching experience:
1.5
Previous work experience:
I worked as a long-term substitute for Indian River School District, gaining experience in teaching Kindergarten, second grade, and Health for students in grades sixth through eight.
Why did you choose to work in education:
I chose to work in education because I enjoy spending time with children and helping shape future generations!
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
I love my role at Epworth because It gives me the opportunity to guide children academically and spiritually to have a relationship with Jesus!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
I love spending time with my husband, two sons, and our two dogs! I also enjoy the beach, shopping, and staying active by playing tennis whenever I have the chance.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
A fun fact about me is that I love traveling and experiencing new things! One of my favorite memories is swimming with dolphins in Mexico.
Favorite Bible verse:
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Karen Illian
Education:
Years of teaching experience:
Previous work experience:
Why did you choose to work in education:
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
Favorite Bible verse:
Sara Hitch
Education:
Bachelor of Science K-8 Salisbury University, Masters of Instruction-University of Delaware, +60 credits Administration
Certifications and Endorsements:
State of Delaware Teacher's License K-8
Years of teaching experience:
33
Previous work experience:
Indian River School District, State of Delaware Science Teacher Kits
Why did you choose to work in education:
I believe being a teacher is one of the most important jobs in the world. It is a job that makes a difference and impact in child's life. Students are constantly meeting new standards and achieving their individual or classroom goals, and getting to celebrate them is an awesome part of this job!
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
The sense of purpose you carry with you as a teacher is unlike anything else. I love celebrating and worshiping the Lord with the students and the staff here at Epworth Christian School.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
I love spending time with my family. Camping, sports, and shopping are just a few things I enjoy.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I chew gum really loudly, so loudly that none of my family will let me have gum! I really enjoy gum!
Favorite Bible verse:
Psalms 31:25 She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.
Kylie Branch
Education:
Bachelor of Education
Certifications and Endorsements:
Letters Training and Bridges training
Years of teaching experience:
3
Previous work experience:
Third grade teacher, preschool para, and Kindergarten teacher
Why did you choose to work in education:
I chose to work in education because I truly believe that this is the calling that the Lord has over for my life. I always have had a heart for children and I wanted to be involved in a career that allows me to influence children in Jesus.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
I most importantly love that I get to do what I love while incorporating the truth of Jesus and encouraging them to find His true and acceptive love.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Spending time with my family and exploring new places
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I was blessed to run collegiately in College
Favorite Bible verse:
there are so many! However here is this one No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Brittany Malchow
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Psychology, University of Phoenix
Associate in Applied Science, Human Services, Delaware Technical Community College
Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Development, Delaware Technical Community College
Years of teaching experience:
14+
Previous work experience:
Elementary Aide
Preschool Assistant Director
Preschool Curriculum Coordinator
Preschool Lead Teacher
Preschool/Childcare Classroom Aide
Why did you choose to work in education:
I chose education because I enjoy helping kids learn and see what they’re capable of. Teaching gives me the chance to make a positive impact on their lives every day.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
Each day I have the privilege of helping students grow not just in academics, but also in their faith, character, and confidence, which makes the work so meaningful and rewarding.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and traveling.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
My husband and I run a local non-profit. We take veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families on outdoor adventures such as hunting and fishing.
Favorite Bible verse:
I have two favorites. Proverbs 3:5-6 and Jeremiah 29:11
Craig Moyer
Education:
Bachelors in Elementary Education from Alderson Broaddus College
Certifications and Endorsements:
Elementary Education
Years of teaching experience:
34
Previous work experience:
First Grade Teacher (3 years); Fifth Grade Teacher (22 years) at Laurel School District; Fourth Grade Teacher (9 years) at Epworth Christian School
Why did you choose to work in education:
I chose to be a teacher because of the joy of working with young people and helping them to become lifelong learners.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
I love being a teacher and a coach at Epworth because of the opportunity to teach our students with a Biblical Worldview.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
I enjoy watching sports along with serving people in various ministries at Laurel Nazarene.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I don’t like apple sauce and jello.
Favorite Bible verse:
Philippians 4:13
Marian Pusey
Education:
Associate of Lab Technology/Delaware Tech
Bachelor of Science/Education/Wilmington University
Associate of Theology/Christian Life School of Theology
Years of teaching experience:
20
Why did you choose to work in education:
I love children and enjoy watching them progress educationally and spiritually.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
I am able to teach not only academics, but the Word of God.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Reading, going to the beach and spending time with friends and family.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
After being a lab tech for humans, I switched to being a lab tech and anesthesiologist for horses.
Favorite Bible verse:
Isaiah 40:31
EPWORTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STAFF
MIDDLE SCHOOLS/SPECIALS STAFF
Diane Twisselmann, DTh, DCC
School Counselor
Education:
Doctor of Theology, Christian Life School of Theology Global
Doctor of Sacred Studies, Christian Life School of Theology Global
Doctor of Christian Counseling, Adolescent Anger Management, Pillsbury Scarborough College and Seminary
Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies, Trinity Bible College and Theological Seminary
Master of Education, School Counseling, Wilmington University
Bachelor of Science, Science Education, Delaware State University
Associates of Arts, Human Services, Delaware Technical & Community College
Certifications and Endorsements:
Licensed Science Teacher
Licensed School Counselor
Clinical Christian Counselor
Years of teaching experience:
34
Previous work experience:
Public school education (teaching & school counselor) 28 years
Why did you choose to work in education:
God has given everyone gifts and talents. It was my desire to help children find their potential and move in their God-given callings.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
I love being able to share the love of Christ and show the students the relevancy of God's Word in their lives.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Spending time with my family.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I play the 12-string guitar.
Favorite Bible verse:
Philippians 1:6
Kim Benjamin
Education:
Years of teaching experience:
Previous work experience:
Why did you choose to work in education:
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
Favorite Bible verse:
Brad Cullen
Development Coordinator
Education:
Master of Science, Geology, Ohio University
Bachelor of Science, Geoenvironmental Science, Salisbury University.
Bachelor of Science, Geography, Salisbury University.
Minor in Art, Salisbury University
Minor in Communications, Salisbury University
Years of teaching experience:
2
Previous work experience:
Homebuilding and General Construction, Ocean Rescue, Research Assistant: Coastal Geomorphology
Why did you choose to work in education:
I chose to work in education because I felt called by God to serve, and I knew that teaching would give me opportunities to make a lasting impact in my students' lives and help shape future generations of leaders.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
I enjoy building my student's confidence and seeing them use it to succeed academically. It is fulfilling to know that through my role here at Epworth Christian School I am making a real difference in the lives of our students.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
I enjoy spending time with my family on the water. We fish, surf, boat, and ski-- which counts as being 'on the water', too!
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
The Indian River Inlet bridge is named after an ancestor, Charles W. Cullen, and my family has roots in Delaware dating back to the mid-1700s.
Favorite Bible verse:
Proverbs 1:7
Karen Illian
Education:
I have accumulated 200+ hours of training across several key areas, including child development, Christian education, social/emotional management & development, classroom behavior, health, and safety.
Years of teaching experience:
15
Previous work experience:
Second Grade Christian School Teacher, Daycare/Preschool Owner & Teacher
Why did you choose to work in education:
I feel called to work with children and I am grateful for the opportunity to do so. I love having the opportunity to grow children socially, emotionally, and educationally in a Christian environment. I feel it is important to show children how God fits into every aspect of our life.
What is one thing you are excited about for your role at Epworth:
I am super excited about being a part of the first grade children's learning to read journey.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Outside of work I love spending time with my family and friends.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I love all of nature. I believe we were put here to be good stewards over ALL of God's creation, including even mice, snakes, & spiders! (Even though i don't like spiders!)
Favorite Bible verse:
Philippians 2:3-4
Tara Bowden
Previous work experience:
Paraeducator and substitute teacher for the Indian River School District, with five years of experience coaching cheerleading at Sussex Central Middle School. Previously served as an EMT with several fire departments throughout Sussex County for 17 years.
Why did you choose to work in education:
I love helping students grow, build confidence, and discover what they are capable of. I also value the opportunity to make a positive difference in their lives while creating a supportive and encouraging environment.
What is something you are excited about in your role at Epworth:
I am most excited about building relationships with my students and helping them discover how fun, creative, and meaningful technology can be. I’m also excited to be part of a school community where I can incorporate my faith into what I teach each day.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
I enjoy spending time with my family, going to the gym in the early mornings, wedding photography, listening to worship music, and cheering on the Orioles and love watching Collage Football.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I can usually be found with an Owala in one hand filled with water, a Celsius fizz free nearby or a protein coffee (pumpkin and caramel), and way too many tabs open on my computer at once!
Favorite Bible verse:
Joshua 1:9 — “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Dylan Branch
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science, Montreat College
Years of teaching experience:
I'm new here!
Why did you choose to work in education:
I chose to work in education because I have a passion for helping the youth grow spiritually, physically, and mentally.
What is one thing you are excited about for your role at Epworth:
I’m excited to step into the roll of Athletic Director as well as the P.E teacher. Being the P.E. teacher gives me the opportunity to pour into every student at Epworth!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Spending time with family, being outdoors, running
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I’m a 6 time All-American runner at the NAIA collegiate level
Favorite Bible verse:
Romans 3:22-24 and Philippians 4:13