STAFF
EPWORTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STAFF
OFFICE STAFF
Clint Moore
June Taylor
Receptionist / Secretary
Cathie Tyler
Cathy Evans
Maurica Kinnikin
Daisy Wharton
Tanya Brown
Education:
High school
Years of teaching experience:
9 years at ecs/cwc
Why did you choose to work in education:
I prefer to be busy. There is always a cleaning opportunity 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:
28
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.
EPWORTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STAFF
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTER
Liz Culver
EPWORTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STAFF
ELEMENTARY STAFF
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.
Ashley Gschwandtner
Debbie Bryant
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, Salisbury University
Certifications and Endorsements:
Certification grades 1-8
Years of teaching experience:
44
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 my 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 32 years later...all in first grade.
Favorite Bible verse:
Psalm 37: 23-24
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
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.
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 chapter of a non-profit called Patriot Hunts (Del-Mar-Va Chapter). 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
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
Dave 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!!)
Laura McFarlin
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Special Education, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Certifications and Endorsements:
PCET (Professionally Certified Educational Therapist through the National Institute of Learning Disabilities) Level 3 trained
Years of teaching experience:
22 years
Previous work experience:
ILC Special Ed teacher at Cape Henlopen High School; Job Coach through Heartwood Corp. for adults with disabilities; at Epworth, Wings teacher, NILD Ed Therapist, former Differentiated Learning program coordinator (just in case you wanted these but not necessary to list)
Why did you choose to work in education:
I wanted to help unlock learning for those students who struggle.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
Epworth is a family who works together in the best interest of the students that I have had the privilege to be a part of.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
Reading, country couples dancing and instructing, swimming, loving on my grand babies
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I enjoy taking afternoon tea and hosting tea with friends!
Favorite Bible verse:
Eph 3:20
Brad Cullen
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Geoenvironmental Science, Salisbury University.
Bachelor of Science, Geography, Salisbury University.
Minor in Art, Salisbury University
Minor in Communications, Salisbury University
Master's Candidate, Geology, Ohio University
Years of teaching experience:
1
Previous work experience:
Homebuilding and General Construction, Research Assistanceship: 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 love building my student's confidence and seeing them use it to succeed academically. It is so fulfilling to know that here at Epworth Christian School I am making a real difference and contributing to something bigger than myself.
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 a family member, Charles W. Cullen.
Favorite Bible verse:
Proverbs 1:7
Denise Bryant
Patti Towers
Wendy Wharton
Liz Maloney
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Education, University of Delaware
Certifications and Endorsements:
Certification in K-8 General Education, K-12 Special Education
Years of teaching experience:
6 years in Schools, 8 years home schooling : Our family joined the Epworth School Family 2020
Previous work experience:
Special Education teacher 5th, 4th grade
Substitute teacher
Homeschool teacher K-4th grade
Why did you choose to work in education:
"Children are a heritage from the Lord" Psalm 127:3. I view teaching as a ministry to serve God and others; helping and equipping students to succeed academically and in life.
What is one thing you love most about your role at Epworth:
There is a close knit family environment which I enjoy sharing in and learning from day to day. I also work in small group settings with students three/plus times a week, in that time real relationships are formed, learning and achievement are realized. The community growth is exciting to see here at Epworth.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work:
I have a large family and enjoy outdoor time with them. We have visited state parks, and national parks on our school breaks and summers. Two of my favorites we've visited are Acadia National Park Maine and Grand Canyon National Park Arizona, My favorite hiking so far would be Red Rocks State Park in Sedona, AZ.
Tell us a fun fact or something funny about yourself:
I read cookbooks for fun and have Southern Living cookbooks from 1982- current. My Great grandmother started my collection and gave me many of her cookbooks. Cookies and brownies are my children favorite recipes to try.
Favorite Bible verse:
Matthew 7:24-27