Principal - Kathan Steinorth: mrs.steinorth@firstchristianacademy.com
- 16 years teaching experience
- 7th year at FCA
- BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Married with 3 daughters, 2 in 3rd and 7th grade at FCA and 1 attending the University of Florida
Favorite Scripture: James 1:22 – “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
Quote: “God has given me an amazing opportunity to be the administrator at FCA. It is truly a blessing each day to share Christ’s love with our students and families.”
Preschool Director - Tifanee Wright: mrs.wright@firstchristianacademy.com
- 8 years teaching experience
- 4th year at FCA
- Early Childhood Education Training with FL Director’s Credential and Staff Credential
- Studied Praise & Worship at Faith Bible College – Kansas City, MO
- Married for 6 years with 2 chihuahuas
Favorite Scripture: Psalm 104:33 – “I will sing to the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.”
Quote: “I honestly believe that I was born to change lives. From the time I was a little girl I had a passion inside of me for others. I am pleased that I am one of the chosen to speak for those whose voice is almost too small to be heard. I count it as a blessing to make a difference in young lives every day.”
Principal’s Secretary- Debbie Triola: mrs.triola@firstchristianacademy.com
- 3rd year at FCA
- 30+ years secretarial experience
- Married for 41 years with 2 children and 3 grandchildren, including a granddaughter in Kindergarten and a grandson in 2nd grade at FCA
Favorite Scripture: Luke 10:27 – “He answered: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Quote: “I am so blessed to work at First Christian Academy! God answered all my prayers, especially now that my daughter will be teaching 5th grade and my grandchildren are here!!”
Preschool Faculty
VPK Teacher/Extended Care - Jackie Vivian: ms.vivian@firstchristianacademy.com
- 5 years experience in Preschool
- 2nd year at FCA
- FL Staff Credential
- AA Degree with Early Childhood Education Training
- AA Degree in Theology
- Has a cat: Chloe
Favorite Scripture: John 14:12-14 – “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.”
Quote: “Working with children is a passion of mine. I love watching them grow and excel in their faith. I am honored to be able to help them in their daily work.”
VPK Teacher - June Hermansen: ms.hermansen@firstchristianacademy.com
- 11 years teaching experience
- 5th year at FCA
- FL Staff Credential
- Early Childhood Education Training at Pinellas Tech Center
- Has a parakeet: Tweet
Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:7 - “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Quote: “Ever since I was a little girl, I knew that I was called to be a Preschool teacher. I am thankful I get to help “mold” tomorrow’s future. We are so very blessed to have a wonderful school where we can learn and grow in a Christian environment.”
VPK Teacher – Gina Walsh: mrs.walsh@firstchristianacademy.com
- 23 years substituting/teaching experience
- 3rd year at FCA
- Early Childhood Education Training & FL Staff Credential
- BA in Elementary Education at Caldwell College-Caldwell, NJ
- Married for 17 years with 1 daughter in 11th grade
Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:13 – “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Quote: “I am so excited to be returning to our school and our new home. This will be my 3rd yr with the First Christian family and am looking forward to sharing all your child’s first experiences.”
VPK Teacher - Lauren Letourneau: mrs.letourneau@firstchristianacademy.com
- 8 years teaching experience
- 3rd year at FCA
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AA Degree with Early Childhood Education Training
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Married for 4 years with 1 daughter, age 3 at FCA
Favorite Scripture: 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 make your paths straight.”
Quote: “I can remember being a little girl and knowing that I always wanted to teach children one day. Just to see the look on a child’s face when they have mastered a skill or learned something new is just priceless to me!”
3′s Teacher - Lauren Wheeler: mrs.wheeler@firstchristianacademy.com
- 1st year at FCA
- Early Childhood Education Training
- Bachelor’s of Christian Education with specialization in cross-cultural ministry
- Married for 3 years
Favorite Scripture: Philippians 2:6-11 - “Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Quote: “I love teaching preschoolers because everything is new and exciting in their eyes. They are eager to learn and have such a contagious joy in what they do. I feel so blessed to be able to share the love of Jesus while educating young hearts and minds. Also, teaching preschoolers reminds me that I am to approach my Heavenly Father with faith like a child.”
Preschool Teacher’s Aide - Laurie Tupponce: mrs.tupponce@firstchristianacademy.com 
- 9 years experience at FCA
- BS in Accounting from Johnson & Wales University
- Early Childhood Education Training
- Blessed with an amazing husband and married for 22 years. We also have an amazing daughter in 7th grade at FCA.
Favorite Scripture: John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Quote: “We have been with the FCA family since Coreen began Preschool at the age of 3. What a blessing our journey has been!”
2′s Teacher/Extended Care - Jessie Butler: ms.butler@firstchristianacademy.com
- 1st year at FCA
- Early Childhood Education Training
- Has a beautiful son who attends FCA’s preschool
Favorite Scripture: Psalm 91:2- “This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust him.”
Quote: “This is my first year teaching at First Christian Academy. Being an assistant with the little children and helping any way I can is truly a blessing. I love seeing the kids learn ad grow. I’m glad to be apart of this wonderful school family. This is such an awarding experience. God has brought me to a beautiful place.”
Preschool Teacher’s Aide - Becky Caple: mrs.caple@firstchristianacademy.com
- 1st year at FCA
- Early Childhood Education Training
- Married 7 years with 2 boys, ages 7 years and 3 years.
Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:13 – “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Quote: “For years I have been told by educators and friends that I should become a preschool teacher because of the displayed passion I have for teaching young children, even my own two children. God has opened this door and I have been blessed to be able to work within a loving, Christian environment, doing what I love…teaching our future!”
Kindergarten - Nicole LiVecchi: ms.livecchi@firstchristianacademy.com
- 7 years teaching experience
- 1st year at FCA
- BA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University
- MA in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University
- Has 1 daughter who is 17 months old.
Favorite Scripture: Joshua 1:9- “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Quote: “I am a teacher because I truly feel that this is what I am destined to do. I have both a love for learning and children. When I am in a classroom I am my happiest and there is no other place I would rather be. This will be my first year at FCA and I already feel like I am part of this wonderful family.”
First Grade - Melissa Riordan: mrs.riordan@firstchristianacademy.com
- 5 years teaching experience at FCA
- Bachelors in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences from USF
- Married for 10 years with 1 daughter in 3rd grade at FCA
Favorite Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you, “declares the Lord, ” plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Quote: “For most of my adult life, I have been teaching children both educationally and spiritually. God has led me to an opportunity here at First Christian Academy where I can do what I love in an environment that promotes the Christian family and individual. Teaching, for me, is that job where you get up every morning know that you are doing what God wants you to do and loving every minute of it!”
Visit Mrs. Riordan’s Class Website
Second Grade – Patience Dussault: mrs.dussault@firstchristianacademy.com
- 8 years teaching experience
- 5th year teaching at FCA
- BA in History (Minors in Speech, Education, and Bible) at Clearwater Christian College
- Married for 17 years with 1 beautiful daughter in 5th grade at FCA
Favorite Scripture: Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?”
Quote: “Teaching at FCA allows me to be part of a ministry I truly enjoy. Every day I have the privilege to share with my students truths about God and how He wants us to live. It is a joy to help them expand their world by learning new words and grasping math concepts. Throughout the year we also focus on learning about qualities such as attentiveness, obedience, responsibility, and generosity so that we might also become good citizens and good friends.”
“I touch the future. I teach.” – Christa McAuliffe
Visit Mrs. Dussault’s Class Website
Third Grade -Brenda Aguayo: mrs.aguayo@firstchristianacademy.com
- 4 years teaching experience at FCA
- BA in Business Administration
- Juris Doctorate
- PHCC Educator Preparation Institute
Favorite Scripture: Psalms 118:24 – “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Quote: “I heard once that if you do what you love, you will never have to work a day in your life. Through teaching, I have been able to understand what that means. It gives me great satisfaction to help my students to grow in their academic skills, and Christian character. At the end of the day, I do go home tired, but with a big smile on my face and a happy heart.”
Fourth Grade – Jennifer Johnson: mrs.johnson@firstchristianacademy.com
- 11 years teaching experience
- 8th year at FCA
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BA in Education
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Married for 17 years with 2 children, a son in 11th grade who plays hockey and a daughter in 10th grade who plays softball
Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:13 – “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Quote: “I knew as a young girl that I wanted to be an educator. I chose to be a christian educator not only because I love working with children, but because of the love I have for my Lord and my desire to share Him with others. I am truly blessed to be teaching at FCA.”
Visit Mrs. Johnson’s Class Website
Fifth Grade - Kristie Capo: mrs.capo@firstchristianacademy.com
- 5th year teaching experience
- 1st year at FCA
- BS in Elementary Education with ESOL endorsement from St. Petersburg College
- Married for 9 years with 2 children, a daughter in Kindergarten and a son in 2nd grade at FCA
Favorite Scripture: Isaiah 41:10 – “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Quote: “From a small child playing school with anyone that would join me, I always knew I wanted to be a a teacher. I am so blessed that God has directed my path and led me to what I love to do. I am so excited to be a part of the FCA family and not only tech my students what they need to move on to the next grade level, but help nurture and guide them in their walk with Jesus Christ! Giving them lots of hugs along the way! 
”
Middle School Faculty
Middle School History & Language Arts (6th-Homeroom) - Autumn Stradley: mrs.stradley@firstchristianacademy.com
- 5 years teaching experience
- 1st year at FCA
- BA in Elementary Education and ESE at Harding University
- MA in Reading Education K-12
- Married for 9 years with 3 children, a son in 3rd grade, a daughter in 1st grade and a daughter in VPK at FCA
Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:13 – “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Quote: “I teach because I feel as though God has given me the talent of instructing children. I teach Middle School because this age is fun, creative, and I love conversing and laughing with this precious age.”
Middle School Science & Math (7th & 8th-Homeroom) – Len Mortensen: mr.mortensen@firstchristianacademy.com
- 13 years teaching experience
- 3rd year at FCA
- Undergrad in Elementary Education (Minor in Science)
- Married with 5 sons
Favorite Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-18 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power…”
Quote: “I returned to teaching when my children needed extra attention for their learning differences. I saw many similarities to my own challenges in school and I did not want them to be plagued by experiences that I had gone through. I believe the process of learning should be meeting the student where their needs are, not the systems expectations. FCA is a blessing beyond measure for me to be able to serve God’s plan for my life in Education.”
Visit Mr. Mortensen’s Class Website
Middle School Bible - Lisa Griner: mrs.griner@firstchristianacademy.com
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3rd year teaching experience at FCA
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BA in Psychology from USF
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Married for 17 years with 2 children, a son in 2nd grade at FCA and a daughter going into 9th grade
Favorite Scripture: 1 Peter 4:8 – “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
Quote:“I am teaching Bible to our Middle School students because I want to share God’s word with them. I want them to know the most important relationship they will ever make is with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. What a privilege it is to guide them as we seek His truths, His promises and His love!”
Middle School Technology - Sean Caldwell: mr.caldwell@firstchristianacademy.com
- 3rd year teaching at FCA
- Graduated from the Wharton School of Business at University of Pennsylvania
- Masters Degree in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary.
- Business owner in the broadcasting & communication industry
- Keeper of the electronic arsenal
- Married and father of 4 children, 3 at FCA
Favorite Scripture: Proverbs 16:16 – “How much better is wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.”
Quote: ”I love God’s Word and have a passion for technology. We’re combining them together to prepare the middle-school for a life where the tools we use can help us learn, accomplish, and bring glory to God.”
Enrichment Faculty
Elementary/Middle School Art - Teresa Foster: mrs.foster@firstchristianacademy.com
- 13 years teaching experience
- 3rd year at FCA
- AA in Elementary Education
- Currently working towards BA in Education at St. Petersburg College
- Married with 3 children
Favorite Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you, “declares the Lord, ” plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Quote: “I love teaching because I get to spend each day helping children reach their full learning potential while giving encouragement and love. One of the best parts of teaching at FCA is having the ability to use God’s words everyday with the children.”
Elementary/Middle School Physical Education & Athletic Director – Alex Stern: mr.stern@firstchristianacademy.com
- 8 years teaching experience
- 2nd year at FCA
- BA in Interdisciplinary Social Science from USF
Favorite Scripture: Isaiah 41:10 – “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Quote: “I enjoy teaching for the same reasons that I enjoy coaching athletics. It’s the joy of helping kids understand a concept and seeing them actually understand and use what they learned. It’s a great feeling to see a child grow both in the classroom setting and in athletics. Seeing them improve either day to day, week to week, or even month to month is a wonderful feeling because I have made an impact on that persons life.”
Elementary/Middle School Music – Jill Collinson: mrs.collinson@firstchristianacademy.com
- 30 years teaching experience
- 1st year at FCA
- BME in Education/Music Therapy at University of Kansas
- Married for 38 years with four grown children
Favorite Scripture: Ephesians 5:19 – “Singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts.”
Quote: “As a teenager the Lord laid on my heart to use my talents in the music ministry. As a teacher, I want to instill in my students a love for music and to develop their talents and skills to be used in service and worship for His glory!”
Elementary/Middle School Spanish & Bookkeeper - Barbara Fair: mrs.fair@firstchristianacademy.com
- 14 years teaching experience
- 13th year at FCA
- Studied Accounting at University of Houston
- Early Childhood Certified through Pinellas county
- Married 24 years with 2 boys in 10th grade and a Freshman at UCF
Favorite Scripture: Proverbs 16:24 “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”
Quote: “Returning to FCA is very exciting! This has been like a second home to me. I have been so blessed by the many children and families I’ve met over the years. I look forward to meeting new families and seeing all the “old” families. I pray that I can be a blessing to the students.”
Elementary Computers/6th grade Math & Geography/Extended Care Coordinator Karen Tatjes: mrs.tatjes@firstchristianacademy.com
- 10 years teaching experience
- 2nd year at FCA
- BS in Elementary Education at Auburn University, California Lutheran University/UC Santa Barbara
- 3 daughters, a junior at ELHS and twins at USF
Favorite Scripture: 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.”
Quote: “Ever since I can remember I have wanted to work with children and to teach. God has truly blessed me with the opportunity to be a part of FCA. I receive so much joy from teaching and watching them learn and grow. A good friend told me years ago, the rewards from teaching are eternal. She was right!”
Elementary Library Studies – Ann Gilman: mrs.gilman@firstchristianacademy.com
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1st year at FCA
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Married 49 years with 2 daughters and 5 grandchildren
Favorite Scripture: Matthew 17:20 – “He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.””
Quote: “I have been teaching children in Sunday School for 45 years. I love to tell them how much Jesus loves them and is always with them.”
Lunch Coordinator/Elementary Teacher’s Aide – Jean Smith: mrs.smith@firstchristianacademy.com
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3rd year at FCA
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Background in Desktop Publishing
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Married 20 years with 3 children, daughter in college, daughter in 10th grade and son in 5th grade at FCA
Favorite Scripture: Hebrews 11:1 – “Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.”
Quote: “I am blessed that I am here to serve, not only “nutritional” food to the children, but also “spiritual” food! It is also a blessing to be an aide for the teachers at FCA, who put their hearts into teaching the children everyday! I am blessed to be able to teach and guide the students in learning life skills that they can carry with them through life.”