Meet our new staff
& read our teacher updates!
Alisha Thiessen – Inclusive Education Director
I am excited to be joining the Vernon Christian School community as the Director of Inclusive Education. Christian education has been an important part of my journey, beginning as a student at Calvin Christian School in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I later earned both my undergraduate and Master’s degrees from Dordt University, followed by a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Education from the University of Manitoba.
I began my teaching career at Rainbow Christian School in Vanderhoof, BC, where I taught for five years before returning to Winnipeg. Over the past seventeen years at Calvin Christian School, I have served in a variety of classroom, resource, and leadership roles. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to teach and support students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Most recently, I served as Elementary Principal and Acting Head of School.
My husband, Eric, and I are excited to be returning to BC and becoming part of the VCS community. Our son and daughter will be joining the Secondary Campus, and we look forward to building relationships with students, families, and staff.
Outside of school, I enjoy staying active through volleyball, curling, and snowboarding, as well as spending time camping with my family. I also enjoy coaching, reading a good book, and working on crochet projects. I look forward to helping students discover and develop the gifts and strengths God has given them while partnering with teachers and families to support students in their learning, growth, and faith journey.
Rachel Guetter – EC PE Teacher
Hello Vernon Christian School! I am incredibly excited to join the VCS community this September, stepping into the elementary PE department and contributing wherever else I can support the team.
Originally from Ontario, I have been fortunate to call BC home for the past five years. It is an amazing place to adventure, and I love taking advantage of everything the province has to offer. Outside of the classroom, my summers are filled with road trips, biking, spending time on the water, and playing soccer. In the winter months, I pivot to volleyball and skiing.
Having taught at King’s Christian School since 2021, I deeply value the impact of a Christ-centred education. I look forward to building meaningful relationships with the students at VCS and walking alongside them as they grow both in their faith and their love for active living.
Celeste Folk – SC French Teacher
Bonjour! My name is Celeste Folk, and I am so excited to be joining the VCS community as a French teacher in the Secondary Campus. I was born and raised right here in Vernon, B.C., so coming back to this community after 16 years of marriage, teaching, and adventuring around the world feels like a true gift.
In the past, I had the privilege of teaching at Horseshoe Bay Christian School, Global Village, St. Michael’s University School and Pacific Christian School. Every classroom I have taught in has deepened my love for education that puts Christ at the very centre. My hope is to cultivate curious, lifelong learners who see their studies and the world as part of God’s bigger story — and who know they are uniquely made by Him, with gifts and potential just waiting to be discovered.
There is something truly magical about language — the way it unlocks a new culture, a new perspective, a whole new world. Exploring that beauty through travel and connection has shaped who I am, and I am so excited to share that passion with my students this year.
When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me hiking, travelling, and enjoying life with my husband, Paul. I am so thankful to be back home in Vernon and look forward to being part of such a wonderful community. À bientôt! 
Amanda Perrier – SC Office Assistant
This year marks a big milestone for our family, all three of our kids are in school full-time. Ben is in grade 4, Izzy is in grade 3, Hannah now in Kindergarten and I will also be back to school full-time as the SC Office Assistant. Over the past two years, I have served on the Board of Directors, the Education Committee and Parents-in-Action. I hope to serve families well in my new role and look forward to connecting with the middle/high school students and staff. Chris and I have been married for 12 years and love living in Vernon. I enjoy being outdoors camping and hiking with my family and always have time for a good cup of tea.
Current staff in new roles
Heidi Isaac is moving from the front SC office to Office Manager/Admin Assistant.
Kristy Armstrong will be moving into a full-time teaching role in our Grade 2 classroom.
Stephanie Jooste will be adding Grade 8 teaching to her role.