ELEMENTARY TEACHERS
I have always had a heart and desire to work with kids. I knew early in life that this is what God was calling me to do with my life. Working at LCA has blessed me with the opportunity to see daily growth in each of the students as they learn about Jesus. Teaching the PreK class is so rewarding in that I get to be a light to each student and let Christ shine through me in my daily interactions with my class.
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24
I love teaching students in sixth grade because I believe they are in the process of becoming the kind of person they will be as an adult. I love their enthusiasm for life and their sense of humor. Teaching at this level keeps me young.
...and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve,
and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Mark 10:44-45
Always knew I wanted to be a teacher. When I was younger, I told my mother that I wanted 100 children. I love children. They are one of the Lord's best gifts to us. I not only get to interact with children each day but get to share God's love with them!
...I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made...
Psalm 139:14
Mrs. Cancino has been a Xenia Resident since moving here from Massachusetts with her family as a child. She graduated from Wright State in 2002 with a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education. Before coming to Legacy in 2022, she taught for 11 years at Greeneview Local Schools in Jamestown, and 3 years at Memorial Preschool in Xenia.
God has blessed her with a wonderful husband, Danny, and 5 children. They love spending time at the beach and with family.
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8, ESV)
I like teaching at LCA because the environment is encouraging and energizing. I enjoy partnering with parents, staff, and faculty to equip students with opportunities to grow in wisdom and knowledge.
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, and He delights in his way.
When he falls, he shall not be hurled headlong;
because the Lord is the One who holds his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Miss Hines is delighted to join the LCA team this year. She graduated from
Wright State University in the Spring of 2022 with a Bachelor of Science degree
in Elementary Education (Pk-5) and a Music Minor. She is excited for the
opportunity to help students develop a strong academic foundation that they
can build upon throughout their lives. Further, she is eager to share Christ’s
love and the joy of salvation with her students as they work together
throughout the school year. It is her hope that each of her students may go on
to be knowledgeable citizens who are eager to further God’s kingdom.
In her free time, Miss Hines enjoys a variety of activities including gardening, running, music, and baking.
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4 (ESV)
Mrs. Kensinger graduated from Cedarville University with a Bachelor of Arts degree
in Middle-Childhood Education with an emphasis on math and science. Last year
she worked as a Middle School and High School math teacher. Mrs. Kensinger has
been married for one year to her high school sweetheart, whom she met at Legacy
Christian Academy. She has a love for developing the minds of the next generation
and equipping them to have an intimate relationship with Christ.
She also enjoys running, exploring new cities, sports, and reading books. Mrs. Kensinger and her
husband currently reside in Jamestown where they spend most of their time flipping their house and
hosting their friends and family. One of her favorite pastime activities is discovering new coffee shops.
“Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave
himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV)
I have always felt called to work with children. I have enjoyed and feel blessed that God has given me such an important ministry to guide, direct, and teach students. The best part of teaching is seeing a student realize their potential and being a prayer warrior for them.
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.
Proverbs 3:5-6
I like teaching art because it is exciting to engage with children in pure creativity; you know, before they become programmed adults. Plus, I get to doodle, paint, and play.
Have you not known? Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He does not faint or grow weary;
His understanding is unsearchable.
Isaiah 40:28
SECONDARY TEACHERS
Mr. Austin is migrating to Ohio from the state of Oklahoma. He is a graduate of Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, having earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Bible and Pastoral Ministry. He served 7 years as an Associate Pastor in Chickasha, OK, followed by 16 years as a Lead Pastor in Lawton, OK. For the past 5 years he has taught Social Studies - Geography of the Western Hemisphere - at Cache Middle School in Cache, OK. He and his wife, Tammy, have been married for 27 years, and they have been blessed with four children, 13 chickens, and a dog.
Mr. Austin enjoys reading, working outside, college football (Boomer Sooner!), and being together with his family. It is his desire to serve parents through the teaching of their children according to the truth of God. By this he prays that young hearts will come to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, and that those who know Christ will grow in their knowledge of Him.
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” (Philippians 1:6, KJV)
Watching young minds put new concepts together is an exciting adventure, and I love being a part of that kind of growth. Teaching at LCA means that I can also help students apply what they are learning in a way that builds a Bible-based understanding of the world that prompts them to pursue the good works which Christ Jesus created them to do.
For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:10
I am privileged to work with wonderful students, their families and great coworkers. It is a blessing and it is with joy that I serve at LCA! I love what I do in part because I know that I am fulfilling God’s plan and purpose for my life in helping others to discover and fulfill theirs. I also love it, because I enjoy languages, cultures and the opportunity to share Christ with others.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works,
which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10
Mrs. Jodi DeLong has taught in Christian schools for 13 years. A native Floridian,
she played soccer for and graduated from Asbury University in Wilmore, KY with a
Bachelor of Arts in History degree. The Lord has been faithful in leading her to
schools in Florida, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and now to Legacy Christian
Academy. Mrs. DeLong is passionate about working with students to see God’s
truth in their subject matter and how it can transform their lives. Over the years,
she has been blessed to see her students grow and mature into Christian leaders.
Mrs. DeLong has been married to her college sweetheart, Matt, for 16 years, and has two sons; Luke, 13,
and Levi, 10. In her free time she enjoys jogging, reading, and spending time with family.
“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” Psalm 126:3 (NIV)
Mrs. Forshee is excited to join the Legacy Christian Academy family! She holds a
Bachelor of Science in Secondary Mathematics Education and Bible from Pillsbury
Baptist Bible College. She taught at Dayton Christian High School after graduating
from college but then took a break from teaching to be home with her eight
children. She has also been involved in helping her husband run their family-owned
business.
She loves hanging out with her husband, Ben, who is still her best friend. Their family is very active and
enjoys outdoor adventures including hiking, riding dirt bikes, and sitting around a bonfire. She enjoys
gathering her family around the table by cooking yummy food. Her backyard is her favorite place to
relax, admire God's beautiful creation and watch her family play.
She is very excited to get back into the classroom. She loves working with kids and has a passion for
helping them love math and find success. She loves Jesus and is so excited to help her students learn to
love him as well.
“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.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
Mrs. Fortier is thrilled to join the Legacy Christian Academy family! She is a graduate of Cedarville University, having earned a Bachelor of Music Education with a minor in Bible. Prior to joining Legacy, she taught band, Jazz Band, choir, Bible, how to lead worship through music, and elementary music at another Christian school. Kirsten has also performed instrumentally and vocally in various community groups and restaurants.
She lives in Springfield, Ohio with her husband and dog. She loves serving in her church, making music, playing videogames, reading, watching movies, taking hikes and bike rides, camping, teaching private vocal and instrumental lessons, and spending time with her friends and family.
She has a passion for the growth of each student in their relationship in the Lord and the gifts and talents He has given them. She loves her Savior and is so thankful He has opened a door for her here at Legacy Christian Academy!
"The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." (Psalm 18:2, ESV)
Mr. Gibboney graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Integrated Science Comprehensive Education and minors in Biblical Studies and Honors Program from Cedarville University. Following graduation, he taught at a college-preparatory homeschool extension program. He is passionate about leading young men and women to know, love, and obey Jesus as Lord over all, to become mature, godly men and women, and to think critically from a Biblical worldview in all areas of life, including in the areas of science and mathematics. Continuing this passion, Mr. Gibboney is excited to join the Legacy Christian Academy family and support parents in their responsibility to train up their children in the knowledge and love of God. He looks forward to teaching students about God and His creation through science and mathematics from a Biblical worldview!
In his spare time, Mr. Gibboney enjoys hanging out with friends, building his skills in woodworking, kayaking, and working on various projects with his father. Mr. Gibboney is also active in the life of his local church, Christ the Lord Church in Dayton, co-leading the youth ministry and fellowshipping with brothers and sisters in Christ each week on Sundays and at Bible Study.
“But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:4-7, ESV)
Mr. Guenther is excited to join the Legacy Christian Academy team this coming
2022-23 school year. Born and raised overseas by Canadian missionary parents, Mr.
Guenther has spent most of his life living in Asia. In addition to a high school
diploma from Taejon Christian International School in South Korea, he has a
Bachelor of Christian Ministry from Nipawin Bible College, and a Bachelor of
Education from the University of Regina, Saskatchewan. Mr. Guenther most recently
comes from Taiwan, where he has spent the last 7 years teaching high school math
and physics at a school for missionary children. He enjoys playing games, eating sushi, and discussing
theology and philosophy. God has blessed him and his wife with 3 children.
Verses that especially speak to Mr. Guenther are Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a
light to my path,” and Hebrews 4:12, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (ESV) These verses remind the reader that God’s Word is active
and alive in guiding and correcting us.
Mrs. Johnson is the director of children’s ministry at her church. She has
been an artist and graphic designer since she could hold a crayon, but she
has been working professionally since 2016. She received a bachelor’s
degree in Art Education from Miami University and an MBA in Marketing
from the University of Colorado Denver. She taught art and graphic design
in public schools for three years. She has worked as a tutor for Classical
Conversations, whose mission is to know God and to make Him known. Mrs.
Johnson and her husband love spending time together teaching their three
children as they explore the great outdoors, create art in their home studio,
study scriptures, and answer the call to serve.
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." Genesis 1:1 (ESV)
I love teaching young musicians because I love to see them grow in their understanding of music as they share their gifts with others. As a music teacher, I want my students to leave my classroom with a deeper understanding and appreciation for music. I want them to play and sing with excellence. However, I also want my students to learn to allow the beauty of music to point them to the beauty of our Creator. Teaching at LCA gives me the platform to teach students that they can use music to glorify the Lord. I am so thankful to be here!
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.
Romans 8:37-39
Mr. Stout graduated from Cedarville University with a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical studies. Mr. Stout is excited to join the Legacy team in a teaching role to help contribute to equipping leaders for Christ. He is passionate about helping students understand how to read the Word of God and seeing students understand the message of the Bible and its impact on life.
In his free time, Mr. Stout enjoys spending time with friends and family, having meaningful conversations, playing board games, reading, listening to podcasts, and studying the Bible.
“Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.” (Colossians 1:28, ESV)
INTERVENTION DEPARTMENT
I greatly enjoy working with children with special needs. I love to see God help each one to grow, improve, and succeed to the best of their abilities. I enjoy helping students to see their value and who they are in Christ.
And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart
and with all your soul and with all your mind.
This is the great and first commandment.
And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Matthew 22:37-39
I am very grateful that the Lord has allowed me to grow spiritually in my relationship with Him. He has given me an increasing desire to read His Word and pray. I would love to see God work similarly in the lives of LCA students.
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:1
STAFF
I love developing relationships with students to help them grow emotionally, spiritually, and academically. I want to give them the preparation and tools that they need to achieve all that God has planned for them.
Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.
For I rejoiced greatly when the brothers[a] came and testified to your truth, as indeed you are walking in the truth.
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
3 John 1:2-4
Dianna Fecher is thrilled to join the Legacy Christian Academy as the School Librarian. Having graduated from Boston Baptist College in 1988 with a degree in Music Education and Biblical Studies, Dianna has furthered her education with Elementary Education and Business Administration courses. Prior to coming to LCA, Dianna was the teacher and director of a daycare and preschool in Vermont where she taught with the understanding that each child is a unique gift from the Lord.
Dianna and her husband, Brian, served for over 30 years in the ministry in New England, where they added 13 children to their family. Dianna enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, singing and playing the piano and serving in her church. Relaxing at home includes reading, playing with her Golden Retriever, “Digsby,” and playing Yahtzee.
“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;” (Philippian 1:6, NKJV)
Mr. Hunsicker is excited to join the Legacy Christian Academy family as the IT Support Technician. He attended Anderson University where he took classes in Christian Ministry, and he currently serves as the Youth Pastor at Ledbetter Road Church of God. He is passionate about working in Student Ministry and helping students grow in their walk with Christ. Before coming to Legacy in 2023, he worked 9 years in various IT roles at Reynolds and Reynolds in Dayton, Ohio.
He and his wife Cari have been married for 10 years. They both love to hike, travel, and play board games. They also have a passion serving together as Youth Directors at a church camp each summer in Springfield, Ohio. In his spare time, Mr. Hunsicker enjoys watching college football and basketball. He plays in a flag football and multiple softball leagues throughout the year. He also loves to play guitar and serves on his church Worship Team on Sunday Mornings.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, ESV)
Pam is excited to join the Legacy Christian Academy family this summer as the Admissions Assistant. She graduated from Azusa Pacific University with her Nursing Degree in 1990. She spent 30 years as a Nurse caring for children with cancer in pediatric hospitals in California and Oregon. She has spent the last three years as the School Nurse and most recently as a Teacher at a Christian school in Kentucky.
Pam and her family are moving to the area as her husband has received a pastoral position at a local church. They have three daughters. Pam enjoys spending time with family and friends, relaxing at home with a Sudoku or a jigsaw puzzle, and enjoys all things chocolate.
“I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27, NLT)
Jacquelyn Phillips is joining Legacy Christian Academy as the secondary administrative assistant. Jacquelyn started her administrative career in the United States Air Force from 2009 to 2014. Having experience under her belt, she returned to school and completed a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business administration with concentrations in healthcare and human resources. Jacquelyn has recently moved to Ohio and has been serving as a substitute teacher for LCA.
Jacquelyn and her husband, Turner, along with their daughter, Alex, enjoy hiking, kayaking, spending time with one another, and fellowshipping. Jacquelyn is grateful to be a part of this community and looks forward to serving LCA in this new role.
“Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Colossians 3:17, ESV)
Mrs. Shaeffer graduated from Northland International University with a bachelor's degree in Speech Education. Originally from the upper peninsula of Michigan, she moved to Xenia 13 years ago when she married Alan Shaeffer. She took a 10-year break from working in education to stay home and raise their three children, all of whom are students at Legacy. She would say the three things necessary for life are coffee, sunshine, and Jesus. She enjoys hiking, the beach, and singing. God has firmly planted a burden and love for students in her heart which manifests itself in a desire to see them learn and grow in their faith and relationship with Christ. She believes one of the best ways to accomplish this is through a life-touching-life model of discipleship through relationship building.
"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, ESV)
Cynthia Shaw is honored for the opportunity to be the Event and Volunteer Coordinator for Legacy Christian Academy. She has degrees in Medical Massage Therapy and Healthcare Management with 20 years in the holistic healthcare industry. She also brings skills as a coordinator both professionally and for volunteer organizations. She has been a small business owner as a medical massage therapist, productivity consultant, and professional organizer. Lastly, she has experience as a manager with a concentration in project management, event/training management, and professional development.
Cynthia, her husband John, and her two children, Johnny (LCA class of 2023) and Lillian (LCA class of 2025) reside in the Xenia township with their two dogs. She has a passion for serving the Lord and taking care of her family and friends. Cynthia personally enjoys the arts, gardening, sewing, and the outdoors.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7, KJV)
Mrs. Strickle is excited for her role as Food Service Director, continuing to serve in the LCA kitchen where she has been serving in other roles for multiple years.
Mrs. Strickle has been married to her husband, Jake, for 22 years. They live on a farm in Cedarville with their three children, two of whom attend LCA: Natalie (class of 2024) and Jett (class of 2030). Mrs. Strickle enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and being outdoors.
"And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” (Mark 12:30, ESV)