Administration
Leslie Collins
Head of School, 11th Grade Apologetics & Worldview
MA in Biblical Counseling at The Master’s University; BS in Special Education at University of Maryland; 20+ years of experience working in classical Christian schools
I was first drawn to Covenant’s vision to train the heart of each student to be servant leaders through a great books curriculum. The school’s mission is directed at the right goal: the heart. C.S. Lewis says in The Abolition of Man, “The task of the modern educator is not to cut down jungles but to irrigate deserts.” Teaching is the art of loving our subject and students so well that they are increasingly drawn towards what is true, good and beautiful. I love working with such an amazing team of educators as we learn more and more how to teach like The Master Teacher, Jesus Christ.
I’ve been happily married to my best friend for 33 years. We are the proud parents of Daniel, a brave fire fighter and Laura, a loving mother and teacher. Both graduated from homeschool and are now thriving in their respective callings. Our youngest two are Covenant Alumni. Lydia, Class of 2016, graduated from Grove City College in 2019 and is now an upper school Latin teacher at Rockbridge Academy in Maryland. Jonathan, Class of 2019, is majoring in Biblical and Religious Studies at Grove City College in Pennsylvania. When I’m not at school I am usually looking for a way to see my precious granddaughter. I also enjoy reading, walking, cooking, and gardening. When I am at school I enjoy every moment because I really love what I do.
Melissa den Dulk
Assistant to the Head of School and Director of Admissions
Studied Business (Purchasing & Materials Management) at the University of Houston-Downtown
After seven years of homeschooling my two sons (1st-7th grades), God called us to step out in faith and our adventures at Covenant began. In 2014, we became part of the Covenant family and I enjoyed many volunteer roles at the school including Covenant Community Life (CCL) Events Coordinator. In 2016, I joined the staff at Covenant as Student Support Assistant helping students gain independence, confidence and mastery in the classroom. The next year I transitioned to the Administrative Team as Admissions Director. I enjoy meeting prospective new families and discussing the benefits of a classical Christian education. As part of the faculty, I help coordinate and plan our internal and external community events as well as support our Head of School.
The richness of our school culture, depth of teaching and relational faculty has been a blessing to both my sons’ journeys throughout high school. I’m so thankful to be part of a community that values and actively seeks that which is true, good, and beautiful.
My husband Rudi and I have been married for over 20 years. We spend endless hours at swim meets cheering on our youngest son. Our oldest son (a 2019 Covenant alumni) is currently attending The University of Texas in Austin, Hook ‘Em! Our house is also blessed with several animals, from feline to the most adorable dog named Moose. In my spare time, I love to travel, listen to classical music while cooking, read, watch a good action flick, and visit with our extended families.
Shari Archer
Registrar
BS in Speech at University of Texas at Austin
I have worked in Christian teaching and administration for many years including overseas service as an ESL missionary in Kazakhstan and as an administrator in the children’s ministry at my church. My connection with Covenant began before my son Daniel started school. I was attracted to Covenant’s mission to train students by way of Scripture and the classical liberal arts to love what is true, good and beautiful. I love that Covenant, using the classical Christian model, is developing the character, hearts and minds of the students.
My husband, Jim, and I have been married for over 18 years. Our son Daniel is currently in high school at Covenant and Oreo, our lovable dog, rounds out our family. I love puzzles, reading, and games of all sorts, as well as cheering on Daniel and the Covenant Patriot teams... including our awesome chess team!
Laurie Brooks
Director of Business Administration
BBA in Marketing at Texas A&M University
I have been working in the Christian community since 2005 and at Covenant Academy since 2011. I love the way Covenant’s faculty and staff invest their hearts and time and knowledge into each individual student. No decision or conversation is taken lightly or without the purpose of training these young hearts to be more like Christ. It is a privilege to be part of the Covenant staff and I look forward to what the future holds for our school and the growth of our community!
Outside of school office, you can find me spending time with my husband, Todd, and our two sons, Cole and Noah, attempting to build quality experiences that they will forever cherish. We enjoy cooking together, keeping up with our Dalmatians, Kimber & Bella, and looking for our next genuine Texas adventure (usually involving long drives and terrific barbeque)!
Dave Collins
Director of School Operations
General Studies at Towson University, Maryland
I grew up in a hardworking family in a small town near Baltimore, Maryland. My mom was a school secretary and my dad owned a hardware store that had been passed down for three generations. I learned from an early age how to solve problems and get the job done, regardless of the work involved. Helping people is what I love to do. Whether it’s solving a scheduling issue, working out logistics, managing resources or making sure that every inch of our amazing facility is stewarded well, I love what I do. Though I’ve worked in several schools over the past 25 years, the blessings that God has bestowed on Covenant amaze me every day.
My wife Leslie and I love working together, but more than anything we love spending time with our four children, son and daughter-in-law and our first grandchild, whether we’re playing bocce ball, antiquing or just hanging out.
Faculty Directory
Select a Profile
- Laura Ah Mow
- Janet Angst
- Mark Baker
- Gabi Barros
- Tiffni Blake
- Debi Buckles
- Roben Card
- Rebecca Eilers
- Jordan Even
- Amanda Faucett
- Clara Gaertner
- Michelle Hunt
- Amy Kidd
- Julie Miracle
- Tori Pace
- Katrina Piatek
- Laura Rivera
- Corinne Rosier
- Jimmie Ryan
- Brad Small
- Allie Sutter
- Titus Szymanowski
- Madi Thorpe
- Pam Walker
- Robyn Whipple
- Lynn White
- Caitlin Wright
Laura Ah Mow
Grammar School Latin Teacher
I had the privilege of being classically educated since kindergarten. Growing up in a family of educators, I knew what I wanted to do with my life from an early age. I began teaching thirteen years ago and am grateful for every moment I have to teach the next generation.
Teaching Latin is a great source of joy! Did you know that Roman writers used the word “io” to express their joy? As the years went by, this expression turned into the exclamation mark (!). Similarly, an ampersand (&) came from the Latin word “et” which means “and”. If you look closely at an italicized ampersand you can make out the letters “E” and “T”. I love when my students make these connections and become more intrigued by the history of the world we live in.
I love collecting children’s books, making jewelry, a good cup of tea, and going on walks with my family. My husband and I have a precious baby girl and a lovable pup!
Janet Angst
Athletic Director, Upper School Mathematics Teacher, Student Support
BA in Business at Texas A&M University
My teaching experience began in the public school system having taught for eight years at the high school level. In 2005, I became part of the Covenant Academy family and during these years I have served in many ways, including room mom, volunteer, substitute teacher, and board member. I am now the Athletic Director and continue with the Upper School Math department and I absolutely love it. Math has always been my passion, and what I always knew I wanted to teach. It is a joy for me to share that passion with the students at Covenant Academy.
My husband Stewart and I have been married for 23 years and we have three children, all who have been attending Covenant Academy since kindergarten. We are an active family, with the kids involved in volleyball, basketball, and track. I have been a runner since college, and recently completed the BCS and Houston half marathons. It had long been a dream of mine and I was beyond excited to accomplish these goals. I am fortunate to be able to share my love of running as track coach each season.
Mark Baker
Part-Time Adjunct Teacher, 11th and 12th Grade Bible
PhD in Biblical Theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, North Carolina
I started my journey in classical Christian education in 2011, teaching in the humanities at Paideia Academy in Tennessee. I taught there for nine years, eventually also joining the administration as Dean of Upper School Faculty. In 2020, my family and I discerned a call to help bring classical Christian education to prisoners in the Darrington Unit in Houston. Whether I am teaching teenagers or prisoners, I believe that education in the liberal arts tradition greatly helps us pursue the truth, goodness, and beauty that is grounded in God and in his Word.
I am husband to Ashley and father to Elias, Owen, Eleanor, Alister, and Atticus. When I am not teaching, I enjoy coffee dates with Ashley, wrestling on the floor with my kids (they always win), and kayaking.
Gabi Barros
Teaching Assistant
BA in Legal Studies at Houston Baptist University
I had the privilege of being classically educated from 6th grade on and I have developed a deep appreciation for it. I tutored extensively starting in my sophomore year of high school and have continued working with students ever since. Once I graduated from HBU, I wanted to immerse myself in the field of classical education. When I found Covenant Academy, I was so excited for a chance to work alongside like-minded individuals with a shared goal. Working at Covenant has not only been a joy but a blessing.
One of my favorite things about my current position is that I get to help other teachers while also getting to learn about some of my favorite subjects.
When I’m not at work, you can catch me spending time with loved ones, reading, listening to music or podcasts about history, or at my local Hobby Lobby looking for fabric for any quilting projects I might be working on!
Tiffni Blake
Upper School Principal, Mathematics, and Science Teacher
MA of Liberal Arts at Houston Baptist University; BS in Academic Studies with a minor in Mathematics at Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas
I am a lifelong lover of teaching and have taught students in the preschool, grammar, logic, and rhetoric years in a mixture of public, private, and home settings over the last 30 years. I discovered the classical model about 18 years ago while researching curriculum and fell in love with its methodology and integrated approach to teach the whole child and spark a love of learning. I first joined the family of Covenant as a parent when my husband and I began looking for a school that shared a passion for classical Christian education and instilling a pursuit of wisdom and virtue ultimately found in pursuing the Lord. I am now in my 11th year of teaching at Covenant Academy and am still reminded daily of the wonderful gift it is to be a part of this amazing community.
My husband, Matthew, and I have been married for 26 years and have three children. Jonathan, our oldest, was part of the first graduating class at Covenant and now works as an electrical engineer in Huntsville, AL. Kaitlyn, also a Covenant alumni, is in her third year at Belhaven University where she is pursuing a BFA in Dance with a minor in Classical Education Studies. Rebecca is now in high school and pursues a passion in creative writing when she is not dancing, painting, or participating in the summer drama troupe. We also have a West Highland Terrier named Baxter who thinks every guest is there to see him.
Debi Buckles
Art and Practical Arts Teacher
Studied at Tulsa Community College and the College of Biblical Studies; 20+ years teaching art in both the private school and the homeschool arenas
My journey with Covenant began in 2003, the year it opened. I have been a substitute teacher, office assistant, art teacher, science teacher, Bible teacher, Yearbook Co-teacher, and Practical Arts (Home Economics). I thoroughly enjoyed teaching while my daughter was a student at Covenant. I also taught art for the former Encourager Homeschool Enrichment Program before returning to Covenant in 2015. I am beyond thrilled to be the art teacher focused on Covenant's classical Christian philosophy of truth, goodness and beauty. I am blessed to teach in such a godly environment with other believers.
While teaching art is one of my passions, I also have a passion for missions. I have been blessed to combine two of my passions on more than 10 different mission trips where I was able to lead art camps for the children. The Lord has blessed my husband Steve and I with four wonderful (now adult) children, two amazing daughters-in-law, and the most precious grandson. In my spare time, I love to hang out with my family, cook and play games. I enjoy several different creative hobbies and keep adding more to my bucket list. But my very favorite thing to do is sit on the beach, listen to the sounds of the surf, and paint.
Roben Card
College Advisor, Upper School Science and Mathematics Teacher
BA in Math with a minor in Business at the University of Nevada, Reno
Covenant Academy is my home, and its people are my family. I'm a transplant from Nevada by way of Washington (state). I began teaching after graduation; the last 19 years have been in a classical Christian school.
I love science and the innumerable ways all creation shouts of our amazing God. The anatomy of a starfish, the chemical reactions in the lab, the properties of electricity, and the mysteries throughout science are just a few of my favorite things. I believe the best way to get a grasp of the world around us is to explore and experiment. I'm also a math geek who thinks it's as much fun as a ride on a zip line (which I'm known to adore.) I strongly encouraged all of my students to come in and get help when they are struggling with a concept. I love the light bulb moment of watching a face brighten as understanding occurs.
I am passionate about God! My favorite pastime is playing with my two grandsons. Other hobbies include hiking, traveling, reading, technology (even attending math and calculator conferences!), music, dance, and horses. Really, I just love learning and people!
Rebecca Eilers
Fourth Grade Teacher
BA in Business Administration, Emphasis in Finance at Transylvania University, Lexington, Kentucky
I began my career after college at State Farm Insurance and later transitioned into the pharmaceutical sales industry at Eli Lilly & Company. After nearly 11 years in corporate America, my husband and I began to feel God calling us to simplify our lives so that I could leave the workforce and be at home full time with our children. We discovered classical Christian education once our first child was getting ready to start Kindergarten in Louisville, Kentucky. The culture was so different from anything we had ever experienced in our lives, and we knew immediately that we wanted it for our children.
When my husband’s job moved us to Nashville, we once again found an amazing classical Christian school for our kids. Upon finding out that we were being moved to Houston in the winter of 2018, we sought out classical schools in the area. God directed our path and provided a way for us to be here at Covenant. I’m currently working as the Pre-K/Kindergarten Assistant and Middle School Basketball Coach and loving every minute of it!
My husband, Kevin, and I have been married for 17 years, and we have five children, four of whom attend Covenant Academy. We’re an active family who enjoys sports of all kinds. Our kids also play chess and musical instruments, and my boys especially love to hunt and fish. In my spare time, I love to exercise and bargain hunt. We’re thankful for all that God has done and is doing in our lives… we love Texas, and we are so grateful to be here at Covenant Academy!
Jordan Even
Director of Music
MM in Music Performance, Music Theory Cognate at Western Michigan University; BM in Music Performance and Humanities at Valparaiso University, Indiana
For the past seventeen years, I've enjoyed teaching music to kids and adults in a variety of casual and academic settings. Similarly, I've been involved in leading corporate worship my entire life. I greatly enjoy variety in life, and in music. Learning about new things brings me great joy, and while these avocational interests tend to change, they currently include history, political science, economics, business, missiology, and repairing things around the house or on the cars.
I also enjoy teaching private studio music lessons and serving as Worship Arts Coordinator for Cypress Chapel. I also perform professionally throughout the Houston area on variety of instruments and in a variety of styles, both traditional and contemporary. This blend of teaching and making music is perfect for me. When not pursuing music, I enjoy spending time with my wife Stephanie and our children Alexandra and Jonathan, as well as our friends.
Amanda Faucett
Yearbook/Graphic Design Teacher, School Photographer
BS in Advertising from the University of Texas at Austin
My education and career background is in advertising; I spent five years working for McCann-Erickson, one of the top global advertising agencies. While the advertising life was fun, it was also a bit soul-draining, and I made the decision to move into full-time ministry as the Director of Youth and Family ministry at my home church in Houston. Marriage and children came along and as they tend to do, adjusted my career plans a bit. I am now a portrait photographer running my own business and I teach Covenant Academy’s yearbook class with an emphasis on journalistic photography.
I’ve been drawn to a different way of educating our two children since before they were even born, but it was just a few years ago that I found the name for what I was seeking – classical Christian education. I am so blessed to have found Covenant, to be part of its teaching staff and be a Covenant parent to our two children, Jacob and Julianne.
Clara Gaertner
Pre-Kindergarten Assistant
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies EC-6 Education at LeTourneau University
I have studied and worked with children most of my life in many different settings. I have always been motivated by their spontaneity, curiosity, and their desire and ability to learn. When I heard about classical Christian education, I sought it with fervor so that my sons could reap its benefits, which they did from the time they were young until they presented and defended their theses before graduating from high school. At that point, I felt released to pursue my teaching degree and credential, trusting the Lord that one day I would teach at a Christian classical school. I became involved at Covenant Academy through God’s providence at first as a long-term substitute teacher and soon afterwards was asked to teach full time. I am truly blessed to be surrounded daily by like-minded colleagues and by children whom I can teach on the solid foundation of God’s love and provision.
My husband, David, and I have two sons who live in Houston. We love that they still visit and check in often. When I do take the time to relax, it is with friends and scrapbooks or with a bowl of buttered popcorn and a good, clean "romcom."
Michelle Hunt
Upper School Theology, Humanities, Biblical Greek Teacher
MA of Biblical History and Geography at Jerusalem University College; MA of Theological Studies at Houston Baptist University; BA in Christian Ministry at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton, Texas
I’ve been teaching at Covenant since 2015. For the last several years, I’ve been teaching upper school Bible, language, and humanities classes. I love learning, asking lots of questions, and drawing kids into that rhythm throughout the day. I especially love spending time with students and the many opportunities we have to invest in one another!
When I’m not teaching, I love traveling, having good conversations with friends, hiking, being outside when it’s warm, and eating good food.
Amy Kidd
Second Grade Teacher
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Biblical Counseling from Liberty University
I left corporate America over twenty years ago and began teaching music part-time for pre-K through third grade. I homeschooled my children for five years, which is where I discovered the beauty of classical education. I saw a marked difference in the way my children were learning, and I wanted to know more. Shortly after, we were led to Covenant Academy where all four of my children would begin their full-time journey in classical education. I have cherished the rich education and the fruit that has come from it over the past ten years.
I am thrilled to be the second-grade teacher this year at Covenant Academy and I hope to inspire and encourage each of my students to grow in their love of learning and for God. I am passionate about laying a firm foundation and helping each student discover the beauty of Christ in everything we learn. I hope to challenge my students with fun and engaging ways of learning, as well as help them grow their confidence. It is going to be a great year!
My oldest daughter, Ashley, is married and lives in Alabama, my son, Coby, is in his last year at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor, and Christian and Audrey, are in the tenth grade at Covenant Academy. In my free time I love spending time with family and friends, serving the body of Christ, reading, cooking, and photography. I am a lover of God, people, coffee, and my favorite place to go is the beach!
Julie Miracle
7th Grade Latin Teacher
BA English at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusets; Graduate Studies: Advertising at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia
My educational journey has taken me through public, Christian private and homeschool communities. I was fortunate to encounter classical education as a parent through our family’s homeschooling experience. The integration of subjects, the emphasis on learning from original sources rather than synthesized textbooks, the equipping of students to truly learn and love learning all captivated my attention and heart and motivated me to support the classical education movement. Prior to coming to Covenant, I led classes in all subject areas for eighth grade homeschool students, then focused solely on Latin for ninth grade.
My husband, Keith, and I have been married for thirty-two years and are parents to three lovely daughters. Our youngest, Gwynn, is a student at Covenant. We share ten acres in Cypress with Keith’s parents and our flock of American Blackbelly sheep.
Tori Pace
5th/6th Grade Math and Science
BS in Biology at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas
I first started teaching at Covenant Academy in 2005 before homeschooling my four children and teaching taught part-time for seven years. I have loved returning to the classroom at Covenant Academy.
My husband, Chris, has served in churches and Christian schools for over twenty years. We have four children: Joel, a freshman at Messiah College, and Kylie, Lily and Solomon are all upper school students at Covenant Academy. Our family especially loves game nights together with friends.
Katrina Piatek
Upper School Mathematics and 8th Science
BS in Mathematics, with a Political Science Minor at California State University, California
I have been blessed with many opportunities since graduating from college: as a water polo and swim coach, a public school teacher, a private school teacher, a tutor, a Children's Ministry Coordinator, a substitute teacher, and now a teacher again. While I am new to the world of classical Christian education and Covenant Academy, I quickly fell in love and knew this was exactly what I wanted for myself and family.
My high school math teacher was my biggest influence and I decided to follow her footsteps. I enjoy working with students and seeing them learn new skills and be successful, either in the classroom, the pool, or in life. I am thankful that I have been able to work in Christian schools and in my church where I also get to teach children about Christ and share His love. I realized the significance of that even more when I became a mother and knew how I wanted my children to be taught.
I am originally from California and have lived in many cities in the last decade, but I am happy to now call Texas home. My husband and I have two children, and we love to travel and visit our family all over the country.
Laura Rivera
9th Grade Historical Survey of the Arts
Associates Degree in Interior Design at Scottsdale Community College in Arizona; Food and Beverage diploma from ‘Ecole des Roches’ in Bluche, Switzerland
Historical Survey of the Arts is an overview of painting, sculpture, architecture, music and the culinary arts — everything I enjoy and live! I was introduced to the fine arts during my teenage years when I lived in Europe for nine years and where I often travel back to continue to be inspired. It is such a blessing to share my experiences and knowledge with the ninth graders. My goal for the class is to open the mindset of the students, so they can see and be inspired by the beauty in artwork, architecture, music and the culinary arts.
My husband, Pedro, and I have been married for 31 years. We have two sons Carlos, a professional classical guitarist and Joaquin, currently a senior at Covenant. As a family, we love to travel, cook and entertain! As for me, I enjoy going to antique stores, visiting art museums and having friends over for afternoon tea.
Corinne Rosier
First Grade Teacher
BS in Elementary Education, with honors at Baylor University in Waco, Texas; 2013 Graduate of Providence Classical School in Spring, Texas
I am excited to be teaching at Covenant Academy! I have always had a passion for learning and have dreamed of becoming a teacher since I was a child. Many excellent teachers throughout my life have poured their love of learning into me and shaped me into the learner that I am today. I am thankful for all of them, and I hope to pass this same love of learning to my students. Teaching in a classical school has been a goal of mine since I began my teacher education courses in college. Having graduated from a classical school, it is easy to appreciate the classical method and all that it offers students. The classroom truly becomes a place to cultivate a love of learning and to witness God’s truth and beauty daily. It is a joy to guide students as they uncover these truths in the classroom.
I am originally from the Houston area and moved back after completing my degree. I love Houston, and I am thrilled to live in my hometown. When I’m not teaching, you can find me spending time with family, reading, eating at my favorite Mexican restaurants and cheering on the Baylor Bears!
Jimmie Ryan
Upper School Logic and Humanities
BA in Creative Writing at Texas A&M University; 2007 Graduate of Providence Classical School in Spring, Texas
I began teaching at Covenant in 2014. To be honest, the job kind of fell into my lap. Teaching wasn’t even on my radar, as I was at that time working in the Oil & Gas field while dabbling with some sports writing. Once I got to Covenant, though, I realized what it was like to be fulfilled in my work—something I had never experienced before. What I have perhaps found the most fulfilling are the relationships forged with the students; being able to get to know them on a personal level, and then guide them through all sorts of new concepts and modes of thought is an absolute blast. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
When I’m not teaching, you can find me at home with my wife, Mary, and our two cats, Pocket and Tumnus, typically watching whatever big sporting event is on that evening.
Brad Small
Logic School U.S. History and Logic, Physical Education
MA of TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) at Grand Canyon University; BS in Secondary Education (History) at University of the Southwest, Hobbs, New Mexico
I began teaching at Covenant in 2014, and I am thrilled by the opportunity to provide a classical Christian education, the type of education that has produced the greatest thinkers mankind has known! In this Information Age, it is crucial to give students the ability to think for themselves, to understand the roots and the branches of those messages. The classical Christian education does just that, building a solid root system in God’s truth, goodness, and beauty and engendering a love of lifelong learning.
I was born in Houston but raised in Ft. Worth and have traveled many places during my time in the United States Navy. I love good food, love to cook and love many outdoor activities. My wife and I have been married over ten years and we have three sons with two at Covenant.
Allie Sutter
5th/6th Grade Bible and History
BA in Communication with minor in English from Texas A&M University, College Station
After graduating from Texas A&M, I had the opportunity to move to East Asia. It was during this time that God sparked my joy for teaching. I traveled to many villages in the area to teach English while also helping my own teammates homeschool their children. I knew once my time ended there, I wanted to continue teaching in the states.
After learning more about classical education, I knew I was all in. In 2016, I started teaching in classical education and have loved growing and learning more each year. I feel immensely blessed to be joining the Covenant family. It brings me joy to know that every time I teach in my classroom my students understand that Christ is at the center of everything we learn.
By God's sweet grace I am married to my husband, Bryce. In my free time I enjoy good books and coffee, cooking recipes in the kitchen, or working on a new home project.
Titus Szymanowski
Director of Student Life, Upper School Literature and Math
BA in Religious Studies at Gonzaga University; 2007 Graduate of The Oaks, a Classical Christian School both in Spokane, Washington
My teaching journey began in 2011 when I was hired to teach Upper School at Covenant. Each year since, my passion for teaching and my love for this community continues to grow. I am continually amazed not only at the work God has done in our school culture, but how He has used this school to transform me. I love to tell people that teaching at Covenant Academy makes me a better husband, father, and follower of Christ. What a joy it is to witness God’s renewing and restorative Kingdom work take place on this campus.
I teach because I want to influence students in the same way that my teachers shaped and transformed my life. I love classical Christian education because it teaches students to think for themselves and encourages them to view every aspect of their lives through the lens of a biblical worldview.
In my spare time, you will find me with my lovely wife, Melissa, and our precious boys Eli and Ezra.
Madi Thorpe
Upper School Latin and Literature
BA in History with a minor in Latin at Houston Baptist University
I came to Covenant in 2016 after graduating from HBU. I've primarily taught Latin, but have also taught history, logic, and literature in Upper School. I've so enjoyed building relationships with students over the years and seeing them grow into young adults. I'm currently completing a Masters of Liberal Arts, primarily focusing on History and English.
When I'm not grading or writing papers of my own, I love to cook, read, and travel as much as I can. I love to explore Houston's culture and cuisine and spend time with my friends, family, and my grey cat, Felix!
Pam Walker
Kindergarten Teacher
BSBA in Accounting with a minor in Computer Science at Concord University, Athens, West Virginia
I have been teaching at Covenant Academy since its inception in 2003. Prior to that, I taught one year at another classical Christian school and homeschooled my own children classically for over seven years. I was drawn towards classical teaching methods during my homeschooling years. The more I learned about the history and methodology of classical education, the more convinced I became that this was the best educational model for my family. I remember being so glad to discover this “new” method of education, which made so much sense and which actually had been used successfully for hundreds of years. I’m so happy to be a part of a school that embodies these same principles.
I am so excited to teach our kindergartners! They have such enthusiasm for learning about the world around them. What fun it will be to foster that natural awe and wonder inside them. I enjoy teaching all the subjects, but even more, I am passionate about shepherding our children’s hearts to grow in love with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and to follow Him whole-heartedly.
I am originally from West Virginia and became a transplanted Texan over 30 years ago. I have four adult sons, and in my spare time I can usually be found with a book, tooling around in my vegetable garden, or working on some home improvement project.
Robyn Whipple
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
BS in Early Childhood Development and Education from the University of Central Florida, Orlando
Over the past 20 years, I have had the privilege and joy of teaching both in the classroom and as a homeschooling parent. After graduating from the University of Central Florida, I taught in both Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms. I love the wonder and curiosity that young children naturally possess and enjoy giving them many creative opportunities to discover and learn through play, hands on learning and rich literature.
After the birth of our first daughter, I became a stay-at- home mom, and our family continued to grow. When it was time for our oldest to attend school, we felt the Lord leading us to homeschool our children. For the past 15 years, I have homeschooled all four of our children. Throughout this journey, our family came to know and love the classical approach to learning. Finding Covenant Academy was an answer to our prayers both in the Christian classical approach to learning it provides and the discipleship that happens within the classroom and community.
My husband and I are Florida natives and have been married for 23 years. We have four children, three of whom attend Covenant. Our oldest daughter is a sophomore at Dallas Baptist University. In my free time, I enjoy teaching Bible studies to middle school girls, time with my family, date nights with my husband, reading and going on walks. Our family enjoys game nights, sports, random dance parties, nerf battles and going on road trips.
Lynn White
Grammar School Lead Teacher and 7th Grade Literature
BS in Education with a major in Speech and Hearing Sciences and a minor in Educational Psychology at Stephen F. Austin University, Nacogdoches, Texas
I’ve been in education in some way, shape or form since I graduated from college in 1984. I first taught public school speech therapy, special education and third grade. I then home-schooled my two oldest sons from 4th and 5th grades until they graduated. I came to Covenant when it opened in 2003. I taught first grade here for seven years, third grade for eight years, and most recently 5th, 6th, and 7th grade Language Arts. I also serve as Lead teacher for the Grammar school.
I left public education years ago because I was burned out and disillusioned with the direction our schools were going. I brought my own two children home and began to teach them academics while training them to love God and walk in His ways. It was a very nurturing relationship that bore sweet fruit in my own life as well as in theirs. Teaching at Covenant allows me to have that same nurturing relationship with families and to support and encourage parents as they train their children to love and follow God. I feel blessed to be a part of Covenant's mission to raise leaders that will change the world.
My husband and I have been married for 37 years and have five children. Our oldest boys are married with children of their own, giving us six grandchildren. Our oldest daughter graduated from Houston Baptist University. She is also married and works as a nurse. We have another son that graduated from Covenant and then from the University of Alabama. He now lives in Alabama and works as an engineer. Our youngest daughter graduated from Covenant in 2018 and studies Liberal Arts at the University of Texas.
Caitlin Wright
Third Grade Teacher
BS in Education, Youth and Community Studies at University of Texas in Austin, Texas
I fell in love with classical Christian education from the moment I learned of it and knew it was exactly what I wanted to be a part of. Teaching at Covenant Academy is an answer to prayer and the Lord’s kindness in my life.
I love that in classical Christian education, our students are learning to see the connectedness of all subjects to Christ. It is wonderful to see my students’ understanding and wonder grow as they learn to make these connections. I love seeing my students learn to view all life through a Christian worldview, even their math homework! I firmly believe that classical Christian education is one of the richest blessing a person can receive! As a teacher, being a conduit of such a remarkable blessing is a privilege and joy. I am humbled and thankful to be a part of Covenant Academy and our work to partner with parents to raise up a generation of sharp-minded and joyful men and women.
I have the joy of being married to my wonderful husband, Matt. In my free time I love to paint, sew, cook, watch Chiefs football, explore flea markets, go on hikes, and try new restaurants and coffee shops!
Staff and faculty headshots by Amanda Faucett Photography