King's Gate Christian School

TEAM

Meet Our Teachers

Administration

Wyndi Bradley, Ph.D

Head of Schools

I started my career with King’s Gate in 1996 as the Director of the part-time programs and I became the lead administrator in 2003. I received my undergraduate degree in business from the University of Central Oklahoma where I also completed my master’s degree in Education. I received my Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and my Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University. I married the love of my life, Bryan in 1986 and we celebrated 35 years this year! He still takes my breath away like he did the very first time I saw him. I have admired King’s Gate for the way the staff loves and respects children since our daughter attended as a preschooler over 30 years ago. I am humbled to be part of something so special, to be counted among such a gifted and loving staff, and to see our GOD work in the lives of so many every single day. I am convinced that King’s Gate is an exceptional place where the King’s Gate Team and families work together to prepare and empower students for their individual purpose. Thank you for sharing your family with us!

Ed Thomas

Upper School Principal

I served as King’s Gate Upper School Advancement Partner from 2014-2019 and rejoined the King’s Gate team during the summer of 2021 as the Director of Upper School Advancement. I became the Upper School Principal in March of this year. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Biology, Health and Physical Education at Baylor University and my master’s degree in Education Administration at Stephen F. Austin University. I am a certified principal and a superintendent. I’m also certified to teach Biology, Physical Education, Health, and Special Education. I have served as a teacher, coach, athletic director, elementary principal, secondary principal, and a superintendent. My total experience covers 42 years with 25 in Christian education. Currently serving on the ACSI Accreditation Commission, I have served as the Chair and the Vice Chair in the past. I am also an ordained minister. I married my wife, Dana, in 1974 and we have two daughters and six grandchildren.

Dana Darby

Elementary Principal

I most recently served as head of school at Altus Christian Academy in Altus, Oklahoma. I retired in May 2021 after being in that position for 15 years. Prior to that, I owned and operated Advance Learning Center which offered tutoring and assessment services and eventually preschool and kindergarten. God’s plan was much bigger, and He used the learning center as a launching pad for ACA. It was an incredible honor to be a part of His work through the school. I have also been a math teacher at the high school and college levels. I have a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education and a master’s degree in Educational Administration, both from Southwestern Oklahoma State University, and a Ph.D. in Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum from the University of Oklahoma. My husband and I have been married for 41 years. We have two grown sons and two grandchildren. My husband’s job brought us to Oklahoma City, and through some wonderful circumstances, I connected with King’s Gate to serve what I thought was going to be about an 8-week stint. Everyone said I would get drawn into the school, and they were so right! King’s Gate truly is a special place. I believe deeply in Christian education and its vital role in firmly rooting children in Christ. So, what an honor it is to once again be a part of God’s work in the lives of students, families, and staff in a Kingdom-focused school.

Jennifer Clark

Director, Child Development Center (CDC)

I learned about King’s Gate when looking into private Christian schools for my son, Tyler. We’ve been at King’s Gate since 2014. We have been so impressed by the love and passion the teachers have for not only teaching, but for GOD. I graduated from Northeastern State University in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in Family Relations and Child Development. I then went on to teach three and four-year-olds at Head Start and later at a local childcare center. I wanted to further my education, and received a master’s degree in Family and Child Studies from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2012. The next four years were spent as a Parent Educator for Oklahoma Parents as Teachers. I loved working with families one on one, doing assessments, and giving activity suggestions to help with their child’s development. I had the opportunity to join the CDC staff in fall 2016, and I have greatly enjoyed being back in the classroom. We have amazing parents and children at King’s Gate. It is truly a privilege to work here.

Linda Ford

Office Manager

I joined the King’s Gate staff in 2012. I received my undergraduate degree in Personnel Psychology from Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Missouri. I married my wonderful husband, David, in 1993 and we have 2 amazing children, Caitlin and Matthew. It is a blessing and honor to work with the families, students and staff of King’s Gate every day. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you through this wonderful, growing, Christian school.

Stephanie Scott

Assistant to Head of Schools

I love being a member of the King’s Gate team! I have been a registered nurse since 1995 working in organ, tissue, and eye donation and transplantation. While I love nursing, and am especially passionate about donation and transplantation, I am super excited to now be serving on the team at KG! I married my husband, Rick, in 2010. I have two wonderful stepchildren (Quinten & Katie), and was blessed to become a mom to my son, Lynden, who attends school at KG. We are members of the Deer Creek Church of Christ in Edmond. I love getting to know all the kids here at King’s Gate and enjoy driving the school bus, as well as helping in classrooms when needed. I have the privilege of being Dr. Bradley’s assistant, and learn more every day how KG functions and thrives! The verse I’ve been clinging to recently is 2 Timothy 1:7—”for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and of a sound mind.”

Paula Gage

Administrative Assistant

I am privileged to have joined the King’s Gate staff in 2005. I received my Associate in Applied Science degree from OSU Tech in Okmulgee, OK. I am blessed with a wonderful husband, Nelson. We have been married since 1998 and have a beautiful and fun-loving daughter Hannah, who was able to attend King’s Gate her first three years of early education. It is a true blessing to be here working with all the amazing families, children and staff.

Cassie Kuykendall

Administrative Assistant

I joined the King’s Gate staff in 2017. I have been married to my wonderful husband Kile since 2009 and the LORD blessed us with our sweet girl Kaylee in 2013. We moved from Moore to Yukon in 2016 to be closer to better schools and out of tornado alley! Once we settled in, we enrolled Kaylee in King’s Gate Preschool at Surrey Hills Baptist Church. We fell in love with the teachers and staff and Kaylee thrived. I joined the office staff shortly after. As a parent turned staff member it has been amazing to get to know the parents and staff better. It is apparent GOD is hard at work here with our children. I especially enjoy working at the front desk, so I get to see all the students and many of our families. The King’s Gate community is one big family and I feel blessed to be part of it.

Angie Steedman

Communications & Events Director; Journalism & Yearbook

After over three decades of involvement with King’s Gate, I’m finally part of the team. I’m a parent of 5 adult daughters, all of whom had attended either King’s Gate preschool, CDC or Summer at King’s Gate or a combination of all and worked here in various capacities. I served on the Board many years ago and am now the wife of a Board member. I graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s in Journalism/Advertising, served as youth minister at Our Lord’s Community Church, and homeschooled my daughters before embarking on this adventure. All of these experiences serve me well as Communications Director and Journalism/Yearbook teacher. I am beyond excited about the way GOD orchestrated this opportunity for me to join King’s Gate and look forward to encouraging our students and families in their spiritual journeys while I tell the King’s Gate story. I am amazed at the beautiful ways Proverbs 16:3 has played out in my life: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”

Corky Eshelman

Development Director

Corky and his wife moved to Oklahoma from Arizona in 1995. They have been married since 1981. They have one son, Connor, who is a student at Oklahoma Baptist University. Corky received his bachelor’s degree in Bible from Grand Canyon University and his master’s degree in Human Resources Management from East Central University. He has been working in not-for-profit organizations for over 25 years and 22 of those years with Oklahoma Baptist ministries – four years with OBU and eighteen years as Vice President for Baptist Village Communities. Corky says it is an honor to be a part of the King’s Gate Team and he looks forward to seeing what GOD has planned for the future of King’s Gate.

Kevin Thornton

Athletic Director, PE, & Intermediate Bible

Before accepting the role of Athletic Director, I worked for Armstrong Relocation and United Van Lines. Prior to Armstrong, I coached baseball at Southwestern Christian University, where I started the program from scratch. The Eagles went on to eventually win a National title. Before that, I was an assistant basketball coach at SCU, helping with development of players. My wife, Lysa and I, were founders and executive pastors of Life Covenant International Ministries for over 15 years. We also founded Savin’ Souls, an organization that purposed to put brand new shoes on the feet of every child in OKC. We’ve spent the last 23 years focusing on raising our children, Harrison, Colin, Haydn and Bliss. My vision is to develop an athletic department at Kingsgate that will produce Christian athletes in multiple sports, including individual sports and team sports. I genuinely believe we can produce young disciples of Christ, while setting our sights on winning championships.

Principal for the Day

Anna Millard

Principal for the Day

Fourth Grader, Anna Millard, is our Principal for the Day. Anna’s parents won the coveted position at the 2022 Taste and See Gala Auction. Anna says, “I love the fourth grade and this is my 8th year at King’s Gate! My favorite things about our school are good friends, fun teachers and an amazing staff. I’ve learned so much every single year. My favorite thing about being Principal for a Day was doing good things for the teachers and students. I love Dr. Bradley because she is kind, fun and always willing to do nice things for people. I’m SO glad my parents won the auction!”

Child Development Center (CDC)

Brittany Hammons

Village Preschool

I have always had a passion for working with children. I knew I wanted to become a teacher at a very young age and so grateful to God he has helped me in my journey of becoming a teacher. I graduated from UCO in 2018 with my Bachelors in Family Life Education/ Child Development. I have 9 years of experience working with children. I am blessed that God has chosen me to be part of the King’s Gate family. I have two wonderful daughters that attend Kings Gate and it has been nothing but the best experience for all of us.

Angela Merritt

Village Primer

Anna Veteto

Village Primer

I’m a mother to three adventurous children, Elise, Joseph, and Oliver. My husband and I grew up in Oklahoma City, with the better part of my life residing here in The Village. My hobbies are crochet, sewing, gardening, and playing instruments. For the last year, I’ve been assisting the children’s minister at The Village Baptist Church. I found Kingsgate last year when my middle child was ready for preschool. I was so impressed with the love and enthusiasm the teachers had for their students. I felt that my children would be taken care of and surrounded by adults who truly enjoy what they do. I’m so excited to get to be a part of that this year!

Amanda Abernathy

Village Pre-K

I am so thankful to be a part of the faculty of King’s Gate Christian School. I earned a B.S. in Education from Oklahoma Baptist University in 1999 and spent the next two years working in children’s ministry with the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma. When my first daughter was born, I followed GOD’s direction and stayed home with her full time. My husband and I planted a church two years later and I have spent the last 15 years serving that church in various capacities as well as running a home-based baking business. My husband Ryan is a pastor and works at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. We have four daughters now ranging in age from 4 to 17 years old. I am thankful to be part of the legacy of King’s Gate where I can see the incredible impact this school has on the lives of students and their families.

Jennifer Williams

Village Kindergarten

I have been blessed to be a part of King’s Gate starting the fall of 2010. I completed my degree in Early Childhood Education at Ashford University. My first job at age sixteen was working with children and though I have had a few other jobs children are my love. Before coming to King’s Gate I worked at a Montessori school for seven years and enjoyed learning many techniques throughout the years. My husband and I together have a “his, mine, and ours” family of three wonderful kids. King’s Gate is an amazing place and has been a blessing to me in so many ways. Having the privilege to work with these precious children makes teaching at King’s Gate my dream job. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to teach and grow with your children.

Andrea Sharp

Surrey Hills Baby Teacher

Tracey Estell

Surrey Hills Toddlers

This is my first year at King’s Gate and I can’t wait to get to know all your sweet littles. My husband, Matt and I have been married 11 years. We have 4 rough and tumble boys who keep us quite busy. I am a stay at home mom who was an elementary teacher many moons ago. I am excited at what this next year will bring. My favorites: watching Hallmark movies (especially Christmas), going on adventures with my family, and most importantly watching football and cheering on my Packers!

Jennifer Lalli

Surrey HillsToddlers

Angela Merritt

Surrey Hills Primer

Shelly Garrett

Surrey Hills Primer

I was born and raised in Oklahoma and graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1995. I married my love, Roger, that same year and we have two grown sons, Connor and Cade, and two soon to be daughters-in-law, Shelby and Kira. I taught public school for over 12 years before homeschooling my boys and later teaching at several co-ops. I feel so blessed that God has called me to be a teacher. This is my first year here and I am so happy to be part of the King’s Gate family. When I am not teaching, I enjoy going on outings with my family, serving in youth at my church, reading Pride and Prejudice variations, watching football, or playing with our six dogs. I am very fortunate to be in such a wonderful Christian environment as King’s Gate and can’t wait to have your precious little one in my class.

Emma Waldrip

Surrey Hills Preschool

I have worked at King’s Gate since 2012, starting in high school as support staff and now working as one of our Preschool teachers! I attended King’s Gate in Preschool myself and then was homeschooled from Kindergarten through twelfth grade. I am passionate about helping children grow in their love for the Lord while working with them through new stages of development. I’m grateful to have grown up in a Christ-centered home with a loving family who are all involved with King’s Gate, having also worked here or been on the board! I married my favorite man, Hunter Waldrip, in July of 2021. I have a bachelor’s in Family Life Education-Child Development from UCO. I intend to stay a King’s Gate Lion as long as GOD has me here and I hope to have your kiddo come through my classroom!

Alexes Leyba

Surrey Hills Preschool & Extended Day

I am excited to be part of the King’s Gate staff! I have been married to my wonderful husband, Joshua since 2017. I have my degree in Early Care and Education from Oklahoma State University. I am originally from Indiana but moved to Oklahoma when I was in 9th grade. I enjoy working in early childhood settings and have always had a passion for teaching little minds. “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” – Proverbs 22:6

Victoria Price

Surrey Hills Pre-K & Early Elementary Music

I have been a part of the King’s Gate family for 4 years now and I truly believe there is no better place to be! This community has changed my life and has given me great purpose and the sweetest friendships than I could have ever imagined! Before early childhood education, I was very active in many facets of the performing arts and worked as a professional actor and vocalist in Oklahoma and Louisiana. In 2014 I moved to New Orleans, Louisiana where I attended ministry school, met, and married my husband, and made my early childhood education debut. Nearly 2 years ago, we were gifted a new member of our family named Mylo. He is our sunshine and snuggle bug and he is a proud King’s Gate Lion Cub. We enjoy serving at church, family walks, singing, dancing, watching a good movie, and exploring the city in our spare time.

Linda Barnett

Surrey Hills Pre-K

Elementary

Jennifer Plattner

Kindergarten Teacher

Hello! My name is Jennifer Plattner and I feel extremely fortunate to be a part of the King’s Gate Family! We are from Huntington Beach, California. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Early education through the University of Arizona. I began my teaching career in 1995 and have taught both Pre-k and Kindergarten. We moved to Oklahoma in 2013 and are enjoying the people and the adventure that GOD placed before our family! My husband and I have been married since 1993 and have four teen and adult children with our youngest daughter, Libby, attending King’s Gate High School as well! My King’s Gate family has helped me make the transition of living and working in Oklahoma perfectly! The feeling of GOD’s love within our building is almost unexplainable until you have witnessed it personally. It is a place that you wish to spend your days, and where you know that your child will be loved beyond measure and cared for in the best way possible! I joined the King’s Gate team in 2015 teaching kindergarten at King’s Gate and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching my former kindergarteners grow with our school (It may be my favorite part!)! The growth and maturity that takes place in the children while in kindergarten are remarkable, and I thoroughly enjoy being a part of shaping their minds and hearts! I am undoubtedly very blessed to be at a school where we can worship and study together in the LORD, and I look forward to each year more than the last!

MaKylah LaTray

First Grade

I am so thrilled to be teaching this year at King’s Gate! I first came on as support staff in 2021, and now have the privilege of teaching full time after the completion of my Early Childhood Education degree. I graduated with this degree from UCO in 2023. I married my husband, Devin, in 2021. We welcomed our first baby, Oliver, into the world on August 23, 2023. Oliver is our biggest joy! We also have 2 sweet fur babies- a standard poodle and Shih-tzu corgi mix. I am an active member in our church. We attend Eastland Hills Church in Choctaw. I have been attending that church for 9 years now, and I have the honor to be able to teach and direct in our children’s program. I am so thrilled to see God move in our school. King’s Gate and its students hold such a special place in my heart, and I know that God is going to continue to move here!

Kayla Mason

First Grade Assistant Teacher & Elementary Art Teacher

I am so excited to be part of King’s Gate! My husband and I met doing ministry and have been married since 2018. We have a sweet daughter named Victoria. I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and certification in Art Education. I have taught elementary and middle school in Oklahoma and Texas since 2018. Throughout my life, I have worked with many different organizations ministering to children of all ages. I enjoy being in a Christian environment and using my talents to glorify the Lord.

Marlisa Price

Second Grade Teacher

I am so excited to be a part of King’s Gate Christian School! I have taught K-6th grade in Texas and Wyoming. I have a degree in Elementary and Special Education. I enjoy working in a Christian environment and sharing GOD’s word. I am blessed to be chosen to be a part of such a great school. I love children and the opportunity to teach. I always wanted to be a teacher and feel blessed that GOD has allowed me to work in my dream job! I have been married to my husband, George, for 30 years. We moved to Oklahoma in 2018. We have 3 adult children: Amanda, Brennan, and Gabby. We enjoy camping, kayaking and fishing as family. I enjoy knitting, reading and gardening. “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

Simcha Bloomfield

2nd Grade Assistant Teacher

My name is Simcha Bloomfield. I am so honored and very humbled to be a part of this amazing school. My family and I moved to Oklahoma in 2023 after my husband retired from the Army. He and I met in Iraq in 2004, where we both worked on helicopters. We have 2 teenagers and have lived in many places. We are really enjoying Oklahoma, especially because of our King’s Gate family. I recently started working as a 2nd grade Assistant Teacher after my kids began in the upper school. It is such a joy and pleasure to share Jesus with our students here.

Nicole Payne

Third Grade Teacher

I have been at King’s Gate since 2018. I am so happy to be teaching 3rd Grade and Life Skills at King’s Gate this year! My husband, Matt, and I met in high school and we have four children and one grandchild. I have also taught Kindergarten and 6th grade Bible as well as art during Summer at King’s Gate. Before moving to Surrey, I taught lower elementary art at Studio B in Claremore, OK. I was also the Preschool Ministry Coordinator at Cedar Point Church in Claremore before moving here. I am grateful for the opportunity to build relationships with all the wonderful people who GOD has brought into my life through King’s Gate and I can’t wait to see what amazing things GOD has in store for the future of our school!

Colin Thornton

3rd Grade Assistant Teacher

I am so grateful to be a part of King’s Gate Christian School! This is my second year here, after serving in an assistant teacher role in the 2022-2023 school year. I teach 3rd and 4th grade Bible classes. I plan to pursue my master’s in Counseling. When I am not at the school, I am usually at my church with my community group or serving for the youth group. I am honored and privileged to teach God’s Word to your children this year.

Ali Otterbine

Fourth Grade Teacher

My name is Ali Otterbine. I am so excited to have joined the King’s Gate family! I grew up in Allen, Texas and I graduated from Stephen F. Austin with a degree in Elementary Education in 2022. After graduating, I worked in the Lufkin area as a third grade teacher and enjoyed every minute of it. However, I loved the idea of being closer to family and friends and made the move to OKC. I’ve always had a heart for working with kids and spent many of my college years working in Children’s Ministry. I feel blessed beyond my wildest dreams to be in that kind of position again, doing what I love most. I’m so excited for the opportunity to help students grow in their faith and find a love for learning. I also look forward to getting to know all the King’s Gate families and staff!

Hazel Gardenhire

4th Grade Social Studies Teacher

I am so excited to be a part of King’s Gate team. I love teaching and working with children. I graduated from the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) with a degree in history. I have taught many grade levels for over a decade in Texas. My family just moved here from Texas where it is hot and dry with very little rain. I am loving Oklahoma where people are friendly and helpful, God’s beauty is all around in the lakes, beautiful countryside, and glorious rain. Where I am from you must drive 300 miles any direction to reach water. However, I am a tad scared about the snow possibilities in Oklahoma. In Texas we close the schools when it snows. I am very blessed I have two beautiful children and four grandchildren and one grandson who is watching from heaven. All three of my grandchildren will be attending King’s Gate and I couldn’t be more pleased. I look forward to this year’s journey as we travel and explore history and the bible while in a loving safe environment.

DeeAnn Gardenhire

Assistant Teacher

I moved from West Texas to Oklahoma in 2022 to join the King’s Gate team. God always has a plan; he orchestrated and opened the door for me to join this amazing team of educators. He has been preparing me for this place before I even stepped in the door. I am so excited to see where God is leading us this upcoming school year. I have no children of my own, but I have three amazing nephews and three talented goddaughters. All six of them keep me on my toes, they have blessed and impressed me more than they will ever comprehend. I look forward to fulfilling my purpose and calling at this remarkable school and seeing your children find who they are and what they are called to be.

Laurie Gillum

Science Teacher Preschool – 5th grade

I started my journey with King’s Gate in 1997 when I enrolled my middle child in preschool. In 2001 I joyfully accepted a position to teach science. I received my undergraduate degree at Lewis and Clark College in biology. For the next 6 years I worked as a wildlife biologist in the rainforests of Hawaii and the oceans of Alaska and Canada. I got my graduate degree from UMASS-Amherst where I did research on the Piping Plover along the barrier beach systems of Cape Cod, MA. For the next 6 years, I worked as the endangered species biologist for the state of Maryland and taught conservation biology at John Hopkins University. I married my best pal in college, Tim, and we have 3 children; Trevor, Haley, and Jack. King’s Gate truly has impacted our family deeply. It was only through King’s Gate leadership and staff that Tim and I were able to find and stay on the right track for Haley who has special learning differences. GOD truly brought the opportunity to me for teaching science here at King’s Gate. I am finally able to teach science from a creation perspective and highlight so many of the truly amazing things in our world, giving GOD all the glory. I never imagined the depth of understanding that these kids would gain. I have been so blessed by passing these biblical messages on through GOD’s creation.

Riley Rowland

Music 3rd-5th grade

I am excited to be teaching at King’s Gate this year! I have loved music as long as I can remember. I’ve studied piano and violin since childhood, competing with both. I also played the violin in Carnegie Hall in 2019 with the Honors Performance Series Symphonic Orchestra! I adore working with children (having 8 siblings myself) and I have been teaching private piano and violin lessons since 2017 at my business, Rowland Studios. I also co-own and teach at my fine arts studio, Movement OKC! I believe music and dance are gifts from the Lord and acts of worship, and I enjoy playing for worship at my church. I love sharing my passion for music with kids, and I’m excited to do that this year with King’s Gate!

Intermediate

Kim Matias

Intermediate ELA

I’m so excited to be a part of King’s Gate Christian School. I have been married to my husband since 2011 and we have 5 children ranging from ages 3 – 13 years old. I attended Ashford University in 2010 and graduated in 2014 with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology with a minor in Early Childhood Development. I have worked with children in after school programs and in an Applied Behavioral Analysis setting. I have always known I wanted to work with children and following GOD’s plan for my life and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, I know that I am right where I am supposed to be. I am so thankful to be a part of King’s Gate.

Cecilia Ray

Intermediate Math

I am returning to teaching and am thrilled to be at King’s Gate. After teaching in public school, I thought I was retiring from teaching. But God had other plans. I graduated from OBU with a Business degree and later received my math certification. I have been married for 42 years and have 2 children and 2 grandchildren. My husband and I love to travel when we get the opportunity. One thing on my bucket list is to travel to all 50 states, and I am now at 43. My husband taught at King’s Gate a few years ago, so I’ve had a glimpse of what a special place it is and how God is at work. I’m excited to be a part of this community!

Upper School

Dr. Doug Brown

Social Studies

I have two great blessings that take place on the same campus. First, I have the privilege of serving as the pastor of Surrey Hills Baptist Church. Second, I have the privilege of serving as the upper school history teacher at King’s Gate Christian School. I have two earned advanced degrees from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO. I have a master’s degree in theological studies and a doctorate in educational ministries. My dissertation developed a strategy using God’s Word to help people make wise decisions. This strategy will be put to the test every day with my students. My calling and passions have aligned in a way that could only be orchestrated by God. I love students, I love teaching, I love history, and I love God’s Word. This time in my life affords me the opportunity to fulfill all my passions. My goal in class with students is to help them discover God’s amazing work throughout history and most importantly what we can learn from those who have gone before us. I have been married to my wonderful wife, Katie, for 33 years. We have 3 amazing children and one daughter-in-law. We have also been blessed with 2 of the most perfect granddaughters ever born! My goal is found in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “…do everything for the glory of God.”

David Cartwright

Science

My name is David Cartwright and I graduated from Southern Nazarene University in 2010 with a degree in Biology, Chemistry, and Math. I’ve been teaching natural and life sciences from 5th grade to high school ever since. My lovely wife Allyson and I have three children, currently 8, 5, and 2 years of age. We live in Bethany and attend Covenant Community Church, where my wife has gone since childhood. In the classes I teach, I place a great emphasis on a biblical worldview, seeking to bring glory to GOD through an understanding of His Creation. A favorite verse of mine is Romans 1:20 “For since the creation of the world GOD’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”

Kelli Duke

Art & Guidance

I am a graduate of Auburn University in Alabama with a degree in Interior Environments. I have spent the last twenty years working in various design fields including interior design, visual merchandising, graphic design, stage design, and web design. I am excited to bring all these experiences into the Art classroom and share with my students how GOD calls the artist to tell His story! I am also honored to help guide the first Senior class of King’s Gate to graduation as the College and Career Advisor. It’s an immense blessing to walk with our students as they pursue God’s calling on their lives. My husband Ron and I were married in 2000 and it was the Air Force that brought us to Oklahoma. We are now empty nesters with one son, Khy, who is a proud OSU Cowboy studying Mechatronics Engineering. Ron is now a retired veteran and serves as an Elder at our church as well as the Operations Manager for a local Audio/Video company. I also serve at West Metro as a part of the Ministry Lead Team. Colossians 1:15-17 “He is the image of the invisible GOD, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.“

Diana Gray

Math / Student Support Coordinator

I’ve served at King’s Gate since 2017 when I started in the CDC. I have a degree in psychology and a minor in child development from Ashford University. I served in special education in public school for three years and taught Title I math for one year before joining King’s Gate. My husband Stephen and I have been together since 2007 and we have four children who all attend King’s Gate. Music is my love language! Harmonies are my favorite! I love experiences like axe-throwing, archery, escape rooms and any kind of puzzle or game. I would love to travel to Israel, Greece and Scotland. I have never worked with a better group of people and I love all the students and their families!

Darren Grant

Science & Technology

I have been married to my beloved wife Cara since 1999 and together we have 6 children ranging in age from 14 to 23 years of age. I have a M.S. in Science Education from the Institute for Creation Research Graduate School, a Masters Level Content Area Instruction Certificate in Integrated Biology from the American College of Education, and a B.S. Ed. in Chemistry / Psychology from Pittsburg State University. I hold a lifetime professional level teaching certificate through ACSI. I have taught 6 years as a university assistant professor and adjunct professor and over 25 years as a high school science teacher for public school, private Christian school, and homeschool. Prior to teaching I worked four years in an industrial chemical research lab. After becoming a believer in our Lord Jesus Christ August 18, 1983 I have been seeking to follow His leading. My family has a small homestead where we raise Scotch Collies, Royal White sheep, Alpine goats, and Dominic chickens.

Amy Huff

English & Social Studies

I am Amy Huff and this year I am teaching English and Social Studies in the Upper School. I started my professional teaching career in Virginia and earned my Master of Education from Regent University. I am married to my wonderful husband, Joe. I have one adult son and one grandson living in Virginia. We also have two little ones at home, Emily, who is 6 and in first grade here at King’s Gate, and Joshua, who is four. We are currently attending Putnam City Baptist Church. I love the Lord and am deeply honored that He has given me this ministry opportunity. I love the King’s Gate mission and I look forward to serving the King’s Gate family in this new role.

Rebekah Maynard

Math

I am excited to be working at King’s Gate! Before moving to this area, my family lived in the Dallas area where I taught at a Christian university-model school. My husband’s name is Evan, and we have been married since 2013. We have two kids, Jack and Caroline who both attend King’s Gate. We also have a very loving and energetic Labrador-Collie mix named Sadie. When we have time, we all love to be outdoors hiking or camping. I also love all things in the cooking/baking realm. I have a degree in Secondary Math Education from Texas A&M (WHOOP!!!), and I have been teaching since graduating in 2012. One of things I love the most about math is the opportunity we have to form a deeper understanding of how God organized the universe. All the minute details up to the huge expanse of the galaxy were put in place by God using mathematical concepts and order. He has put together the way that we move, live, breathe, and have our being. My hope for the students in my classes is that they will come to a deeper understanding of the wisdom of our Creator.

Lisa Palmer

Math

I was born and raised an Oklahoma girl and feel very fortunate to have had Christian influence on both sides of my family. Surrounded by gospel singing revivals, weekly church attendance, and many friends who believed the same way I did, I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior at an early age. My relationship with Jesus continues to be the most important thing in my life. After high school I attended Oral Roberts University on a basketball/academic scholarship but finished my college studies at Northeastern State University. I pursued a teaching/coaching career and have been following that calling since 1980. I have a wonderful son, Drew and my beautiful daughter, Lindsay, is married to Kyle. My husband, Dave, married since 1987, and our dog, Jack, moved to the OKC area in hopes of one day being close to grandchildren. I feel very fortunate to be working at King’s Gate School.

Maggie Webb

Bible & Chapel

I am so excited to be teaching at King’s Gate Christian School. I earned my Education degree with an emphasis in Biblical Studies. My husband and I were married in 2010. We have been together since I was 16 years old. God has given us three beautiful blessings: Lucy, Norah, and Judah. All three attend King’s Gate and it is a joy to see them serve with me in various ways. I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. I specifically prayed for GOD to open doors for me to teach Bible. King’s Gate is an answer to my prayers, some I didn’t even realize were in my heart. I am humbled and overwhelmed with gratitude knowing that I get to play a small part in shaping and pouring into my students’ lives. My prayer is that the Lord speaks through me in such a way that, each student who walks into my classroom leaves not just knowing more about Jesus, but becomes a life transformed by His Sprit, for His glory. I pray in faith that He do abundantly more than I can hope our imagine in the lives of His precious children. “The Lord your God is with you; He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Missy Wood

Drama

As a playwright and director, Missy Wood has transformed student actors into all kinds of entertaining characters and transported audiences to imaginary worlds of adventure, mystery and comedy. A thirty-year performing arts veteran of the stage, she has brought over fifty productions to life for audiences numbering in the thousands. Much loved, she has inspired students to pursue drama degrees in college and as a profession. Presently, she is director of Spotlight Productions OKC, which conducts year-round productions and drama camps for aspiring students. She is also the new director of Shine Drama, the popular Edmond-based student drama troupe.

Joanie Gregory-Pullen

Music 6th Grade/Upper School

I am excited to teach choir in the Godly setting of King,s Gate Christian School. I hold a degree in Vocal Music Education from the University of Central Oklahoma, using my knowledge from my degree and studies at the master level in Music Performance and Education at the University of Oklahoma to successfully tap the talent of everyone from preschool aged children to senior adults. Favorite projects are directing the national dvd premiere of five children’s musicals for the Dove Award winning composer, Dave Clark, produced by Brentwood Benson and Lillenas Music Publishers in Nashville. I am most proud of my 35 year marriage to John, our 2 beautiful daughters, Jennifer and Jill, son in love, Colton and the cutest grandbaby ever, Weston. I thank God for the opportunity to be at King’s Gate. Soli de Gloria!

Services

Laura Gautreaux

Reading Therapist

I first became involved in 2016 after my husband, Nic, and I toured King’s Gate; he attended as a child and we thought we might want our kids to attend as well. We quickly fell in love with this special place! I love that I get to help support the learning taking place here. I graduated from Southern Nazarene University with a degree in Elementary Education and additional certification in Early Childhood Education. I taught second grade for several years before earning my master’s degree in reading. After becoming a certified reading specialist, I decided to further my education in order to provide specialized pull-out support for students struggling in the classroom. I became a CALT (certified academic language therapist), as well as an IDA-certified structured literacy/dyslexia specialist. I love to stay involved in various aspects of reading in the community including: seeing private therapy students at my clinic, Encouraging Words, training teachers as a qualified instructor at Payne Education Center, and serving as a board member for the Oklahoma chapter of The Reading League. When I’m not working with students or teachers, I enjoy reading, running, camping, and watching movies. Most of all, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Nic, our children, Hadley and Jack, and our dog, Honey.

Meghan Thompson

Reading Therapist/Speech Pathologist/CALT

I am a speech-language pathologist and certified academic language therapist. King’s Gate has been wonderful and the opportunity to serve students has been a blessing. I graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a master’s degree in speech-language pathology in 2010. I have worked in public and private schools, early intervention and private practice. After working with students on my caseload who continued to struggle to read, I went through training to become a certified academic language therapist. I love my job and feel that it is a true calling. In addition to serving students at King’s Gate, I also work with students at Encouraging Words in Oklahoma City and I am currently working on becoming a qualified instructor, so I can help train teachers about the science of reading. I enjoy traveling, hiking, trying new recipes or restaurants and spending time with family and friends. My favorite people are my husband Tyler and our wonderful children Stella and Brooks.