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Cross of Hope School Ministry of Cross of Hope Church

State-Certified Teachers


Qualified and licensed early childhood educators

At Cross of Hope School, every lead teacher is state-certified through the state of New Mexico. This means our staff has the proper credentials, training, and approval from the state to teach preschool through elementary aged children.

State certification requires extensive knowledge of child development and effective teaching strategies, so our teachers are true experts at nurturing young learners. Parents can be confident that qualified, vetted educators are guiding our students through these important early years.

Dea Evans

Kindergarten

Linda Aragon

First Grade

Jenn Vola

Second Grade

Elaine Pratt

Third/Fourth Grade

Joy Thornhill

Fifth Grade

Lisa White

Library/Art

Rebecca Lovato

Technology/Lunch Assistant

Coal Willis

Therapy Dog

Ann Martin

Preschool 3’s Lead Teacher

Lori Braunhardt

Preschool 4’s Lead Teacher

Rhonda Cantu

Preschool 4’s Educational Assistant

Amber Griffith

Preschool Administrative

Krissy Castillo

Preschool 3’s Educational Assistant

McMarshal Hartzenberg

PE

David Becker

Music

Julie Martin

Lunch Manager/Administrative Assistant

Debra Gonzales

Literacy Intervention

Paula Willis

Math Intervention

NURTURING, FAITH-FILLED TEACHERS

Being highly qualified is just the beginning—our preschool teachers are also exceptionally caring and nurturing. They create a warm, welcoming classroom where each child feels safe and loved.

In our Christian preschool setting, teachers model kindness, patience, and Christ’s love in every interaction. Their passion for teaching shines as they celebrate each child’s milestones and encourage growth through play and exploration.

  • Warm, welcoming classrooms where children feel safe and loved

  • Christ-centered modeling of kindness, patience, and love

  • Celebrating milestones and encouraging growth through play

COMMITMENT TO PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE

We support our state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development, keeping them up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in early childhood education.

This commitment to growth ensures our educators continually refine their skills and bring fresh ideas into the classroom—because great teachers are at the heart of a high-quality preschool experience.

  • Ongoing professional development for teachers

  • Latest research and best practices in early childhood

  • Fresh ideas that elevate classroom experiences

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