Upper School Principal
Mr. Cosner earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Religion from Bridgewater College and a Master of Arts in Theology from Liberty University. He is currently pursuing a Master's degree in English Literature from James Madison University. Before coming to Redeemer, he taught English, Debate, and Biblical Literature in public schools both in Harrisonburg, Virginia, and Tampa, Florida. Outside of school, you'll find him doing woodworking, reading, and enjoying life with his wife and three children.

Lower School Principal
Mrs. Grace Yoder received a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies with a minor in Early Childhood Education and also earned a certificate to teach Algebra I from James Madison University. Grace has traveled over Europe, which included a short language study in Spain. She loves being in the Classical Christian environment where she can delight in the Lord with peers and children alike. Outside of work, Mrs. Yoder enjoys being active outdoors with her family and friends.

Security and Operations Manager
Mr. Richardson joined the Redeemer staff for the 2025-26 school year as School Security Officer and Operations Manager. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Virginia in Foreign Affairs and History. He served as a commissioned U.S. Park Ranger for 28 years at Shenandoah National Park performing law enforcement, emergency medical services, search and rescue, and wildland fire fighting duties before retiring in 2021. He then worked in construction for three years for Crider Martin Builders. Both of his children have attended Redeemer and have been blessed by the experience of a classical Christian education. He enjoys the outdoors, reading, traveling, and spending time with his family. 

Community Engagement Coordinator
Mrs. Ashleigh Funkhouser earned a B.B.A. in Hospitality and Tourism Management from James Madison University. Prior to joining Redeemer, she worked for an international public relations firm in D.C., honing her skills in strategic communication and large scale special event planning. Additionally, she coordinated events and logistics for executive programs at UVa. Ashleigh is excited about the opportunity to create memorable events for Redeemer students and families, and foster strong relationships within the school community. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, Kemper, and their two children, Peyton and Alexandra.

Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Vicki Becker joined the Redeemer staff after being a stay at home mom for 25 years. During that time she homeschooled her kids, Kayla, Kyle and Brady, for 14 years and helped run a homeschool co-op for several years. She and her husband, Greg, are now empty-nesters. Vicki enjoys music, sports (especially soccer and baseball), and spending time with her family and friends.

Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Kayla Crandall earned her B.A. in Music from Bridgewater College in 2015 and her M.Ed. from Covenant College in 2022. Her teaching journey began here at Redeemer in 4th grade before transitioning to teaching 2nd and 3rd grades in Northern Virginia. Mrs. Crandall is delighted to be back in the Shenandoah Valley along with her husband and daughter, and to be returning to the school where her career started!

Administrative Assistant (Upper School)
Mrs. Kayla Wilson earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from Berry College. She then earned her Masters in Dairy Science from The University of Georgia. She and her husband, Ben, have one daughter who attends Redeemer. Before working with Redeemer, she worked for the state as a dairy inspector and then stayed home to raise their daughter. Mrs. Wilson loves gardening, camping, and baking. She's looking forward to helping Redeemer grow.

Director of Athletics
Mrs. Ashley Hormel graduated from the Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelor of Social Work. She worked professionally in children's health and wellness prior to joining Redeemer. Ashley is thankful for the opportunity to teach children to glorify God in both their work and play, and by caring for the bodies He has given us. She enjoys teaching sportsmanship to the grammar school children while they learn new, traditional, and unique ways to be physically fit. Ashley enjoys being active herself and can often be found out on a long run or hiking or playing games with her four children and husband.

PreK
Mrs. Jenna Burchnall earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Family Studies from Messiah University. After living in the Philadelphia area for all of their lives, she and her husband Dusty, moved their family of six to Keezletown. That was in 2014, and they have felt so blessed to call Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley home. Jenna is an active member of Aletheia Church where she volunteers in the nursery and enjoys encouraging others. In her free time, she loves watching movies with her family, reading a good book, being near the ocean, drinking a good cup of coffee, and being outside in God's creation. Jenna is honored to be a part of the Redeemer family and is excited to come alongside parents and support them in pointing their children towards the faithfulness of our loving Savior. 

PreK
Mrs. Kate Zopp received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education from James Madison University. She taught for eight years in various settings before moving to Harrisonburg with her husband and staying at home with their three boys. When not drinking coffee and chasing her boys, she enjoys reading and being outside. Kate is excited to teach the youngest Redeemer students about the love of Christ and lay a solid foundation for their coming years of learning.

Kindergarten
Ms. Nuss graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from James Madison University. During her time at JMU, she studied Hospitality Management and volunteered as a Young Life leader. She’s worked at a Christian sports camp for multiple summers and is grateful for the ways the Lord has used that experience in her life. She’s excited to be a teacher at Redeemer!

First Grade
Mrs. April Cosner earned a Bachelor of Science from Bridgewater College in Liberal Studies, minoring in Education and Psychology. After teaching in Virginia and Florida public schools for six years, she homeschooled her own children and worked as a private tutor for an additional seven years. She also serves as her church's Children's Ministry Director. Mrs. Cosner enjoys all things healthy (and yet all things chocolate), spending time with her husband and three children, reading, the outdoors, hiking, camping, and traveling. She counts it a gift to cultivate a love for the Lord and a love for learning in the children of Redeemer.

First Grade
Mrs. Suzi Slater graduated from James Madison University with a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education. Over the past 40 she has worked in many different capacities with young students teaching physical education, reading, forest preschool school, tutoring and coaching track and field. She and her husband, Rick, have three grown children and four grandchildren that she loves spending time with — especially if she can get them out in the mountains.

Second Grade
Ms. Breeden earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from Bridgewater College in 2020. She is currently working towards earning a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Liberty University. In her free time, Ms. Breeden enjoys coaching competitive and sideline cheerleading at Spotswood High School. She is a member of the Church of Solsburg and is eager to grow closer in her relationship with the Lord with her second grade students.

Second Grade
Ms. Rodes earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Bridgewater College. She’s an active member of the Cornerstone Church of Harrisonburg where she helps in children's ministry. Ms. Rodes attended Redeemer Classical School from Kindergarten through 8th grade and she’s excited to return to Redeemer to teach the next generation of students in a classical setting. In her free time, Ms. Rodes enjoys making art and spending time with her friends and family.

Third Grade
Mrs. Karen Barlow earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Calvary University in Kansas City, MO. She has spent over 20 years as a classroom teacher, substitute teacher, tutor, and educational therapist. Karen also worked eight years at a Sentara RMH medical office. A Midwesterner by birth, Karen and her husband, John, moved to Weyers Cave in 2005. They enjoy being outside, taking day trips, and taking in God’s beautiful artistry in the Shenandoah Valley. John and Karen have two adult sons. Zachary and his wife, Ally, live in Arizona while Corey makes his home in Harrisonburg. Karen is committed to teach her students the love of Christ and the truth of His Word.

Fourth Grade
Mrs. Holly King received her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Waterloo in Liberal Studies with a Peace and Conflict Studies minor. Growing up in Canada, Holly spent four years working for a church agency in Switzerland, the UK, and Germany before embarking on family life and settling in the Shenandoah Valley with her American husband. After homeschooling some combination of her five children for 13 years using Classical methods, Mrs. King is glad to be continuing the task of educating with Redeemer students. She is blessed to witness numerous 'aha!' moments each school day as the light of understanding is lit in her students as she shares her excitement about God's wonderful world – past, present, and future – with the next generation.

Fourth Grade & Scholars Studio
Mrs. Hoch earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible and a Masters in Elementary Education with a minor in TESOL (teaching english to speakers of other languages) from Cairn University. She has been working with young children in various capacities since graduating. Most recently Mrs. Hoch has been a stay at home mom to her four children. She is currently working toward a Literacy Certificate from AIM Institute for Learning and Research. She is excited and grateful to be part of the Redeemer Classical School community and hopes to bring glory to God through her work there.

Fourth Grade
Mrs. Jenny Wagner graduated from Eastern Mennonite University with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education, English as a Second Language, and Spanish. She earned her Master's Degree in Reading Education from James Madison University. Her past experience includes teaching in the public schools, running a small homeschool coop, teaching English to adults, and homeschooling. Outside of school, she enjoys leading worship, reading, painting, and attending her kids' sports and music events. She, her husband Jason, pastor of The Life Church in McGaheysville, and their four children are excited to be a part of the Redeemer community.

Fifth Grade
Mrs. Jane Fowler received her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Virginia in Middle School Education and has been teaching in public, private and home-schooling environments for over 30 years. Jane is one of the founding teachers of Redeemer and has enjoyed watching Redeemer grow over the years. She is the chairperson for the history department at Redeemer and loves to hear the students recite the history timeline together. Jane has three grown children and four grandchildren who she enjoys visiting as often as she can.

Fifth Grade
Ms. Dronov graduated from Bridgewater College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and Communication, and a Minor in Spanish. Her love for Classical Education first stems from her love for history. At Redeemer, she hopes to help her students foster an enthusiasm and love for learning, and apply God’s Word to their lives. In her free time she enjoys traveling with family to explore historical landmarks and enjoying God’s beautiful creation. She also enjoys serving in her church’s children’s ministry.

6th, 8th & 9th Literature
Mrs. Driver earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Bridgewater College and a Master of Arts in English from James Madison University. Prior to joining the team at Redeemer, she owned two small businesses before staying home with her two children. Outside of school, you might find Mrs. Driver reading (or re-reading) a great novel, cooking, playing ukulele or being used as a human jungle gym by her kiddos. Brooke is honored and humbled to participate in God's great work at Redeemer. She is excited to instill a love for the written word in the hearts of Redeemer students and — most importantly — to encourage them to love the Lord their God with all their hearts, with all their minds and with all their strength. 

6th & 8th History , 7th & 8th Geography
Bio coming soon

7th Geography, 7th Logic & 8th Bible
Mrs. Janelle Garman graduated from Grove City College with degrees in History and Christian Thought. After graduating, she spent eight years working in the mental health field before becoming a stay-at-home mom. She first studied logic when attending a classical high school in West Virginia and continued studying formal logic in college. She’s excited to share her love of truth and critical thinking with her students. Janelle and her husband, Tyler, have four children (who all attend Redeemer). Outside of teaching, she enjoys exploring the outdoors with her family and serving in her church and the local Bible Study Fellowship.

6th, 7th & 9th Grade Latin
Mr. Settergren is a life-long student of the classical tradition, having spent his elementary through high school education at The Cambridge School (San Diego, CA). He went on to graduate from Johns Hopkins University with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Cognitive Science and Philosophy, with concentrations in Classics and ancient philosophy. Prior to coming to Redeemer, he worked on re-building the Latin program at a classical school in North Carolina. Outside of Latin, Mr. Settergren thoroughly enjoys reading and discussing theology, ethics, and Tolkien.

8th Grade Latin
Bio coming soon.

6th Grade Science
Mrs. Heather Luebben started asking questions at an early age and hasn't stopped yet. Her curiosity carried her to Grove City College where she majored in history and Spanish. After graduation, she returned to the Valley to marry her highschool sweetheart. Heather classically homeschooled their four children until 2023 when the oldest two joined the Redeemer community. She is eager to help students explore the world around them, pursue answers to their questions, and most of all, marvel at their Creator.

7th & 8th Grade Science
Mrs. Tongen earned her B.A. from Mount Holyoke College and her M.A. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. She’s a lifelong “student” that’s fascinated by God’s eternal wisdom, power, and goodness displayed in His creation. Her first 10 years of teaching were on tennis courts. Alongside her husband, she learned Spanish to have fellowship with more members of their church, care for their community, and to homeschool their six children bilingually. Mrs. Tongen is delighted to display God’s glory with logic school students as they study nature and research science fair projects.

6th & 7th Grade Math
Mrs. Whitney Collier studied Elementary Education with a specialization in Math and English at Liberty University. She lives in Harrisonburg with her husband, Ryan, and their two daughters. When not at school, she enjoys running, golfing, cooking, and spending time with friends and family. Whitney’s excited to step back into the classroom to teach math. She hopes to encourage the students to recognize and appreciate the order found in nature and how that reflects the perfection and wisdom of our Creator.

8th & 12th Grade Math
Mrs. Lorraine Bryner is a retired public and private school teacher with 34 years of experience from Southwestern Pennsylvania. She is also the proud grandmother of Redeemer students, the Haddads. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, walking, hiking, kayaking, leading a local book club, and working at her church, the Bridgewater Church of the Brethren in their community garden/food pantry program. She is thrilled to continue to carry on God's work and mission at Redeemer to inspire our youth to become good stewards of the glory and goodness of God and His Creation.

7th Literature
Dr. Rankin earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, with a concentration in English and Mathematics, and a Master of Arts in English Literature, both from Ohio University. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in English Literature, with a focus on English Renaissance Literature and a Certificate in Medieval and Renaissance Studies, from The Ohio State University. His research and teaching interests include Reformation literature and history, Shakespeare, 16th-century non-dramatic literature, the history of books as material objects, and the history of reading. In 2023 he was elected Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. His hobbies include reading, hiking, coin collecting, pursuing fine food, and travel. He enjoys helping students grow in their ability to think, reason, and communicate clearly.

8th Logic (PT)
Dr. Noel Hendrickson earned a Ph.D. in Philosophy (with a minor in Religion) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Originally from California, his undergraduate degree in Philosophy is from San Jose State University. He is currently a full-time Professor and founding member of the Intelligence Analysis Program at James Madison University, which educates students aspiring to be analysts at government agencies, law enforcement organizations, defense contractors, and other major international corporations and consulting firms. As part of this program, he created and now teaches a series of courses in reasoning methodologies, with a specialty in educating people how to assess an uncertain future and to think strategically about it. He has written several books in the field and is passionate about teaching people (of all ages) how to improve their powers of reasoning and to develop timeless intellectual values to engage a lifetime of timely life challenges.

10th & 12th Greek, 11th Literature & Senior Thesis
Mrs. Annie Leach graduated from Wake Forest University with a major in English and a minor in education. She and her husband, Bill, are among the founders of Redeemer, and they are increasingly thankful that their five children attended RCS. She relishes the opportunity to share the wonder of words with her Greek, Latin and literature students. Annie has loved helping others improve their writing since her college days. She considers her responsibility to train RCS students to excel in written and spoken communication a great privilege. Annie grew up on Tampa Bay and savors chances to be around water. She also loves making and eating Cuban food, laughing and playing games with her family, and sitting by the fire reading Russian literature.

10th-11th Rhetoric, 12th Literature & 12th History
Dr. Simmons earned his PhD from the University of Dallas and his B.A. from St. John's College (Annapolis). His previous experience includes teaching political philosophy and history at Baylor University, Ashland University and BISLA College. Dr. Simmons is active in his community as a director in the Elkton Historical Society, where he helps plan events and manages the Society's small library. He lives in Elkton with his wife and son, and he and his family attend Church of the Lamb.

10th Literature
Mrs. Dorman was born and raised in Miami, FL, and received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, but has been living in the Valley on and off for over 20 years. She and her husband, Travis, have four children, who all attend Redeemer. They live in Elkton with 20ish chickens and one new puppy. At the top of her favorites list: volleyball. She loves to play it, coach it, watch it, and talk about it. She also enjoys an evening rainstorm, a walk in the woods, Southern writers, and movie nights with her kids. She also has enjoyed reading The Aeneid and Meditations in preparation for teaching them at Redeemer.

9th - 11th History
Mr. Cobb earned his Bachelor of Arts from Grove City College. He previously taught history, debate, and geography at the King’s School in Kerala, India, and helped lead two education-related start-ups, the Atlantis Fellowships and Surv. In addition to teaching at Redeemer, Mr. Cobb is the Executive Director of the Sinclair House, an academic retreat center in Luray. He and his wife, Zoë, have three sons. Cicero wrote, 'If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need'. The Cobbs have both.

10th-11th Math & 10th Chemistry
Mrs. Rene Leetun was most recently the Science Department Chair at Grace Christian School in Staunton, where she also taught Math and Physical Science. Prior to that she was a tutor and co-director for Classical Conversations, having helped establish the first CC co-op in the Shenandoah Valley. In addition to her degree from Virginia Tech, she also holds Level 1 and 2 Certification in cognitive brain training with Equipping Minds.

9th Geometry & 11th Biology
Mr. Eric Duvon holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from James Madison University and is currently working toward a Master of Education in Mathematics. Prior to teaching, he spent a decade as a software engineer, sharpening his analytical skills and passion for problem-solving. Eric first discovered his love for classical education through C.S. Lewis, and continues to be drawn to writers who delve into the complexities of faith and existence. Beyond the classroom, he stays busy defending his yard from unruly plants, seeking out new routes for running and hiking, and training for the next obstacle course race. Eric is married and has two children, and a cat named Tolstoy.

9th Physics
Mrs. Rachel Reidenbach graduated from Grove City College in Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. She married her college sweetheart and worked as an engineer at a defense contractor, BAE Systems/Cobham, for seven years before becoming a stay-at-home mom. She and her husband, Matthew have three children; their family moved to the Shenandoah Valley in 2019 when Matthew took an accounting professor job at JMU. Rachel enjoys reading, biking, swimming, traveling and spending time with family and friends. She is excited to teach physics in an environment where she can highlight God's magnificent order to her students!

12th Physics
Mrs. Laura Whittaker earned her Bachelor of Science in Physics from Clemson University in 2009. She taught Physics and Astronomy at Turner Ashby High School in Bridgewater for 12 years and is currently on staff with Covenant Presbyterian Church working as ministry support. Laura loves teaching physics and is excited to be a part of the Redeemer faculty. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys long distance running, spending time with her husband and three children, and a good cup of coffee.

9th Rhetoric
Mr. Roberts graduated from Dickinson College with a Bachelors of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. He worked in Cancer Research before receiving his Masters of Divinity from Westminster Theological Seminary in 2010. He currently pastors at Covenant Presbyterian Church. He loves the art and science of persuasion and the opportunity to partner with the Redeemer community. He and his wife, Jacey, have four children, and if free-time presents itself, he dabbles in reading, carpentry, music, and hiking.

12th Greek
Bio coming soon.

P.E. & After School Program
Mrs. Stephanie Walker earned her Bachelor's degree in English and Education at James Madison University in 2003 and spent 10 years teaching English before finding a passion in the fitness world. Stephanie has worked as a fitness and recreation specialist for the City of Harrisonburg and has been an owner of both Stongfigure Bootcamp and CrossFit Harrisonburg. After spending over 15 years coaching adults, teens, and children; she is bringing her passion for health, fitness, and nutrition to the Physical Education department at Redeemer. Outside of Redeemer, you can find her at the gym, and spending time with her husband and two children.

6th-10th P.E. & 7th History
Mrs. Grace Weniger graduated from James Madison University with a Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology. She then received a Master’s of Education from the University of Virginia in Sports Medicine. For six years, she worked as an athletic trainer at James Madison University while also teaching in the undergraduate program and serving on the eating disorders team on campus. After starting a family she continued to teach part-time at JMU for several years until their third child was born. She enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and reading a good book. Grace lives in Harrisonburg with her husband and three children, who attend Redeemer. She’s thankful to be part of the Redeemer community and to teach students a biblical perspective on how to care for their bodies and minds.

6th Study Skills & P.E.
Mrs. Sarah Hughes graduated from James Madison University with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Art History. She worked as a paralegal for several years before staying at home with her first born. Her daughter began attending kindergarten at Redeemer in 2013. With the addition of another daughter attending Redeemer in 2016, there were more opportunities to help in the classroom and around the school. Her third daughter joined her sisters at Redeemer in 2019. Sarah is thankful for the opportunity to work alongside her children and to be a part of a loving school community.

3rd-5th Grade P.E.
Bio coming soon.

1st - 12th Grade Music
Mrs. Grace Swanson graduated in 2023 from James Madison University with a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education and a minor in Honors Interdisciplinary Studies. Mrs. Swanson has a particular focus on music education for students with disabilities, and she loves learning more about accessible music-making every day. Outside of school, she enjoys working with students in private lessons, singing with friends, and hiking in Shenandoah National Park. Mrs. Swanson is thrilled to be teaching in the Redeemer community and making a joyful noise unto the Lord with her students.

PreK & K Music and Band
Mrs. Melissa Borden received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education and a Master of Public Administration degree from James Madison University. She has worked previously as a music teacher and also in different capacities in nonprofit organizations for several years. Most recently, she has been a stay at home mom to her two children. She is excited to share her love of music with students and thankful to be a part of the Redeemer community.

Grammar School Art
Born and raised in Newport News, Virginia, Mrs. Bontz studied design at James Madison University, earning a Bachelor of Science with a focus on art and graphic design. Since graduating, she’s built a career around creativity — bringing design thinking and visual storytelling into every role she’s taken on over the years. She met her husband in her senior year at college, and they’ve since made a life together on his family’s land, where they’re raising two kids alongside a happy crew of pets. When she’s not working or with family, you’ll probably find her making jewelry, hiking, or digging in the garden.

Scholars Studio & 8th-12th Art
Mrs. Kendra Matter first discovered a passion for history, literature, and culture through studying art in high school and college. She went on to graduate from James Madison University with a degree in Art and a minor in Art History. Kendra has been involved in classical and Christian education for 20 years, in capacities from teaching fourth grade at Redeemer, to homeschooling her three children. Outside the classroom you might find her talking with friends on the front porch, listening to music in New Orleans, or rediscovering the joys of oil painting in her studio.

Scholars Studio, Common Arts & Ag/Trade
Mrs. Greta Houff graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in Agricultural Education. After graduation, she taught Agriculture and Family and Consumer Sciences for four years at Elkton Middle School. After starting her family, she has worked part-time at Augusta Cooperative and stayed connected with the agricultural industry. Greta and her husband have five children and live on a small farm outside Weyers Cave. Outside of school she enjoys being outside with her family, watching her kids participate in extracurricular activities and spending time with friends. She is excited to help Redeemer students explore agriculture as it relates to our Creator and the world in which we live.