Eastern Christian School welcomes Elizabeth Botbyl

Eastern Christian School welcomes Elizabeth Botbyl as a kindergarten teacher. Elizabeth is an alumna of EC and graduated from Eastern University with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. 

Please tell us about yourself.

I grew up in North Haledon and attended Eastern Christian from a young age. When I am not in my classroom, you may find me baking yummy treats, going on walks, playing pickleball, and spending time outdoors, often alongside my family and friends. 

I have a deep care for children and dedication to their growth which is evident in all that I do, and I feel a strong calling to be a consistent, faith-centered influence in my students’ lives. I am passionate about helping students grow in their faith and discover their gifts and talents!

Tell the story of how you got to EC.

I’ve felt called to teaching for as long as I can remember—some of my earliest memories are of playing “school” in my basement with imaginary students. That passion has only grown through the years as I’ve worked as a babysitter, nanny, co-led children’s birthday parties at Abma’s Farm, subbing, and most recently spent the past three summers at EC’s Eagles Day Camp.

During my student teaching experience in a public school, I often found myself holding back, unable to openly share my faith or speak about God. It became clear to me that I was being called to a place where I could teach wholeheartedly—where faith and learning could come together and be interconnected. As an EC alumna, I’m grateful and excited to be back, now in the role of guiding students both academically and spiritually.

What sets EC apart?

Growing up attending Eastern Christian, I know what it feels like first hand to be loved, seen, and cared for by everyone around me—administrators, teachers, peers, etc. The six core values, Seek Truth, Serve Others, Embrace Community, Exhibit Compassion, Develop Responsibility and Strive for Excellence, are evident in every aspect of Eastern Christian. It is clear God is working in these kids’ lives. The hallways of EC reflect God’s love and never ending promise that He is in control and we are His. EC’s community is like no other and I am so excited to be on the other side of EC in this new role!