EC Blog

Growing up in a predominately white school in Traverse City, Michigan, college student Bryan Kabot was immediately drawn to the notable diversity at the University of Michigan, and he desired to cultivate it even further.            “I was interested in law because it was about justice and equality. And when I heard about this committee…

What if you could change the trajectory of your child's life in just 30 seconds? Take 30 seconds and register now for Eastern Christian High School's Fall Open House and Preview Day, held November 15. We are passionate about our mission to raise up young people of Christian vision and influence and believe this calling…

Eastern Christian School welcomes back Deborah Ocot as English Honors 9 teacher. Deborah earned a bachelor’s in English education from MSU and a master’s in biblical literature from Alliance Theological Seminary. Please tell us about yourself I love studying scripture, encouraging married couples, walking, biking, hiking, exploring small towns, and, mostly, time with family. I…

Eastern Christian School welcomes alumnus Rob DeJulia as IT support technician. A recent graduate, Rob received his bachelor’s in computer science and his master’s in cyber security from Geneva College. Please tell us about yourself I grew up in a Christian house with my parents and a younger sister in Newton, New Jersey as a…

Eastern Christian School welcomes Diane Tolsma as upper elementary and middle school nurse. Diane received a bachelor’s in nursing from Calvin College.  Please tell us about yourself. I grew up in Indianapolis, IN, and am a huge Colts fan because of that. If they are out here playing the Giants or the Jets, there is…

Eastern Christian School welcomes alumna Courtney Dyksen as 6th grade language arts teacher. Courtney holds a bachelor’s in elementary education and English from Gordon College and a master’s in education from TCNJ. She returns to staff this year, having formerly taught 5th and 6th grade language arts at EC for seven years prior to having…

Eastern Christian School welcomes Chelsea Bogart as a paraprofessional. Chelsea holds a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Dominican College, with a minor in psychology. She is the mother of two current EC students.  Please tell us about yourself. I grew up in Demarest, NJ. I have spent years doing mission trips, feeding families in the…

Eastern Christian School welcomes Sandy Harrison as preschool paraprofessional. Sandy holds a bachelor’s in early childhood education from William Paterson University. She was a teacher for more than thirty years, first in Christian preschools and then in the Wayne Township Public Schools.  Please tell us about yourself I grew up in Waldwick, NJ. I enjoy…

Karen VanderLeest knows about education. Most recently serving as a clinical supervisor at Ramapo College, where she observed student teachers, VanderLeest’s career also includes 18 years in public education. During that time, she taught middle school and high school classes, as well as supervised the Social Studies and World Language departments.  In addition to her…