Our Staff
We believe that teachers have a responsibility to actively influence a child’s life in a positive and caring way. Our teachers have a passion for high quality, innovative education, and a recognition and respect for the individuality and uniqueness of each child’s manner of learning. They are dedicated to the success of each student and committed to helping them achieve academic, spiritual, physical, social, and emotional goals. Olney Prep teachers are carefully selected on the basis of personal faith in Christ, academic preparedness, teaching philosophy and techniques, strength of character, and a love for children.
Our full-time teachers are certified and hold a Bachelor of Science or Master’s degree in Education. Our part-time teachers hold a BS, BA, or MA in varying fields.
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Administrative
CHRISTOPHER SIMONS
Principal
I have the esteemed pleasure and honor of leading this school of incredibly talented and skilled educators! Together, we have dedicated ourselves to enriching the educational experience of students and preparing them for the successes of the world and for Christ's Kingdom to come. My motto is built on the philosophy of kaizen—celebrating the successes of each step and always finding ways to continue growing.
KAREEN L. ROGERS
Administrative Assistant
I have worked at OAPS for more than 10 years. I chose to make a difference in students' lives at OAPS because their smiles make me smile. It brings satisfaction to know that I can be part of affecting their happiness.
VALERIE EASTHOPE
Business Administrator & Admissions Director
I have enjoyed working at OAPS since 2003. It has been a pleasure to witness the growth of the school, and the growth of the children through the years. I admire the standards for excellence that have been a priority since the school's founding. I am grateful to work at a top-quality school in a positive environment.
CHARLENE CASTILLO
Business
Administrator
I have had the pleasure of working at Olney Prep since the summer of 2006. It has been amazing to see the progress and growth of the school. I have seen that God has always been present. Working at the school is a privilege and I enjoy watching students grow and learn.
GEOFF EASTHOPE
Facilities Manager & Conservatory Director
I was hired in 2007. I am responsible for the campus' day-to-day and long-term maintenance goals. For the conservatory, I schedule classes, hire teachers and plan the recitals. I enjoy working in an environment focused on the well-being of the student population and the positive atmosphere among the teachers and staff.
teaching
EMILY
BEARDSLEY
Kindergarten
I began my teaching career when I moved to Maryland from Washington to join OAPS in 2020. Teaching allows me to include fun and creative ways to learn, especially with hands-on activities! Something I love almost as much as teaching is furry friends -- 10 out of 10 times, if I see a dog, will go pet it!
GABRIELA
ESCOBAR
Grade Two
I began my teaching career seven years ago after receiving my degree in Liberal Arts Education (Elementary Education). I grew up in Adventist schools my entire life, and I knew that I wanted to be an Adventist teacher. God opened the door to teach at OAPS. I am truly blessed to be at such an amazing, supportive, and Christ-centered school.
KEITH
JOHNSTON
Grade Four
I am elated to join OAPS in my 13th year of teaching. I moved to the DMV area three years ago from Nashville, TN where I received a Master's degree in Education from Belmont University.
It is a joy of mine to see young people succeed. My purpose in teaching is to broaden and enhance a child's perspective and love for learning, helping them realize that education is more than academic.
JAMI
WALKER
Grade Six Homeroom;
Middle School Language Arts
I have enjoyed being an educator at Olney Prep for more than 19 years. Working in a community where excellence is valued and strived for makes my job a joy and keeps me on my toes. I have my Bachelor's in Elementary Education and my Master's in Administration and Leadership. I am passionate about reading and believe that books can be a window for students to see into other worlds, cultures, and experiences. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family and going hiking.
DALYNE
BAPTISTE
Grade One
I have been an educator for 10 years and I absolutely love children, sharing Christ and serving people. I sincerely believe that every child can and will learn. I am humbled and honored to continue using my gifts to help educate students for eternity.
KENDRA CARUTHERS
Grade Three
I enjoy being at OAPS where students are prepared not only for this world but for eternity. I have been teaching for five years. I believe that God has called me to serve as an educator and my goal is to hear the words "well done good and faithful servant." Children have been a big part of my life for 22 years. I am blessed to be able to teach at such a time as this.
DANA
AUDAIN
Grade Five Homeroom;
Middle School Math
and Science
I started my career at OAPS 16 years ago and have since completed graduate school. I chose to make a difference in students' lives at OAPS because I love our kids! Students at other schools don't compare. I love to see the change in students as they grow and develop. I have also managed the yearbook for several years.
LANCE
NAJERA
Grades Seven & Eight Homeroom; Middle School History and Bible
My teaching philosophy is simple, I believe a classroom should be a safe and caring learning environment where children can share their thoughts and develop critical thinking skills. This year I am blessed to be teaching both History and Bible, two subjects I love. I’m excited to have the opportunity to impart my enthusiasm for these subjects to the OAPS students.