Faculty and Staff
Administration and Staff
Mr. Henry attended Hillsdale College for his B.A. and continued on at Grace College to earn his Master of Education. “I want to bring classical education to the families of NW Ohio. NOCA has the unique opportunity to provide an excellent education in the western tradition for the next generation.” Scott enjoys photography, gardening, travel, spending time with family, exploring the great outdoors, and of course reading a good book. His favorite classic is The Odyssey, because you can learn a great deal about human nature, the struggles of life, and how to overcome obstacles.
Mrs. Desmond earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics at Christendom College. She also received a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from Bowling Green State University. She is certified in College Access Counseling and STRONG Career, and has an Alternative Principal Licensure K-12, among other educational licensures.
“I chose to work at NOCA because I love classical education. Classical education supports the work of the family in that it provides students with the opportunity to examine the lives of great humans and the wisdom of antiquity that has allowed the human race to flourish throughout the ages. Classical education also offers an avenue for students to be exposed to principles of truth, goodness, and beauty through a variety of means (particularly through the study of literature, poetry, history, and philosophy) that shape a student’s outlook on the world, and aid them in their pursuit of happiness.”
Anastasia enjoys swimming, reading historical and theological books, and spending time with her family. Her favorite book is Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice because it's a story told through the prism of a female classical author who explores family dynamics and a love story, despite the complexities of societal expectations, while still remaining hopeful about what is good, true, and beautiful.
Mr. Nester earned his BA at The University of Toledo College of Arts and Sciences.
He chose to work at NOCA because of the focus on the classical education and virtues. He enjoys reading, travel, baseball, and hockey. His favorite classical book is To Kill a Mockingbird because it shows how a good man should act through very tough circumstances.
Mr. Kelleher studied for his Masters at UC Santa Barbara in Classics. He thoroughly enjoys reading, writing, walking/jogging, and visiting the parks around Toledo. He is a founding staff member at NOCA, and joined the school because of the Hillsdale curriculum. His favorite classic book is Epic of Gilgamesh, because “it's where it all began”.
Mrs. Davis attended Bowling Green State University and earned a Mild to Moderate Intervention Specialist K-12 Professional License and Reading Endorsement K-12 Certificate. She is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Certified and Dyslexia Certified.
Sarah enjoys swimming, hiking, music, and spending time with her family. One of her favorite classical books is Fahrenheit 451. This book is praised for its stance against censorship and its defense of literature. It speaks to the importance of literature for both humanity and to the benefit of civilization. Fahrenheit 451 shines a light on the inherent beauty of literature and the power it can hold if used for the good.
“I chose to work at NOCA because I value and align with the overall mission. I'm dedicated to promoting the good, the true, and the beautiful through the training of minds and the improving of hearts. I have found opportunities to coach students and teachers in this endeavor. I'm an advocate for the historical principles and lessons in morality that students learn from our rigorous curriculum. The knowledge students gain in an American Classical Education experience helps them form the ability to critically think, defend, and live out the virtues. What a blessing NOCA has been to not only me but my family. I'm grateful to serve NOCA families and I'm excited for what's ahead.”
Mr. Sterken attended college at the University of Toledo, where he earned his B.A. in Communications. Todd enjoys spending time with his family hiking, camping, playing ultimate frisbee, baking sourdough bread, and reading. His favorite classic book is Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, because it is a breathtakingly intricate and beautiful tale in which virtues such as courage, friendship, wisdom, and justice are exalted against a backdrop of darkest evil.
"I have found in NOCA a community of people who are deeply committed to training the hearts and minds of children to pursue the true, good, and beautiful. I can think of few endeavors more vital to the future flourishing of our society."
Melissa is a licensed CPA who holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration, the latter from the College of William and Mary. She gained extensive experience in financial auditing, analysis, and reporting while working for various financial firms, including Deloitte & Touche.
Melissa will oversee and manage non-educational operations for the school and we are excited for the extensive expertise she brings to this important position.
Melissa is a strong believer in classical education and NOCA’s mission. She and her husband, Sam, live in Sylvania with their three children, the oldest of whom is in first grade at NOCA.
Mrs. Kujawa attended Bowling Green State University and earned her Bachelors in Business Public and Institutional Administration. “I enjoy coming to work every day, because I get to do what I love: sharing the mission of NOCA with Northwest Ohio and finding mission fit families who love what we are doing here. I am very impressed with how my own children have thrived in the classical education model. In addition, the staff, students, and parents are such an amazing community to be a part of.”
Jenn enjoys gardening, cooking, photography, thrifting, theology, and a good cup of coffee. She loves spending time unplugged with family in Northern Michigan at the lake and traveling around the globe. Her favorite classical book is Anne of Green Gables. The comical and endearing stories of Anne are such an important display of love, family ties, staying curious, and fighting hard for things you believe in.
Mr. Seppala attended Victory High School. He enjoys playing music, traveling, and smoking meat. “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn are my favorite classics. They are timeless.” He feels the role at NOCA is God's call on his life, and it matches the skill set of his experiences. He also is thrilled to have six children who attend school here at NOCA.
Ms. Pannenberg enjoys her role at NOCA, after working as an aide with students for a few years. “I’ve fallen in love with the students, staff and families and enjoy serving you all.”
Dawn enjoys reading, apologetics, and nutrition. Her favorite classical book is Treasure Island. “It’s an easy book to picture in your mind, like your own movie.”
Mrs. Carolyn Frail attended Anthony Wayne High School. She spent many years working in the Anthony Wayne school system prior to coming to NOCA. “I chose to work at NOCA because the values are in alignment with my family's values.” Carolyn enjoys tap dancing, walking, and listening to podcasts. Her favorite classic book is To Kill a Mockingbird because the life-like quality of the characters really pulls you all the way into the story.
Mrs. Jeany Bondoc, moved to Toledo with her family a few years ago all the way from Guam, where she attended Guam Community College.
Jeany says, "NOCA is a top-performing charter school in Ohio, known for its success and excellent reputation. The supportive and dedicated staff create a positive work culture and an enriching school environment. The school excels in shaping students' minds while also nurturing their morals and character, which aligns perfectly with my professional and personal values."
In her free time, Jeany enjoys reading interesting articles and dancing. She also loves art and being creative through drawing and painting.
Lower School Teachers
"I was one of the original second grade teachers when NOCA first opened. Now, I am very happy to be back to teach Kindergarten because I love the Hillsdale classical curriculum and the teaching of virtues." Mrs. Howell earned both her B.A. in K-8 Education and Master's in Early Childhood from the University of Toledo. In her free time she enjoys: reading, spending time with her family, and going to dinner & movie with friends. Mrs. Howell describes her favorite classical book, "I love E.B. White's 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑜𝑡𝑡𝑒'𝑠 𝑊𝑒𝑏 because it is a wonderful story about friendship which is one of the virtues we teach children at NOCA."
Mrs. Oehler is excited to join the teaching team this fall in our elementary program. "I enjoyed working as a substitute teacher this past year and seeing how the curriculum fits together across the various grades. The staff is incredible and I am excited to work and learn beside these amazing educators!"
Diana earned her Bachelors at Adrian College, and attended Eastern Michigan University's Teacher Education Program. Her favorite classical children's book is Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans. "Her vivacious personality and zest for life are present in every child I've ever met. I loved this book as a child and have read it repeatedly to my own three daughters."
Mrs. Skylar Rhoads who earned her B.A. in Early Childhood Education from Lourdes University. "I enjoy teaching at NOCA because of our classical curriculum. The literacy curriculum puts great emphasis on handwriting, phonics, literature, poetry, and virtues. My favorite classical book to teach in Kindergarten is Aesop’s Fables. Fables such as The Tortoise and the Hare and The Ant and the Grasshopper impart morals such as honesty, patience, hard work, and wisdom.”
Ms. Lauren Robb earned her Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education from Bowling Green State University. "I chose to work at NOCA because I fell in love with the classical curriculum. I feel like NOCA brings back the true meaning of getting a good, valuable education focusing on The Good, The True, and The Beautiful!"
Lauren enjoys reading, playing with her six guinea pigs, walking her dog, and hanging out with her family and friends. Her favorite classical literary piece is the timeless story of Cinderella, because it shows that no matter who you are and what you come from, you have a chance at happiness and greatness.
Mrs. Hughes earned her Master at The Ohio State University in Elementary Education. She especially loves the literacy program at NOCA and the strong curriculum that inspires and transforms students.
She enjoys hiking, reading, board games, and gardening. Her favorite book, Pride and Prejudice, is something she can read over and over and still find it interesting each time.
Mrs. Humason attended Bowling Green State University to earn her Bachelors in Psychology. She received her Masters of Education from the University of Toledo. She chose to teach at NOCA because of its mission to train the minds and improve the hearts of young people.
She enjoys reading, baking, and spending time with family. Her favorite book is Pride and Prejudice, because of the way the characters develop throughout the story.
Mrs. Reusch attended Bowling Green State University and studied education. She previously worked as an instructional aide at NOCA for the last five years and loved seeing the rich education the school provides. She enjoys the whole Little House on the Prairie series, and is excited it is part of the curriculum at NOCA.
“When I was young, I wanted to be Laura. As I have grown up, I love reading about the perseverance of the whole Ingalls family. I am excited to return to the classroom where I can help students grow in both knowledge and virtue. I consider it a privilege to teach young children and work with others who share this passion.”
Ms. Ragan attended Hillsdale College and received her Bachelors in American Studies.
“I chose to work at NOCA because I value their commitment to classical education in which one becomes trained to read, write, think, speak, and, ultimately, character is shaped.”
She enjoys playing the piano, baking, and hiking. Her favorite classical book is East of Eden by John Steinbeck, because there are many biblical references to the book of Genesis as well as moments of beauty. Through hardships and painful times, goodness and truth can shine through.
Mrs. Tolly attended Buffalo State University and earned her Master of Science in Elementary Classroom Education and Reading degree. “I believe that NOCA’s approach to reading is paramount to actually achieving that goal for students. The classical model intrigued me and now I absolutely love it. Thinking logically appears to be a lost art in our society. NOCA truly embraces the desperate need our culture has to teach our children virtue, logic, and how to become a good citizen who helps others instead of just looking out for oneself.”
She loves to travel and go walking and hiking with family and friends. She is an avid reader and her favorite book is the Bible. “It is the ultimate source of learning the true, doing the good, and loving the beautiful!” traveling, visiting people, walking/hiking Bible- It is the ultimate source of learning the true, doing the good, and loving the beautiful!”
Mrs. Audet attended the University of Toledo for her Bachelor of Education, and continued on at BGSU to earn her Master of Education. She researched the BCSI model and loved the mission of NOCA. She decided to step back into teaching at NOCA after a few years as a substitute teacher.
She can often be found spending time with family, reading, camping and traveling, and on the pickleball court. Her favorite classical book is 1984 by George Orwell. “It was one of the first books I read in high school that I thought, “that could never happen.” I have reread it as an adult and see some of the similarities that are happening now in our own world.”
Mrs. Wilhelm-Rodriguez earned her Master of Education in Early Childhood and Elementary Education at the University of Toledo.
“I choose to work for NOCA for a few reasons. First, it's an honor to be part of an organization that seeks to instill excellence in both academics and virtuous behavior. Also, our curriculum lays a firm foundation in Reading through Literacy Essentials. It's rewarding to lead students on the journey from spelling to reading.”
She enjoys serving the Lord through church related activities and as an auxiliary member for the Gideons International, traveling with her husband, family/friends, gardening and landscaping. Her favorite classical book series is The Little House Series by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The books detail her life's joys and troubles living in the Midwest. Even though her first book was published over 90 years ago, Lynn and her students enjoy laughing, wondering, and being surprised with each turned page.
Ms. Tysiak attended Eastern Michigan University to earn her Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education. “I appreciate that the NOCA model is to focus not only on academics, but on the character of our students as well.”
She enjoys gardening, cooking, hiking, pickleball, and watching her children play sports. She loves sharing classic books with her children. One of her recent favorites is Little Women. Watching her daughter find joy in a tale of four sisters growing up together in a world very different from our world now brought Tiffany great joy.
Mr. Haase received his Bachelors at Lourdes University. “I love that NOCA is a supportive workplace where we all support each other as colleagues. Everyone inside the school truly wants to be at NOCA because they have bought into the mission which is to train the minds and improve the hearts of young people.”
Jack enjoys spending time with friends and family, going to Cedar Point, watching University of Michigan football, and reading. His favorite classical book is Anne of Green Gables and he loves reading this classical book with his students. Reading about the story of Anne growing up and the classical discussions it prompts with his students are some of his favorite moments as a teacher.
Mrs. Meyers received her Bachelors at Lourdes University. She has spent time teaching Kindergarten and 4th grade at NOCA. “I love the Classical Method and what it can do to help our children to become thinkers.”
She enjoys reading, gardening, spending time with family, and traveling.
Ms. Nichol earned her Masters of Arts in Biblical Counseling from The Master's University. “NOCA strives to give students a truly rigorous education. It is a beautiful thing to see students thrive with a curriculum that pushes them to grow, when other schools have reduced their standards to the point where students are never challenged or stretched.”
She enjoys the wonderful American classic book, Tom Sawyer. She enjoys taking her 5th grade class through this book full of adventure, danger, and humor. She enjoys how the book keeps readers on their toes with its shocking look at childhood. The lessons her students glean from Tom as he undergoes beautiful changes in his character and morphs from a naughty child to a true hero at the end of the novel are virtues she knows will stay with her students for a lifetime.
Mrs. McGilvery attended Lourdes University for her undergraduate, and continued on at Bowling Green State University for her Masters. I chose to work at NOCA because I appreciate the classical setting and curriculum that the school offers. By immersing students in this enriching environment, I believe that they will stand out through virtuous character and academic excellence, setting them apart from students nationwide.
She enjoys time with family, walking, biking, and playing flute. She liked The Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe because it was her first introduction to British Literature. It first seemed like a fun fantasy story, but later, she realized the brilliant connection to Christianity it had. C.S. Lewis has strong themes of loyalty, courage, and redemption and has strong symbolism through objects and characters to open up a whole other layer of meaning. The way C.S. Lewis writes the book makes it fun for children to read but also captivating to read as adults as well.
Ms. Doepker recently earned her Bachelors in Education at the University of Toledo. She enjoyed touring the school this spring and seeing the school coming together for the morning assembly. "The staff and students seem to really enjoy being a part of NOCA!"
She chose to work at NOCA due to the welcoming atmosphere, aspect of community, and outlook on education. In her free time, Emily enjoys running, playing volleyball, camping, and baking.
Ms. Natalie Stitak attended Bowling Green State University earning a BA in History with Minor in Communication and MA in History with a certification in Public History. During her free time, she enjoys playing the guitar, violin, and viola and singing. She also loves to dance, write, read, go on hikes, and spending time with her dog, Lola. “ I love that the school not only offers a classical education, but also teaches the students virtues and how to be good citizens and how to interact with the people around them. My favorite classical book is "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott. The relationships between the sisters remind me of several experiences I had with my sister and so I find the book very relatable. I also love the message of perseverance, sisterhood, and friendship. I was also in the musical with my sister in high school, so I have another connection to the story.”
Upper School Teachers
Ms. Carolyn Schutte attended Heidelberg University and earned her BA in English. “I chose to work at NOCA because I love the mission to provide high quality education to a wide range of students.” She enjoys reading, learning new languages, and cuddling with her cat. Her favorite classical book is Brave New World because it is an incredibly effective exploration of the potential trajectory of common issues in Western culture.
Mrs. Rebecca Book received her Bachelor's of Education from the University of Toledo, and Master's Work in Children's Literature from Eastern Michigan University. She enjoys cooking, reading, and walking. Her favorite classical book is "The Hobbit" by JRR Tolkien, because it is not only one of the best loved children's books ever written, but the quintessential example of an author's ability to create a world so real, it truly exists for the reader beyond its pages. From this work, we get The Lord of the Rings, the pinnacle of not just fantasy writing but of 20th century English literature. "Returning to NOCA after a year away has been a godsend to my family and me. It truly is a place where the true, good and beautiful come alive, and feels like home and an adventure at the same time."
Mr. Pitty received both his Master's in Latin Literature and Bachelor's in Classics from Kent State University. “I chose to work at NOCA after observing the amazing community in the school, meeting some of the faculty, due to the emphasis on cultivating virtue, and views on education.”
He enjoys reading fiction and historical texts, hiking, birdwatching, and spending time with family and friends. His favorite classical text is Vergil's Aeneid because of its focus on the importance of following one's duty even through obstacles and the vagaries of life.
Mr. Varney earned a Bachelors at the University of California, Berkeley in Political Science. He enjoys reading in languages other than English, traveling, and juggling.
“My favorite classical book is The Aeneid. I'm a Latin teacher, after all! I support classical education and Latin's central place in the curriculum. And, being a Latin teacher, I therefore feel like I have at least a modicum of job security!”
Mr. Gremlich attended the University of Utah and earned his Bachelors in Secondary Math Education. He continued on at Western Governor's University where he pursued his Masters in Secondary Math Education. He teaches at NOCA because he wants to work at a school that honors his personal ethics and standards, and allows him to teach mathematics fully and completely. He enjoys that NOCA is a school that will give students a full, rigorous education with high expectations.
He is a huge fan of Dune, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and other fantasy/sci-fi. He speaks Spanish and is learning Russian, and enjoys reading and watching his sci-fi favorites in these languages. He enjoys researching etymologies of words in different languages and understanding how culture has influenced language. He is a fan of classical music and particularly enjoys the music of Rachmaninoff, Tschaikovsky, Borodin, Mozart, and Rimsky-Korsakov.
Ms. Reeves attended Bowling Green State University for both her Bachelor of Science in Statistics and Master of Arts in Mathematics with a specialization in statistics. She enjoys Running, Tennis, Baking, and Reading. My favorite classical book is the Odyssey by Homer. This is because while it is a part of mythology, there are also many parts of it that we can connect to in the real world. Ancient Greece and Greek mythology have also been major interests of mine for years, so it’s enjoyable getting to read books in that setting. She chose to work at NOCA because she enjoyed teaching students during her time as a TA at BGSU. Not only does she want students to simply learn course material, but she also wants them to learn more about the world around them becoming better citizens. She believes NOCA is a great place for students to do exactly that.
Mr. Kujawa graduated from the University of Toledo’s University College earning his Bachelor's of Science in Individualized Program focusing on Religious Studies, Business and Leadership. He chose to teach at NOCA because he believes the education system in America is broken and he wants to be part of the solution.
He enjoys exercising with F3, and reading spy/counter-terrorist novels. His favorite classical book is the Scarlet Letter. “I enjoy the storyline of the story that takes place in Puritan New England as the town wrestles with their religious convictions versus a moral scandal.”
Mr. McNerney attended the Ohio University College of Arts and Sciences and earned his Bachelors in History.
“I chose to work at NOCA because the establishment really does embrace the good, true, and beautiful. As a team, I have had the honor and pleasure of working with individuals who believe in making a difference in our youth. We all find great enjoyment in seeing the fruits of our work come to fruition.”
Steffen enjoys reading, BBQ grilling, and tennis. He very much enjoys Crime and Punishment. The literary work highlights deep intense struggles of man at its most vulnerable. It grapples with important themes of morality in a defined, raw way.
Mr. Yates attended Liberty University for his Bachelor of Music in World Cultures and a Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics. He attended the University of Toledo for his Master of Arts in Philosophy.
“NOCA's mission to provide a public classical education was appealing to me since I am passionate about the importance of a rigorous, high-quality education and its broad availability.”
Josiah enjoys reading, writing, watching movies, and playing video games. His favorite book is The Brothers Karamazov, because Dostoevsky's understanding of human nature and relationships is continually illuminating.
Mrs. Haworth Jeanine earned her Master of Science in Public Health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her hobbies include: gardening, hiking & walking, arts & crafts, pets & chickens. Her favorite literary work is 𝑾𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑫𝒐𝒘𝒏 by English author Richard Adams because she loves animal adventure stories. She explains why she chose our school, "I have decided to teach at NOCA because of its commitment to high expectations for academics and personal character.”
Ms. Rodriguez earned her Masters at Bowling Green State University in Curriculum and Development. She joined NOCA because of the community and the administration’s support. She enjoys reading, walking, and gardening. Her favorite book is The Count of Monte Cristo, because it shows how man can overcome any obstacle that comes their way.
Co-Curriculars – Music, Art, PE
Mrs. Niese attended the University of Toledo to receive her degree in Multi-Age Visual Arts Education. She is joining the NOCA team this fall in the Art department!
In her free time she enjoys making art, gardening, and spending time with her husband. They love being outside, going on walks, working on home projects, and spending time with family. Her favorite art is sewing and quilting which her great grandmother taught her. In addition to sewing, she enjoys learning and creating all art forms, a big reason why she loves teaching art!
“My favorite classical book is To Kill a Mockingbird. This is the first classical book I remember reading in grade school. We learned a lot about the importance of the book and the history of America during this time. This book is also my favorite because of my memories of my grade school being a positive educational experience. Some of these memories are a part of the reason I became a teacher. I chose to work at NOCA because I loved the balance between what I loved about both Catholic and public education. The values and classical education curriculum NOCA is built on really drew my interest. I am very excited to be at NOCA this year where students get to create art every other day!”
Mr. Humason attended the University of Toledo for his Bachelors in Visual Arts, Masters, and PHD in Education. He is a founding member of NOCA faculty and loved the initiative of the school focused on truth, goodness, and beauty.
Jeff enjoys fixing things, especially cars. He also enjoys drawing, sculpting, and painting.
Mrs. Blank attended the University of Akron for both her Bachelor of Arts in Music and her Master of Music in Music Education.
“I work at NOCA because I believe in the mission of the school and feel a strong sense that this is what God wants me to be doing with my life in this season.”
Angie enjoys running, reading, and flower gardening. She enjoyed the classical book “The Blue Castle” by Lucy Maude Montgomery because it’s a magical little book with all the elements every great book should have: relatable and lovable characters, an engaging story, the ability to exhort the audience to higher values and living, an opportunity to reflect on life, and the ability to transcend time and touch modern day readers.
Mrs. Hulbert attended Wheaton College and received her Bachelor of Music Education. Prior to NOCA she spent 20 years homeschooling her two sons. “Coming to NOCA was consistent with the educational decisions we had already made in our own family. As our culture declines, a virtue based education becomes essential in preserving a civilized society, one in which freedom and responsibility walk hand in hand.” In her free time, she has directed the musicals for CHOICE Homeschool Co-op for the past 14 years. She also enjoys swimming and hiking, crossword puzzles, and spending time at her family's lake home on Coldwater Lake, Michigan. “My favorite classical book is the Bible because there is so much wisdom and guidance for life. Much of Western Culture is founded on Biblical principles, such as the Ten Commandments and treating others the way you want to be treated. We also learn virtues such as honesty, integrity, compassion, and humility. We learn to care for the weak, and to think of others as more highly than ourselves. In my opinion, the Bible is the best text available for training the mind and improving the heart.”
Mrs. Simpson is the newest addition to our growing band program, partnering with our talented band director, Mrs. Blank, to bring our musicians to the next level!
"I have been volunteering with the band for the last year and the students and adults in the program have been a joy to work with! They are the reason I want to work at NOCA."
Rachel earned her Bachelors of Music at Bowling Green State University. She enjoys reading, being outdoors, spending time with family, and of course, playing instruments! Her favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird: "This book has impacted how I think and act, reminding me that the children around me are always watching."
Mrs. Eckloff attended Kent State University to study Fitness Specialist/Exercise Physiology in Physical Education. Tammi wants to teach at NOCA because it has a close-community feel and caring people who are eager to learn.
She enjoys walking, biking, gardening, reading her Bible, enjoying animals and the monarch’s full cycle of development. Her favorite book is Charles Mulli: We Are Family (Biography) by Janet & Geoff Benge.
“Reading this book shows the reality of the difficulties of life for a young child in Africa and how he overcame deep devastation to experience a full and abundant life. Reading this book will change your life.”
Mr. Mansor attended Tiffin University for his Bachelors degree. “I love the mission NOCA is providing to students, to create virtuous citizens through classical education.” His favorite classical book is Hamlet; it was his first introduction into classical books. Dylan enjoys fishing and reading in his free time.
Student Support Services
Mr. Goodman earned his Masters at Bowling Green State University. I chose to work at NOCA because almost 4 years ago I heard about a school that offered an alternative education that was more than just test scores and was built on strong virtues. I then heard they needed help with building their special education program from scratch. It seemed like a very enticing challenge fresh out of graduate school, so I jumped in! Dylan enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, reading new novels, collecting tchotchkes, and building models. His favorite classic book is Les Misérables by Victor Hugo, a story of class struggle, change, love, and much more. “We all can sympathize with Jean Valjean and the people suffering in France in the early 19th century. The promises and hopes of a brighter tomorrow through surviving abuses from a broken world is inspiring.”
Mrs. Crawford attended BGSU for her Bachelor of Science in Technology.
“I chose to work at NOCA to be able to help better the community through teaching children what is true.”
She loves spending time with family, spending time outside, crafting and cooking and baking. Her favorite book is To Kill A Mockingbird, because she loves how it dives into the good vs evil and deep subjects of racism and prejudice.
Mrs. Bucher attended North Baltimore Local School District. She loves being with kids and chose to work at NOCA because of the amazing students. She enjoys reading, golf, and binge watching movies.
Mrs. Dillabaugh loves working with children, but is most excited to work where her kids go to school. Corinne enjoys family time, being a plant mom, gardening, and any outdoor activities. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is her favorite classical book because it shows the importance of relationships. “I especially enjoyed Elizabeth’s boldness!”
Mrs. Foxwell attended Ross Community College. She enjoys word searches, shopping, and coloring.
“I choose NOCA because I love how everyone is here for the children. Kids still have rules and are taught respect and are also expected to show it as well.”
Mr. Joyner earned his Bachelors at Great Lakes Christian College.
“I really can get behind the philosophy of education that the school promotes.”
John enjoys reading, gaming, and spending time with family. His favorite book is A Grief Observed by C. S. Lewis because of the way he deals with the loss of his wife and his idea of an all-powerful, all-loving God.
Mrs. Kania is a licensed Massage Therapist through the State of Ohio and a former firefighter and EMT for Perrysburg Township.
“My kids started at NOCA the first year; I volunteered almost daily in art, gym and Latin. I believe in NOCA's mission and model. I have numerous family members who attend NOCA, as well as family who work at NOCA or volunteer their time and talents to serve the school. I love the students and families and friends I've made at this school.”
Jodie enjoys art, reading, gardening, cooking, baking, and preserving. Her favorite classical book is by Jules Verne; Journey to the Center of the Earth. She finds the book intriguing and how it helps keeps imagination alive.
Mrs. LaDeana Mccallum is excited to be a part of the NOCA team. Mrs. Mccallum is a native of Chicago and graduated at the University of Illinois at Chicago with her BSN in Nursing. She enjoys cooking gourmet meals for her family and friends and exploring new travel destinations with her children. She is an avid reader and has a passion for writing lifestyle articles for her neighborhood magazine. Her favorite classical book is Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. She loves how the novel highlights the value of hard work, sacrifice, and love for family. Mrs. Mccallum chose to work at NOCA because of a “sense of family and community” she felt at the open house and the classical education that it provides. She looks forward to being a part of the joy and beauty of learning with each family, student, and faculty.
Mrs. Reece earned a Bachelors at Miami University.
“I needed to work with kind, like minded adults that were also passionate about teaching & mentoring kids. “
Megan enjoys pickleball, reading, and laughing with my family & friends. Her favorite classic book is Little Women. “I don’t have any sisters & I enjoyed reading about their relationships. I think that family should be celebrated & appreciated when it is healthy & wise to do so.”
Mrs. Romeo earned her Associates at Bowling Green State University. She chose to work at NOCA for the values and virtues the school upholds.
Lauren enjoys thrifting, reading, and crafting. The Odyssey is her favorite because it is full of excitement and suspense.
Mrs. Debra Schaller earned a Bachelor of Science in Education University of Toledo. “Mrs. Howell and I worked together before we both retired and she kept telling me about NOCA. I was interested in the classical education model where the content is rich and expectations are high.” Debra keeps busy outside of school with her Photography business and as a Bereavement Doula. She also enjoys baking and sewing. Her favorite book is Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. “I love it because I could relate to the characters and especially Jo. Jo was a tomboy and so was I. She wasn’t afraid to try new things and she loved her sisters. I probably read that book 10 or more times and felt like I was with family every time. A good book does that.”
Mrs. Danielle Scott attended The University of Toledo, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art History. “My family is entering its fourth year at NOCA. When my youngest began kindergarten last year, and we made the decision for me to work outside of the home, applying to work as an Instructional Aide was a natural choice. Alongside the obvious benefits of being on the same schedule and being in the same building as my children, I am also passionate about the values NOCA holds, the high-quality education, and the caliber of people that I work with each day. I truly love being part of the NOCA family.” One of her favorite classical books is Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, a timeless story about love and family. While its subject matter is focused on societal norms of the period it was written in, the lessons and morals easily translate into our modern world. She enjoys the realistic and relatable characters, especially the development that takes place in the story's two main characters as they overcome their own biases, prejudices, and (of course) their pride. Daneille enjoys gardening, reading, painting, drawing, spending time in nature, Bible study, fishing, and spending time with her family absolutely anywhere.
Mr. Szeliga earned a Bachelors at Bowling Green State University. “I highly appreciate NOCA’s moral and educational values. Truth, Goodness, and Beauty are ideals that everyone should strive toward. In my year of working here, I was able to witness first-hand an educational system unlike any I have seen. NOCA and its faculty have certainly helped to teach and guide some of the most excellent young adults and children I have met in my lifetime.” Christian enjoys flying, philosophy, reading, lifting, going on walks, and writing stories. His favorite classic is The Great Gatsby. The book has a great number of messages in it. “My personal favorite highlight is the book’s focus on the potentially horrible consequences of living an immoral, irresponsible, and careless lifestyle.”