Mr. Kienitz is a passionate and dedicated educator with over 30 years of experience in teaching, administration, and school leadership. After graduating from a Christian high school in southwest Colorado, he went on to attend Calvary Bible College in Kansas City and then earned his B.A. in English Education at the University of Northern Colorado. He continued his education with two years in the US Peace Corps in the Kingdom of Tonga, working in elementary schools, before receiving his M.A. in Educational Leadership from New Mexico State University in 1999.

Mr. Kienitz will be serving as the High School Bible and High School English Teacher this academic year, bringing with him his exceptional teaching skills and expertise in both subjects.

Mr. Kienitz is delighted to be part of the Piñon Hills Academy community for his third year and feels privileged to witness what God is doing there! He previously served as Principal of Farmington High School for nine years and is now fully committed to helping students reach their maximum potential. In his free time, he enjoys traveling the world with his loving wife and two daughters.

“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.”

— Philippians 1:9-10

Mrs. Colomb is a knowledgeable educator with over a decade of experience in teaching and leading children’s ministries. After dedicating eight years to caring for her family, prioritizing their love and attention, Mrs. Colomb made the decision to further her skills and returned to higher education. She taught Middle School Science in Kirtland. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University and completed her administration internship at Piñon Hills Academy.

Mrs. Colomb is set to serve as the High School Science Teacher for the upcoming academic year, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her students.

A kindhearted mother and wife, Mrs. Colomb treasures the time she spends with her husband and three beautiful children above all else.

“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God and we take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

Mrs. Parker is a truly invaluable member of our community. For many remarkable years, she has served as administration assistant, offering her warm and caring support to our PHA families and our staff. She believes that life is an ever-changing gift—one that should be spent with intentionality and respect for time.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

— Proverbs 4:23

Ms. Davis is an experienced educator, with years of experience working with special needs students and coaching cheerleading. She has a passion for helping young people reach their full potential and is dedicated to creating a positive environment. With her caring and compassionate nature, Ms. Davis is sure to make a lasting impact in the lives of our students!

“With God all things are possible…”
— Matthew 19:26

Ms. Hamilton is an inspiring and devoted Early Childhood Education teacher who always puts her students first. She draws inspiration from the story of Ruth and loves to remind everyone that God is always present in our lives, guiding us to do the right thing. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time in the great outdoors with her family, training horses, and practicing her rodeo skills. Furthermore, she cherishes the memories created at the family ranch in Wyoming as they brings her joy and a sense of peace.

“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for you work will be rewarded.”
— 2 Chronicles 15:7

Ms. Fauteaux is an incredibly passionate and dedicated teacher. Her teaching style is enthusiastic, creative, and structured – traits that allow children to thrive and learn in her classrooms! Her favorite biblical figure is Sarah, whose example of patience and trust in God's promises has inspired Jessica greatly. When not teaching, Jessica loves to garden, cheer on her son from the stands during baseball games, and play with her two beloved German Shepherds.

“Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
— Mark 10:9

Mrs. Brooks is a passionate and creative teacher who has spent the over 15 years teaching preschool and kindergarten children. She's ecstatic to be able to do what she loves - combining her love of learning with her Christian faith in a truly unique way. Mrs. Brooks encourages her students to grow through exploration, hands-on activities, and lots of fun! Her favorite person in the Bible is Job, for his unshakable commitment to God even when he faced adversity. When not in the classroom, Mrs. Brooks can be found exploring nature with her family or pursuing her hobbies which include photography, painting, reading, singing, camping and so much more!

“Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever.”  —‭‭ Daniel 12:3

Mrs. Lovato has been an inspirational educator for over 12 years, helping cultivate a positive learning environment for students through her unique 'work hard, play hard' teaching style. Combining immersive project-based instruction with music and movement ensures her classes are always engaging and enriching. Mrs. Lovato's love of education is born out not only in her professional life, but also in her admiration of Biblical figure Joseph and his faith-filled devotion to Mary. When not inspiring students or spending time with family, Mrs. Lovato enjoys singing, playing the piano, reading, camping, and riding her RZR off-roading in the mountains - activities which demonstrate her excitement for life!

“My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.' I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me. Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong.”

— 2 Corinthians 9-10

Ms. Wallace is an inspiring educator who has dedicated the last 28 years of her life to teaching children. She connects with her students using her energetic hands-on approach and passionate love for learning. Ruth is her favorite Biblical figure because of her strength and perseverance which reflect Patricia's own resilient attitude in life. Her remarkable passion for education, coupled with the motivational drive to make a lasting impact on young minds, make Ms. Wallace a true asset to the Pinon Hills Academy family. When Patricia is not in the classroom, she often indulges in creative hobbies such as woodworking and turning bowls.

"I can do all things through Christ, Who gives me strength..."

— Philippians 4:13

Ms. Colburn is a passionate educator who has been working in the field of education for over 23 years. Her kind heart and keen eye for growth enable her to connect with students on an individual level and help them reach their full potential. Ms. Colburn's favorite biblical figure, Paul, is a source of inspiration - showing us that despite our sins, God still loves us regardless and can always help us along our journey. In her spare time, she enjoys reconnecting with her family close to nature - especially at the lake, which provides peace and tranquility to her soul. Ms. Colburn is an inspiring role model both inside and outside the classroom!

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
— Hebrews 11:1

Mrs. Foster is an experienced and caring teacher whose enthusiasm for helping children learn has followed her through her extensive 27 year career in the public school system. She has a true commitment to finding creative ways of teaching that keep her students engaged and actively learning in fun and interesting ways. Her favorite biblical figure is Joseph - a testament to her strong faith and dedication - who inspires her to continue pursuing excellence despite any trials or tribulations. When she’s not at school, Mrs. Foster loves spending quality time with her family, especially her kids and grandchildren who bring joy to her life!

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” — John 3:16-17

Mrs. Martin is a passionate and dedicated educator who has been inspiring students to reach their highest potential for 25 years, and counting! After 24 years of teaching second grade in public education, she found her place at Piñon Hills Academy where she utilizes her structured approach to teaching and creates a fun learning environment by incorporating songs into her lessons. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Martin enjoys spending time with her family—cheering on her son during his baseball games and helping her husband run their hunting and fishing lodge. With such an extensive career, she brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience that is a great asset to the Piñon Hills Academy community.

“I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me.”
— Philippians 4:13

Ms. Peralta is an experienced, caring educator who has been teaching for over 30 years, dedicating almost a decade to Piñon Hills Academy! She specializes in math and reading and believes strongly in imparting knowledge about the five senses God gave us. When she isn't in the classroom, she loves being outdoors and cherishing time spent with God's beautiful creation. Her hobbies include nature photography, which allows her to make lasting memories while connecting with nature.

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
— John 13:34

Mrs. Foss is an experienced and passionate educator who has been inspiring students for the past 30 years! Having taught at Farmington Municipal Schools, University of New Mexico, and Piñon Hills Academy, she has a wealth of knowledge in reading and other important educational arts.

Mrs. Foss approaches her teaching with enthusiasm and warmth, always striving to reinforce positive behaviors and build unconditional relationships with her students. She believes that children are our future, as well as precious treasures that need to be nurtured - which is why she feels so blessed to be teaching at Piñon Hills Academy.

In her free time, she enjoys studying Jesus’ teachings from the Bible, going on invigorating hikes, indulging in books of all varieties, preparing delicious meals for her family, and spending quality time with loved ones.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
— Philippians 4:13

Ms. Alenka Mills brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience gained from teaching in various European countries. As a doting mother, she finds great strength in the example of Mary - admiring her unwavering dignity, purity and majesty despite difficult circumstances. In her free time, Ms. Mills loves spending quality time with her daughters by crafting, painting, and sewing together. We are thrilled to have such an inspiring professional onboard with us!

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.”
— John 6:47

Mrs. Karst is a dedicated and compassionate educator, passionate about inspiring her students to reach their full potential. Her 20+ years of experience as a social worker has given her invaluable insight into how best to nurture and develop young minds, giving them the tools to grow in knowledge of Biblical lessons and beyond. When she isn’t teaching, Mrs. Karst turns to running marathons and reading for inspiration― two passions that have been with her since finding solace in Leah’s story from the Bible. As an experienced mother of two children, and wife of over two decades, she leads by example choosing Tim Notke's famous quote as life mantra: “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard."

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10

With over five year of experience in education, Mrs. Foster's passion lies in tailoring lessons to meet the unique learning styles of her fifth grade students at Pinon Hills Academy. Her professional and caring approach makes her an invaluable addition to the PHA family. In her time away from the classroom, Mrs. Foster enjoys spending quality time with her family; movie nights with delicious snacks are a favorite! Mrs. Foster brings a caring and professional approach to her role, making her an invaluable addition to the PHA family!

“Do everything in love.”
— Corinthians 16:14

Mrs. Sanders is an experienced educator who brings nealry a decade of expertise to Piñon Hills Academy. She firmly believes that learning should be enjoyable while also maintaining a firm commitment to high expectations for her students. With loving care and support, Mrs. Sanders helps her students reach their potential and encourages them to embrace new opportunities while serving God. The Bible character Moses is particularly inspiring to Mrs. Sanders because of his humble transformation into a great leader with the help of God's guidance. When she's not teaching, she likes to bond with her family on camping trips, hunting excursions and fishing trips in the great outdoors. A genuine, compassionate and dedicated teacher, Mrs. Sanders is truly devoted to unlocking success in every one of her students!

“[Love] bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
—1 Corinthians 13:7

Mr. Bonner is a dedicated math teacher who brings a unique coaching approach to his classroom. He loves watching his students experience the lightbulb moment when confusion turns into understanding and strives to provide them with the tools to reach that level of comprehension on their own. In his personal life, he takes inspiration from the Biblical figure David, whose courage, faithfulness and desire for redemption serve as an example for us all. When not teaching or studying the Bible, he enjoys exploring nature through rock hunting and hiking, reading and spending quality time with family playing board games.

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you,
for this sums up the Law and the prophets.”

— Matthew 7:12

Ms. Brokop is an experienced and compassionate educator who has dedicated her life to teaching since 1988. With a career that has taken her from New York to Colorado and eventually to New Mexico, she has taught nearly every grade - from Pre-K to high school - and has encouraged excellence in all of her students. After taking a year off after retirement, she was thrilled at the chance to teach at Piñon Hills Academy! Her relaxed teaching style puts the person before the standards, building on their individual strengths. In her free time, MaryEllen enjoys road trips and walks by the river as well as tending to her many critters: nine chickens, one rooster, two horses, two dogs and three cats! She is a widow and cancer survivor who proudly practices her Messianic Jewish faith - with John the Evangelist as her favorite figure from the Bible.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”
— Proverbs 3:5-6

Mr. Hamilton is an experienced educator with a career spanning 25 years in Shiprock, Kirtland and Aztec. His specialty lies in teaching middle school students, often using everyday life to illustrate scientific concepts. He delights in the moments when students who have been struggling suddenly understand a task, and witnessing the joy and pride that follows.

When Mr. Hamilton isn't teaching, he indulges his passion for horse-training, often enjoying the company of family and friends on rodeos throughout the Southwest. A truly dedicated professional with an undeniable love for both children and animals alike!

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16

Mr. Maxwell is a passionate educator with 26 years of public school teaching under his belt. His students have always commented on his warm, caring demeanor and his dedication to helping them reach their full potential. Mr. Maxwell prioritizes spending quality time with his beloved family - he's married and has five children, two of whom are grandchildren. His commitment to quality education and providing support to young minds makes him an invaluable asset at Piñon Hills Academy, and we feel so fortunate to have him as part of our team.

“You can't always control circumstances.
However, you can always control your attitude, approach, and response.”
— Tony Dungy

Bio Coming Soon!

Bio Coming Soon!

Mrs. Cruz is an inspiring and passionate educator. She has dedicated her career to supporting students in Special Education, Title One Reading Intervention, and School Health Offices from K-12th grades. She is eager to make a difference in our community, through her work at Piñon Hills Academy. She also imparts her extensive knowledge by coaching Aztec Dance for middle school and high school students. Mrs. Cruz's enthusiasm, commitment, and compassion are keys to her success as an educator.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged,
for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
— Joshua‬ ‭1:9‬ ‬‬‬‬‬‬3:16

Randi Colomb is a caring and compassionate educator who has dedicated her career to the growth and development of children. She brings years of experience in youth programs to her role at Piñon Hills Academy, where she is highly regarded for her enthusiasm. What really fills her heart with joy is hearing the voices of her students praising God - a blessing that touches her soul every time. Randi loves spending quality time with her daughter Teddi and their pup Dahlia, doing outdoor activities like camping and hiking, as well as art projects.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

— Philippians 4:13

Ms. Vasquez is an enthusiastic and dedicated Spanish Instructor. She is passionate about traditional teaching methods and loves guiding her students in their language learning journey. Ms. Vasquez demonstrates a patient and caring approach to her teaching, taking the time to ensure her pupils have a deep understanding of the material.

Ms. Dayish is an enthusiastic Educational Assistant, making a real difference in the lives of her students. Working for three years in educational institutions such as Casa Montessori and Acts Christian Academy, she has gained invaluable experience in working with children. An avid lover of road trips and family time, Mykaila also holds dear her favorite Biblical hero - Ruth - whom she deeply connects to due to her unwavering faithfulness to the Lord and dedication to hard work. Above all, what brings Mykaila joy is seeing her students grow over time, building strong relationships with them, as well as sharing meaningful memories.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9

Mrs. Dotson has a deep appreciation for education; previously teaching Sunday School. Taylor lives by the words of Psalms 23 and admires Esther for taking a stand against evil to save God’s people. he loves to draw on her longstanding faith to develop meaningful connections with her students. Taylor's enthusiasm for learning inspires her students to reach their fullest potential. Outside of the classroom Taylor loves spending time outdoors with her husband and children, fishing, and camping.

Ms. Lenderman has brought an incredible level of dedication and enthusiasm to her position as an Educational Assistant, serving the community for over a year while also pursuing a degree in early childhood education. Her commitment to helping children shine is evident in all she does, and her compassionate nature inspires those around her. Beyond the classroom, Chelsea enjoys unwinding with her family and exploring creative outlets such as photography, crocheting and reading. With her warm heart and uplifting spirit, Ms. Lenderman is truly making a lasting difference in the lives of many.

"So do not fear, for I am with you."
— Isaiah 41:10

Mrs. Stow is an inspiring and devoted educator who brings enthusiasm and passion to the classroom each day. She has been working in the school setting for nearly a decade, taking on many different roles with success. Her true goal remains the same: to make a positive impact in her student’s lives. She believes it is an honor to assist them in their learning journey and loves when she can provide guidance and support they can count on.

When Mrs. Stow isn’t teaching, she enjoys spending quality time with her family by exploring nature through activities such as hiking, paddle boarding, and going on off-roading adventures. An outdoors enthusiast at heart, she cherishes these moments spent connecting with loved ones in the natural world around her.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you.
When you walk through fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.” ‭‭
— Isaiah‬ ‭43:2

Ms. Tomczyk is an enthusiastic and caring part of our Piñon Hills Academy family. She started out in the Child Development Center, where her commitment to helping others was undeniable. She is highly motivated to continue helping children grow and learn. Her sincere dedication and genuine care for those around her is truly inspiring.

"When you go through deep waters, I will be with you."

— Isaiah 43:2