Profiles

Tim Peterson
Superintendent
503.378.1219

Tim holds a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Liberty University in addition to a Master’s Degree from Heritage University in Educational Leadership and a second Masters from Corban in Business Administration. Tim and his wife Tricia (also an SA staff member) have three biological children (Trevor and daughter-in-law Harper, Taylor and son-in-law David, and Tanner) and a son (Carlos) and daughter (Malena) who joined their family as blessings. They are proud grandparents of Cooper and Kysen Peterson. The Petersons enjoy entertaining, working on their property, and spending time with family.

I am excited to watch the Lord do great things through Salem Academy. It is an honor to work with such a great leadership team watching students grow and develop both spiritually and academically. I look forward to serving God, staff, students, and the parent-partners as we watch God work through His school.

Serving SA Since: 2023

Lindsy Brownell
Secondary Principal
503.399.7360

Married to her husband Jason for 20 years. They have four sons- Brady (SA ‘23), Logan, Hayden, and Evan. She received a B.S. in Elementary Education from Corban University, Masters Degree in Educational Leadership from GCU, Masters Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Cairn University, and currently half way completed in earning PhD in Christian Education Leadership from Columbia International University.

I love our SA family! This community is not only about education, but also growing and serving the Lord. I love serving with a team that loves the Lord and loves teaching His truth. Our student body is priceless and such a special community of kids.

Serving SA Since: 2014

Jena Bates
2nd Grade Teacher
503.399.7360

Serving SA Since: 2026

Lori Bates
1st Grade Teacher
503.399.7360

Lori grew up in the central Columbia Gorge area. Both parents worked in the educational system where her mom was an administrative secretary and her dad a K-12 music teacher. She graduated from Sherman High School, then Warner Pacific University with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. She later completed her teaching license through Corban University. She married her husband, Robert, and they have 3 adult children and one student at Salem Academy. She enjoys gardening, bird watching, home decorations, and taking walks.

I am so humbled and grateful to be a part of the Salem Academy family. SA is the completion of a dream God put in my heart as a young woman to work in a Christian Elementary School. I can’t imagine working with better people, and having my daughter get a better education elsewhere.

Serving SA Since: 2015

Emilie Becker
Preschool 4's Assistant/Childcare Teacher
503.370.8488

Emilie grew up going to public school in the Salem-Keizer School District and went to Corban University right after high school. She grew up in Oregon and could not imagine living anywhere else. She is passionate about music and singing, and enjoys being around friends and family, reading, playing volleyball, and going to the beach. She loves being around and working with kids, so working at Salem Academy feels like a great fit.

The Salem Academy family is beyond kind and welcoming, which causes me to love going to work every day.

Serving SA Since: 2020

Brenda Beebe
3rd Grade Teacher
503.399.7360

Brenda went to Western Oregon University for her teaching license and then to Corban University for a Master Degree. She is married to her wonderful husband, Dana, and they have three adult children (two boys/one girl), as well as seven beautiful grandchildren! She has a Russian tortoise name Teddy for her class pet, and she collects black and white cows!

I feel blessed to be part of Salem Academy, because I have the opportunity to teach my students about Jesus and His love for them. Children need to feel safe and loved before they are able to learn, and this school provides this. The staff and parents are the best to work with!

Serving SA Since: 2004

Nicole Britton
Elementary Vice Principal (K-6)
503.378.1201

Mrs Britton has her degree in Educational Administration Leadership & Licensure from Portland State University, her M.S. in Instructional Design & Technology Integration from Walden University, and a B.S. in Education from Corban University.  Mrs. Britton has 20 years of teaching experience, 7 years of instruction coaching experience, 3 years of experience working in a behavior modification group home and 3 years of experience as a Children’s Ministry director. She lives in Aumsville with her husband Dan, who is also a teacher. They have 3 adult children. She attends church at Calvary Chapel Salem. Her hobbies include outdoor activities, gardening, and technology.

I love working at SA because we get to help students know Jesus and grow in their faith. The work we all do here at SA has ETERNAL impact!

Serving SA Since: 2022

Jason Brownell
Honors Functional Anatomy, H Bioethics, Honors Biology II, Genetics, Worldview Analysis, & JH Pixar
503.378.1219

Happily married to wife, Lindsy, and privileged to minister alongside her at SA where she is the Secondary Principal; they have four amazing boys. Jason holds an undergraduate degree from Western Baptist College in Biology Education and a Master’s Degree (M.Ed) from Corban University in Instruction & Curriculum Design. He loves to go camping, fishing, and golfing with family, while spending time serving together on short-term missions trips to various parts of Oregon & other countries.

It is a privilege to minister to students using God’s Word and creation as an instructional tool, so they can become defenders & compassionate ambassadors for Jesus Christ.

Serving SA Since: 2003

Terran Campbell
Custodian

Serving SA Since:

Lisa Canaday
Elementary Principal (K-6)
503-399-7360

Serving SA Since: 2024

Jayden Crew
9th & 10th English, Honors English I & II

Jayden graduated from Pensacola Christian College in May of 2024. He has a Bachelor’s in English and History Education. He enjoys college football, cooking, studying literature, and good conversation with friends.

As a 2020 graduate of SA, I am beyond excited to join the teaching staff this year. I learned so much at Salem Academy and experienced true spiritual growth as a young man through class, small groups, and chapels. I cannot wait to see how the Lord uses this year in the lives of our students.

Serving SA Since: 2025

Alyssa Darst
5th Grade Teacher
503.399.7360

Alyssa graduated from Corban University (after also graduating from Salem Academy) and received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She enjoys spending time with her husband, Jeremy, and their daughters Ellie and Harper.

I first became a part of the Salem Academy community when I was in junior high. After receiving my teaching license, God opened up the door for me to be able to return to SA. I love being able to share my faith with my students and being part of a Christ-centered staff.

Serving SA Since: 2019

Tomiko Doten
International Student Program Director & HS Japanese
503.378.1219

Born in Fukuoka, Japan, after high school graduation Tomiko was recruited to work at Canon Marketing Corporation where she realized her true passion was in teaching. She left Canon and began working at English Conversation School. She met her husband, Steve, in Okinawa, Japan, where he was stationed with the Marine Corps and moved to Oregon in 1998 when they were married. They have two sons Tori and Kaiden. After graduation from PLU with a Biology degree, Tori joined the Navy and is currently stationed in South Carolina. Kaiden is in his senior year at U of O where he is studying Human Physiology.

I am privileged to work with my brothers and sisters in Christ. As the ISP Director, I have enjoyed meeting students from around the world with diverse culture and backgrounds and seeing them develop close lifelong bonds. I hope to have many chances to share the Good News with them and tell them how much God loves them. I enjoy seeing God’s plan for our students every year.

Serving SA Since: 2015

Nick Dugan
Custodian
503.378.1219

Serving SA Since:

Lucy Elgin
Theatre
503.378.1211

Serving SA Since: 2026

Jayme Fridley

Jayme Fridley

Jayme is a dedicated wife to Nolan and a proud mom. Currently, she has three children enrolled at Salem Academy, while her eldest (class of ‘25) is pursuing higher education.

In 2004 she received her degree in Education from Corban University, and went on to teach 2nd grade at Salem Academy. After dedicating her early career to teaching, Jayme has shifted her focus to support her family and contribute to their family business while continuing to advocate for a faith-based education.

Jayme’s passion for Christian education drives her commitment to fostering an environment where students can grow spiritually and academically. She firmly believes in the importance of guiding children to imitate Jesus as they strive to “grow in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man”. (Luke 2:52)

Serving SA Since: 2024

Alicia Garner
Preschool 3's/4's Teacher
503.370.8488

Serving SA Since:

Kristin Gawne
1st Grade Teacher
503.399.7360

Serving SA Since: 2024

Darcy Gunter
Childcare Supervisor
503.370.8488

Darcy Gunter has an Associates Degree in Science from Boise State University. She is married to her husband Keith and they have one son Kyle. She loves to spend time out in their yard & garden and go to the beach with the family. A new hobby that she loves to do is Diamond Art. Prior to coming to SA she worked at Riviera Christian School & Childcare for five years. Her family attends West Hills Community Church.

My family is new to SA. God called me to SA in July of this year and opened the door to a new opportunity for myself & my family. I am looking forward to working with the staff & families at SA and making many new friends.

Serving SA Since: 2023

Pauline Hacke
CAD Design & 3D Printing, JH Technology, 2D Animation
503.378.1211

Pauline has a Master’s degree in Instructional Technology from San Jose State University. She has taught computers to students at all grade levels since 2007 and is thrilled to take on the challenge of teaching middle and high school students (which have been her focus since 2020). She is married and has a daughter. She enjoys hiking, gardening, cooking (especially her native Chinese cuisine), and walking her dog, Max.

God called me to Salem Academy in 2018, shortly after my family relocated to Oregon from California. I had never worked at a Christian school before. I’m truly amazed at how God has continually prepared me professionally and spiritually to help students build a solid foundation in computer science and technology here at SA.

Serving SA Since: 2018

Helena Hennigan
Secondary Art
503.378.1211

Helena went to school at Indiana Wesleyan University where she received her undergraduate in Graphic Design and Illustration. She went on to receive a Masters of Teaching at Concordia University. She is married and they have two girls. She loves spending time on her family farm; gardening and playing with their girls.

The staff has been so welcoming. I had previously taught at in the public schools and then took a few years off to be a stay at home mom to my girls. It has been an amazing transition back into teaching. I was thinking about going back into teaching, and God knew where my family and I needed to go. It has been a wonderful experience.

Serving SA Since: 2021

Allison Hiley
Preschool 4's Teacher
503.370.8488

Allison graduated from George Fox University with a B.A. in Social Work where she met her husband Deryk. They have two daughters, Madilyn and Kacyn who have been a part of the Salem Academy family. She loves reading, watching movies, playing card/dice games, camping, and watching her girls dance ballet.

“My teaching position at Salem Academy can only be called a “God Thing.” I was actively looking for a part-time position that fit my already hectic schedule. I happened to look on the careers page at SA and it showed a childcare position open for afternoons. I thought sure why not. Long story short, I interviewed for the position, was offered a teaching position instead, and after much prayer and consideration, I listened to the call God had extended to me and accepted. I love being a part of something bigger than myself, actively teaching young lives about the grace and love of God.”

Serving SA Since: 2015

Karie Hutchings
6th Grade Teacher
503.378.1201

Karie grew up in Corvallis and attended Oregon State University. She and her husband have raised two daughters, both graduates of Salem Academy. She raises puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind and enjoys hiking, backpacking, kayaking, reading, and crafts.

I have been an educator at Salem Academy for many years because it is a place where I can equip students from a Christian perspective to know and serve God.

Serving SA Since: 1992

Jennifer Imig
Physical Education (K-6)
503.399.7360

Jennifer grew up in northwest Iowa and received her B.A. from Dordt University in Exercise Science and K-12 Physical Education, M.S. from Emporia State University in HPER. She began her teaching career in northern California and moved to Salem in 2007. Since then, she has served Salem Academy in a variety of roles both teaching and coaching volleyball. She is married to Aaron and has 3 children. She enjoys indoor cycling, hiking, watching any sporting event, reading a good book and chocolate milk.

I love how God is the center of all we do at Salem Academy. Whether it is in the classroom, or out on a court or field, we use Biblical principles as we teach youth to grow in knowledge of God’s amazing creation and to glorify God in all they say and do. I enjoy being a part of the SA staff, they are a blessing!

Serving SA Since: 2007

Brittanie Jeppe
Bridge 56 Office Manager
503.399.7360

Brittanie was born and raised in Salem and graduated from Salem Academy in 2004. After attending college in both Tennessee and Alabama she returned to Oregon and completed her degree at Corban University. She and her husband Leighton have three kids, (little) Leighton, Annaleigh and Hadleigh. She loves sports! She played softball into her college years and now enjoys coaching her daughters. She loves watching football (Green Bay Packers) and hockey (Colorado Avalanche).

Being at Salem Academy again has felt like coming home. To be part of this community is such a joy and just the change I didn’t know I needed.

Serving SA Since: 2020

Autumn Johnson
Educational Support Services Teacher
503.399.7360

Autumn graduated from Willamette University in 2010 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix in 2024. Autumn and her husband, Sean, have 4 children together and a chocolate lab. She enjoys reading, gardening, watching her kids play sports, and movie nights with her family.

God’s plan is often not as straightforward as I would hope, but it’s always good. God called me to Salem Academy when I least expected it. Being part of this community is a huge blessing to our whole family.

Serving SA Since: 2024

Emily Johnston
Director of Development
503.378.1219

Emily grew up in Salem and attended Salem Academy from 7-12th grade.  After graduation, she spent some time in Arizona, but returned to Oregon where she met and married her husband Danny, gaining a bonus-son (Tyler) as well.  Together they have twin boys, Crew and Hudson. They owned a retail shop for several years here in Salem, but after Covid, she closed up shop and transitioned into working in Christian education. 
Her weekends are filled with all things “boy” - sports, car shows, and overall chaos control.  She loves home design and shopping, especially thrifting.

The boys were close to aging out of their current elementary school and I had been praying for an opportunity for them to stay in Christian school.  When Salem Academy called me not only about a job opening, but they also happened to have 2 spots left in the boy’s grade, I knew God was clearly opening a door for our family.  This job had been a great fit with fantastic staff - the community here is really like a family!  Bringing the boys over to start at Salem Academy has been a seamless transition and they are flourishing.  God answered a prayer for us and we are thrilled to be a part of the SA community!

Serving SA Since: 2025

Jeff Kline
Executive Director of Operations
503.378.1219

Jeff was born in Elmira NY, moving to Illinois his freshman year of High School. He attended Chemeketa and graduated from Barat College with a Bachelor’s degree in Administration with a concentration in Accounting. He has three children - two Salem Academy alumni and one graduating this spring.  He is known to many as “MacGyver” when it comes to problem solving.

I like being part of the solution, and I believe God called me here for that purpose.

Serving SA Since: 2012

Jana Koning
Kindergarten Teacher
503.399.7360

Jana was born and raised in Sunnyside, WA. She graduated from Dordt College with a degree in Elementary Education. She is married to Jason and they have three children: William, Aiden and Molly. She enjoys reading, camping, and spending time with family and friends.

I love that God has called me to teach at SA. This community of teachers and families are centered around Christ. I love that I am free to talk about my faith openly and love others. This school is a blessing to me and my family, and we are thankful everyday for this amazing gift.

Serving SA Since: 2015

Dawn Kropf
Accounts Receivable Coordinator
503.378.1219

Dawn and her husband are both alumni of Salem Academy, as well as their two daughters. They are also proud grandparents of two beautiful granddaughters and continue to reside in Silverton.

I love being a part of the Salem Academy family and feel truly blessed to be a part of this community.

Serving SA Since: 2006

Brace Langenwalter
Choir Director (5th-12th)
503.399.7360

Serving SA Since: 2026

Jeff Larson
World History, Geography, & Speech
503.378.1211

Jeff graduated from George Fox in 1992 and did graduate work at both Eastern Oregon University and Concordia University Irvine. He’s been married to Louise for over three decades. They have three kids and two grandkids. He enjoys coaching track and field (sprints and hurdles), and loves mountain biking, and growing beautiful flowers.

I have felt very welcome at SA from the moment I stepped on campus. It’s clear to me that sharing God’s grace is top priority here!

Serving SA Since: 2025

Nancy Loop
P.E. and Health Teacher
503.378.1211

Nancy is married to her best friend and they have been blessed with six kids - 1 girl & 5 boys. They also have 2 of the most amazing grandkids. As a family, they enjoy water sports, hiking, camping, singing, and can turn virtually anything into a competition. While their kids were young, Nancy worked part-time as an aerobics instructor and swim coach at The Courthouse Athletic Club. After her youngest entered Kindergarten, the Lord moved upon Nancy’s heart to finish a teaching degree that she had put on hold years earlier. In the Spring of 2022, she graduated from Corban University. The Lord guided her steps throughout the process, while her family cheered her on. Upon earning a teaching license with emphasis in both Health & PE, Nancy began teaching at Parrish Middle School. She was excited when a Health/PE position opened at Salem Academy, knowing this school prioritizes spiritual answers to the topics discussed in classes.

The Bible has much to say about physical, emotional, mental, and social health. I love having the freedom to incorporate spiritual wisdom into these life-impacting conversations at Salem Academy.

Serving SA Since: 2023

Lisa Morris
5th Grade Teacher
503.378.1201

Lisa received her BA in Education from Western Oregon University, taught in Christian schools and homeschooled her children. Keeping Christ in the center of her teaching is important. She is married to Ryan and they have two children: Emily and Andrew. As a family, they enjoy camping and Friday pizza & movie nights at home.

I am always amazed by God’s plans and provision. God has taught me throughout my years of teaching to be faithful and keep following His lead. Even when some doors close, He has shown me that He has great plans for me and my family. He opens doors that I didn’t even realize existed. I love being able to encourage students to trust God with their lives as well.

Serving SA Since: 2018

Rachel Onstott
Educational Support Services Director
503.399.7360

After growing up in Portland, Rachel received her bachelors degree from Washington State University, her Masters degree in teaching from George Fox University, and an ESOL endorsement from Western Oregon University. She spent the first thirteen years of her teaching career in public schools in the Portland metro area teaching as a classroom teacher and as an English language development teacher. Both her family and herself felt moved to relocate to the Salem area in the summer of 2023, and have settled in Dallas. Rachel has been married since 2006 and they have been blessed with two beautiful daughters. When not teaching she enjoys spending time with her family and two Ragdoll cats, and traveling as much as possible!

I am so thankful the Lord has brought me to Salem Academy as both a faculty member and as a parent and I can’t wait to be able to serve the Lord and the school community.

Serving SA Since: 2024

Jeneé Orso

Jeneé Orso
Librarian (K-12)
503.378.1211

Jenee graduated from George Fox University with a B.S. in Elementary Education. Married to Andre’, they have three sons Gabe (SA ‘12) Elias (SA ‘19), and Noah (SA ‘22); and two granddaughters Audrey and Layla.

I love being a part of the Salem Academy family as a parent and as a staff member. It is an honor and privilege to pray for our students, staff, and their families each day. The Lord called me the the mission field of Christian education knowing that the mission field was going to continue to grow each year. It is important to me that our students know how much they are loved and valued not only by their teachers, but also their Heavenly Father. I am so blessed every single day that I can be a small piece of that solid foundation they can build while they are here at SA.

Serving SA Since: 2007

Aimee Plotts
4th Grade Teacher
503.399.7360

Aimee has a degree in Psychology from Western Oregon University and holds a Masters of Arts in Teaching degree from Pacific University.  She has two amazing boys, Tillman and Lincoln, and they enjoy being outside and spending time with friends.  Baking and music bring her a lot of joy, too!

I have worked in public education and other private schools and nothing compares to Salem Academy and the community we have here.  My late friend, Trisha Duman, paved the way for me to join this awesome school, and I am forever grateful that God opened that door.

Serving SA Since: 2017

Pete Potloff

Pete Potloff

Pete serves as a Teaching Pastor at Salem Heights Church. He has spent over 15 years in Christian education, serving as a teacher, coach, and administrator in two schools, including 11 years on staff at Salem Academy. Pete is married to his wife, Holly, and they have three children—Jamin (SA class of ’23), Jase (SA class of ’25), and Kyla, a current high school student at Salem Academy.

Serving SA Since:

Jocelyn Ralston
Preschool 3's/4's Assistant

Serving SA Since:

Alan Rasmussen

Alan Rasmussen

Alan his wife Angela, have three kids attending Salem Academy. Ethan in 4th grade, and twins Lucas and Harper are in 6th grade. Alan is the owner of LHE Investments which does private financing and real estate investment. A 2004 accounting & finance graduate of Western Baptist (now Corban University), Alan has served and continues to serve in many board capacities and looks forward to serving on SA BOT, to steward this great resource God has provided in our community. His family enjoys playing golf, pickleball, and boating together. Alan also enjoys being able to help coach Salem Academy kids in various sports.

Serving SA Since: 2025

Jose Santana
Head Groundskeeper
503-378-1201

Serving SA Since: 2024

Jennifer Schreiber
Bridge 56 Study Club
503.399.7360

Serving SA Since: 2025

Felicia Sealey
Secondary Administrative Assistant & Yearbook
503.378.1211

Felicia is married to Clint and is the mother of Wyatt, James and Luke. She loves spending time with her immediate and extended family and enjoys weightlifting, golfing, hiking and camping.

I am so blessed to be a part of SA. God opened the door for my three boys and me to be a part of the SA family. We enjoy being a part of SA’s sports and getting to know the families here has been so rewarding.

Serving SA Since: 2025

Sarah Shadle
3rd Grade Teacher
503.399.7360

Serving SA Since: 2026

Joan Shelton
Childcare Assistant
503.370.8488

Joan is married and has one son who recently graduated from Salem Academy. She loves the beach and the outdoors.

I worked in the kitchen for 8 years until they went a different direction for school lunches. Then I decided to leave the company I was with and seek something at Salem Academy which landed me in the Preschool/Daycare. I feel this isn’t a job but something I love to do.

Serving SA Since:

Shauna Simeral
Kindergarten Teacher
503.399.7360

Shauna is a born and raised Oregonian. She received her B.A. in education from the University of Northern Colorado and her master’s degree from Western Oregon University. She taught third grade and first grade for several years in Mill City. Shauna has been married to Ira for over 15 years and they have four children together, Rylan, Dawson, Lexi, and Nora. She loves to spend time with her family outdoors, gardening, hiking, and swimming.

It is such a blessing for my family to be a part of the Salem Academy family. The families and staff of SA are amazing. I love teaching in a Christ-centered environment, where we can pray, serve, and learn about our God together. I am so thankful God called myself and my family to SA.

Serving SA Since: 2020

Sonya Stewart
Childcare Assistant
503.370.8488

Serving SA Since:

Sara Sullivan
Kindergarten Teacher
503.399.7360

Sara was born and raised in south Georgia. She met her husband while he was serving in the Navy. They moved to Oregon, after he retired, to be closer to his family. They have two boys who attend Salem Academy.  She has a BSED from Georgia Southern University and a Masters from Armstrong Atlantic University. She has been teaching for over 20 years, and enjoys reading mysteries, exercising, spending time with family and friends, and animal watching.

I had told my husband before we even married that I would NEVER live in Oregon. I am a southern girl. Well, God had other plans! He knew my family and I needed to be in Oregon and Salem Academy. The minute we toured the school I knew this is where we wanted our boys to go, and I knew I wanted to teach at SA. My family loves SA because of the family feel you get when you are here. SA is Christ-centered and a caring, loving place to work and go to school.

Serving SA Since: 2016

Amy Tuggy
Geometry
503.378.1219

Amy graduated from Covenant College in Georgia, then got married and moved to Oregon. She and her husband have three kids. She enjoys reading, hiking, playing board games, and traveling.

“God led me to the Salem Acaemy community, and I’m so thankful He did. I love the students, their families, and the staff!”

Serving SA Since: 2019

Melissa Turner
College/Career Coach & Senior Seminar
503.378.1211

Melissa graduated from Boise State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology/Social Sciences with an emphasis in Education. She taught high school social studies for 12 years, and coached a variety of sports, before staying home to raise our two boys, who currently attend Salem Academy. She volunteered in their elementary classrooms, as well as with the ASPIRE program (college and career mentor) at West Salem HS. Their family loves golfing, hiking, crabbing - anything outdoors, and all sports.

I am so excited to be a part of the SA family! It’s an absolute pleasure to be able to come along side these students to help them grow, plan, and reach their goals and dreams. I’m looking forward to helping students be successful!

Serving SA Since: 2021

Nathan Vande Burgt
Honors Biology I & Biology 1, Honors Physical Science & Physical Science

Nathan graduated from Calvin University in 2007 with a BS in Biology and Biochemistry. In 2015, he finished his PhD at the University of Pennsylvania studying interactions between tetherin and Ebola virus. Since then, he has completed two postdoctoral fellowships. The first at the University College Dublin studying pathogen survival in anaerobic digesters. The second, at the Oregon Health and Science University researching CMV vectors for HIV vaccines. He enjoys running with his wife and dog, hiking, commuting by bicycle, and board games.

I am excited to see how God will use me as I start a new career in teaching.

Serving SA Since: 2024

Matt VandeBurgt
H Algebra I, Algebra I, H Calculus I & II, H Chemistry, H Pre-Calculus, & H Physics
503.378.1219

Matt graduated from Dordt University in 2011 with a degree in Physics. Since then, he has enjoyed teaching at Salem Academy and loved every year!  He is married and is blessed with a baby boy.

I love the family that Salem Academy has become, and look forward to many more years of teaching here.

Serving SA Since: 2011

Heidi Vaubel
3rd Grade Teacher
503.399.7360

A lifelong Oregonian, Heidi grew up in Springfield and attended George Fox University in Newberg where she received her degree in Elementary Education. Over the years, she has taught Kindergarten, third grade, fourth grade, and students of all ages as a tutor for Sylvan Learning. She enjoys reading, outdoor activities, and spending time with her family, which includes husband Aaron, twin daughters Emily and Kaely, and son Ryan.

My journey at Salem Academy began when my own children started preschool here. A few years later, in an answer to prayer beyond what I had asked or imagined, God opened the door for me to join SA’s teaching staff. Being part of the SA family continues to be a huge blessing to me and my family. As a parent, I see my children thriving here, and I’m so grateful that they have teachers who love them and speak truth into their lives. As a teacher, I have the privilege of helping my students grow, not only academically, but spiritually as well. I couldn’t feel more blessed to have my family on both the giving and receiving end of SA’s mission and vision: To provide an excellent education, from a Christ-centered, Biblical perspective, so that our students might know and serve God.

Serving SA Since: 2015

Karly Vickroy
Preschool 4's Teacher
503.370.8488

Karly graduated from SA in 2002 and has taken several classes through Chemeketa Community College as well as many continuing education courses relevant to working in a preschool/childcare setting. In her free time she enjoys reading a good book, going to concerts, or a trip the beach with friends or family.

I am so excited to be a part of the SA family once again. After attending 8th-12th grades here, I came back to work in the preschool/childcare for 15+ years. Recently I left to continue my education and explore some other endeavors that the Lord led me on. This is such a fun, supportive, and important community, and I am so excited to be back sharing the love of Jesus with the families of SA.

Serving SA Since: 2023

Amy White
Custodian
503.378.1219

Serving SA Since: 2026

Deanna Wilson
Director of Preschool & Childcare
503.370.8488

Deanna attended Corban University for two years as a business management major and accounting minor. She worked for 10 years and then was home for 5 years with her two kids - Evan & Janelle - both SA alumni. While at home she started volunteering in the children’s ministry department at their church and eventually became the leader of the children’s program and officially on staff. She eventually started subbing in preschool and the rest is history. Over the years she has taken classes and trainings in early education and child development. Deanna has been married over 25 years years to Cory (an SA graduate and current staff member). She loves to spend time with family (immediate and extended), read, play with her guinea pigs, and enjoy the NW.

We were just going to keep our kids at SA for preschool and kindergarten and both our kids have graduated from SA after each attended for 14 years. I always say I fell into my job at SA but really I can see how God directed me here and used my previous experience and passion for working with children and their families for His use at SA.

Serving SA Since: 2004

Jacob Wolbaum
Secondary Vice Principal
503.378.1211

I’m married to my amazing wife, Genna, and we share our home with two lovable pugs. I earned my undergraduate degree from Portland State University, completed my first master’s at Liberty University, and am currently pursuing a second master’s in Educational Leadership at the American College of Education. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with Genna, golfing, fly fishing, and watching sports.

Coming to Salem Academy has always been a dream of mine. It offers the perfect blend of academic excellence, athletic opportunity, and spiritual growth for students. I feel incredibly blessed to be part of a school whose mission is to pursue excellence in all areas.

Serving SA Since: 2025

Rob Wood
6th Grade Teacher
503.378.1201

Rob Received his Bachelor’s degree from Corban Collage in Education with a minor in Bible and Music. He has taught fourth, fifth, and sixth grades. Married to Ruth Wood, a current art teacher at SA, they have two children and four grandchildren. He was a Civil War Reenactor for 10 years. Other hobbies include driving around in his 1980 MGB, fishing, and building model planes, cars, ships, and spaceships.

I started teaching at Christian Center, a small Christian school and then four years later Christian Center merged with SA. I enjoy being a teacher at Salem Academy because I get to share Jesus with my students, show them how much He loves them, and how they can learn to love Him more each day.  I am grateful we have a strong Christian Administration team.

Serving SA Since: 2004