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How it all started...
Ozaukee Christian School started when a group of parents wanted to make a difference in the lives of their children. They wanted an educational opportunity that offered sound academic, as well as Biblical, instruction. They also understood the importance of the bond between the home, the church, and the school, working together and wanted an educational environment that embraced this. The momentum behind Ozaukee Christian School began in the late 1980s, after much prayer and hard work, by this group of parents. The doors of the school opened for the first time in August of 1989, with thirteen students in kindergarten through 4th grade.
How it's Going...
As student enrollment grew, the need for additional classroom space became evident. After leasing from churches in the Port Washington and Saukville areas, the Lord led us to purchase a former strip mall in the Town of Trenton, just east of West Bend, on July 24, 2019. Read more about the journey to Trenton here.
Today, enrollment has grown to nearly 100 students in K3 through 8th grade. Graduates excel at local public and private high schools, then go on to higher education or the marketplace to serve the Lord with excellence and integrity
Where we are headed...
Ozaukee Christian School is passionate about cultivating the next generation to impact the world for God's glory. We are committed to doing everything we can to teach, train & exemplify what it means to be an authentic Christian pursuing His purpose for each of our lives. We can't wait to see what God has in store for the future of Ozaukee Christian School and each of our students.
Our Mission
In partnership with parents and churches, we integrate faith with learning using biblical principles to capture each student's heart and mind for Christ.
We are dedicated to academic excellence with a uniquely Christian perspective—one that places Jesus at the center of everything we do and acknowledges the Bible as our ultimate authority. We are committed to supporting, not supplanting, your God-given role as a parent. This means working with you to develop strategies that will help your child succeed. Our teachers will take time to listen to the goals, hopes and dreams you have for your child and work with you to see them to fruition.
Our Vision
Cultivating the next generation to impact the world for God's glory!
The influence your child will have in this world is unique to them. We come alongside students to help them find and develop their God-given talents for His glory. The faculty and staff at OCS model this by serving Christ through the work they do in the classroom, and the lives they lead outside of school. Each person brings his or her own unique perspective to the work they do.
Our Core Values
Commitment to strong parental involvement and responsibility.
Parents volunteer time and talents to build the school community and strengthen the educational process.
Understand accountability to parents and, ultimately the Lord.
Commitment to excellence of instructional materials and methods.
Provide learning opportunities for each child to reach his/her potential in Christ
Equip students with skills necessary to fulfill the call of Christ.
Intentionally develop a worldview that is consistent with Scripture.
Use firm, gentle, consistent discipline.
Commitment to the development of Christ-like character of students and staff.
Servanthood modeled by staff and expected of students.
Missions viewed as opportunities for today and tomorrow.
Learn basic Bible knowledge so that spiritual disciplines may be developed.
Commitment to Biblical policies and practices.
Integrity demonstrated in the classroom, playground, and office.
Follow the Matthew 18 principle.
Commitment to home, church, and school working together to disciple a child’s heart and mind for Christ.
Statement of Faith
We believe the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, authoritative, Word of God. (2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21)
We believe there is one God, eternally existent in three persons – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Genesis 1:1, Matthew 28:19, John 10:30)
We believe in the deity of Christ (John 10:33), His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23, Luke 1:35), His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15, 7:26), His miracles (John 2:11), His vicarious and atoning death (I Corinthians 15:3, Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 2:9), His resurrection (John 11:25, I Corinthians 15:4), His ascension to the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19) and His personal return in power and glory. (Acts 1:11, Revelation 19:11)
We believe in the absolute necessity of regeneration by the Holy Spirit for salvation because of the exceeding sinfulness of human nature; and that men are justified on the single ground of faith in the shed blood of Christ and that only by God’s grace and through faith alone we are saved. (John 3:16 – 19, 5:24; Romans 3:23, 5:8 – 9; Ephesians 2:8 – 10; Titus 3:5)
We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life, and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation. (John 5:28 – 29)
We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:9, I Corinthians 2:12 – 13, Galatians 3:26 – 28)
We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life. (Romans 8:13 – 14; I Corinthians 3:16, 6:19 – 20; Ephesians 4:30, 5:18)
We believe in the Genesis account of Creation. (Genesis 1 – 11)
Staff
Julie Ball
Teacher
I have a bachelor’s in elementary education, with a minor in Bible and cross-cultural communications, from North Central University in Minneapolis, MN and attended Saint Mary’s University in Winona, MN, for my master’s in education.
Teaching is my calling; I began with teaching my teddy bears and little sisters at three years old!
Raised in a Christian household, I was blessed with godly parents and biblical teachings from an early age. We attended church, where I learned about Jesus and studied Bible verses.
At the age of nine, I accepted Christ into my heart. I learned to serve through my church’s children’s ministry. Currently I attend Life Church in Germantown.
Having attended a Christian school as a teenager, I am excited by the opportunities to share God’s Word and the love of Jesus with my students. I get to teach, not only academically, but spiritually too!
Chris Bergstresser
Executive Director
I attended Bob Jones University in South Carolina where I received my bachelor’s degrees in professional studies, business management and biblical studies.
While I grew up going to church as often as possible and knew the stories of the Bible well, it was not until I was eighteen years old that I came to grips with my own sin and realized I needed a savior. My faith became real, and I repented of my sin and received the gift of salvation from Christ.
I was baptized in 2003 and attend First Baptist Church in West Bend.
I see OCS as an essential ministry, and it has impacted my family in just a short time. God has led me to be a part of advancing OCS’s ministry for generations to come.
In my spare time, I enjoy making use of my private pilot license.
Sara Benzschawel
Teacher
I earned my bachelor’s degree in liberal studies and my master’s in education from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon.
Growing up in Hartland, Wisconsin, my parents raised me with Christian values, and I have been a Christian for as long as I can remember.
Since moving back to Wisconsin, I have become a lot more involved in the church. I attend Life Church in Germantown with my husband and our three daughters.
I appreciate the sense of community at OCS, and I love to include hands- on experiences in my lessons. I do not have a favorite subject to teach because they are are all so exciting!
When I am not working, I love to spend time outdoors with my children. I enjoy photography, hiking, day trips and water parks.
Julie Burgmeier
Office Receptionist
I attended college for a degree in occupational therapy, but my desire was always to raise a family!
Now that I am a mother, I am excited about the education OCS offers. I am so happy to be a part of God’s plan here.
I grew up in a loving Christian home. We attended church, and I wanted to follow Jesus as a teen.
However, in my twenties I felt there must be more than routine religious obligation. My best friend and I sought Christ more deeply together, and the Holy Spirit has led us! Being exactly where the Father wants me is so fulfilling!
Today, the Lord continues to lead me in new directions, blessing me and my family. We attend a home fellowship group in West Bend.
In my spare time, I enjoy reading, writing and spending time with my family. I love to be active when the weather warms up!
Beth Brewer
Teacher
I attended King’s College in New York for my bachelor’s degree in elementary education and later earned my master’s in education from Cairn University in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. I have experience teaching around the world from my years traveling as a missionary.
Before I was saved, I was afraid of what would happen to me if Jesus came home. When I was six, my older sister convinced me of the importance of the gospel, and my dad explained its significance in my life. I prayed with him and accepted Christ. I continue to learn more and more every day!
I attend Emmaus Bible Church in West Bend, where my husband is a pastor.
I am excited to discover God’s world with my students at OCS! I love the honesty and curiosity of young children.
My husband and I enjoy biking together. I love visiting the lake and being outdoors.
Jason Crawford
Teacher
Bio coming soon.
Pat Dunham
Reading Interventionist
I earned my bachelor’s from Concordia University Chicago.
I see the Gospel in action every day at OCS. I watch the students grow in Christ and the knowledge of the world that he created.
The Lord graciously made himself real to me at a very young age, but I started to follow him intentionally as a high school freshman.
I attend St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grafton.
In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music and reading books. I love to spend time with my family and friends. My husband and I can often be found by the water－whether in it, on it, or nearby!
Sarah Esposito
Music Teacher
I attended Trinity International University in Bannockburn, Illinois, for my degree in music education, with an emphasis on piano performance.
I have enjoyed participating in a wide range of ensembles, bands, orchestras and choirs over the years.
I was born and raised in a Christian household. I gave my life to Christ when I was ten years old, and I was baptized at sixteen, as soon as my church would allow me!
I attend Crossway Church in Sussex, where my husband is a pastor.
At OCS, I can talk about my faith and integrate music with Christ in a way that is not possible in other environments. I am excited to build relationships with the students and watch them grow in their love of music.
When I am not making music, I enjoy board games, knitting, painting and
reading to my baby boy.
Mary Hoke
Teacher
I attended Millikin University in Decatur, IL. for my bachelor’s degree in secondary math education. I also hold a Master of Education from Concordia University in Portland, OR.
I love working alongside OCS families to help their students grow academically and spiritually.
I grew up in a Christian home and believed with a childlike faith from a young age. When my brother was diagnosed with leukemia, I tried to be perfect so my parents would never have to worry about me.
By the time I reached 13 years old, I had realized it was impossible to be perfect, and I needed a savior. I begged God’s forgiveness and accepted his gift of grace. My faith continues to grow throughout the seasons of life, even now with my loving husband and our three sons.
We attend Open Door Bible Church in Port Washington. God has called me to be his disciple, and I bring that attitude to the classroom as we explore real world applications alongside our curriculum.
In my spare time, I enjoy singing, songwriting and playing the guitar.
John Koster
Facility and Property Manager
I attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
I have 35 years of experience managing facilities at Whitefish Bay School District and Cedarburg School District.
After all those years, I have learned to enjoy keeping busy year-round. I attend a Catholic church.
My passion for sports has followed me all of my life. You may find me on the golf course when the weather is nice. Sunny days are also great for working in my garden.
If the weather will not cooperate, I also like to spend time woodworking.
Laura Kuhn
Cub Care Aide
Bio coming soon.
Aaren Lepien
Teacher
I received my bachelor’s in elementary education from Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC
My husband and I desire to please God and to have our children please God, and Hebrews 11:6 tells us that faith is the key!
As a child, I was blessed to be raised in a Christian household. We attended church often. At the age of four, I knew I was a sinner, and I asked my mom to help me pray for salvation.
As I grew, I learned more about Jesus, but Satan tried to make me doubt my salvation. I was troubled by this, but I eventually came to realize that I was relying on myself. I learned to put my trust in Jesus’ finished work.
I am happy to send my children to a Christian school, providing them with more opportunities to have the Word of God poured into their hearts and minds during chapel and daily studies.
When I am not in the classroom or planning lessons at home, you may find me in the kitchen testing out exciting new recipes for my family to try!
Maria Lopez
Bookkeeper
I am certified in computer programming and networking, as well as business administration. I can tell that God has led me to OCS as the next step in his plan for my life.
Before I accepted Christ as my savior, I was full of pride, unbelief, and fear. I grew up going to church, but I knew very little about my Lord and Savior, Jesus. Verse by verse, he drew me in through his word. I could not stop reading! God showered me with his unconditional love and acceptance through the words of the Bible. I found love, belonging and hope in Christ.
Now I know that God sees the value in my life and has a plan for me. I attend Kettlebrook Church in West Bend.
In the warmer months, I love to tend my garden, which I use as a way to share the gospel of Jesus Christ to all who visit!
Ingrid Machonga
Admissions Coordinator
I attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago for Christian Education. As the child of first generation German immigrants, I grew up speaking only German, but I am a little rusty these days!
Before I accepted Christ as my savior, I worried that I would be left behind when Jesus returned. In third grade, I attended a Christian program, Pioneer Girls, every Wednesday night. One night I accepted Jesus as my savior. Three years later I publicly professed my faith through baptism.
In college I rededicated my life to Christ and transferred to Moody Bible Institute, where I met a man named Larry. Larry and I have now been married for 40 years. We attend Lakeside Alliance Church in Port Washington.
I am deeply committed to creating a Christ-centered environment where faith and learning are seamlessly integrated, and where students are encouraged to grow in character, integrity and their relationship with God.
When I have spare time, I love to be in the presence of God’s nature, including at The Woods, where my husband and I have ministered over the past six years. I also love being with my family and beautiful grandchildren.
Joshua Peel
Principal
I earned my degrees in youth ministry and Bible education from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois. After some time teaching, I went on to earn my bachelor’s in math and my master’s of science and math education.
When I was three years old, I asked my mom what happens when we die. She explained the gospel to me, and I chose to accept Jesus Christ as my savior.
Today God continues to teach me more about who he is, and I am eager to share my faith with others!
I attend Alliance Bible Church in Mequon with my wife and two children. I am excited to serve the families of Ozaukee Christian School because I want to help open students’ hearts to the work of the Lord. I look forward to helping this school grow to meet the ongoing needs of its students and their families.
My hobbies include spending time with my family, reading, exploring state and national parks, and fishing. I also enjoy finding the best local spots for ice cream and french fries, and I love a good motorcycle ride!
Ashlee Pohlman
Classroom Aide
I have a bachelor’s in sociology, with a Cultures and Communities Certificate, from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
I am so grateful to be working at OCS, helping students grow in their faith, including my own children.
When I was seven years old, my mother took me to Vacation Bible School, and I accepted the Holy Spirit into my heart and life.
Now I am married to my high school sweetheart, and we are raising three incredible children that God gave us in answer to our prayers. We
attend Open Door Bible Church in Port Washington.
I am honored to minister to the students of OCS. When I am not teaching, I love hanging out with my family and our dogs, Remi Roux and Winnie. I also love tending to my garden and my houseplants.
Julie Popoutsis
Classroom Aide
I earned my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Indiana. I love exploring
the great outdoors with my two young daughters.
I was blessed to grow up in a Christian home, and I accepted Jesus as my savior at a young age. I went to Christian schools in my early years, and
now I am excited to share God’s light with the students at OCS as it was shown to me back then.
I attend West Bend Commmunity Church with my family, and I enjoy spending my spare time reading and creating models to make with my 3D printer.
Angela Reindl
Teacher
I earned my bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Lakeland College in Plymouth, WI.
As a teacher, I love hearing my students’ ideas, stories, and adventures.
I grew up in a Christian home and attended a Christian school. I have always known Jesus, but there have been trials throughout my life when he revealed new facets of himself to me. As an adult, I am glad to be able to share my living and loving savior with my own family.
We attend Gibbsville Reformed Church in Gibbsville.
At school, I look forward to seeing my students grow in their faith, relationships and academics. I love doing hands-on activities with them.
I enjoy arts and crafts, especially papier mâché.
Molly Reindl
Cub Care Aide
Ann Schmidt
Spanish Teacher
I earned my bachelor’s from the University of Iowa. I spent a semester in Puerto Rico as well, studying Spanish and playing volleyball with Las Chicas, the women’s intramural volleyball team.
Before I accepted Christ as my savior, my parents, who were not believers at the time, dropped off my siblings and me at church throughout the week. I attended that Bible church from the time I was five years old, and I slowly came to understand that I had done things wrong in my life which Jesus could save me from. I confessed and asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior over and over again, but I never felt I was sincere enough.
Finally, at ten years old, I heard the gospel message again at Vacation Bible School, and I was ready. I said, “Okay, Lord, this is it!” and asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior!
I love to include the Lord in every aspect of the classes I teach at OCS. We can pray and ask the Lord’s help with our learning, our relationships and our problems. And we can do it all in Spanish too!
Emily Siegmann
Bookkeeper
Hope Shane
Teacher
I earned my degree in education from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
At OCS, I love to pray with students, teach them to solve problems with the help of Scripture and praise the Lord through singing.
I thank God that I was raised in a Christian home. My parents set Christlike examples for me, and I came to trust Christ as my personal savior at a young age. Since then, the Lord has been opening doors for me.
I attend Kettlebrook Church in West Bend. I enjoy spending time with my family and sharing a homemade meal.
In my spare time, I love baking, doing puzzles and being outdoors.
Chelsey Swanson
Classroom Aide
Bio coming soon.
Janet Swartz
Business Manager
I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri-Rolla.
I love how OCS integrates a biblical worldview into the curriculum, leading students to grow in Christ.
I attended church growing up, but it was not until high school that I made the personal decision to follow Christ. In college I got involved in the Christian Campus Fellowship. My faith grew, and I laid aside my own selfish ambitions to make room for God’s plans.
I now attend Kettlebrook Church in West Bend with my family. God also gives me great enjoyment from dancing, especially tap dance.
Amy Troyer
Teacher
Bio coming soon.
Cassie Voisin
Administrative Assistant
I earned my bachelor’s degree in community education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
I love what OCS is doing in the lives of children, and I am excited to partner that with my passion. I want to help students understand that God has placed greatness within them and that they are so loved.
Before I accepted Christ as my savior, I was broken and never felt worthy. I did not know how to pray and had never read the Bible. But God met me where I was.
My mom walked by a church and was drawn to go inside. She accepted Jesus that day, and shortly after I did the same thing at the age of 19. I was radically changed. Now I want to share God’s love and grace with everyone.
I currently attend CrossWay Church in Germantown.
In my spare time, I love to go thrifting, finding beauty in the unexpected.
Janelle Voisin
Teacher
Stefanie Wade
Art Teacher
I received my degree in fine arts from UW Stout in Menomonie. After years working in the field of graphic design, I earned my teaching certificate from UW Stout.
I grew up in a Christian household, so the gospel has always been something I was immersed in. But something clicked when I attended a chapel service at Lake Lundgren Bible Camp one summer, and I learned what it means to wake up every day ready to follow Jesus.
My husband and I attend Northbrook Church in Richfield with our three sons. I enjoy volunteering in the children’s area there.
I am pleased to teach at OCS because I have the opportunity to relate art to God’s intentionality and design. My goal is to show my students that making art can be an act of worship to our Creator.
When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy taking photos and spending time with my family.
Olive Wells
Teacher
Bio coming soon.
Theresa Wendler
Custodian
I have 20 years of experience as a custodial supervisor and cleaner for the West Bend School District. I believe God has given me a gift for serving others, and I am excited to continue serving at OCS.
Before I knew Jesus, I observed the dramatic changes that Christ produced in my husband’s life when he placed his trust in Jesus. A year later, I was ready to let Jesus into my heart and life. Now I know that God is guiding me, always by my side.
We attend Calvary Church in West Bend.
I am excited to serve OCS as a custodian as I pray, sing and worship in the school every evening after the students go home.
In my spare time, I enjoy walking, baking and spending time with my husband.
Janet Yttri
Custodian
Coming soon
Our Campus
Faith Ridge provides a safe, nurturing environment for learning.
Classrooms
Spacious and modern learning spaces for all ages.
Library
A well-resourced library supports academic exploration.
Non-discrimination Policy: Ozaukee Christian School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial assistance programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
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