Mr. Jake ClayHead of Education and Interim Head of School
With roots tracing back six generations in the majestic Colorado landscape, Mr. Clay proudly continues his family's legacy of service while upholding the values of Faith, Family, and Freedom. He first earned a bachelor's degree in history and business while volunteering as a firefighter. After the tragic events of 9/11, he answered the call of duty, serving his country in the U.S. Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security. Following this critical period of national service, Mr. Clay shifted his focus toward educating and inspiring the next generation. He earned a master's degree in educational leadership and has served as an educational leader and administrator for many years at the school, district, and charter levels. Currently, he is the Head of Education at BRAVE Academy. His dedication to service continues through his contributions to educational politics and his expertise on DHS and FBI advisory committees at both state and national levels. Despite a full schedule, Mr. Clay finds joy in exploring the Rocky Mountains, working on his future novel, and cherishing time with his loving wife and three children.
Mr. Nate Eberhardt
Dean of Grammar School
Mr. Eberhardt graduated Cum Laude from Illinois State University and has a master’s degree in special education from the University of Colorado. Before coming to BRAVE Academy, he taught for the Cherry Creek School District. Nate accepted Jesus as Savior in 2001 but it wasn’t until 2021, after returning from his 3rd deployment and wrestling with God about his faith, that he understood Jesus as LORD and first in his life. He fondly recalls teachers who believed in him when he was young which changed the course of his life. He prays he can do the same for his students. Nate has been married to Jessica for 15 years. They enjoy camping, hiking, teaching preparedness, and they have even completed an Ironman Triathlon together. He would say their greatest accomplishments are their children Ella and Cole.
Mr. Chad JohnsonDean of Upper School
Mr. Johnson brings more than 20 years of experience in Christian education to BRAVE Academy. In that time, he has served both as teacher and administrator. Mr. Johnson is passionate about training up students in virtue and Christ-like character. He is excited to see the growth of students both academically and spiritually. Mr. Johnson is a graduate of Grand Canyon University. He enjoys books authored by C.S. Lewis, John Eldridge, and Charles Swindoll, among others. Being a God-honoring husband and father are his greatest accomplishments. He enjoys spending time praising God and growing in his relationship with Jesus, time with his family, golf and basketball.
Ms. Olivia VaccaDirector of Curriculum & Development
Originally from Montana, Ms. Vacca received a K-12 classical Christian education herself and firmly believes that this model helps shape intelligent, curious, articulate, virtuous, and brave students. She graduated magna cum laude from Montana State University Billings with a degree in History and Liberal Arts and is currently a Lyceum fellow completing a master’s degree in Classical Education and School Leadership. Ms. Vacca has experience directing the senior thesis program and teaching 8th - 12th grade humanities at a classical charter school. She was recently named a Claes Nobel Outstanding Educator. Her favorite part of teaching is engaging in the Great Conversation with young minds and sharing in their wonder as they explore the intricacy of Creation. Outside of school, Ms. Vacca loves music, dance, art, the outdoors, and spending time with her two children. She also loves reading; some of her favorite books are Moby Dick by Herman Melville, Abolition of Man by C.S. Lewis, and anything written by Agatha Christie.
Ms. Valerie WatneDirector of Homeschool
Ms. Valerie is a native of a small Southern California town just west of Los Angeles. Her college education in English sparked her interest in writing books, national news articles, and television, earning her writer credit for a Daytime Emmy nomination by the age of 19. When she surrendered her life to Christ after college, she became passionate about Jesus and furthering the Kingdom through families. With over 23+ years of experience in the world of homeschooling, she has been championing the rights of homeschooling freedom, while building a knowledge of curriculum choice. Through counseling homeschool families nationwide, she has been able to journey alongside families and witness the growth and development of homeschooling in America. Her greatest accomplishment is in her three adult children, whom she adores and is immensely thankful to have homeschooled throughout their education.
Mrs. Mary KenneyAdmissions Coordinator
Mrs. Kenney is thrilled to be part of the BRAVE Academy community this year, where she looks forward to watching children laugh, play together, and forge lifelong friendships. With a degree in exercise physiology, she enjoys teaching dance and nutrition, sharing her passion for healthy living with her students. One of her favorite books is "Lone Survivor," which inspires her with its themes of grit and unwavering hope. Her greatest accomplishment is becoming a devoted wife to her wonderful husband, Matt, and a loving mother to their four incredible children. Beyond her family life, Mrs. Kenney volunteers as the emcee for All-Stars, supporting special needs adults and children. An adventurous spirit, she has completed over 650 skydives, BASE jumps, and helicopter and hot air balloon jumps, even coaching skydiving and packing parachutes for a professional team in New York. Mrs. Kenney's diverse experiences and enthusiasm for life make her a dynamic presence at BRAVE Academy.
Ms. Shelby KroppAcademy Coordinator
Originally from a small town in the Midwest, Ms. Kropp lived in Georgia before moving to Colorado, where she has spent the last six years. She cherishes her role as an aunt and enjoys spending quality time with friends and family. Her love for the outdoors shines through her hobbies, which include camping, white-water rafting, and fly fishing. After graduating from the dental hygiene program at Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg, IL, in 2013, Ms. Kropp worked in the dental field for 13 years. However, she felt a calling from the Lord to join BRAVE Academy, and she became part of the team this summer. Passionate about sharing God’s truth with students, she aims to help them build a solid foundation of their identity in Christ from a young age. Ms. Kropp finds immense joy in her work and is excited to see how the Lord will move in the lives of students this year at BRAVE Academy!
Mr. Todd BrockSchool Security and Safety
Mr. Brock is excited about the growth at BRAVE Academy this school year, looking forward to meeting new students and reuniting with returning ones. One of his favorite books outside of the Bible is Fearless by Eric Blehm, a powerful story of a man's journey from addiction to becoming a warrior for Christ. His greatest accomplishment is being a devoted dad, granddad, and husband. With six years of experience in electronic warfare in the Navy, Mr. Brock visited over 20 countries and grew in his relationship with God. He graduated from Mesa State College (now Colorado Mesa University) and has worked in the pharmaceutical and insurance industries. He rediscovered his passion for protecting others through the Able Shepherd program, where he has trained hundreds in self-defense. Married for 30 years, Mr. Brock enjoys the outdoors, including hobbies like hunting, camping, hiking, and golfing. He looks forward to seeing how God will continue to guide his journey and the future of BRAVE Academy and the church.
Ms. Sara RedmanBarista, Health, and Kinder Aide
Ms. Redman is a devoted mother of three beautiful children and a passionate advocate for teaching the love of Christ to the younger generation. After spending a year as a preschool teacher, she stepped away from the role when her faith in Jesus Christ was challenged. However, by prioritizing God in her life, Sara experienced His blessings when her family became a part of Brave Church three years ago. All three of her children attend BRAVE Academy, and are enjoying their classical Christian education. Sara now serves at the Academy as a café worker and kindergarten assistant teacher. She finds immense joy in training up His little warriors and feels honored to work alongside dedicated individuals who are committed to expanding the Kingdom of our Lord, Jesus Christ. She is grateful for the blessings in her life and praises Him from whom all blessings flow.
Mrs. Monica RichKindergarten
Mrs. Rich studied Elementary Education and Christian Education at Concordia University in Irvine, California, and has over 25 years teaching experience at various Lutheran schools in the Denver area.Mrs. Rich has loved Jesus from her earliest memory and feels blessed to partner with parents to teach their children about the Lord in a classical Christian school. She has been married to Chris for 31 years and has two sons, Kelby and Tanner. When not in the classroom, you’ll find Mrs. Rich in the mountains reading or walking her dogs. She is currently reading Anxious for Nothing by Max Lucado.
Ms. Maggie Scena
First Grade
Ms. Scena earned her Bachelor of Arts in Special Education and Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University. With a wide array of experience working with children, Ms. Scena previously worked for Jeffco Public Schools, from preschool through eight grade. Before coming to BRAVE, she opened and ran a middle school autism center program where she used her extensive training in reading instruction from the Institute of Multi-Sensory Education. She is married to a wonderful man and has three boys. Her youngest son Teddy is the reason she went into education. Teddy is on the autism spectrum and Ms. Scena was inspired by the amazing teachers and therapists that worked with him throughout his education. Now, she pays it forward by helping other families. Her biggest hobby is learning new things and researching new information. She is very excited to be a part of BRAVE Academy this year and looks forward to partnering with families to help their children learn, grow, and share the gospel.
Ms. Hannah Baugh
Second Grade
Recent graduate from Colorado Christian University with a degree in Elementary Education. Mrs. Baugh has lived in CO for the past 10 years and loves spending her free time working out, at sports games, paddle boarding and skiing. She also enjoys reading and her favorite book is A Life Impossible by Steve Gleason. Her greatest accomplishment has been giving her life to Christ and letting that mold her into a new person. She is most looking forward to getting to know BRAVE family and cultivate the beautiful minds of second graders.
Mrs. Kellie Barry
Third Grade
Originally from Alabama, Mrs. Barry now lives in Denver with her husband and three children who keep them busy and entertained. Her favorite book is Where the Red Fern Grows, as it reminds her of home and brings back cherished memories. Mrs. Barry enjoys sharing this story as a read-aloud with her students as it has been a special experience connecting with her past in her classroom. In her free time, she enjoys reading, pretending to cultivate a green thumb in her garden, and enthusiastically cheering on her kids at various sports events.
Ms. Mara White
Fourth Grade
Ms. White grew up in a Christian, military household moving state to state every couple years. She moved to St. Louis, MO and earned two undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Elementary Education. After college, Ms. White moved to Colorado to be close to family. In 2019, she graduated with a Masters in Transformational Leadership in Education. Having sat in a variety of leadership committees, Ms. White found much enjoyment collaborating with staff and parents to make their students year successful both academically and socially. She comes from a very small family and her cat Oreo, but will soon be getting married and doubling in fur babies! Ms. White looks forward to openly speaking to her students about God.
Ms. Debbie Schaller
Fifth Grade
Ms. Schaller graduated from Colorado Christian University. She is an East coast girl at heart- originally from New York. Her background is in youth ministry, and she is passionate about youth- particularly middle school and 5th grade. She is most excited about getting to know her students and their families and being involved at BRAVE Church, pointing students back to the Lord and seeing them grow academically and spiritually. Ms. Schaller loves coffee, dogs, football, hiking, running, and anything outdoors. Her favorite book is Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire by Jim Cymbala, one of the most powerful books she has read on prayer that has completely changed how she engages in prayer.
Mrs. Veronica Tharan
Sixth Grade
Mrs. Tharan comes from an exciting MMA background where she was ranked 5th in the Nation in the sport of Judo and won multiple national medals when she was an athlete at the Olympic Training Center. She trained with some of the best UFC fighters and coaches in the world. While she was pursing an MMA and legal career, the Lord had other plans for her. She moved to Denver, where God brought her to work as an Executive Director of Operations for several childcare businesses. When Mrs. Tharan was pursuing her legal career, God led Mrs. Tharan to BRAVE Academy, now she is looking forward to getting to know each child in her class and seeing how the Holy spirit will lead the year. In her freetime she enjoys to read, her favorite author is C.S Lewis, she highly recommends the books Space Trilogy and Chronicles of Narnia.
Ms. Lauren Olig
Academic Support
Born and raised in Minnesota, Ms. Olig wanted to escape the cold and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix. The Lord brought her to BRAVE Academy, and she is most excited about building relationships with her students and watch them flourish as they learn to navigate the world from the view of a biblical education. In her free time, she enjoys snowboarding, camping, reading, playing board games, and cooking. Ms. Olig’s favorite books are The Forest of vanishing Stars and The Givers of Stars because of the themes of resilience, friendship, and love through different times in history.
Ms. Elisabeth Sheffer
HumanitiesMs. Sheffer graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Evangelism and Apologetics from Colorado Christian University. One of her biggest accomplishments was receiving the Citation Award for fifteen years of Bible study and scripture memory through Awana. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, crafting, baking, singing, and reading. Her favorite book is The Scarlet Pimpernel by Barones Orczy. She enjoys the mystery, romance and history of the story as it portrays a beautiful picture of Christ. Ms. Sheffer is mostly excited to get to know her students and help them learn and grow a firm foundation on the Word of God.
Ms. Sierra Sanchez
Science
Ms. Sanchez is excited for the upcoming school year and eager to witness what God will do in the lives of students and faculty who have taken a leap of faith. She looks forward to building meaningful relationships with everyone and growing together in their educational journey. Currently reading "Gentle and Lowly" by Dan Ortlund, she finds inspiration in its reflections on Christ’s affection for sinners, reminding us of God’s heart and the importance of walking with Him through grace and mercy. With a Master’s degree in Biology with an emphasis in Education from Grand Canyon University, she is looking forward to embracing her role as a teacher and faithful servant of God, believing that nurturing a love for learning and for God in her students is a true privilege. Recently relocated to Colorado in October 2023, Ms. Sanchez has been attending BRAVE Church after teaching Pre-K and Kindergarten in Wyoming. She enjoys spending time with her family, particularly her beloved nieces and nephews. In her free time, she loves exploring nature with her dog through running, hiking, and fishing, as well as indulging in photography, reading, and cherishing moments with friends.
Mrs. Mikayla Troke
Math/Science
Mrs. Troke believes one of the byproducts of education is that it exposes students to a wide variety of concepts and skills. Because of this, students can often discover talents and gifts that God has blessed them with especially in the later years of their academic career. She is excited to work with the Upper School students to possibly discover some of these gifts. Mrs. Troke is happily married to her husband Danny, and they have two pet birds; a blue parakeet: Edgar, and a sun conure: Ada. In her spare time, she enjoys sewing new clothes, practicing on her electric violin for the worship team at BRAVE, and reading. Although difficult to pick a favorite book, The Lightbringer Series by Brent Weeks is her current favorite. Interesting because this series showed the growth of an author perfecting his craft throughout the series, as well as an allegorical perspective into another person's faith and relationship with Christ.
Mr. Patrick O'Bleness
Upper School Math Teacher
Mr. O'Bleness is excited to see God working at BRAVE Academy this year, helping students, teachers, and administrators grow in their knowledge of the Lord and courageously advancing His kingdom. A fan of The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, he admires the way Tolkien builds a rich, believable fantasy world. His greatest accomplishment has been baptizing his daughter at age seven—a milestone he holds close to his heart. Originally from Illinois, Mr. O'Bleness holds a Bachelor’s in History from the University of Houston and an MBA from the University of Denver. Married since 2009, he enjoys camping and backpacking in the mountains with his family.
Katie SowaArt / PE
Mrs. Sowa graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a degree in studio art with an emphasis in illustration. She has extensive professional experience as an illustrator for children’s books and marketing companies. She also paints murals and illustrates the BRAVE Kids guides for Easter and Christmas. Mrs. Sowa loves Jesus, loves kids, loves art, and loves sports. Teaching at BRAVE Academy has merged all her passions. She is excited to teach students how to love God well by creating beauty and celebrating their bodies by moving them well. When not coordinating a kickball game or creating amazing art, Mrs. Sowa enjoys pickleball, movies and reading historical fiction.
Ms. Sunny WeinerPE (Part-time)
Ms. Weiner graduated Summa Cum Laude from Liberty University with a Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary studies: Business, Psychology, and counseling. She has been married for 26 years and has 4 kids, her greatest accomplishment. Ms. Weiner homeschooled her children for several years showing them that “All things have been created through him and for him.” (Col 1:16). She is now excited to be a part of BRAVE Academy to raise up the next generation of Christ’s warriors. In her free time, Ms. Weiner enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, sporting events, and reading. Her favorite books are biographies, Christian Heroes: Then and Now, by YWAM. Seeing what God does with one person who says, “Yes!” to him is amazing.
Mr. Ian JohnsonPE (Part-time)/School Support
Mr. Johnson is looking forward to a joyful school year at BRAVE Academy, where he hopes to get to know the students, spread love, and have fun together. A Colorado native, he grew up in southern Denver as the oldest of seven children, fostering his love for being around kids. His passion for education is matched by his commitment to his family; he and his wife have been married for nine years and have two young boys who attend BRAVE Academy. One of his greatest accomplishments is introducing his boys to Jesus, along with supporting his wife through thick and thin—she is his greatest ally and friend. Mr. Johnson's spiritual journey began in childhood and has included a re-dedication to Christ during his time at Cedarville University, leading to a transformative growth in faith. He enjoys reading, especially "Vanya - A True Story" by Myrna Grant, which reflects his admiration for radical Christians in Eastern Europe. Outside of teaching, Mr. Johnson has a strong passion for music, cycling, and snowboarding, all of which he enjoys in his free time.
Mr. George VillacresMusic
Mr. Villacres has been married to his wife, Stacy, for nearly 20 years and is a proud father to their daughter, Gabby, and grandfather to Donovan. He studied Music Education at VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, and he also holds a Master’s degree from Regis University in Denver. As a trained tuba player, he enjoys playing a variety of instruments, including bass, piano, and flute. In addition to his love for music, Mr. Villacres is a dedicated sports fan, cheering for the Cubs and Bears, and he enjoys playing games in his spare time. He considers his greatest accomplishment to be his spiritual journey and the ongoing walk with Jesus. Passionate about education, he finds inspiration in books like "Teaching With Love and Logic" and "The Inner Game of Music," which provide valuable tools for supporting his students. Mr. Villacres looks forward to connecting his students with Christ through the joy of praise and music.