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Trinity School of Texas

Meet the Teachers

Cissy Abernathy

Director of Admission

University of Texas B.S.

Year Started at TST – 2002

Bio

Austin Ferrell

Director of Facilities Management

Year Started at TST – 2021

Bio

Erica Fisher

Director of Technology/ Registrar/ 

Executive Assistant to the Head of School

Louisiana State University B.S.

Year Started at TST – 2009

Bio

Ranjit Kodali

Director of College Advising/ 

AP Capstone Teacher
Southern Methodist University B.A.
University of Texas in Dallas B.S.
University of Houston Law Center J.D.
Year Started at TST – 2017

Bio

Mellissa McCreary

Executive Director of Instructional Technology

and Student Engagement
Texas A&M University B.B.A., B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2001

Bio

Brett Reeves

Athletic Director/

Middle and Upper School Dean of Students

University of Alabama B.A.
University of Houston M.A
Year Started at TST – 2018

Bio

Denise Stewart

Director of Extended Enrichment
Year Started at TST – 2003

Bio

Doug Stump

Head of School
Carson Newman University B.A.

Marymount University M. Ed.

Shenandoah University Ed. D.
Year Started at TST – 2021

Bio

Jessica Wilkinson

Head of Early Childhood and Lower School
University of Oklahoma B.A. & M.S.
Year Started at TST – 2012

Bio

Pamela Wittmayer

Administrator
Oral Roberts University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2004

Bio

Jeny Callender

Kindergarten Teacher
University of Texas at Dallas B.A.
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Akita Cano

Early Childhood Teacher Assistant
Year Started at TST – 2004

Bio

Evan Carpenter

5th Grade Teacher
Baylor University B.S.
Michigan State University M.A.
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Katey Collier

3rd Grade Teacher
Stephen F. Austin State University B.A.

Southern Methodist University M.M.Ed.
Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Rachel Darwin

Kindergarten Teacher
University of Texas at Dallas B.A.
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Cheryl Dotson

2nd Grade Teacher
Southwest Texas State University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2009

Bio

Whitney Flowers

2-Year-Old Teacher
Louisiana State University Shreveport B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Mary Fox

Pre- Kindergarten Teacher
LeTourneau University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2011

Bio

Shelly Gordy

3rd Grade Teacher
Texas A&M Texarkana B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Carolyn Holland

Lower School Teacher Assistant
Year Started at TST – 2018

Bio

Audra Jones

2nd Grade Teacher
University of Texas B.S.

LeTourneau University M.Ed.

Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Linda Motley

3-Year-Old Teacher
Kilgore College A.A.

Year Started at TST – 2005

Bio

Rose Pruitt

Early Childhood Teacher Assistant
Year Started at TST – 2013

Bio

Kelli Rose

Pre- Kindergarten Teacher
Texas State University B.S.

Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Lynne Simpson

1st Grade Teacher

Texas Christian University B.A.
Year Started at TST – 1990

Bio

Sherrie Stevens

Early Childhood Teacher Assistant
Year Started at TST – 2014

Bio

Bobbie Tatum

4th Grade Teacher
B.S. Stephen F. Austin State University
Years Started at TST – 2018

Bio

Carol Zoutendam

1st Grade Teacher

Taylor University B.S.

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater M.S.

Year Started at TST – 2014

Bio

Edward Allen

Upper School English
Texas Tech University B.S.
University of Texas Tyler
G/T Certification
Year Started at TST – 2003-2005, 2012

 

Bio

Susan Blankenship

Middle School Math Teacher
East Texas Baptist University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2019

 

Bio

Lissa Gore

Upper School Science Teacher
Mississippi State University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2009-2013, 2016

Bio

LeAnne Gross

Middle School Science Teacher/

 4th & 5th Grade STEAM Teacher
LeTourneau University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Marietta Liebengood

Upper School Spanish Teacher
Texas Christain University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2010

Bio

Steve Lindsey

Middle and Upper School Social Studies Teacher
Stephen F. Austin University B.A. and M.A.
Year Started at TST – 2017

Bio

Kacey Magestro

Middle School Language Arts Teacher
University of Alaska Anchorage B.A.
University of Alaska Anchorage M.Ed.
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Mike Meredith

Upper School Math and Science Teacher
East Texas Baptist University B.A.
University of Texas at Tyler M.S.
Year Started at TST – 2011

Bio

Bridgette Ponder

Upper School Math Teacher
LeTourneau University B.S.

LeTourneau University M.B.Ed
Year Started at TST – 1999

Bio

Tovah Robertson

Middle and Upper School Social Studies Teacher
Howard Payne University B.A.

Arizona State University M.A.
Year Started at TST – 2016

Bio

Sandra Villate

Middle School Spanish Teacher/

4th & 5th Grade Spanish Teacher
Jorge Tadeo University

Palm Beach State College
Year Started at TST – 2007-2014, 2020

Bio

Taylor Brown

Early Childhood and Lower School 

Music Teacher
Texas Tech University B.A.
Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Donovan Centers

PE/ Coach

Stephen F. Austin State University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Bill Carroll

Upper School Bible Teacher

Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church

Harvard University B.A.

University of Chicago Divinity School MDiv

University of Chicago Divinity School Ph.D. 
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Carol Hummel

Lower School and Middle School Computers/ 

Upper School AP Computer Science Teacher
Year Started at TST – 2005

Bio

Carolyn Jagers

Early Childhood and Lower School Art Teacher
Millsaps College B.A.
National University M.A.
Year Started at TST – 2000

Bio

Karen King

School Librarian/ STEAM Teacher
Sacramento State University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2000-2017, 2018

Bio

Ranjit Kodali

Director of College Advising/ 

AP Capstone Teacher
Southern Methodist University B.A.
University of Texas in Dallas B.S.
University of Houston Law Center J.D.
Year Started at TST – 2017

Bio

Paula Martin

Photography/ Publications Teacher
Texas A&M University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2007

Bio

Clint McMullen

Middle and Upper School Music Teacher
Stephen F. Austin State University B.A.
Year Started at TST – 2015

Bio

Lizzie Smith

PE/ Coach/ Health Teacher
Western Governor’s University B.S.
Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Amanda Tilley

Middle and Upper Schools Art Teacher/ 

Graphic Design Teacher
Texas Christian University B.A.
Year Started at TST – 2017

Bio

Emily Fraser

Marketing and Development Coordinator
Broome Community College A.S.

Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Jennifer Jackson

School Nurse

Texas Christian University B.S. Nursing 
Year Started at TST – 2018

Bio

Michelle Jackson

School Counselor
LeTourneau University B.S. & M.A.
Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Leaurme Meredith

Receptionist
East Texas Baptist University B.A.

University of Texas Tyler M.A.

Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Sandra Miller

Administrative Staff
University of North Texas B.S. Accounting 
Year Started at TST – 2019

Bio

Leonardo Penaloza

Custodian
Year Started at TST – 2013

Bio

Patricia Rodriguez

Food Services Staff
Year Started at TST – 2004-2005, 2017

Bio

Maria Serrano

Custodian / Food Services Staff
Year Started at TST – 2011

Bio

Francisco Vasquez

Food Services Staff / Campus Maintenance / Head Soccer Coach
Year Started at TST – 1991

Bio

Paula Vasquez

Director of Food Services
Year Started at TST – 2000

Bio

Jaden Ayala

Extended Enrichment
Year Started at TST – 2021

Bio

Anna Gage

Extended Enrichment
Year Started at TST – 2018-2019, 2021

Bio

Sandy Greer

Extended Enrichment
Year Started at TST – 2013-2018, 2019

Bio

Leann Hettinger

Extended Enrichment
Year Started at TST – 1985

Bio

Shirley Kuhn

Assistant Director of Extended Enrichment
Year Started at TST – 2004

Bio

Eddie Page

Extended Enrichment
Year Started at TST – 2020

Bio

Quick Facts

Trinity welcomes students from 6 countries and dozens of area neighborhoods. At TST we don’t see foreign students or local students. Learning together, we simply see Trinity students.

Founded in 1957

Trinity combines a strong academic tradition along with a commitment to innovation.

100% of TST Students

Participate in age appropriate community service projects

12 College Visits

On average per year nationwide.

100% of TST Graduates

Are college accepted. Over $3.2 million in scholarships 2019/2020 school year.

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(903) 753-0612

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215 N Teague St 
Longview, TX 75601
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Cissy Abernathy

After graduating from The University of Texas, I began my career in education at The Hockaday School in Dallas as the Assistant Director of Admission. Once married and home in Longview, I received my teaching certification from LeTourneau University and began teaching early childhood students at Trinity.

Eleven years later, I returned to the admission office as Director of Admission for Trinity. I enjoy meeting and introducing prospective families to TST and assisting them as they get to know the school and complete the application process.

When I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and friends, cooking, traveling, and visiting my three children, all TST graduates, at college and graduate school.

Austin Ferrell

Bio coming soon!

Erica Fisher

I graduated from Trinity School of Texas in 2000 before heading to Louisiana State University in Shreveport to earn a B.S. degree in Marketing. After being out of college a while, I really wanted to work in education and went through Region 7 to obtain my teaching certificate. I feel extremely blessed to be here at Trinity and love getting up to come to TST. Prior to making my way back to TST, I worked in newspaper advertising sales all through college and then went on to be a medical sales representative. I wear many hats at TST and enjoy every minute of it. I am happily married to my high school sweetheart, Rance. We have three beautiful children – Sophie, Lily, and Rory. I love animals and am always trying to find homes for stray animals and animals at the shelter. We have two dogs, a cat, and three hermit crabs. In my spare time, I love spending time with my family, camping, and sewing/embroidering.

Ranjit Kodali

I became a member of the TST family in 1988 when I became a student in the 6th grade here upon moving to Longview. I graduated from TST in 1995 as a member of the 5th graduating class. After TST, I attended Southern Methodist University. I graduated from SMU with Bachelor’s degrees in both Biology and History. Upon graduation, I went to Washington, D.C. to work for Congressman Ralph Hall whom I first met when he came and spoke to our class in seventh grade at TST. Working on Capitol Hill was one of the most immensely rewarding and valuable experiences of my life. Next, I attended law school at the University of Houston. I graduated in 2003, and I was sworn in to the Texas Bar later that year. I lived and worked in Dallas following law school. I specialized in writing health care policy. I continued my education at the University of Texas at Dallas and received a B.S. in Health Care Studies in order to augment my law degree. During this time, I started to become involved with TST as an alumnus. I became President of the TST Alumni Association. I was extremely excited to be back at the school that had given so much to me. After I moved back to Longview in 2015, I became even more involved in the school as a volunteer. I have always been grateful to TST for its influence on my life. I will never be able to pay back all those who helped to make my TST experience great, but I hope that I can help to keep the TST experience great for future generations of TST students.

Mellissa McCreary

I have taught language arts at TST since 2001 at both the lower school and the middle school levels. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, bay fishing, and visiting my three daughters (all TST graduates). Any other free time I might have is spent reading, cooking, and working jigsaw puzzles. My husband and I try to spend a week or two fishing in the Laguna Madre every year and also make several trips a year to hike in the Big Bend National Forest.

Brett Reeves

I grew up in Longview and attended Trinity when it was Trinity Day School. After graduating from Spring Hill High School, I attended college and began a career at the Houston Police Department. I retired from Houston PD in 2006 after sustaining an injury on the job. I stayed in the criminal justice field working with socio-economically disadvantaged children. In 2011 – 2016, I coached varsity football at Trinity. I decided to take the next year off so that I could watch my son Marlin play Varsity Football. When I was offered the opportunity to become a part of the TST family full time and Marlin wanting to attend Trinity, I couldn’t say no. In my spare time, I enjoy watching my children compete in their various academic and athletic events, and, of course, watching the Crimson Tide in anything. Roll Tide!

Denise Stewart

I joined TST with the Summer Camp Program in 2003. After completion of the Summer Camp Program I joined the staff of Extended Enrichment as the assistant director and also taught the 3 year olds before becoming the Extended Enrichment Director in 2006. I am a graduate of Marshall High School and have a Professional Administrator National Credential. Previously I was with the Hallsville ISD as an Elementary Librarian Assistant for five years. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy Bible study, walking, shopping and cooking.

Doug Stump

I have served in private Christian education since 1998, serving as classroom teacher, dean of students, assistant administrator and head of school.  My first passions were English and history, and I taught these subjects in middle school and later high school.  I have taught research and writing at the college level, as well as a seminar course on exploring global cultures through film.  I have taught leadership and research at the doctoral level, and most recently taught teachers who wanted to become principals in a masters leadership program.  My passion is Christian school leadership, and I am excited to be part of TST.  I have four children – three of whom are pursuing their advanced degrees.  I have many hobbies, including film, hiking and camping, national parks, golfing, woodworking, and cooking.  My youngest daughter and I also enjoy exploring thrift shops.   

 

Jessica Wilkinson

I have the honor of serving as Trinity’s Head of Early Childhood and Lower School. I attribute my smooth transition to East Texas and calling Longview home all to the loving family we call Trinity. After graduating from Bishop Lynch High School in Dallas, I crossed the Red River for nine years attending the University of Oklahoma. I received my Bachelor of Science in Education and Master Degree in Curriculum, Supervision and Administration in the School of Education. I taught first grade for four years in Norman Public Schools. After completing my master’s, I returned to Texas where I taught second grade for seven years at Plano ISD and All Saints Episcopal School in Fort Worth. My time at All Saints was a gift in which I had the opportunity to experience faith-based education, just like I did while growing up attending Parochial School for twelve years. I was reminded about the important balance of academic excellence and a nurturing environment that I believe Trinity exemplifies. I am proud to say my husband is a graduate of TST, and with much joy, we will have the privilege to watch our two daughters experience Trinity from Early Childhood through Upper School. In addition to enjoying family time with these three Titans, I also love to read, cook, and travel.

Pamela Wittmayer

I joined the Trinity School of Texas family in 2004 as the Chief Financial Officer shortly after our family moved to Longview. I have spent several years in the not-for-profit world as the CFO of a health quality improvement organization and as the Accounting Manager of a national trade association. I enjoy using my skills to further the vision and mission of Trinity. When not working I love spending time with my husband, two daughters and their families which include three precious grandchildren. I enjoy traveling with my husband, hiking and reading.

Jeny Callender

Teaching is my true passion, but I actually began a my teaching career a little later in life. Before entering the world of education, I worked in museums in both Houston and Dallas and made and sold greeting cards while living in New York City.

In addition to kindergarten, I have taught 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade as well as owned and operated a home-based preschool. Early childhood and kindergarten has been and will always be my favorite.

When not at school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, who works for Christus Good Shepherd, and my two rescue dogs. I also love all things creative, spending time outdoors kayaking and hiking, and I fancy myself as a savvy interior decorator.

Akita Cano

It was obvious from an early age that working with children was my calling. From helping with the babies my mom used to keep when I was only two years old, to working in the two year old classroom at TST, kids are my joy and passion!

At TST, I have served in various capacities over the last 11 years. My early childhood experience gives me the knowledge and desire to help the two-year-olds succeed at learning their ABC’s and much more.

When I’m not at TST, I’m spending time with my family. I love to cook and I especially love to share my meals with my fiancé! I also enjoy traveling and hope to visit Belize one day!

Evan Carpenter

I began my teaching career on Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas, after graduating from Baylor University. After teaching in Fort Hood, I was a gifted and talented specialist near Waco before moving to Longview when my wife was hired at East Texas Baptist University. The time I spent teaching in Waco demonstrated just how much fun learning and teaching can be, and my Master’s program taught me to more effectively integrate technology into my teaching. I thoroughly enjoy challenging my students to do something new with everything they are learning through projects in the classroom.

Outside of school, I enjoy watching sports (especially college football), board games, and escape rooms. My wife and I love hiking when we are able to travel to Colorado to visit her family, and I look forward to playing with my German shepherd, Kiaya, after I get home from work each day.

Katey Collier

I am so thrilled to have the opportunity to teach at Trinity School of Texas.  In my elementary years, I attended Trinity Day School when it was only an elementary school. I graduated from Longview High School and then attended Stephen F. Austin State University where I majored in Music Education. Following graduation, I attended Southern Methodist University where I received my Masters Degree in Music Education. I was a band director in both Klein ISD in Spring, Tx and in Plano ISD.  In Plano I taught band for 15 years where I was voted the Best Young Band Director in the state of Texas, and taught 4th grade math/science for 15 years where I taught the accelerated math program for 3rd – 5th graders and was on the district math curriculum writing team for numerous years . While at Plano ISD, I was voted Teacher of the Year and earned the Excellence in Teaching Award from the district. 

I have a beautiful daughter Alice who is in her senior year of college and hoping to pursue a law degree. I love all animals and being in nature. My cat, Snuggles, is more of a cat-dog because she follows me around everywhere and is always snuggling up to me, hence the name. I live at Lake Cherokee where I often see deer, fox, roadrunners, all kinds of birds roaming around the lake. Occasionally I get a glimpse of the Lake Cherokee Bald Eagle and I am just in awe of its majesty and beauty. I am so blessed and grateful to be here at Trinity spending my days with your children!!! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this Trinity family.

Rachel Darwin

I grew up in Carrollton, Texas (near Dallas), and I went to college at the University of Texas at Dallas. In my free time I like to read, play the piano, and spend time with my family. My husband, Logan, and I have two children: Caleb and Emily. We also have a cat, Lucky, and three dogs: Sherlock, Junior, and Kuma.

I initially started a career in business management and was quite successful for about six years, but I left the business world to raise my own two children when they were young. I taught both of my children how to read while they were in preschool and there discovered my passion for teaching. So, I decided to go back to school to become a teacher. I been in the classroom in several different schools as a substitute, aide, and eventually lead teacher for the last eleven years (four years as a lead) prior to starting at Trinity. While I have been in many grade levels in various positions, the majority of my experience ranges with pre-k through first grade. I truly enjoy this age group because I get a chance to teach them how much fun learning can be! Becoming a teacher has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.

Cheryl Dotson

I started my teaching career in Houston, Texas, where I taught first and second grade for 18 ½ years. My husband and I then moved to California where I was a Reading and Math Enrichment teacher for 3 years. Upon returning to Texas in 2009, I was fortunate to join the TST family. When not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and my two dogs, George and Sadie.

Whitney Flowers

I grew up in the Texas Panhandle but moved to Texarkana during my high school years.  I attended ETBU and later graduated from LSUS with a degree in business.  After working for several years in business, I decided to be a stay-at-home mom.  Once my children started school, I began working in education and have taught EC/Kinder for 10 years.  
 
When I’m not at school, I enjoy traveling and reading.  My two children are also a part of the Trinity family and attend the middle and upper school. 

Mary Fox

I am a child at heart and my heart has always been here at T.S.T.
I started teaching here at T.S.T. in 2008 as a teacher in our afternoon Extended Enrichment program and then had the honor teaching Pre-K in 2011. 
In my free time I enjoy a hot cup of coffee and finding a great book to read. During the spring summer months my family and I like to catch up on some Texas Rangers baseball.enjoy spending time with my family and my two dogs, George and Sadie.

Shelly Gordy

I absolutely love working with children. I graduated from Texas A & M University – Texarkana with a BS in Education and a certification in Special Education. I have worked with all ages from Preschool to 8th grade. In my spare time, I love to volunteer at my church, travel with my husband and kids, hike, work on jig saw puzzles and do arts and crafts of all kinds! I am excited to be a part of TST!

Carolyn Holland

I have been blessed to be a stay at home mom with my son Jake and my daughter Marlie. Both of them started their education here at TST. I have been a substitute teacher in the public schools for the past six years, and now I am thrilled to be working in Early Childhood as a teacher’s aide with the three-year-olds. In my spare time I enjoy shopping, doing all types of crafts and spending time with my husband Bart, Jake and Marlie and our dog Blue!

Audra Jones

At some subconscious level, I feel teaching has been a lifelong calling. I was always that stereotypical child who became excessively excited when buying school supplies every year, and to this day, I still manage to find that same giddy feeling in the pit of my stomach every time I open a new box of crayons. 
 
My love for academia and research can only be exceeded by my love for travel. I was fortunate to study abroad on several occasions, and I strive to pull wisdom from those experiences into the classroom as frequently as possible. I believe that the incorporation of cultural and emotional intelligences in the classroom setting contribute to the development of children’s overall education, as both of these skills raise awareness of the world around them and contribute to the development of empathy. 
 
Outside of school, I drink way too much coffee, binge watch Big Bang Theory, and shop on Amazon. 

Linda Motley

I am an early childhood teacher. I have an associates of arts degree in teaching. I teach three-year-olds. I have been teaching in early childhood for over ten years and I love it. I love pre-school age children – it is a brand new day-every day! I love experiencing the world through their eyes. I enjoy spending time with my family. I love animals; I have two dogs and three cats. I love to sing and listen to Christian contemporary music. I enjoy playing tennis, cooking and working in the yard.

Rose Pruitt

Prior to teaching at TST, I taught for 24 years at an Independent Primary School in which 10 years were with pre-k. Some of the positions held during my tenure were computer lab, intervention learning center and the specialty program Brain Gym. For 20 years I fulfilled my desire to make children smile as a bus driver for a special needs school bus. I really enjoyed knowing I was part of starting their day off with love!
I spend my spare time with my darling grandchildren. On the rare occasion that I’m not playing grandma, I love traveling (especially to the beach), going to the movies, and spending time with friends. I also have a nurturing spirit that is reflected in my work with stray animals. It brings me joy to help every creature I meet feel loved and cared for!

Kelli Rose

I am so excited to be a part of the TST faculty. I began my teaching career in 1999 in Duncanville ISD, where I taught first and second grade. In 2007, I was ready for a change and began teaching in Highland Park ISD. In the summer of 2015, my husband accepted a position with his company in Northern California. I resigned from my job, we packed everything and moved to Sacramento for two years. We loved it, but we also missed Texas and our family. So we packed again and moved back to Texas. This time, instead of Dallas, we chose Longview. I grew up in Marshall and have always loved East Texas. I have two precious kids who also attend TST- Claudia Ann and Wyatt.

Lynne Simpson

I cannot remember not being at TST. I began my life here as a first grader. That is as far as the grades went so I ended back here in 1981. Our daughter, Elizabeth, started here as a 3-year-old. Since then our other two daughters have attended TST.
I have a BA degree from Texas Christian University in Education. I started out as Parent – Teacher Council President for three years which brought me into teaching here in 1991. I have been teaching First Grade since then. I love every day with my first graders. They keep me grounded and teach me so much.
I have lived in Longview most of my life. I have been married for over 37 years and we have three grown daughters and six precious grandchildren. My hobbies are being with family, friends, and gardening. As you can see, Trinity is family to us.

Sherrie Stevens

I have been on staff with TST since 2014 following an 18 year career in one of our local school districts. My husband Larry and I raised two daughters and are blessed with one grandson, Jamison. In my time away from TST, I enjoy making a comforting home for my family and friends. I enjoy gardening, crafting and especially traveling to spend time with Jamison

Bobbie Tatum

Teaching is a passion of mine. I love children! I graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University and began my teaching career with Tatum ISD. While at Tatum, I taught grades 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8. I have been in education for over 30 years. I am married and our four children have blessed us with 13 wonderful grandchildren. When not teaching, my favorite activity is spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy game nights and beach vacations. I am blessed to be a part of the Trinity family and excited to teach your children.

Carol Zoutendam

Although I am not a native Texas, I arrived here as quickly as possible when my husband David and I moved to Longview from Wisconsin so he could attend LeTourneau College in 1981. We liked Texas so well that we decided to stay after he graduated. David is a retired corporate pilot, and I have taught in several area school districts with my longest and last stop being at White Oak ISD in fourth grade before retiring in 2012. I joined TST in 2014 to work with lower school students in language arts on a part-time basis. We have two grown, married sons.
Michel and his family live in Wylie, while Philip and his wife reside in Durham. North Carolina.
In my spare time, my favorite activity is spending time with my family, especially with our granddaughters. I also enjoy reading, traveling whenever I get the chance, and participating in water fitness classes. Lately, new experiences have included learning how to be a grandma, and taking vacations, both long and short, with a travel trailer.

Edward Allen

I have taught in public and private school settings for 44 years, the last six here at TST where I teach grades 9, 10, 11 English classes and Test Prep to sophomores. A graduate of Texas Tech University, I began my teaching career in the Arlington ISD. I moved to Longview in 1985 and have spent the rest of my career in the Longview ISD, Gilmer ISD, and here at TST. While serving as the English Department Chair at Gilmer High School, I was selected as the Region VII Secondary Teacher of the Year in 2008 and was the Longview ISD’s first Teacher of the Year in 1991. Along with Longview ISD administrator Beth Bassett, I founded the Longview ISD’s Magnet School at Foster Middle School in 1990. I am certified to teach secondary English, civics, and gifted/talented and I have served here at TST as a head basketball coach. I am the proud father of two sons, Ben and Josh, and grandfather of Henry and Weston. In my spare time, I swim and landscape, and love to travel with my beautiful wife Joan.

Susan Blankenship

I am so happy to be at Trinity School of Texas! I have been in education for over 30 years. Most of my experience has been in public high schools—my time was pretty evenly split between Spanish and Math.

I am originally from New Boston, Texas, which is where I began my teaching career. I married a music minister, so we moved around a bit. Consequently, I have taught many secondary courses in many different school districts. I am certified to teach secondary Math and Spanish.

I live in Hallsville with my husband, Vince. We belong to First Baptist Church of Hallsville where he is the part-time worship leader. (His M-F job is in administration at ETBU in Marshall.) We have two grown children who both live in the Hallsville/Longview area. When I’m not teaching, I love to sing in our church choir and praise team. I also love to watch sports, HGTV, and the Food Network—but mostly sports! (Go Cowboys, Rangers, and Mavs!)

Lissa Gore

After receiving my engineering degree, I had many opportunities to work for some great companies like ExxonMobil, BASF, and Eastman. My early career mainly focused on gas separation and specialty chemicals. These opportunities allowed me to live in different cities and travel for my job, and eventually led me to Longview and much closer to my hometown of Haughton, Louisiana. Shortly after moving to Longview, I met my husband Blake and decided to stay in the area and make the career change from engineering to teaching and bring some of my industry experience into the classroom. I taught middle school science here at Trinity for four years and enjoyed being able to pursue a hands-on approach to teaching, introducing lab experiments as much as possible. Now I have the opportunity to teach Upper School science and continue bringing my industry experience and knowledge into the classroom. When I am not teaching, I enjoy traveling with my husband, watching college sports (especially Mississippi State), and spending time with family, friends and my sweet dog, Piper.

LeAnne Gross

As a child, my parents wanted my brothers and me to discover and experience as much of God’s creation as possible, so they took us to zoos, aquariums, museums, NASA, and had us explore nature at the beach and in the woods in our backyard. They also showed us the importance of serving others which inspired me to work with my church’s children’s ministry and take part in local and global missions. Through these experiences, God showed me that I had a passion to share His wonder and glory in all aspects of life and the complexity of all subjects, and eventually, this led me to study at LeTourneau University.

At LeTourneau, I not only gained an education, but I gained skills that every teacher needs through different jobs and ministries. I first began to work in the chapel office which taught me different organizational and technology skills. Then I worked as a Peer Advisor to help freshmen through their first year of college by helping them learn the ins and outs of the university; I had one-on-one meetings, and hosted events. Finally, I became a ministry leader of a group called Kidz Club which works with students in a local apartment complex by playing games, doing STEAM activities, and always ending with a Bible lesson and snacks. By the time I graduated, I gained more skills and experiences that have prepared me to be a teacher more than I could have ever imagined.

Now at Trinity School of Texas, my prayer is that I not only help students grow in their learning, but that they grow in their curiosity and critical thinking to help them explore this amazing world we live in.

Marietta Liebengood

Prior to teaching, I was a reporter for Dos Mundos bilingual newspaper and served as a campus minister for the University of Kansas. I spent several years abroad where I served as a missionary in Chile and Costa Rica for five years, lived in Scotland for 3 years, and spent summer stints in Argentina and Italy. I have the joy and privilege of traveling with Trinity students to Costa Rica and Spain. I love to take students to Spanish-speaking countries to expose them to different cultures and customs. I’ve had the honor of teaching Kindergarten through 12th grade, and I hope my students are inspired to continue learning Spanish and blessing others through the gift of being bilingual. In my free time, my favorite thing to do is to spend time with my husband Kelly and our Trinity Titans Chloe, Caleb, Caedmon, and Campbell. I also enjoy serving with One Hope Presbyterian Church and For the Silent.

Steve Lindsey

I began my career life as a professional firefighter/EMS in downtown Houston for the city fire department. After 12 years in the fire service, I entered a business partnership with a high school friend. Blessed with success in that venture, I was able to attend SFASU, where I earned my B.A. with a double major of History and Political Science and a M.A. in History. For the next fifteen years, I instructed at the middle and high school levels, as well as serving as assistant high school principal and adjunct faculty for Kilgore College.

Recruited for mid-management and executive posts for two corporations and a major medical center in Southern California, I served just over ten years in the Golden State before returning to Texas.

In Dallas, I served as Logistic, Purchasing and OSHA Compliance Manager for a zoological construction corporation. When my dad was diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer’s, I returned home to East Texas to assist my family with his care.

Throughout these experiences, I consider the time I spent teaching to have been the most personally rewarding and consider the opportunity to teach again here at Trinity to be a blessing I pray to be a worthy steward of.

Kacey Magestro

I am thrilled to be joining the TST faculty and community and look forward to the new adventure of living and working in East Texas.

My teaching career began in Anchorage, Alaska, where I received a degree from the University of Alaska in Languages and a Masters in Teaching. I have spent most of my career learning and growing as a teacher at a public charter school where I taught both elementary and middle school.

After many years of living in the frozen North, my husband Steve and I decided to move our two sons down to Texas. We leave behind a daughter in Alaska who isn’t quite ready to part with the beautiful mountains and snow. We are a family who likes to stay active in sports and any type of outdoor recreation. We look forward to learning the fine art of bass fishing and exploring the great state of Texas.

Mike Meredith

I have been in education over 36 years. I spent twenty-five years teaching middle and high school math in two area schools, Harleton (2 years) and Ore City (23 years). For most of those years, I was a member of the coaching staff. After twenty-five years in the classroom, I decided it was time for a change, and I accepted a position in the Educational Technology department at Region 7 Education Service Center in Kilgore. While there, I worked as a technology trainer and worked with grant programs that put technology in the schools we served. I spent seven years at Region 7, and then retired from public education. Immediately afterwards, I accepted the job I now have at Trinity, primarily teaching middle school math. This is my fourth year at Trinity.
I have a number of passions. First and foremost is my faith in God. Second is my family. Third is my job. I really like what I do here at Trinity. I love to travel, especially to Gulf Shores, Alabama, and Crested Butte, Colorado. I also like cars and motorcycles.
My wife and I live in Longview, and ‘suffer’ from empty nest syndrome.

Bridgette Ponder

Trinity School of Texas has been my family for over 20 delightful years. Prior to teaching at TST, I worked in private industry as a manager and taught secondary level mathematics at Longview High School. I have taught many different levels of secondary mathematics including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Statistics, and AP Calculus BC. Currently, as an adjunct professor for LeTourneau University, I am teaching Dual Credit Pre-Calculus (MATH 1303), Dual Credit Calculus I (MATH 1903), Dual Credit Statistics (MATH 1423), and AP Calculus BC. The dual credit offered at Trinity is through the nationally ranked and prestigious LeTourneau University.

In my free time, I enjoy gardening, reading, researching math topics, riding across the country on the back of a Harley, and exercising. I also love spending time with my family, which includes my twin girls and my son who are Trinity alumni.

Tovah Robertson

As the child of a US Army captain, I had the privilege of living and traveling throughout the United States and Europe. During my father’s service, my family lived in Oklahoma, Texas, New Jersey, and two different regions of Germany. Indeed, I have lived in my home in Longview longer than I have lived anywhere else! My upbringing nurtured in me a deep love and appreciation for history. As a result, I love teaching what I love to the next generation. I try to inject as many of my trips and personal experiences into my instruction as I can because I know that doing so makes history a little more meaningful for the students. History IS and CAN BE fun!

Sandra Villate

I’m from Bogota Colombia.  I moved to the US in 2001 to West Palm Beach, Florida. I’ve been married for over 20 years to Gabriel Medina. We have a son Daniel, TST Senior, and Brianna, TST 7th grader. I enjoy spending time with my family and my church, One Hope. 

Taylor Brown

This is my very first year as a music teacher! Before I came to TST, I lived in Fort Worth, working at a local school district in its Special Education Department.

I’ve always loved music since I was a little kid and started singing in a choir when I was 11 years old! Since then, I have continued to sing through high school, where I decided to become a music teacher! I went and graduated from Texas Tech University in 2018 with a Bachelors in Music to start my music teaching career. 

If I am not singing, you can usually find me working on computers as I love to tinker with technology and see how things work. I also enjoy playing video games from time to time like Legend of Zelda or the old school Super Mario Brothers games. 

When I was in school, my favorite subject, besides music of course, was math.I love solving problems, and math just made sense to me. 

I am so excited to be here, and begin my music teaching with TST! Go Titans!

Donovan Centers

I was born and raised in Henderson, Texas. After graduating from Tatum High School, I attended Stephen F. Austin State University where I majored in kinesiology. Shortly after graduating from SFA, I started Centers Performance, a sports performance business which trained athletes and adults. My experience resulted in a coaching opportunity at Trinity. Coaching at Trinity has been a great experience. I love the atmosphere. My hobbies outside of coaching include fishing and exercising.

Bill Carroll

The Rev. Dr. Bill Carroll  has served as Rector (Senior Priest and Pastor) of Trinity Episcopal Church since April 2019.   He graduated from an independent, K-12  school about the same size  as TST (the Francis W. Parker School in San Diego, CA), where his mother was the middle school principal.  In high school, he was an all-conference offensive lineman.   He was also on the baseball and wrestling teams.  He attended Harvard University, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy in 1992.   He received his Master of Divinity (1996) and Ph.D. (2005) in Christian Theology from the University of Chicago Divinity School and a Certificate in Anglican Studies (2001) from the School of Theology of the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee.

 Fr. Bill was born and raised in Southern California, but his family roots go back to Oklahoma and Kansas and ultimately to Texas.  He was ordained to the priesthood in 2004 by Bishop Dorsey Henderson of the Diocese of Upper South Carolina.   A former seminary professor and college chaplain, Fr. Bill has also served as a parish priest in the Dioceses of Southern Ohio and Oklahoma.   At the time he was called as Trinity’s Rector,  he was serving on the Executive Staff of the Bishop of Oklahoma.  

 His wife, the Rev. Tracey Carroll, is also an Episcopal priest.  They have two children.   Their daughter, Rachel, is a student at Oklahoma State University and their son Danny is in a special education room at Longview High School.   They love Longview and Texas, and are dedicated to building up the Body of Christ and following Jesus with some of the world’s best people.   

 Fr. Bill’s ministry priorities have always included preaching, teaching, and pastoral care, as well as building a stronger local church and fostering spiritual growth and discipleship.   He enjoys listening to a wide-variety of music (especially jazz, punk, and sacred music) and reading a lot of different genres (theology and spirituality, philosophy, science fiction, history, sociology, and literature).   He is a fan of stand-up comedy and movies.  Caring for Danny’s special needs is a huge part of his and Tracey’s life outside of church.   

Carol Hummel

Prior to working at TST served as a resource aide at Maude Laird Middle School in Kilgore for five great years. With Moberly Baptist Churches CDC: and Sunday School department amongst many other positions for twenty non-consecutive wonderful years with MBC.
I attended Kilgore College.
I support the Armed Forces, and am extremely proud of my family representing all branches of the U.S. Military.
When not at school, I enjoy working and relaxing with my husband at our quiet home in the country raising chickens and cows or traveling to antique or hot rod car shows, and, of course, investigating all things related to technology.
My highlight in life is when we spend time with our married children and grandchildren.

Carolyn Jagers

I graduated from Trinity School of Texas in 1991 with the distinction of “Archain Logos.” I continued my education at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, with a degree in Art with a minor in Theatre. At Millsaps, I was involved in The Campus Ministry Team, Habitat for Humanity, and Alpha Psi Omega, the national theatre honorary. In addition, I enjoyed serving as the Social Secretary for Phi Mu Sorority. After graduation, I taught in Pusan, South Korea, as an ESL trained elementary teacher. I returned to Longview, and eventually to Trinity where I am now in my 16th year as the Early Childhood and Lower School art teacher. Along the way, I completed my Masters in Teaching from National University in San Diego. In the community I enjoy volunteering at the Longview Museum of Fine Arts, The Gregg County Historical Museum, City of Longview events, and at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church as a lector and a youth minister. Away from school, I like to cook for my family and friends, refinish furniture, enjoy my children, read mystery novels, and constantly redecorate my home. I am married to my husband, Damian, and together we have two children, Gabriel and Beatrix.

Karen King

I have been in the education profession for over thirty years. For over seventeen years, I have been at Trinity as a parent and educator. During my time at TST, I have been a classroom teacher, an administrator, Director of College Placement, and I am presently working in the school library. Working in so many different capacities at Trinity School of Texas has been an incredible and rewarding journey. It’s a blessing to work in such a loving, caring, and supportive environment.

Paula Martin

I began my photographic career as a student at Kilgore College, graduating with honors in 2005. During my studies at Kilgore, I worked in the photography department assisting other students, monitoring photo labs and was a staff photographer for student publications.

During this time, my personal photographic work was awarded Most Outstanding Student in Photography and Who’s Who in American Community Colleges. My photographs have been published in the Photography Forum’s Best of College Photography annual three years consecutively. The Texas Intercollegiate Press Association has recognized my photographic essays and photographer Keith Carter selected my work for a traveling state wide exhibition sponsored by the Texas Photographic Society.

In 2007, I earned a B.S. degree in Photography at Texas A&M- Commerce.
My exhibitions include: The Image Gallery, 2003, 2004, 2005; Matthew Dean Johnson Photograph Gallery, 2008, Kilgore College; and the Anne Dean Turk Fine Arts Gallery, Fall of 2009 and Fall of 2012, Kilgore College.

The Texas Association of Parochial and Private Schools State Competition recently awarded my students at Trinity, First, Second, Third and Fourth places in the categories of black and white self-process, commercial and digital photography, digitally manipulated photography, and creative and experimental photography. Trinity students were also awarded First Place in the annual student exhibition for two years consecutively by the
Longview Museum of Fine Arts.

Clint McMullen

I am originally from Lufkin, Texas. I have lived in Longview for 9 years. My wife’s name is Melody and we’ve been married since 2002. We have two dogs and a cat. I was the choir director at Pine Tree Junior High for 6 years before coming to Trinity. I have also taught voice and guitar lessons for 15 years. I love watching movies, reading, and listening to music. I also love to play with my rock band on the weekends!

Lizzie Smith

I consider myself a Longview native having lived here since the age of 9 when my grandfather Robert Babb took over as the priest of Trinity Episcopal Church in 1999. I was enrolled at TST that spring and graduated with the class of 2008. I attended Kilgore College and completed the Licensed Vocational Nursing program. Shortly after, I met my amazing husband Trey and we put down roots in Longview, not wanting to leave this amazing community. In our free time, we enjoy fly fishing, hunting, camping and kayaking. In 2016, I felt a pull to pursue a higher degree and started my journey to obtaining my Bachelor’s degree from WGU while still being an active nurse in the community. Being able to coach and teach at Trinity, a school that meant so much to me, is a dream come true and feels like coming home.  

Amanda Tilley

I am a graduate of Texas Christian University with a BFA in Graphic Design. 
My career paths have ranged from the world of advertising to public and private art teacher for middle and high school students. When I am not teaching, creating, or designing, you can often find me training for another half marathon or cooking up something tasty for my boys (my husband Jim and my son Logan). Coffee, indie music, and enjoying the great outdoors keep me balanced. 

Art and design are a part of our everyday lives and I love introducing students to the creative process as well as the power visual communication has to shape ideas and culture. Whether students choose a career path in art and design or would like to strengthen their problem solving skills, it’s my joy to be a part of their journey.

Emily Fraser

This is my first year working at Trinity School of Texas. Previously I was employed by a small family owned urgent care where I gained my love for secretarial work. I am excited to put my knowledge and skills to work here at Trinity while learning and growing alongside the rest of the TST staff. 

In August, my husband and I (born and raised in Central NY) decided to make the move to Longview, Texas. So along with our two boys, Weston (7) and Colton (4), we accepted jobs and made the transition! We are so happy we did and are so excited to call ourselves Texans! We loved hiking the Adirondack Mountains, apple picking in the hills of Upstate NY and we will always be diehard Syracuse Orange basketball fans. We are beyond excited to experience Texas and all it has to offer!

In my spare time, you can find me with a coffee in hand, reading, hiking and spending time with my family. I love Jesus with all my heart and am so thankful for the opportunities He has blessed my family with.

Jennifer Jackson

I am thrilled to be on staff at Trinity School of Texas serving in the RN position. After graduating from Longview High School, I attended Texas Christian University where I received a bachelor of nursing degree in 1996. Shortly thereafter, I moved home to Longview to begin my career at Good Shepherd Medical Center. I spent 13 years at GSMC working in the Emergency Department and Interventional Radiology before making a transition to home care case management until 2014. After taking four years away from my career to stay at home, I realized how much I missed being with and caring for others. I consider it a huge blessing to be able to do the job I love at a place I consider to be like home- TST! My husband Drew and I have one daughter, Ann Katherine who has attended TST since she was two years old in 2006. She is now in high school. I enjoy spending time with my family, watching my daughter play volleyball and cheer, traveling, and I especially love watching and attending TCU football games!

Michelle Jackson

Following graduation from LeTourneau University in 2004 and receiving a B.S. in International Business, I began a career in professional audio. I returned to LeTourneau in 2006 to manage audio/visual services on campus, and a few years later moved over to work in The Belcher Center. In 2013, I had the opportunity to change paths with LeTourneau and moved to work on the academic administration side. During this time, I set out to pursue my M.A in Counseling. I received my Master’s degree in 2019 and began to take clients at the Center for Counseling at LeTourneau. I am thrilled to now be part of TST as the School Counselor.

I spend my free time with family and friends which usually includes a lot of cooking, grilling, card games, and movies. When I have a little more time to get away, I love to discover new places and travel, and so far I have traveled to over 30 countries.love yoga and meditation, reading, cooking, photography, crafts, gardening, days spent on the water, and being surrounded by my loved ones! 

Leaurme Meredith

Though I thoroughly enjoyed employment as a school counselor in Whitehouse ISD and other schools over a 30 year time period, I retired from public education in 2016.   And though I thoroughly enjoyed retirement, I am now loving working full time here at TST.  Since 2017, I have subbed for Trinity and gained a deep appreciation of the outstanding staff and students here.  It is such a sweet and special place.

My husband, Mike Meredith, also works at Trinity.  Together we have six wonderful adult children with spouses and a total of 16 grandchildren.  Christmas and Thanksgiving are a lot of fun at our house!  We share a deep faith in our Lord Jesus and love our church family.  We also love to travel and hope to log in a few miles after we truly retire.  God has a plan for us that we want to follow.  Life is full and exciting! 

Sandra Miller

I graduated from Longview High School in 1992. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting Control Systems from the University of North Texas. After having children, I realized I wanted to pursue my teaching degree and I graduated from the PACT program at LeTourneau University. I taught in the Longview ISD for several years before deciding to go back into the accounting field. I have three children, Hannah, Julia and Matthew who are my ROCK. It seems we are constantly on the go with either tennis, Cheer or college events but I love every minute of it and would not change a thing. When I do get any spare time, I enjoy reading, shopping (of course), fishing/camping and absolutely love spontaneous trips with my children.

Leonardo Penaloza

I was born in Mexico, but I moved to the United States thirty-five years ago. After twenty years, I became a citizen of the United States. The first thirteen years of my career were spent at Trinity, Inc. before I moved to Rescar, Inc. where I remained for eleven years. Eventually I found myself at Trinity. I am married and have two children, a son and a daughter. In my free time, I enjoy shopping, gardening, and watching soccer.

Patricia Rodriguez

I am very happy to be back at TST after staying home to raise my children after working at TST for two years in the past. I love being here each day. Everyone at TST is so friendly. When I am not at TST, I enjoy making balloon decorations for my small family business. I have four kids: Raul, Betsey, Brandon, and Leslie. I have been married for over 20 years.

Maria Serrano

I work in the kitchen and clean the school. I enjoy dancing, soccer, football, and shopping.

Francisco Vasquez

I work in the kitchen, snack bar, serve food, cook, and do whatever is needed. I also drive the TST bus. I coach middle and upper school soccer. I am married with three kids one boy, Alex, and two girls, Jaquelyn, and Marissa. In my spare time, I love to dance.

Paula Vasquez

I am a 1991 graduate of Gladewater High. I open the cafeteria and snack bar during breakfast, lunch and after school. I prepare and decorate birthday cakes to order. In my spare time, I love to dance and go to the lake.

Jaden Ayala

 I graduated from Trinity School of Texas in May of 2020. I have attended OU and am currently attending Kilgore College. I plan to further my education at Oral Roberts University in the fall. I  plan to major in Health and Exercise Science with a minor in Music. I enjoy working with the Kindergarten – 5th grade Extended Enrichment program.

Anna Gage

I am a teacher by day and an artist by night. I like to view the world in a unique and beautiful way, just the way I teach the kids to view the world. Children have always been dear to my heart and if they can take anything away from what I teach them is that it is important to love themselves. “I like Me.”- Laura Pelaia

 

Sandy Greer

Prior to working at TST, I was a teacher’s Aide in Special Education. at a public school district for 15 years.
I love spending time with my family. I love going to see my grandchildren participate in sports and dance competitions.
My hobby is attending the Texas Rangers games!!

Leann Hettinger

I have worked over 30 years at TST. During my early years at Trinity, I worked in a few different areas, including serving as the Director of Extended Day. Those times were so different than it is now. When I first started teaching at Trinity, the school only went to 5th grade. It has been exciting to see all the changes take place and see this school grow into the excellent school that we are today. Each day I am seeing the children of students whom I had in my extended day classes years ago. It makes me feel old, but I know they love Trinity as I do. This is the best place!!

Growing up in Minnesota and coming to Longview in 1982, I have a love for lakes, plants and nature. In my spare time, I decorate and operate a small decorating business. I love to spend time with my husband and two sons and family. I get great joy in watching my three granddaughters in softball and basketball. They are growing up so fast. My dream is to travel more and possibly get back to jewelry making. I plan to stay at TST a while yet to enjoy the children and the school I love.

Shirley Kuhn

My name is Shirley Kuhn and I have been on staff at Trinity since 2004 and serve as the Assistant Director of Extended Enrichment and Summer Programs. I also facilitate our Extended Enrichment Handwriting Program. My hobbies are shopping, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Eddie Page

I am a 2020 Trinity School of Texas graduate and currently a student at Morehouse College majoring in computer science.  My life goal is to do whatever the Lord has planned for me to do.  I enjoy mentoring children.