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MEET OUR STAFF

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Connect. Guide. Empower.

We are incredibly proud of our dedicated team of teachers and staff. Our diverse team is made up of teachers with a wide range of backgrounds and experience. Every one of our teachers is passionate about helping our students reach their full potential.

 

Our teachers are experienced in helping those with learning differences and use a compassionate, caring and creative approach to teaching. We also have a strong support staff that provides additional resources and guidance to our students and families. Our team of professionals is committed to providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment for our students.

 

We are dedicated to helping our students grow and reach their goals.

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Monica Howard

Executive Director

Monica has been married for over 22 years to the love of her life, Trevor, and together they have 6 children along with 4 grandchildren. Her family serves together on the worship team at a vibrant and growing church where Monica leads as the Director of Worship. Above all, Monica loves Jesus and has committed to keep Him at the center of her life, family, and work.​

Monica has owned and operated several small businesses and was called out of her corporate career of 17 years, where she was the Vice President of Customer Success for a prominent project management software company, to become the Executive Director of Foundations Christian Academy (FCA). She possesses tremendous skills in strategic planning and relationship building resulting in substantial revenue growth.  Monica has a proven reputation as a driven, creative, outcome focused leader that specializes in hiring the best people, growing leaders, leveraging technology to increase efficiency, building lasting relationships based on trust, and creating sticky teams. She is committed to using these skills to help bring visibility and resources to the children and families of FCA.  

Monica attended Texas A&M University and is trained in Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). She has raised two children with learning differences and believes all children, no matter their ability or socioeconomic status deserve to be respected, included and receive a high-quality, kingdom education.

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Frances Sandoval

Principal

Ms. Sandoval, a graduate of University of Clear Lake brings with her 28 years of Special Education teaching experience from the Clear Creek Independent and Big Sandy Independent school districts. She has vast experience developing children from all backgrounds, including ADHD, ODD, ED, and ASD. Ms. Sandoval carries her teaching certification in the State of Texas and is a CPI certified trainer, as well as certified in Applied Behavior Analysis. Ms. Sandoval is 2 years into her MS program for Administration.
Ms. Sandoval retired from teaching in May, 2023 and moved back to Pearland to be with her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren, ages 3 and 6. She loves Jesus and leads praise and worship at her church. For Ms. Sandoval, Christ is the center of her life and is first in all she does. She believes the Holy Spirit is her best friend and God has called her to mother the next generation for his Kingdom.

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Jaylyn Jones

Executive Administrator

Mrs. Jones has been happily married for six years and is the proud mom of a lively first grader here at Foundations Christian Academy. She and her family attend New Hope Church in Friendswood, where they enjoy being active members of the church community. Her path to FCA began in the classroom, where she discovered a deep love for early childhood education as a Lead Preschool Teacher.
Transitioning from education to the business world, Jaylyn excelled as a Billing & Financial Operations Manager, gaining extensive experience in financial management, data systems, and operational efficiency. During that time, she successfully implemented new software systems that enhanced workflow, improved data accuracy, and streamlined communication—experience that now serves her well in supporting the operational growth of Foundations Christian Academy.
Now serving as Executive Administrator, Jaylyn combines her heart for children with her professional expertise in organizational systems and technology. Whether managing school records, coordinating logistics, or greeting families with her trademark warmth, she approaches every task with excellence and care.
Dedicated, dependable, and detail-oriented, Jaylyn plays a pivotal role in keeping Foundations Christian Academy running smoothly—ensuring that every system supports the mission of creating an exceptional experience for students, families, and staff alike.

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Melaney Miller

Preschool - K4

Ms. Miller has dedicated many years to early childhood education, driven by a heartfelt passion for helping young learners grow academically, socially, and spiritually. With her strong educational background in Early Childhood Education, she creates a classroom that is loving, welcoming, and full of curiosity—where children feel safe to explore, learn, and discover their own gifts. She finds joy in guiding her students as they take their first steps in learning, building confidence, and developing a love for knowledge that lasts a lifetime.

A devoted follower of Christ, Ms. Miller integrates biblical truths and the values of kindness into every part of her teaching, helping her students grow not only academically but also in character and faith. Outside the classroom, she enjoys capturing God’s creation through photography and spending time outdoors, exploring the beauty of the world around her. She also loves being with her energetic blue heeler, Bama, who keeps her active and laughing. For Ms. Miller, teaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling to nurture, inspire, and shine God’s light into the lives of her students.

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Heidi Dyer

Preschool - K4

Mrs. Dyer is a certified educator with over 14 years of dedicated experience supporting students with diverse learning needs. She holds degrees in Christian Counseling and Special Education from Liberty University and the University of Texas, graduating with honors. Her certifications include EC-6 Generalist, EC-12 Special Education, and 30 hours of Gifted and Talented training.

Mrs. Dyer’s expertise lies in designing and implementing individualized education plans within functional and therapeutic classroom environments. She has received specialized training in autism, non-verbal communication strategies, assistive technology, and speech supports. Her collaborative approach has led to successful partnerships with physical and occupational therapists, particularly in sensory integration and motor lab activities tailored to students with developmental and learning differences.

Known for her compassion, adaptability, and trauma-informed approach, Mrs. Dyer creates structured, nurturing spaces where children feel safe, valued, and capable of growth. She is CPR certified and currently pursuing a master’s degree in Apologetics and Culture, further reflecting her commitment to both faith and education.

Outside the classroom, she actively serves her church and local community through prison ministry, homeless outreach, and mission work. She and her husband Doug cherish their roles as parents and grandparents and love spending time with their family.

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Kristin Jones

Kindergarten - K5

It is a joy to introduce Ms. Kristin Jones, our dedicated Kindergarten teacher at Foundations Christian Academy. With several years of experience teaching and serving families in our community, Ms. Kristin brings both passion and professionalism to the classroom. She holds a degree in Special Education (K–12) and has a deep calling to help every child discover their God-given gifts and reach their fullest potential.

Ms. Kristin creates a nurturing and engaging learning environment where her students grow academically, socially, and spiritually each day. Her gentle spirit and commitment to individualized learning make her classroom a place where young learners truly thrive.

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Kristin is an active member of LifePoint Church in League City, Texas, where she has joyfully served as a volunteer for more than five years. She finds fulfillment in giving back to her church and community through faith-filled service.

When she isn’t teaching, Ms. Kristin loves spending time outdoors with her beloved dog Oakley, her loyal “dog park buddy” and best friend. She’s also a proud aunt who cherishes every chance to spend time with her nieces and nephew—whether it’s a family get-together, cheering them on at events, or simply enjoying quality time together.

Whether she’s walking in the sunshine, singing, or sharing laughter with loved ones, Ms. Kristin finds joy in God’s creation and the relationships He places in her life. She considers it a true blessing to teach in a Christ-centered environment where faith and learning come together daily—helping each student grow not only in knowledge but in character and confidence in who God created them to be.

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Joy DeBose Eremerena

1st Grade

Mrs. Joy is a devoted wife and proud mother of a joyful two-year-old daughter, who is also part of the FCA family. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, she brings both a heart for children and a deep love for the Lord into everything she does.

Her teaching journey began in Beijing, China, and later continued in Istanbul, Türkiye, where she discovered the beauty of connecting with students from many different cultures and backgrounds. These experiences strengthened her faith and deepened her desire to share God’s love through education—helping students see the world as part of His grand design.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in English with a concentration in Rhetoric and Writing from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Forensic Psychology at Capella University. She loves traveling and learning about God’s creation, having explored many incredible places across Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean.

Guided by her faith, Mrs. Joy strives to create a classroom that reflects Christ’s love—a place where every child feels valued, encouraged, and inspired to grow in both wisdom and spirit. She believes that education is not just about learning facts, but about discovering the purpose and potential God has placed within each child.

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Jessica DeCicco

2nd Grade

For Mrs. DeCicco, teaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling. With a heart devoted to guiding young minds and nurturing faith, she brings passion and purpose to everything she does at Foundations Christian Academy.

She has been happily married for seven years and is the proud mother of three children, all of whom attend FCA. Mrs. DeCicco earned her Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Western Governors University and holds a teaching certification in both Texas and Utah.

In her classroom, she strives to create a nurturing, Christ-centered environment where students grow both academically and spiritually. She believes learning should inspire curiosity, build character, and strengthen each child’s relationship with God.

Outside the classroom, Mrs. DeCicco enjoys spending time with her family, staying active at the gym, and serving within her church community. She continues to seek new ways to deepen her walk with God and share His love with those around her.

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David Anderson

3rd Grade

Mr. Anderson has been married to his wife for five wonderful years and shares their home with two beloved cats, Iroh and Teddi. Together, they enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, and discovering new adventures.

A proud member of Sovereign Grace Church in Pearland, Texas, Mr. Anderson is a born-again Christian whose faith shapes both his teaching philosophy and daily life. He holds a degree in Social and Behavioral Science with specialized training in Early Childhood and Special Education.

With more than six years of experience in Clear Creek ISD, Mr. Anderson has served in various educational roles and brings strong knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to support students with diverse learning needs. Passionate about helping every child reach their fullest potential, he strives to create a classroom where students feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow in both knowledge and faith.

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Jenny Little

4th Grade

Jenny Little is an experienced educator with over 15 years of teaching in K-10 classrooms. For the past 6 years, she has focused on supporting students with autism, ADHD, and learning differences, developing specialized strategies that cater to their unique needs. Jenny’s deep commitment to inclusive education is evident in her ability to create environments where all students can thrive academically and socially.

In addition to her teaching credentials, Mrs. Little holds a degree in nursing, which has further enhanced her understanding of the diverse needs of her students. Her nursing background equips her with a unique perspective on student well-being, allowing her to approach education with a holistic mindset.

As a “teacher’s teacher,” Mrs. Little is highly regarded for her mentorship and leadership among her peers. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge, fostering a collaborative spirit, and continuously improving the educational experience for both students and teachers.

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Barbara Hollen

5th Grade

Barbara Hollen is a seasoned educator with more than 28 years of experience serving children from early childhood through eighth grade. Her passion and expertise lie in supporting students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other learning differences, both in inclusive settings and specialized environments.

Barbara holds a Level 2 Certification through Clear Creek Independent School District (CCISD) and has served in multiple educational roles, including Physical Education teacher and Chapel Director. She has designed and led movement-based instruction for neurodiverse students, integrating sensory-informed practices to promote physical development and emotional regulation. Her instructional approach is rooted in evidence-based strategies tailored to support learners with varying cognitive and developmental profiles.

Her professional work is deeply informed by personal experience—Barbara is the mother of a son with ASD and learning disabilities. Walking alongside him in his educational journey has equipped her with unique insight into the needs of families navigating similar paths. This lived experience has enhanced her capacity to connect with students and parents alike, offering both empathy and skilled support.

In addition to her professional roles, Barbara is a wife of 35 years, a mother of three, and a proud grandmother to three beautiful granddaughters. Her family is a central part of her life and a source of inspiration in her work with children.

Barbara approaches her role as an educator with a profound sense of calling. She believes that every child is fearfully and wonderfully made, and she seeks daily guidance from the Holy Spirit as she nurtures, teaches, and advocates for children with learning differences.

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Christina Calo

6th Grade

Mrs. Calo is happily married to her husband of 8 years, and together they are proud parents of a bright and energetic first grader who attends Foundations Christian Academy. Her family and faith are at the heart of her life, and she enjoys attending her local Baptist church each week. In her free time, she loves spending quality time with family and friends and enjoying activities that bring joy and connection.

A devoted follower of Christ, Mrs. Calo holds a teaching degree from Sam Houston State University and is passionate about nurturing young minds. She provides a Christ-centered, supportive, and engaging learning environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, spiritually, and personally.

Mrs. Calo believes every child is uniquely created by God and strives to help each student discover their God-given potential. She is dedicated to fostering a love of learning, developing critical thinking, and guiding students to build strong Christian character, and values.

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Callan Summers

7th and 8th Grade, Art 

Mrs. Callan Summers, a proud alumna of Houston Christian University, holds a Master’s degree in Studio Art and has six years of experience teaching middle and high school students. Her teaching approach emphasizes fostering creativity and critical thinking skills, helping students navigate their academic and personal growth with confidence.

Mrs. Summers brings a deep passion for art education, using her expertise to inspire students to explore their creative potential and understand the beauty of God’s creation through artistic expression. Her commitment to nurturing each student's unique talents and abilities will be a valuable asset to the FCA community as she supports their growth both in and out of the classroom

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David Mitchell

High-School

Mr. Dave Mitchell is a devoted follower of Jesus and has been joyfully married to his wife, Pam, for 34 years. Together, they have raised three grown children and are the proud grandparents of eight—an experience that has further fueled his passion for Christ-centered education.

Mr. Mitchell holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Colorado Christian University and a Master’s degree in Biblical Counseling from the Master's School of Divinity. He has also completed doctoral coursework (ABD) in the Ed.D. program at Grand Canyon University.

Over the past 20 years, Mr. Mitchell has taught middle and high school students, served as Principal and Head Administrator, coached athletics, and co-managed a real estate investment business with his wife.

Mr. Mitchell believes in teaching the whole student—mind, body, and spirit—and is committed to helping each child discover their God-given strengths. He is excited to continue investing in the lives of students and partnering with families to help them thrive both academically and spiritually.

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Alison Lawson

Paraprofessional

Ms. Alison Lawson is a dedicated paraprofessional with an Associate's Degree in Applied Science as a Radiographer from San Jacinto College. With seven years of experience, she has provided invaluable classroom support, including assistance with administrative tasks. Her greatest strength is her patience, which she uses to help students of all abilities learn and grow.

Ms. Lawson has a deep commitment to working with special needs children, understanding their unique needs, and helping them reach their full potential. Outside of her professional life, she's a proud wife and mother of three boys, providing unwavering support.

Her faith is central to her life as a devoted Christian who emulates the love and compassion of Jesus. Ms. Lawson believes in loving the unlovable and carries this principle into her personal and professional life. She is a dedicated mentor, role model, and a source of inspiration for her students and colleagues.

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Silvia Ball

Paraprofessional

Mrs. Silvia Ball brings over 20 years of dedicated experience as a paraprofessional, supporting individuals with learning differences and diverse abilities. Throughout her career, she has effectively managed group homes, developed and implemented personalized care plans, and led teams to uphold high standards of service. Mrs. Ball's exceptional leadership and compassionate approach have been instrumental in advocating for necessary services and ensuring that individuals receive the care and support they need. Her commitment to these values extends to her role in advocating for the needs of students, reflecting her deep understanding of and dedication to personalized care.

Beyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Ball is a supportive wife to a disabled veteran and a devoted caregiver to her mother, demonstrating her strong personal values and commitment to family. Her faith profoundly influences her approach to both her professional responsibilities and personal life, guiding her in providing empathetic care and effective leadership. Mrs. Ball's extensive experience and unwavering dedication make her a valuable asset in any role focused on enhancing the well-being and support of individuals with diverse needs.

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Hudson Holtzinger

Paraprofessional

Mr. Hudson Holtzinger serves as a paraprofessional at Foundations Christian Academy, providing daily classroom support and individualized assistance to students with a variety of learning needs. With a heart for ministry and a passion for helping students grow both academically and personally, Mr. Holtzinger plays an integral role in creating a positive, structured, and encouraging learning environment.

As part of FCA’s specialized support team, Mr. Holtzinger works alongside teachers and therapists to implement individualized strategies, classroom accommodations, and behavior supports. His calm demeanor, patience, and ability to build trusting relationships make him a valuable presence in both academic and social settings.

In addition to his paraprofessional role, Mr. Holtzinger shares his talents in computer skills and music, offering creative outlets for students to engage and develop new abilities. He brings over five years of communication training and ministry experience, which have equipped him to foster connection, promote confidence, and support students of all abilities.

Above all, Mr. Holtzinger is passionate about seeing each student thrive and views his role at FCA as an opportunity to live out his calling to serve others and reflect Christ’s love in action.

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Isabella Baena

Paraprofessional

Mrs. Isabella is passionate about helping every student discover and reach their God-given potential. With a strong background in individualized learning, she previously worked as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) for two years before transitioning into teaching.

Her educational training in Special Education and Occupational Therapy has equipped her with the skills and compassion needed to support students of all learning styles. She finds great joy in guiding her students, celebrating their progress, and watching them flourish academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Outside the classroom, Mrs. Isabella enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and staying active. She loves exploring new places and witnessing the beauty of God’s creation around the world. Whether she’s running along the seawall or walking with her dog in a nearby park, she values moments that bring reflection, peace, and gratitude.

Each day, Mrs. Isabella considers it a blessing to teach, inspire, and walk alongside her students as they grow into the individuals God created them to be.

2600 Stanley Lane
El Lago, TX 77586

Office - 281.984.7588

Foundations Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. Each student is granted the same rights and privileges, allowing all the same opportunity to enlist in any program or activity, including educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, athletics, and other school administered programs.

Copyright © 2023 Foundations Christian Academy. All rights reserved.

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