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Our Leadership

 

Joe Nieuwkoop, Principal

 

Joe Nieuwkoop - Principal.jpg
 

Education:

  • Grand Valley State University, Bachelors of Science in Secondary Education; History & P.E.
  • Grand Valley State University, Masters in Educational Leadership

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

I started as a teacher at Cross Creek in 2000 and became principal in 2005.

 

What do you like most about working here?

One of the things I like most about working at Cross Creek is the chance I have each and every day to positively impact the life of a child.

 

Personal Information to Share (Family, Pets, Hobbies, and Interests)

I have a phenomenal wife, Shannon and two wonderful sons, Bennet & Brody

 

 

Deb Sammons, Assistant Principal

 

Deb photo.jpg 

 

Education:

  • Central Michigan University - Bachelors of Science in Speech Pathology/Audiology/Education
  • San Jose State - Masters Courses in Reading
  • Full Theological Seminary - Masters of Divinity - Education Concentration

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

  • Speech Pathologist (4 years)
  • General Education Teacher / Substitute Teacher (7 years)
  • Special Education Teacher (2 years)
  • Orton Gillinghamt Tutor (2 years)
  • School Principal (3 years)
  • NHA Service Center - All areas of education (2 years)
  • Assistant Principal (12 years)

 

What do you like most about working here?

I highly enjoy working the staff we have here at Cross Creek. They are committed to excellence in education and they care so deeply for their students. Also, I love our families. We have families that care and desire to work with me to make their children successful. What a fantastic environment to work and grow in! I love it here!
 

Other work experience:

Church/Hospital Internships while in seminary (4 years)
 

Personal Information to Share (Family, Pets, Hobbies, and Interests)

I have an amazing husband, Dana and three, equally amazing sons: Scott, Steven, and Daniel.
We have one dog named Timber.  During my free time I enjoy activities at church, sporting events with my children, and reading.