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Our Leadership

Holly Hillary, Principal

 

Education:

  • Michigan State University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
  • Michigan State University - Master's Degree, Educational Leadership

 

Previous education experience:

I was at Vanguard Charter Academy for 5-years, holding the positions of Middle School math teacher, Middle School Dean and Supervisor. I was then an Assistant Principal at Brooklyn Excelsior for 2-1/2 years, an Assistant Principal at Vista Charter Academy for 2-1/2 years, and then the Principal in Residence at Timberland for a half year.

 

What do you like most about working here?

Making a difference in students' lives.

 

Personal Information:

I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, and still live in the area. I enjoy running and spending time with my family.

 

 

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Jim Keatley, Assistant Principal

 

Education:

  • Bakersfield JC
  • San Diego State University
  • South Dakota State University – Bachelor's of Science in Wildlife Management Fisheries Biology
  • Western Michigan University – Master's of Art's in Education
 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

  • Lansing Christian School - 2 years
  • Zeeland Christian School – 22 years
  • Vanderbilt Charter Academy – 13 years
  • 4 Summers teaching Summer School at Career Line Tech Center for High School science credit
 

What do you like most about working here?

The people I work with each day, and their commitment to help kids grow educationally and socially.

 

 Personal Information: 

 Anyone wanting to learn how to fly-fish can give me a call.  It is my passion!

 

 

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Jenny Rutkauskas, K-2 Dean

 

Education:

  • Grand Rapids Community College — Associate's Degree, Arts
  • Grand Valley State University — Bachelor of Arts, Education
  • Grand Valley State University — Master's, Educational Leadership

 

Previous education experience:

I taught 3rd grade for 3-years in an inner-city Pompano Beach, FL school, and then another 3-years teaching a variety of grades, ranging from K-7th/8th ELA at Vanderbilt Charter Academy.

 

What do you like most about working here?

I like and appreciate how relationships with students have a high value. It’s how we’re treated that impacts how we learn. I truly enjoy coming to school each day and making a positive impact on the future of this world.

 

Personal Information:

I am married to my high school sweetheart, Justin. We have two boys, Koen and Quentin. In my spare time I enjoy running long distances and spending time outdoors.