Junior High Staff

Ms. Belgum joined the Performing Arts team in Spring 2019 after graduating from Biola University with a B.A. in Music and Biblical Studies. She boasts an impressive performance resume which includes numerous musical theatre performances, singing competitions, Legoland appearances and singing the national anthem for the San Diego Padres. Ms. Belgum has lead worship at Hume Lake Christian Camps and at several local churches as well. Her great rapport with children and passion to teach music and drama makes her a dynamic addition to the department. 

Mrs. Carter joined MCS in 2013 after more than ten years of experience in teaching junior high Bible in Northern California. She holds a B.S. from Virginia Tech in Biology, M.S. from JMU in Cell Biology, and M.A. Magna Cum Laude in Theological Studies from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. Mrs. Carter has also published in scholarly scientific journals and even an iBook for her former junior high Bible classes. Mrs. Carter has actively ministered in leadership in Bible Study Fellowship and Community Bible Study where she served as Area Director, Assistant Teaching Director, and Children's Director. She has served her church through global missions, deaconess, and children's teacher. She enthusiastically loves her junior high students, only to be surpassed by her passion for the Lord Jesus Christ and His Word!

Mrs. Hillmer was born in La Paz, Bolivia and at an early age, fell in love with languages. She went on to study language and linguistic in Bolivia. In 1991, she married Doug Hillmer and moved to Canada where she earned her Master’s degree in Divinity. She invested in her family and became a full-time mother to her three children. As her kids grew up the Lord opened doors for Maribel to teach in a variety of settings, both at church as well as in the secular realm. Maribel marvels at how God knits each individual’s story with love and much care, she trusts that God brought her to MCS to use all she has been given by Him to bless others. Her favorite verse is, “Lean not on your own understanding but in all things acknowledge Him and He will straighten your path” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Mrs. Howard was born in London, England into a thespian family and has been teaching dance and theatre for over 35 years while also managing her own dance studio. Mrs. Howard ran a Youth Theatre Ministry for 13 years before coming to MCS in 2013 as the Director of Performing Arts for grades TK–12. She has directed over 35 youth productions and 17 summer theatre camps in her time at the school. Mrs. Howard currently oversees the Performing Arts Department as well as teaching JH Choir and directing 2 musicals a year! Her great passion and vision is teaching children to glorify Christ through the performing arts.

Mr. Ly is originally from the San Fernando Valley, and moved to San Diego for his undergraduate studies. Mr. Ly earned his B.S. in Social Psychology, along with his Masters in Education and Teaching Credential at UCSD. He joined MCS in 2021 as the Junior High Math and History teacher. The Lord has not only graciously allowed him to teach at a school that conveys a Biblical Worldview in academics as well as in example. When Mr. Ly is not in the classroom, he loves to serve in the Youth Ministry at Redeemer's Grace Church, spend time with his wife, read Christian biographies, go hiking, play basketball, and admire the intricacies of God's creation at the beach and the sea life beyond it. 

Mrs. Marks joined MCS as a full-time teacher in 2019 after she realized she had a passion for teaching junior high students while being involved in the Math Enrichment program at MCS. For the preceding 20 years, Mrs. Marks held a career in medical imaging sales; selling imaging equipment and related service contracts. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing from California Lutheran University and held various roles in business marketing and financial advisory prior to entering the medical industry. Mrs. Marks obtained her Master’s Degree and California Teaching Credential at Alliant International University in 2019. She loves working with junior high students and encouraging them in their relationship with Jesus. She also is an active volunteer at Emmanuel Faith Community Church teaching two and three-year-olds during the Saturday service.

Mrs. Kristen Percival joined MCS in 2021 after returning home to California from a 15-year adventure living all over the globe. Raised in Los Angeles, then Seoul, South Korea, she experienced living in four additional countries with her husband. Her children joined the journey along the way and are now in all three levels of school (Elementary, Junior High, and High School). Mrs. Percival received her B.A. at UCSB and her Multiple Teaching Credential from Azusa Pacific. With 20 years of experience she has taught numerous grades, ages, and subjects.  Some of her favorite subjects include History, Bible, and Health. Mrs. Percival is defined by her deep love for our Savior. She is passionate about teaching Biblical Truth, praying, lecturing at women's conferences, and hosting ministry groups. Her favorite mornings include an early start, Scripture over a cup of coffee, and a brisk prayer walk to connect with the Lord. Life with Jesus is an exciting ride and she looks forward to what the Lord has prepared for her to accomplish in each new season.

Mrs. Pizarro grew up in San Diego.  She attended college in Tennessee, and received her degree in Elementary Education, then taught second grade in Kentucky.  In 2008 she moved back to San Diego and earned her Master's in Education.  She volunteers at The Grove church with elementary students and currently is their Children's Director. Mrs. Pizarro is passionate about making learning fun and building relationships.  Her and her husband have four children, and pretty much live at the soccer fields!  They enjoy camping and the beach.

Coach Rodgers began his teaching and coaching career at Maranatha Christian Schools during the 2000-2001 school year. He currently serves as the Associate Athletic Director and K-8 physical education teacher. While attending Ohio State University on a lacrosse scholarship, he decided to focus on the fields of athletic administration and coaching. However, God had another plan, and he quickly became involved in the Health Club revolution of the early 80’s. Later after opening several clubs in the Orange County/LA area, he settled in San Diego. Coach's passions are kids, sports and teaching the love of Christ through athletic competition. He also holds a B.A. in Christian Studies from Grand Canyon University and has coached football, basketball, volleyball, and lacrosse at every level over his 20 plus years of ministry at MCS. He is married to Suzi Rodgers and together they have two grown children who both attended MCS. Coach often tells anyone who will listen “I haven’t worked a day since joining MCS, to God be the Glory!”

Mrs. Santiago joined MCS during the 2005-2006 school year and has always loved working in a school setting. She graduated from Cal State San Marcos with a B.A. in Liberal Studies, along with her teaching credential. She began her teaching career in a public school and taught grades Kindergarten and 4th grade. She then felt called to teach in a private school and found MCS, where she was ecstatic to accept a first-grade teaching position. Mrs. Santiago taught first-grade for nine years before dedicating herself to a stay at home mom for a few years. She came back to MCS as the Technology Coach for grades TK-8. Integrating technology has always been her desire, especially after taking numerous courses to learn, understand and apply how technology has expanded in today’s digital age. Outside of school, Mrs. Santiago enjoys photography, sports, vacationing, and spending time with her family. She is so happy and blessed to be part of such a wonderful community at MCS!

Mrs. Smith first joined the MCS staff as a student teacher while attending Point Loma University where she earned her California Teaching Credential and will soon complete her Masters in Teaching Degree. She has been tutoring students privately for more than fifteen years and most recently taught math for middle school students in the Poway Unified School District. She is looking forward to working with students who hold a Christian worldview and feels blessed to join Maranatha Christian Schools. 

Mr. Stokes is originally from Florida and holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in civil engineering. He is a 23-year veteran of the US Navy, where he specialized in facilities and construction management. After military service, God led him to be a math teacher and he received his teaching credential through San Diego State University in 2022. The 2022-2023 school year will be his first year teaching, and he feels blessed to be a part of the MCS staff as a junior high math and STEM teacher. 

Mrs. Vogel joined the MCS staff in the 2017-2018 school year as a long term substitute teacher, but has since taken on the full position as 7th and 8th grade science teacher. She began her post-secondary education in 2008 with the intent to study in the field of Biology. However, God had other plans, and she took time off to marry and have her two children. In 2016, she earned her B.A. Summa Cum Laude at San Diego State University in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Science. Over the next year she completed her credential coursework at Point Loma Nazarene University. She feels a strong connection to the Junior High age group and is always thinking up fun and engaging labs for the students to do. One of her greatest passions is bringing the knowledge and wonder of God and His creation to her students.

Coach Walker moved to San Diego in 2020 from Northern California where he retired from 20 years as a contractor- building and remodeling homes. He was also the owner and operator of Next Level Fitness "nutrition and personal training". Along with that, he was the Jr. High basketball and football coach and substitute PE teacher at Providence Christian in Orland, CA. By far, his greatest passion is encouraging a Biblical worldview in his students.

Mrs. Walker joined MCS in 2020 after teaching in Northern California since 2004. She holds a B.A. in Liberal Studies from Vanguard University of Southern California in Costa Mesa, and her teaching credential from Cal State East Bay, Hayward, CA. She has taught at nearly every grade level, including adult learners, and spent some time in administration at her past school. Having moved very recently to San Diego, she frequents the beach with her 2 children and husband, and will not soon tire of the tide and sand. During college, she traveled to China and Tibet and upon graduation, backpacked through eight countries in Europe. She loves to instill a desire to travel in her students. She has served at church in various areas including children’s ministry coordinator and worship team pianist, guitarist, and vocalist. When you don’t see Mrs. Walker in her Junior High English classroom, you may find her in a garden studying God’s beautiful creation or singing worship to Him for His wondrous grace and mercy. Colossians 1:15-20

Coach Wise was born and raised in San Diego and has been a part of the MCS community as a parent and volunteer since 2012.  Through the years she felt God tugging on her heart to serve the MCS community at a greater capacity and in 2020 joined the MCS staff assisting the PE department.  She is thrilled to bring her years of experience as a collegiate athlete and a coach to help encourage and grow a passion for athletics, health and most importantly for our Lord in the students of Maranatha.  Kristen loves attending her three kids’ sporting activities, the beach, camping with her family and worship music.  “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” Hebrews 10:24

Mrs. Young is thrilled to join MCS faculty in 2020 after having been part of the school community as a parent since 2008. Born and raised in San Diego, Mrs. Young graduated from University of San Diego with a Business Degree followed by completion of both her single and multiple subject teaching credentials and M.Ed. from National University. She joins MCS with five years of teaching experience at Classical Academy High School in Escondido. She also brings years of experience in athletics, both as a former collegiate athlete and as a coach. Here at MCS, Mrs. Young teaches Physical Education for elementary and junior high students. She is passionate about motivating students and coming alongside them as they build positive health and fitness habits. She thoroughly enjoys connecting with her students and celebrating the uniqueness that God created each of them with. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” -Psalm 139:14