Teachers

Meet Mr. Baltazar:

¡Hola! My name is Edgar Baltazar, and I’m blessed to teach Bible 8 and Spanish 3 at Immanuel this year. I grew up in a family that worshiped God in Spanish, and my prayer is that through God’s Word and language learning, students will see the love of Jesus at work in “every nation, tribe, and tongue” (Rev. 7:9–10).

I was born in Reedley, raised in Parlier, and graduated from Reedley High in 2015 before earning my B.S. in Kinesiology from Fresno State in 2020—where I also accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. In the past, I have worked as a paraeducator and youth pastor, and now serve as the NextGen Pastor at Redeemer's Church, helping lead the next generation of believers in their walk with the Lord.

In 2022, God called me to Immanuel to help launch the boys volleyball program. Today, I’m grateful to invest in students both academically and spiritually, helping them grow in faith and live for God’s glory. ¡Bendito sea Dios!

“We love because He first loved us.” — 1 John 4:19

Meet Ms. Bell:

Hello! My name is Peyton Bell. I grew up in Fresno, California with my parents and my younger sister, Kendall (who also happens to be my best friend). I attend and serve at The Well Community Church, where my dad is a pastor. I was a student in Clovis Unified School District from kindergarten to my senior year of high school, graduating from Clovis North High School in 2021.

My parents often read to my sister and I when we were young, which sparked in me a deep love for literature from a young age. As I grew up, I knew I wanted to continue to study literature and explore how it helps us interact more deeply with our faith. I decided to continue my education at California Baptist University as an English major to do just that. I graduated in 2025 with a B.A. in English Literature, an integrated single subject English teaching credential, and a minor in Philosophy. My dream was to return to the Central Valley to contribute to its legacy of teachers who care deeply about their students both in and out of the classroom.

I believe that every student has unique giftings designed by God to allow them to contribute to His kingdom. I look forward to preparing my students to become better readers, writers, and thinkers so they can achieve the success the Lord has laid out for them. I am grateful and excited to be part of Immanuel's mission to strengthen students academically and spiritually.

"Perhaps this is the moment for which you were created." -Esther 4:14

Meet Mrs. Decker:

Hello!  My name is Tracy Rose Decker.  I grew up in the foothills of Sanger on my family’s cattle ranch and attended Centerville Elementary, a small K–8 country school. When it came time for high school, my family and I made the decision for me to attend Immanuel. Although I only knew a couple of upperclassmen and no one in my own grade, I quickly made friends and ended up having one of the most meaningful high school experiences imaginable.

After graduating from Immanuel, I earned my B.A. in Interior Design from CSU Fresno. I spent nearly 30 years working in the design industry, gaining experience in residential, medical, and commercial design. Through a series of unexpected and faith-led events, God redirected my path and opened the door to teaching at Immanuel. Becoming an interior design teacher was never something I envisioned for myself—but God had a better plan. I now have the joy of combining my passion for design with my heart for mentoring students as they explore their own creativity and purpose.

My husband Daren and I live in Reedley and have two grown children, Devin and Sadie. As a family, we enjoy spending time at my in-laws’ cabin at Shaver Lake, where we love to hike, paddleboard, and relax. We’re also big baseball fans and love cheering on the L.A. Dodgers!

"Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."   Isaiah 43:1-2

Meet Ms. DenHartog:

My name is Alyssa DenHartog, but just about everybody calls me Bissie (a nickname that my mom made up). I am teaching junior high and high school math. I am also the Director of Sport for Girls Indoor Volleyball.

I grew up and live in Clovis, and I taught in Clovis for the last 5 years after graduating from Fresno Pacific University. Last year, the Lord led me to Immanuel. I just finished my MA in Math Education, along with two of my sisters and my mother, who are also math teachers. I have 3 sisters in total, a legendary brother-in-law (Mr. Certain), and the cutest nephew in the world. My dad is the only immediate family member who is not in education, but we still love him anyway. We all live in Clovis and regularly take family walks together. I attend Peoples Church in Fresno where I love volunteering with the youth group. I like Dutch better than Starbucks, tv shows better than movies, and Cheez-It's better than goldfish.

Verse: Philippians 4:6-7 "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Meet Mrs. Faust:

Hello! My name is Rebekah (Bekah) Faust and I am so excited to be here at Immanuel! My husband Darren and I have 3 kids here with me. Oldest son Noah, middle son Greyson and daughter Olivia. We love to travel and raise orphaned and injured wildlife with Fresno Wildlife Rehabilitation Service.

I have a BS Degree in Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology from the University of California at Davis and a Biology Teaching Credential from CSU Fresno. Before going into teaching I was a land animal trainer for Six Flags Marine World (now Discovery Kingdom) in Vallejo. But my passion for teaching kids about animals, along with the cost of living in the bay area, led me back home to Clovis to pursue a career in teaching science.

I taught science for 13 years at Abraham Lincoln Middle School in Selma, then for 5 years I taught science online for California Connections Academy. I love the fact that I get to finally teach science with an emphasis on God, our amazing creator and using this to point students back to Him.

Favorite verse: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 

Meet Mrs. Friesen: 

My name is Coleen Friesen, and I grew up in Fresno, California. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree and teaching credential from Fresno Pacific University. At FPU, I met my husband David, an Immanuel alumnus, and after college we married and settled in Reedley. We have been blessed with seven children who have graduated from or are currently attending Immanuel Schools. Some of my hobbies are camping at the beach or in the mountains, watching our kids play sports, and singing.

I began my career as a kindergarten teacher and then taught K-8th grade students at a charter school. I also spent many years --14!-- homeschooling my own children. All of these experiences, as well as my time as a real estate agent and property manager, prepared me in amazing ways for the job I hold today. I was thrilled when the Lord opened the door for me to work at Immanuel. 

One of my favorite hymns says “Oh love of God, how rich and pure, how measureless and strong...”  What a privilege it is to share the immeasurable love of God with students every day!

Meet Mrs. Gilmore:

Hi, I’m Lauren Gilmore, and I’m so thankful to be teaching middle school English here at Immanuel. I graduated from Cal State Northridge in 2010 with a B.A. and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I began my career teaching Kindergarten, then spent two years working in regulatory affairs for a medical device manufacturer.

In 2013, I stepped away from full-time work to become a stay-at-home mom. During that season, I also worked as a personal stylist for four years, which allowed me to express my creativity in a new way. Later, I returned to education as the Director of Curriculum Development for an online middle school, a role I held for three years./

In 2021, God called me into full-time ministry, and I had the joy of serving as the Children’s Director in Kingsburg for two years. Then, in January 2024, God led me to Immanuel, where I now have the incredible privilege of teaching middle school students in a Christ-centered environment.

Outside of school, I love spending time with my husband and our four boys. We enjoy camping, crafting, and making memories together as a family.

Favorite verse: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” - ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭9‬

Meet Mr. Gossenberger:

Hello everyone! My name is Jason Gossenberger and although I was born in Vallejo, California I grew up in Clovis. My father was (and is still) a pastor and my mom was a stay-at-home mother. Yes, it is true what they say about Pastor's kids, but I can safely say I was not one of them. It would be an understatement to say I grew up in the church, and that it was basically a second home for me.

I graduated from Buchanan High School in 2007 with a class of 1,000+ students, so it is safe to say there will be a little bit of an adjustment for me at Immanuel. I knew God was calling me to serve Him after high school by being someone who could offer guidance, support, and Biblical understanding to the youth of the next generation.

I married my incredible wife, Maribeth, and graduated from Fresno Pacific University. I have spent the last 9 years of my professional career as a Youth and Associate Pastor, but there was always a tug on my heart to enter into education. So, less than a year ago, God opened a door that I had to step through and here I am today getting ready to guide, support, and provide Biblical understanding for each student that walks through my classroom doors. I am thankful, blessed, and pumped to be a teacher at Immanuel Schools and I look forward to all that God will do.

Favorite Verse: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Meet Mrs. Henderson:

Hello! My name is Brittany Henderson. I was raised in Clovis in a family of six, I have three older brothers. I attended all Clovis Unified schools for my K-12 education, starting at Red Bank Elementary, continuing on to Clark Intermediate, and finishing up at Clovis High School where I graduated in 2005. I received a full ride volleyball scholarship to play the sport I love and earn an education at Fresno Pacific University. I graduated in 2009 with a B.A. in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Physical Education. Post graduation, I realized that my heart was very much in coaching as well as teaching, which led me to earn my teaching credential from National University in Single Subject Physical Education in 2011. I taught PE and coached volleyball for 2 years at Sanger High School and also completed my Master's Degree in Kinesiology ('13) at Fresno Pacific simultaneously. Upon the completion of my M.A. I received a new opportunity to coach and teach at Clovis North Educational Center (7th-12th grades), where I remained for three years.

In 2013 I married my husband, Aaron, who began working at Immanuel as the Athletic Director. He now currently works in Ag. We have been blessed beyond measure with four beautiful children, Taylen (8), Hadley (6), Trey (4) and Eli (1).

It has been truly amazing watching Immanuel stand firm in the face of much adversity through the years. Immanuel's faithfulness to the Word of God is what ultimately led us to bring our children here to attend school. I can't express how excited I am to not only call Immanuel home but to also be on the same campus as my children and provide my students with a Christ-centered educational experience.

"Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen." - Ephesians 3:20-21

Meet Mr. Ibanez:

Mr. Joseph Ibanez is a lifelong resident of Reedley. He was educated at St. La Salle School and Reedley High School. Upon graduation from Reedley High, Mr. Ibanez was honored as a Pirate Pillar. He attended Reedley College and Fresno State University with a focus on Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Art. He, also, has a degree in Culinary Arts and is an accomplished Chef.

Mr. Ibanez has been in the fabrication trade for over 45 years and continues to own his own fabrication company. Hobbies include athletic officiating and ride his Harley Davidson.

From a young age, he has followed Jesus and as an adult, he proclaims that Jesus is his Lord and Savior.

Meet Mrs. Kircher:

Hi, my name is Brooke Kircher.  I grew up in Clovis, California and attended Campus Baptist Church where my family was very involved.  I graduated from Clovis High School in 1995 and then attended Fresno State University where I graduated with a Bachelor's in Business Administration, with an emphasis in Finance.  I went on to receive my multiple subject teaching credential from National University, my Master's degree in Educational Administration and my preliminary administrative credential.  After 10 years in the elementary and middle school classroom, I made the decision to "retire" from teaching to stay home with my babies.  

My husband, Nathan and I are proud parents to 2 teenage young men, Tristan who is 16 and Titus, who is 14 and a new 8th grade student here at Immanuel.  I love strength training and all things nutrition-related!  I also love watching my boys compete on the athletic field!  Our family enjoys being competitive during family game night, watching movies together, and going fishing.  I am so excited to get back into the classroom here at Immanuel and create lasting relationships with my students, their families, and the staff!  

Favorite verse:  
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.  The old has passed away;  behold, the new has come." - 2 Corinthians 5:17

Meet Mr. March:

Mr. Jeff March lives in Reedley with his wife, Eleni. They have four children, their son, Dimitri married to Samantha and have a son and a daughter, Mason and Madison; daughter Alexis married to Austin Eberle of Frisco Texas, daughter Zoe, also in Texas and daughter Sophia who lives in Reedley. Mr. March is a native of the Central Valley, born and raised in Kingsburg, graduating from Kingsburg High School (‘79) and went on to graduate from Trinity Western University in Langley, B.C., Canada with a B.A. in Biblical Studies. He completed a Master’s Degree in Christian Ministries from Grand Canyon Theological Seminary in the Spring of 2019.

After serving in the military and serving as the Area Director of Young Life in Selma, in 1993, Mr. March began serving at Immanuel Schools. He taught World History and Junior Bible for 14 years at the High School and has been at the Junior High for the past 18 years, and is currently the 7th Grade Bible teacher.

“God has been so faithful to my family, to me, and to the students that I have been blessed to teach. To watch them grow and see what God has done in their lives is an amazing gift and privilege. I trust that when students leave the Junior High, they are continuing to be prepared to think with a Biblical Worldview, desire to open the Word of God, and know for certain that they can have a personal relationship with our savior, the Lord Jesus Christ”.

Meet Mr. Merritt:

Hello, my name is Josh Merritt, and I am the Choral and Performing Arts Director. I teach all High School Choirs (Chamber, Concert, Women’s, & Men’s), Drama, and Worship Funds. I also teach Jr. High Choir and Drama. I am an alumnus of Immanuel and have my BA in Vocal Performance with an emphasis in Education from Fresno Pacific University. The Lord has blessed me by allowing my passion for serving Him and my love of music to flow together in everything I have done.

Throughout my years of teaching, I have had the privilege of directing many different musicals and drama productions. I have also been able to take our Choirs to competitions and trips to New York City, Nashville, Chicago, Anaheim, Scotland, Ireland, and Italy, winning multiple “Gold 1st”, “Sweepstakes”, and “Best Overall” Awards. Through everything the Lord has brought me through, His promises remain true, and it is evident to me that music can be such a powerful tool to bring glory to God. This is something I hope every student that I come into contact with will learn and understand before their time ends here at Immanuel.

My wife, Chelsea (also an Immanuel Alumni), and I have 4 children together. Hudson & Dawson (our boys), and Tori & Jacey (our girls). I love to sing and play guitar, and piano in my spare time. I also have a deep love and passion for sports. Basketball and Football are sports I will play and/or watch anytime!

“Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.”  -  Proverbs 18:12 

“Come, let’s shout joyfully to the Lord, shout triumphantly to the rock of our salvation! Let’s enter his presence with thanksgiving; let’s shout triumphantly to him in song.”  -  Psalm 95:1-2

Meet Mrs. Nelson:

Hi, my name is Erin Nelson. I was born and raised in Visalia. My grandpa was the pastor of my church growing up, and there I accepted the Lord as my Savior at a young age. I attended Westmont College where I received my BA in Biology and a minor in Psychology. I continued my education at Fresno Pacific University where I received my multiple subject teaching credential.

I met my wonderful husband Randy when I was a senior in high school, and we got married in 2001. We live in Visalia and have been blessed with three children, Aidan, Seth, and Abby. I had the privilege of homeschooling for 15 years, and now the Lord has provided a new opportunity. Abby will be completing three years of high school at Immanuel, and I have the incredible privilege of teaching here as well. I never imagined this is where I would be at this stage of my life, but I am so grateful to the Lord for bringing me here in His perfect timing. The Lord is so good and faithful! What a joy and gift it is to have the opportunity to teach science at a school where God is the center of everything!

Spending time with my family is my favorite thing to do. Together, we love playing games, watching movies, and traveling. In my free time, I enjoy reading a good book or having a coffee date with a friend.

Favorite verse: 
“This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it!” - Psalm 118:24

Meet Mrs. Rogers:

Hi, my name is Kimberly Rogers and I love serving at Immanuel in the History Department!  I’ve been in education since 2002 after I got my Teaching Credential in Social Studies at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, CA.  My Bachelor's Degree is in History and Political Science and I also have a Master’s Degree in Education.  

I grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico but have lived most of my life in California.  At Vanguard, I met my husband John (Class of '91) and we settled in Kingsburg to raise our three children.  Our oldest son Jack is married to Brooklyn and they both graduated from The Master's University, our middle son Lincoln (Class of '25) is in college, and our daughter Maggie (Class of '27) is still at IHS.  I’m continually thankful to our Lord for planting us in an awesome church and community.  We enjoy traveling around the US/World with our children visiting historical places, national parks, baseball stadiums, and just exploring the world that God created.  I’ve also loved being a part of the Students International missions teams from Immanuel the past couple of summers and getting to see and serve the global church.  My time at Immanuel has been very special and I’m incredibly thankful to the Lord for bringing me into the Immanuel community.  

James 1:22 - “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.  Do what it says.”

Meet Mrs. Thiesen:

Hello! My name is Kate Thiesen, and I am grateful to serve as the Junior High Intervention Aide at Immanuel. My heart is to point students to their Creator and remind them that they are intentionally designed in the image of God. Because of this truth, I believe each student’s unique perspective and learning style is a gift, and I am passionate about helping them discover ways to grow and reach their full potential.

I grew up in Grants Pass, Oregon, where I spent my high school years running cross country and track while cultivating a love for drawing and painting - hobbies that continue to bring me joy today. My husband, Kurt, and I have three daughters, and we feel truly blessed to be part of the Immanuel community.

Psalm 28:7 The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him.

Meet Mrs. VanLeeuwen:

Hello! My name is Deniele (Croissant) Vanleeuwen. I grew up in the Dinuba countryside where my father was an auctioneer and farmer while my mother worked alongside him. I spent many weekends working at our family auctions with my younger brother. I grew up attending Kingsburg Mennonite Brethren Church. I was enrolled at Grand View Elementary and Washington Junior High. Both of my parents attended Immanuel High School, so I was excited to also attend Immanuel for high school.

After high school I attended Fresno State University, and majored in Fine Arts. Several months later I purchased a retail store (Coffee & Candy) which I owned for ten years in Reedley, until I got married to my husband Todd Vanleeuwen. I am a mom blessed with three amazing children and honored to be raising two of them. My husband Todd and I reside in Kingsburg along with John and Rebecca, they both love going to Immanuel and are always keeping us on our toes. I love crafting, painting and being creative, which is why I was thrilled when God opened a door for me to teach Art and Yearbook at Immanuel High School. I am blessed to be a part of the supportive and caring Immanuel family. Working at Immanuel brings me much joy, comfort and above all the ability to talk about my love for our Lord and Savior!

Exodus 14:13-14 - “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, … The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”

Meet Ms. Winslow:

Hello, my name is Sabrina Winslow, and I’m honored to be serving Immanuel as the new Culinary Arts Teacher. I was born and raised in Clovis, California, and have always had a deep love for creativity, community, and good food. I graduated from Biola University in 2020 with a degree in Business Management and later pursued my culinary education at Le Cordon Bleu in London.

My passion for baking led me to start my own bakery business, where I’ve been able to blend my entrepreneurial spirit with my love for the culinary arts. In addition to teaching, I’ve also had the joy of playing collegiate volleyball for four years and have spent the last five years coaching—an experience that has taught me the value of teamwork, discipline, and mentorship.

I’m excited to bring my background in both business and culinary arts into the classroom, where I hope to inspire students to explore their creativity, develop practical skills, and serve one another. 

One of my favorite Bible verses is: Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,  through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. - Romans 5:1-5

Meet Ms. Young: 

Hello! I am Brooklynn Young, one of the Immanuel Ag Teachers. My passion for sharing the gospel and the agriculture industry are guiding principles of my teaching and I am so happy to be at Immanuel!

Throughout my walk with the Lord, He has constantly shown me that His grace abounds and His plans are perfect. I had a severe fear of all animals that hindered all of my interactions with friends and family. I let the fear grasp me and it took years of prayerful consideration for my family to get a dog. Little by little, I overcame the fear by praying and slowly interacting more with our puppy. Jesus transformed my heart from a heart of fear to a heart of courage through Christ. Because of this, I joined 4-H and FFA, realizing my love of FFA and agriculture. I knew God was calling me to a career in agriculture education, and that led me to Immanuel. God's grace and faithfulness to His people allowed me to discover that I can truly live a life without fear and embrace His joy in everything. My walk of faith has come with many toils and snares, but I am confident that Christ strengthens us in Him through all trials and heartbreak.

I was privileged to participate in FFA at Kingsburg High School, which is in the same FFA section as Immanuel! While there, I competed in Best Informed Greenhand, Nursery Landscape, Tree Pruning, Job Interview, Creed, and Floriculture. I had the opportunity to show beef, dairy cattle, and sheep through FFA, and I showed swine and goats in 4-H. I won a state proficiency in Agricultural Sales Placement and was a National Proficiency Finalist. I received my American Degree in 2020 while beginning my college career in Ag Education. I graduated in 2023 from Oklahoma State University, with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Leadership and Education, with an emphasis in communications and floriculture. I also completed the CASE Institute Certification for the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Course at Iowa State University over the summer of 2024.

My life verse is Ephesians 2:8, “For it is by grace you have been saved; not by works so that no one can boast.”  I found this verse when naming my first dog, knowing that God’s grace abounds and covers all flaws of the human heart. We can do all things because of God’s perfect grace.

Want more information on Immanuel FFA, visit our site: https://sites.google.com/immanuelschools.com/immanuelffa