Principal, G.R.E.A.T. Club, & P.E. III (1st Semester), Senior Class Sponsor

Chadd Watkins graduated from Southern Adventist University in 2002 with a degree in Physical Education, Health and Wellness. He’s currently working towards a Masters in Leadership. Chadd has served Madison Academy and Highland Academy as Teacher, Coach, Dean, Vice Principal and Principal. Chadd is married to his lovely wife Nikie and they have two boys Carson and Camdon. In his spare time you will see Chadd playing golf, participating in sports, enjoying family, and bird watching.

Six word story – Called, then equipped, for the journey.

 
 
 

Music Director, Spanish 1, Spanish 2

Haroldo Álvarez attended the Adventist University of Colombia in Medellin, graduating with a degree in Music Education. In graduate school, he completed a program in Choral Conducting at California State University at Los Angeles and a Masters of Arts in Teaching with emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction at La Sierra Academy in Riverside, CA. It has been an honor to participate in the life of thousands of young people through music education in Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Southern California, and Portland, TN. Haroldo is married to Liana and they have three children, Albany, Lestter and Melodie. The whole family enjoys trying to educate three dogs and a cat without much success.

Six word story – Jesus: Master, Savior, Teacher, Friend, Mine.

 
 
 

Algebra II, Computer Applications, Physics, Precalculus, Survey of Science, IT Support, STEM Club

Larry Ashcraft graduated from Georgia Cumberland Academy in 1977, Southern Adventist University with a B.A. Math and Physics, and NCATE Teacher Training in 1981, and Andrews University, M.A.T. Physcis in 1983. He began teaching in Louisville for 2 years, then taught public school in North Carolina for 29 years. He as been a part of the Highland Academy team since 2014. Larry is married to Linda Ashcraft who is a Highland Academy Alumnus. They have two daughters Claire and Amelia. In his spare time, Larry enjoys road bicycling, fixing electrical/electronic/mechanical stuff, and conversing with people about God’s character.

Six word story -Jesus, The Father: indistinguishable characters—Wow!

Accounting Assistant

Linda was born and raised in Evansville, Indiana, and is a Highland Academy Alumnus. She graduated with an AS in accounting from Southern Missionary College (now Southern Adventist University.) She has been a part of the Highland Academy team since 2014. She lives here in Portland with her husband, Larry and they have two daughters, Claire and Amelia. When she’s not working, Linda enjoys playing with her dog, reading, listening to audiobooks, knitting, and learning to crochet.

Six word story – Christian-educated for years, Christian for life.

 

Esquestrian Director

Sara Bagshaw was born and raised in Portland, TN, and is a proud graduate of Highland Academy’s class of 2016. After graduating, she went on to obtain a Veterinarian Technician Assistant license as well as an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician License. She is also a certified instructor through Certified Horsemanship Association. When she is not riding and working with horse’s she enjoys boating, camping, canoeing and simply being with her dog.

Six word story – You will never regret being kind.

 
 

Administrative Assistant,Yearbook Advisor

Diana Drusky has 18 years of experience as an Administrative Assistant and Yearbook Advisor. Six years at Highland Academy and twelve years at Highland Elementary. Her husband, Roy (Twig) Drusky lll is a Highland Academy Alumnus. Twig and Diana have two children Roy and Emmylou. They both graduated from Highland Academy and Southern Adventist University. In her spare time, Diana enjoys reading, walking, sewing, and having friends and family over for Friday night dinner.

Six word story – Amazing God, wonderful family, always learning.

 
 
 
 

Vice Principal of Finance

Darlie Gagatam was born and grew up in the Philippines. He attended Mountain View College(MVC) in Valencia, Bukidnon, Philippines and graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Accounting. He served in various Adventist institutions in the Philippines as Chief Accountant like Western Mindanao Conference(1990-1996), HW Miller Memorial Sanitarium and Hospital(1996-2007). He also worked at Florida Hospital Heartland Division in Sebring Florida(2009-2017 ER clerk), and Wisconsin Academy(2017-2023 Business Manager). Darlie is married to a lovely lady Blanch Gagatam and they have two wonderful boys named: Dariel Seth Gagatam, and Dranieh Luke Gagatam. Darlie loves biking, fishing, photography, hiking, playing tennis, badminton, and traveling.

Six word story – Because Jesus called me to serve!

 
 
 
 

English ll, English lll/Honors, English lV/Honors, Economics (2nd Semester), Government (1st Semester), US History, & World History, and Junior History Trip Coordinator

Ken received a BA with honors in English from Andrews University in 1975 and an MAEd in the Diverse Learner from the University of Phoenix in 1995. He has professional certification from the SDA church in both English and History. In the past 40+ years of teaching he has taught all grades from 1st grade through college freshmen, all levels from at risk and special education to advance placement, and in schools as diverse as one room with eight students to a large, public high school with over 1500 where he taught over 100 students per day. His favorite place to be is his classroom, but when not there he enjoys his vegetable garden and flower beds. He reads himself to sleep almost every night. He and his wife Sue both enjoy history and always find the Junior History Tour fascinating and inspiring.

Six word story – Lonely. Frightened. School became my salvation.

 
 

School Psychologist, Director of Student Success

Logan Johnson graduated from Valdosta State University with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with an educational specialist degree in School Psychology. Following her graduation from UTC, Logan was hired by Hamilton County Schools to serve as a school psychologist. She worked at Allen Elementary, Loftis Middle School, and Signal Mountain Middle/High School. Logan views her work as not only a vocation, but also as a calling. She is passionate about identifying students with learning differences and those struggling with mental health. Logan is married to Eric (Vice Principal of Development) and they have five children.

Six word story – Trust, God will bring you through

 
 

School Life Science Instructor/Library Specialist

Bliss Kuntz earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology at Western Kentucky University and her Master of Library and Information Science through the University of Denver. Her science teaching experience includes Springfield High School, Highland Academy, and Union College. Bliss is married to Timothy Kuntz, a Physician’s Assistant, and has two children; Lily is a student at Highland Academy and Linus is a student at Union College. Bliss enjoys reading, knitting socks, and gardening.

Six word story – Inquisitive thinker joyfully teaching His youth.

 
 
 

Chaplain, Bible Teacher, and S.A. Sponsor

After serving the Lord in pastoral ministry for the past 11 years, Will Labrenz is excited to now serve chaplain/Bible teacher at Highland Academy. Will has a passion for encouraging young people to follow Jesus. Will’s family includes his wife Christy, and children: Ethan, Bailey, and Elijah.
MAPMIN (masters in pastoral ministry) from Andrews University.

Hobbies include playing guitar, impersonating Elvis, hiking, and the joys of cayenne pepper.

Six word story – “Wow the crowd and follow Jesus”

 
 
 

Algebra I, Algebra B, Computer Literacy, Geometry & Computational Logic, Home Economics, Senior Math, Highland Pacers Running Club Sponsor

I am a grateful alumnus of Highland Academy’s Class of 2002. From here I attended Union College for 4 years, plus one year of student missions. During the year of student missions I taught English in the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador, while also learning to speak Spanish. I graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in secondary mathematics education and a minor in religion. My first job was teaching 6th – 8th grade math at Spencerville Adventist Academy in Maryland. Our first daughter was born at the end of that year and I transitioned to working as a adjunct instructor at Howard Community College in Columbia, Maryland. I taught there for three years until my family moved to Indiana. In Indianapolis I taught at Christel House Dors, a program for adults seeking to earn a high school diploma. When our third child was born in 2011 I began working as a stay-at-home mom and childcare provider, and continued for the next 4 years. In 2017 I returned home to Highland Academy to teach, mentor, support and in general “love on” the amazing students here. I have been married to Antonio Lopez for 11 years and we have four children, Corinthia, Levi, Malachi, and Lucia. As a family we enjoy serving our church, hiking, canoeing, gardening, and watching Steeler football. My personal hobbies include reading biographies and sewing.

Six word story – I teach to repay the investment.

 

Women of Dean, Student Council Sponsor

JP Mathis was born and raised in Michigan. She graduated from Cedar Lake Academy in 1976, and Andrews University in 1980. She met and married her husband Don at Andrews. Don and JP have 3 married adult children: Nikie & Chadd, Renee & Eric, Tyler & Lauren. They have 3 grandsons (Carson, Camdon, Owen) and 4 grand dogs( Mac, Rizzo, Nash, Piper). Don and JP have been blessed to work at Fletcher Academy 8 years; Southern Adventist University 19 years; Highland Academy 15 years. During their free time they love being with family and friends, walking, talking and praising God!

Six word story – With God all things are possible!

 
 

Maintenance/Transportation Director

Daniel Palma has a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Cebu Institute of Technology University, Cebu City, Philippines. His work experience includes; Project Engineer/Manager – ADRA Philippines, classroom teaching and educational administrative support for 16 years. This is his 8th school year at Highland Academy. Daniel is married to his lovely wife Maddie, and they have three children, Kaitlin, Russell, and Imari-Ashley. In his spare time Daniel enjoys arts, crafts, and web design.

Six word story – Learn, Enjoy, and travel the world.

 
 
 

P.E., Assistant Gymnix Coach, Assistant Dean of Men

Bryce Reading graduated from Southern Adventist University with a BA in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation degree in 2002. He later returned to SAU to earn his master’s in Educational Leadership. He has worked in Education for 21 years, beginning at A.W. Spalding in Collegedale, TN while still in college. He later went on to teach at the middle and high school in Collegedale. He and his wife Jill, along with their two kids Clara and Bryson, took a call to the Upper Columbia Conference in 2017 which is where he fell in love with boarding school. This is his first year at Highland Academy. He and his family are happy to be back in the South and closer to family. Bryce enjoys sports, spending time in nature, and riding motorcycles. He has a passion for youth and leading them into a deep walk with God.

Six word story

 
 

Gymnix Coach, Head Dean of Men

Steve Rogers is a proud alumnus of Highland Academy, and graduated from Southern Adventist University with degrees in both history and religious studies. After graduating, Steve served two years as the assistant boys’ dean and gymnastics coach at Shenandoah Valley Academy; and now he and his lovely wife, Emily, are glad to come “home” to Highland where Steve cheerfully performs those same duties.

Six word story – Man, I really love Highland Academy!

 
 

Director of Marketing and Communications

Stephanie Rufo was born in Michigan and moved to Tennessee, to attend and graduate from Madison Academy. She is married to Rodney, and they have 3 children, Parker, Paige and Preston. She previously worked as an Administrative Assistant for Madison Campus Elementary for 8 years with a variety of duties including recruitment and marketing. Her fondest memories are from her time working with Indian Creek Camp from 2012-2017 starting in the Creative Arts Department to then becoming Assistant Director/Public Relations. Stephanie enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with her friends and family.

Six word story – Learning Daily, Trusting God, Having Fun.

 
 
 
 

Junior Bible, World History, American Government, Economics

Roger Schmidt began his career as an academy teacher, serving at both Madison Academy and Mt. Pisgah Academy, before returning to school to study for the ministry.  He served 5 years in the Gulf States Conference as pastor of the Bass Academy Church which included teaching Bible at the academy. His wife, Latonia, and two children, Sam and Madison, moved to the Kentucky-Tennessee Conference in 2005 to pastor the Jackson/Leach district. In 2010 he was able to once again blend his teaching and pastoral ministries by moving to Highland where he served as the lead pastor of the Highland Seventh-day Adventist Church as well as teacher of  Junior Bible. After 12 years in this role, Pastor Roger decided to return to the teaching ministry, full-time. He earned his undergraduate degrees in History and Theology as well as his Masters of Religion from Southern Adventist University. Pastor Roger’s favorite hobbies are backpacking, kayaking, and motorcycling.

Six word story – Church schools led me to Jesus.

 
 

Food Service Assistant

Heather Severance is proud to be the wife of Highland’s associate pastor. Steve and Heather have been married and in ministry together for 15 years now. They and their two children, Kevin and Amy, love the Highland community very much and Heather is proud to support the mission of Highland Academy through working in the food service. Heather enjoys music as her favorite hobby/ministry.

Six word story – How can I keep from singing?

 
 
 
 

Vice Principal of Academics, Registrar & Director of Admissions, & English l

Verne Sherman has been in teaching for a total of 40 years; 38 of those being in Christian education, has earned both a BS (elem ed/general science), and an MA (educational administration and supervision) from Andrews University. He still enjoys teaching because there are still students with whom he can connect and spark an interest in learning. I enjoy (most of) the non-teaching components of my job because there is such a wide variety of things coming across my desk. I began working at Highland in 2010, the same year that my son, Tom, and daughter, Molly, began their freshman year here. They graduated as part of the HA Class of 2014. My wife, Sandy, is active in the Highland Church. Zoe, our dog, tries hard to catch any stray snack or nap that wanders by. I have many, many, interests; however, some of them have been pushed to the back burner by a shortage of free time and/or a surplus of birthdays. I still actively enjoy camping and fishing.

Six word story – Nothing by myself, anything with Him.

 
 
 

Asst. Dean of Women/Director of Health Services

Jennifer graduated from Southern Adventist University in 2001 as a Registered Nurse. She has worked in Emergency Departments across Tennessee and in Ohio, where she served as a department Team Leader for the last 7 years. Nursing has allowed Jennifer to work at youth camps as year-round staff and as Nursing Director for summer programs including at Camp Alamisco, Indian Creek Camp, and Camp Mohaven, working each summer since 2001. Until recently, she also home-schooled three daughters Callian, Alena, and Lydia, who now attend Highland Academy and Highland Elementary school, respectively. She has enjoyed helping with their Pathfinder and Adventurer programs, and running youth/young adult career mentorship programs through her workplace and in local churches. In her free time, Jennifer enjoys hiking, camping, exploring new foods and places, and reading.

Six word story – Broken, restored, to share His grace..

 
 
Thomas

Anatomy & Physiology, Biology, Chemistry, Art, and Survey of Science,S.A. Sponsor, & STEM Club Sponsor

Christen graduated from Highland Academy in 2009 and attended Southern Adventist University to obtain two degrees, one in mathematics and one in chemistry. She also completed a master’s degree in mathematics at the University of Louisville in Louisville, Kentucky. She taught one year at Madison Academy before Highland, and she looks forward to many more years in Adventist education. When she’s not in the classroom, she enjoys gardening, reading, and singing at the top of her lungs!

Six word story – Best childhood, coming back for more.

 
 
 

Food Service Assistant

Stephanie Thornton is a third generation Seventh-day Adventist, raised in Keene, Texas and took business classes at Southwestern Adventist University before moving to Tennessee. The Lord has led her on an interesting career path and for the past ten years, she has been blessed to work in the cafeteria here at Highland Academy. Stephanie has two sons, Austin and Ethan who graduated from Highland Academy. My favorite hobbies are travel and reading.

Six word story – Loved daughter of God. Always learning!

 
 

Grounds Director, Adventure Ed., P.E.ll (1st Semester), Woodworking, Outdoor Club Sponsor and Mission Trip Coordinator
 
Andy Wade, an alum of Highland, graduated from Southern Adventist University with a B.S. degree in Physical Education Health and Wellness in 2005, followed by a Masters degree in Outdoor Teacher Education in 2010. He has worked at Highland Academy since 2005 and has enjoyed using his talents in many different areas and avenues over the years. Andy married his wife, Bekki, in the spring of 2006, and they have three beautiful daughters: Tessa, Ellisen, and Annie. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor adventures, disc golf, and introducing people to the beauty and lessons of nature.

Six word story – Giving so that others may LIVE.

 
 

Food Service Director and Sophomore Class Sponsor

Anita was born and raised in Ohio, graduated from Mr. Vernon Academy and attended Andrews University. She and her husband John have 2 sons, Jason and Chadd, and 4 grandsons. Anita started working at Highland Academy in 2000, 3 years in the business office and 19 years as Food Service Director. She has been in food service and office management most of her career. She enjoys playing the piano, scrapbooking, swimming, and cooking.

Six word story – His grace is sufficient for me.

 
 
 
 

English I, English II, Guidance Counselor

Melissa McCoy-Weisner, a graduate of Highland Academy, graduated from the University of Phoenix with her English Degree. While volunteering as a youth leader, she received her Master’s Degree in Human Services with an emphasis in working with teens and family from Liberty University and a Masters in Education from Union University. Melissa has served as a youth leader at Oasis Seventh Day Adventist Church and a teacher in Robertson County Tennessee prior to serving at Highland Academy. Melissa is married to what she refers to as a rock and spiritual leader, Vaughn Weisner, also an educator in Robertson County. They love kids and have extended their family to include a total of 5 kids with 2 left at home; one attending Highland Academy and one still in elementary school. In her spare time, Melissa is singing and speaking about her other passion which is prayer. She makes sure to cut out time in her schedule to “fill up the love cups” of her family and spend time out in nature.

Six word story—I’m a new creature in Christ!