HEADMASTER

B.A., Northwestern University, Evanston, IL; M.D. Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA

Dr. Vallier serves as the CCA Headmaster, overseeing CCA operations in addition to teaching. She has been an educator for many years, with initial experience in biological sciences. Her leadership endeavors include administration of medical education programs and development of curricula. She has received numerous awards for outstanding teaching and is enthused about growing CCA. Her other interests include enhancing the recovery of injured people by addressing often unmet mental, social, and spiritual needs. She is the mother of two adult children.

Philippians 4:6

CCA BOARD CHAIR, INSTRUCTOR SUPPORT

Mrs. Neujahr chairs the CCA school board and provides teaching support. She has educated her children at home since 1997, employing a classical model following Charlotte Mason's principles since 2001. In addition to regularly teaching online, Mrs. Neujahr has led and taught homeschool co-ops in 5 states, teaching various classes on Composer Study, Artist Study, Nature Study, Folk Songs, Plutarch's Lives and Shakespeare. An expert on curriculum resources, her greatest joy in education has been teaching children to read and seeing them discover a love for the written word. Mrs. Neujahr and her husband reside in Shaker Heights, with 5 children still at home.

Joshua 1:9

LOWER GRAMMAR INSTRUCTOR

BA, Concordia University, Ann Arbor, MI

Ms. Mellecke is the lower grammar instructor. She teaches the kindergarten and first grade scholars to learn and grow in their understanding of God and His love for us and the world He created. She is excited to assist the children in developing their communication skills as they speak, listen, read, and write. Ms. Mellecke is the mother of two adult daughters and is joyfully awaiting the birth of her grandchildren in December. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, crafts, and visiting historical and natural locations.

 Joshua 1:9

RELIGION INSTRUCTOR

B.S., Grace University, Omaha, NE; M.Div, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO; Ph.D. Missiology, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN

Pastor Neujahr oversees the religious formation of students and staff alike, leading daily chapel and teaching Christian doctrine and religious history. He loves to see God growing His little ones into maturity by using the means of His word. Outside of CCA, he serves as pastor of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, and has a particular desire to see the Kingdom—and not just one church—grow. Pastor Neujahr has been married to Stephanie, the wife of his youth, for over 35 years. Together they have eleven children that bring them no end of joy.

Ephesians 3:8–10

SCIENCE INSTRUCTOR

B.A., University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN; Ph.D., Stanford University, Stanford, CA

Dr. Simske is the head of science instruction, coordinating the curriculum and teaching all levels of science. He has taught science at various levels over the years, ranging from kindergarten through graduate students. He enjoys teaching science from the perspective of careful observation, inquiry-based investigation, and problem-solving. As techniques of science have become more sophisticated, our ability to glimpse into God’s creation has increased, and so Dr. Simske’s teaching allows everyone to be explorers of God’s creation right where they live. Previously, Dr. Simske was in developmental biology and genetics research for 32 years; he now enjoys carpentry and construction.

Job 38

AIDE

B.A., University of San Diego, La Jolla, CA; M.A. Pastoral Clinical Counseling, Ashland Theological Seminary, Ashland, OH

Mrs. Byers-Ward serves CCA in a variety of roles. She is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, specializing in counseling for adults with developmental disabilities. Prior to her work in counseling she engaged in scientific research both in California and Ohio. She has been a member of St. Peters since 1993 and has served on several council boards as well as serving as a teacher in St. Peter’s Sunday School Program. Mrs. Byers-Ward is a widow with three grown children, six grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Colossians 3:15-17

LATIN INSTRUCTOR

B.A., Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI; M.D., Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI

Cliff was instrumental in bringing the vision of Classical Christian Academy to fruition.  While age and declining health unfortunately kept him from his plan of teaching Latin to our students, his untiring enthusiasm, deep wisdom, and unflagging support mark him as a true champion of CCA.  We are here today in large part due to Cliff’s belief in what we could do, and we thank God for having gifted us with this faithful servant. 

Dr. Simske practiced obstetrics and gynecology for several years, then practiced psychiatry for several decades. He had a strong interest in literature and philosophy of Western civilization and lectured about these on dozens of occasions. He was thrilled about passing on the benefits of classical Christian education to children of upcoming generations. Along with his three adult children and numerous grandchildren, we give thanks to God for the eternal life that is now his in Jesus Christ.

John 14:6