Christ First, Academics Second to None

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Small Class Sizes 

Founded in 1985 

Accepting Pre-K Through 8th Grade Students 

Pre-K Through 8th Grade Christian School in Richmond, IN

Community Christian School (CCS) is a Christian school in Richmond, IN, serving students from pre-K through 8th grade with educational excellence in a positive Christian atmosphere. As a nonprofit school, CCS partners with families and the community to provide an interdenominational, biblically integrated education that prepares students to excel in any academic environment. 

Five diverse students walk together in a school corridor

Welcome to Community Christian School

Founded in 1985, Community Christian School is a nonprofit, non-sectarian, family cooperative school. Our programs serve children in pre-K through eighth grade and celebrate the uniqueness of each child. 

The primary purpose of Community Christian School is to provide your child with a program of educational excellence set in a positive Christian atmosphere. Courses of study are developed in reverence to God’s Word and are taught in a Christ-like way.

Years Educating

0

Grades Served

Pre to K

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Student-to-Teacher Ratio

12:1

After School Activities

0

School-Issued Devices

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Inside CCS

What Sets Us Apart

Christ-Centered Community

CCS provides a positive Christian environment where faith is part of daily learning and school life. 

Academic Excellence

Our coursework is designed to challenge students and prepare them to excel in future academic settings. 

Small Class Sizes

With an average student-to-teacher ratio of 10 to 12 students:1 teacher, CCS offers attentive support in the classroom. 

Affordable

CCS is committed to making Christian education accessible for families seeking a private school alternative. 

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Learn more about our curriculum. 

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Bible Philosophy Statement

Community Christian School was founded by those who believed in and continues through those who are resolutely determined that the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments hold unerring wisdom and knowledge that is vitally applicable to all students. It is this belief that sets Community Christian School apart from other non-sectarian private schools. This belief in the inerrancy and applicability of Holy Scripture guides our biblical instruction that we believe encompass all disciplines and activities of life. Further, it is a privilege to give biblical instruction to our students. Without the understanding of Holy Scripture, our students are left in a vacuum of knowledge devoid of the framework on which to base truth and reality.

Biblical Principles of Instructions

The earliest Bible lessons will include the truth that God creates us for His glory. Students will be called to live their lives as an offering to God protecting their body, which is now the temple of God. We are His workmanship… Eph. 2:10

  1. Bible instruction will cause each student to encounter the living Christ and be given opportunities to choose a relationship with Him. Luke 18:16-17
  2. Bible instruction will provide the knowledge of how to grow spiritually, socially, and interpersonally through a relationship with Jesus Christ. Luke 2:52
  3. Students will be provided historic and accurate biblical accounts of God’s actions within the human world; therefore, understanding history is truly “His story”.
  4. Students will be provided with an accurate perspective of biblical design for godly living through modeling and study. 1Thessalonians 1:4 –10
  5. Students will be given opportunities through service learning to develop a life
  6. characterized by concern for others, adhering to the second greatest commandment, “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” Matthew 22:38
  7. The fully matured student will demonstrate the understanding of the greatest commandment, “Love the Lord your God with all of your Heart, all of your Strength, and all of your Mind.” Matthew 22:37

Philosophy of Science

Science is the study of God’s precision in creation. Our Creator-God has revealed order and design in the universe. God’s Word tells us in John 1:3, “All things were made by him and without Him was nothing made that was made.” Dr. Arthur Compton, Nobel Prize winner in physics, once said, “It is not difficult for me to have faith, for it is incontrovertible that where there is a plan, there is intelligence-an orderly unfolding universe testifies to the truth of the most majestic statement ever uttered, ‘In the beginning God…’” (Genesis 1-2)

Therefore, we believe it is imperative that our students understand that science and Holy Scripture do not conflict, but are instead a congruous continuum. Instruction in science and scientific principles that includes careful examination and evaluation will prepare students to organize and problem solve in a logical and orderly manner and build an increased awareness of God’s intricate and loving plan for all of His creation.

Biblical Principles of Instruction

  1. Science pursues the understanding of purposeful, planned design observable in creation. Genesis 1 and 2
  2. Science is the study in which we begin to understand the depths of God’s loving, creative, and orderly mind. His plan for humanity and all of creation may not be fully understood without the understanding of the Creator. John 1:3
  3. Science seeks to understand the world seen and unseen through observable and measurable means. Col. 1:15-17

Philosophy of History

“Remember the former things, those of old; I am God, and there is no other like me; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,’. ” Isaiah 46:9-10 ESV

History is the record of past events. These events demonstrate God’s sovereign plan to care for His people and carry to completion this plan for redemption. God’s dealings with mankind throughout history reveal His nature. Therefore, studying history enables students to recognize God’s design and love for His world. At Community Christian School, it is our belief that when students reflect on the past, they will seek to fit into His plan and be used as His instruments.​

Biblical Principles of Instruction

  1. Studying history enables us to see God’s love for our country and our world since its beginnings. “Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the LORD.” Psalm 107:43
  2. Studying history enables students to recognize God’s sovereign plan for His world. “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.” Jer. 29:11
  3. Studying history emphasizes God’s pre-eminence. We are instructed to study “His story”. “God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” “Say this to the people of Israel, I AM has sent me to you.” Ex. 3:14
  4. Studying history enables students to identify past mistakes so that they are not repeated. “History merely repeats itself.” “What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.” Ecc. 1:9 ESV

Philosophy of Mathematics

“He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding; he reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with him.” Daniel 2:21-22

Mathematics is the orderly and systematic study of God’s world. In developing a number sense, students will begin to understand the infinite nature of God and relate it to His eternal being. Through the use of mathematical reasoning, students will witness the precision with which God has ordered our world.

In learning to problem solve, students will gain insight into the complexities of life. Their mathematical studies build essential life skills that enable students to effectively serve the Lord.

Biblical Principles of Instruction

  1. Mathematics demonstrates that there is a systematic means available to find a solution. “For God is not a God of confusion…” I Cor. 14:33a
  2. Mathematics demonstrates the infinite (eternal) qualities of God. “…as countless as the stars of the sky and as measureless as the sand on the seashore.” Jer. 33:22b
  3. Mathematics develops the ability to complete calculations and measurements that equip the student to carry out God’s instructions throughout life. (Gen. 6, the building of the ark and I Kings 6, Solomon building the temple)
  4. Mathematics disciplines the mind and develops wisdom. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” Prov. 1:7

Philosophy of P.E. & Health

Our bodies are fearfully and wonderfully made and house the Spirit of the living God while on this Earth. Care for that body although temporary, is vital to living well and living out God’s purpose on this earth. Physical education and health instruction enables students to learn how to properly care and maintain their bodies.

Biblical Principles of Instruction

  1. Health and P.E. develop right perspectives of personal and physical care. This includes body image (personal acceptance and contentment with our personal design), hygiene, avoidance of harmful behaviors, and maintenance of physical strength. I Samuel 16:17
  2. P.E. will develop within the student the ability to work as a team. (Sportsmanship, self-sacrifice, and encouragement). Psalm 139:14
  3. P.E. and health will teach basic principles and rules regarding sport and physical care as well as courteous social behavior and safety. Hebrews 10:24

Mrs. Ecko Arnold 

4th to 8th Grade Art Education  

Mrs. Kristen Fortini grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. She married in 2012 and moved to California with her husband, Nick. After her son was born in 2015, she became a stay-at-home mom, then had her daughter in 2018. God moved her family back to Indiana in 2022. CCS has been a blessing, and Mrs. Fortini is excited to be the PE teacher and help where needed.  

Mrs. Britney McKee

Preschool to 3rd Grade Art Education 

Mrs. Kristen Fortini grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. She married in 2012 and moved to California with her husband, Nick. After her son was born in 2015, she became a stay-at-home mom, then had her daughter in 2018. God moved her family back to Indiana in 2022. CCS has been a blessing, and Mrs. Fortini is excited to be the PE teacher and help where needed.  

Ms. Laurie Mathews

Music Education

Mrs. Kristen Fortini grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. She married in 2012 and moved to California with her husband, Nick. After her son was born in 2015, she became a stay-at-home mom, then had her daughter in 2018. God moved her family back to Indiana in 2022. CCS has been a blessing, and Mrs. Fortini is excited to be the PE teacher and help where needed.  

Mrs. Kristen Fortini

Physical Education

Mrs. Kristen Fortini grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. She married in 2012 and moved to California with her husband, Nick. After her son was born in 2015, she became a stay-at-home mom, then had her daughter in 2018. God moved her family back to Indiana in 2022. CCS has been a blessing, and Mrs. Fortini is excited to be the PE teacher and help where needed.  

Mrs. Rhonda Price

6th to 7th Grade Math
8th Grade Pre-Algebra

rprice@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Rhonda Price has taught for over 30 years and has taught at Community Christian School since 1997. She holds a master’s degree in elementary math education from Miami University and teaches math and education courses at IU East. She received Ivy Tech’s 2019 Adjunct Faculty Award and helps lead IU East’s summer S.T.E.M. Camp.

Mr. Dennis Metzger

6th to 8th Grade History
5th to 8th Grade Technology

​dmetzger@ccsrichmond.com

Mr. Dennis Metzger grew up on a dairy and grain farm in northern Illinois and graduated from Valparaiso University with a degree in history. He also earned a degree in secondary administration and supervision from Indiana State University. He has over 40 years of experience teaching middle and high school. During that time, he also served as a high school assistant principal and a junior-senior high school principal. While at CCS, he has taught 5th-grade technology, 6th– to 8th-grade history, and supervised lunch recess.  

Pastor Steve Whalen

5th to 8th Grade Bible Education 

swhalen@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Tina Locker has served at CCS since 1997 and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Miami University. With nearly 30 years of experience, she helps students see the Creator’s hand in the world. Both of her children are CCS graduates. Outside the classroom, she enjoys fishing, camping, cooking, going to church, and spending time with family.

Mrs. Tina Locker

5th to 8th Grade Science

tlocker@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Tina Locker has served at CCS since 1997 and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Miami University. With nearly 30 years of experience, she helps students see the Creator’s hand in the world. Both of her children are CCS graduates. Outside the classroom, she enjoys fishing, camping, cooking, going to church, and spending time with family.

Mrs. Gwinn Campbell

6th to 8th Grade English Language Arts

gwinn.campbell@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Madison Fuesler joined CCS in 2022 and holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Mission University. She brings a passion for lifelong learning and encourages students to try new things, especially in math. She and her husband, Christian, have two daughters and are thankful the Lord led their family to CCS.

Mrs. Kara Bushey

4th Grade

kara.bushey@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Madison Fuesler joined CCS in 2022 and holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Mission University. She brings a passion for lifelong learning and encourages students to try new things, especially in math. She and her husband, Christian, have two daughters and are thankful the Lord led their family to CCS.

Mrs. Madison Fuesler

3rd Grade Math
5th Grade Math, Language Arts, and Social Studies

madison.fuesler@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Madison Fuesler joined CCS in 2022 and holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Mission University. She brings a passion for lifelong learning and encourages students to try new things, especially in math. She and her husband, Christian, have two daughters and are thankful the Lord led their family to CCS.

Mrs. Candace Metzger​

3rd Grade
candace.metzger@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Candace Metzger, raised in Minnesota, attended Valparaiso University, graduating with a major in French and a minor in Spanish, then studied at Cleveland State, earning a teaching license in English. She completed her master’s degree at Valparaiso and post-graduate work at Indiana State and Purdue. She taught grades 7 through 12 for 42 years in Indiana and Ohio, retiring from Northeastern Middle School in 2016.

Retirement let her enjoy quilting and Bible study, but she felt unfulfilled. After prayer, CCS offered her a 3rd grade position. She believed this was God’s answer and accepted, finding it a blessing.

Mrs. Kristina Girdley

2nd Grade
kgirdley@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Kristina Girdley graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic College in 1994 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. She taught English in China for a year, then met her husband in Louisville, KY. She spent five years teaching in the elementary classroom and tutoring before staying home to raise her children after 2001. Her passions include music, scripture, and family. Mrs. Girdley joined CCS in 2017 and enjoys the daily adventure, joy, and grace she finds there.

Mrs. Jessica Holman

1st Grade
jessica.holman@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Jessica Holman started her career in education as a preschool teacher and in-home daycare provider. She was a reading interventionist in Union County for nine years. With a business degree from Cedarville University, she returned to college for elementary education, completing the Transition to Teaching Program and earning a master’s degree from Ball State in 2024.

Mrs. Holman has taught at CCS since the fall of 2023. She has also served as a Sunday school teacher and BSF children’s leader for years. Her family includes her husband, Michael, and their children, Jonathan, Meghan, and Josiah.

Mrs. Heather Reese

Kindergarten
hreese@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Heather Reese has taught at CCS for 11 years and holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. She and her husband, Ryan, have two children who attended CCS. She is grateful to help kindergarteners learn and grow in the Lord.

Mrs. Alissa Stiner

Pre-K
alissa.stiner@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Alissa Stiner grew up in Richmond and now lives in Centerville with her husband, Aaron, and three children at CCS. She has been a room mom and substitute teacher for 10 years and has taught pre-K since 2023. She enjoys helping her students build early learning skills, making first-timers comfortable, and watching their growth. In her free time, she likes hiking, gardening, baking, traveling, and spending time with her family and her dog, Dixie.  

Dr. Jacqueline Schlichte

Teacher Observation and Formation
jschlichte@ccsrichmond.com

Dr. Jackie Schlichte has nearly 35 years of experience as an educator, including teaching, mentoring, program and curriculum development, coordination, and professional development in the classroom. She has spent 18 years at CCS.

Dr. Schlichte’s current role is to follow Christ’s lead in serving CCS through teacher observation and formation, where she trains and supports teachers and students in alignment with Christ’s leadership and Holy Scripture. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University Bloomington, a master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a doctorate from Ball State University. Her life verse is John 3:30: “He must become greater; I must become less.”

Mrs. Kimberly Soots

Special Education Coordinator
ksoots@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Kimberly Soots has served CCS since 1989, supporting students with academic needs and assisting teachers in the classroom. She also coordinates available services with Richmond Community Schools. A Ball State University graduate, she earned a Dyslexia Specialist Certificate in 2022.

Mrs. Sheri Hickman

Bookkeeper
shickman@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Sheri Hickman has served at Community Christian School since 1999. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Indiana University. Sheri and her husband, Dave, have four CCS graduate children and nine grandchildren, five of whom attend CCS. 

Ms. Ashley Clark

Administrative Assistant
ashley.clark@ccsrichmond.com

Ms. Ashley Clark joined CCS in 2020 as the PE teacher and lunchroom staff after initially volunteering in her daughter’s class. In 2023, she became an administrative assistant, supporting staff and students. She enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, going to the ocean, and helping students with their activities.

Mrs. Tiffani Pentecost

Principal
8th Grade Algebra
tpentecost@ccsrichmond.com

Mrs. Tiffani Pentecost serves as the Principal of Community Christian School with 16 years of educational experience, including 13 years at CCS. As a CCS parent with all three children attending, she combines professional expertise with personal insight into the school’s impact.

Mrs. Pentecost holds degrees in mathematics education and school administration, equipping her to lead with academic excellence and a Christ-centered focus. Dedicated to CCS’s mission, “Christ first, Academics second to none,” she mentors faculty and students to pursue excellence for the glory of God.