Redeemer Lutheran School

lcollins@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Greetings in the name of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

My name is Laura Collins and I am the principal of Redeemer Lutheran School. This year marks my 30th year in education and my 1st year at Redeemer. God has truly had a hand in placing me here to serve the students, families, and staff of RLS. I knew the moment I walked through the doors that the Holy Spirit was at work in this place and I wanted to be part of it!

Educational highlights:

• Bachelor's Degree (BS) in Elementary Education, Ball State University, 1995

• Master's Degree (MA) in Teaching English as a Second Language, University of Southern Mississippi, 2000

• Education Specialist (EdS) in Educational Administration, Indiana Wesleyan University, 2020

• Indiana Elementary Education Licensure

• Indiana Building Level Administrator Licensure

• Indiana District Level Superintendent Licensure

• Lutheran Colloquy - CUENet through Concordia University Chicago

• Currently working on PhD in Educational Administration, Concordia University Chicago

I currently live in Indianapolis with my husband, Michael, who is the facilities manager at St. John Lutheran Church and School - Indianapolis. I am a "bonus mom" to his three children, Austyn (29), Kammy (24), and Aidyn (18). We also have a granddaughter, Hazel (2) who affectionately calls us "GiGi" and "Papa." We enjoy mudding in our Jeeps and camping on the Flat Rock River in St. Paul, Indiana. We also have three fur babies, all rescue dogs, Diesel, Quill, and Gamora. 

I am looking forward to meeting all of the students and families this year. A solid Christian foundation is something that stays with a child forever and helps them blossom into the young adults God has made them to be. '"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). God has a plan for each of us and we are blessed that you are a part of it!

Blessings,

Laura Collins

jsink@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Welcome!

Welcome to Redeemer! I was born & raised
in Kokomo, IN. I’m a father of two teen
boys. I love history, writing, board/ ttrpg
games and in my spare time I am spending
time with my kids and working on my
novel! This is my 3rd year teaching and my
first year teaching multiple grades! My
philosophy for teaching is your never too
old to learn, and I place a lot of importance
on being a teacher that listens and learns
as much as teaches. Sometimes the best
lessons are taught when we stop and
listen.

dgrecu@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Debbie Grecu attended Indiana University Kokomo where she received her BS in Elementary Education in 1993. Debbie began working at Redeemer Lutheran School the fall of 1994. She has served as Extended Care Coordinator, and taught preschool, pre-k, second grade, third grade and fourth grade. Debbie is currently teaching fourth grade at Redeemer Lutheran School.

eferrell@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Hi! My name is Emily Farrell. I am so excited to be teaching third grade at Redeemer Lutheran School. I previously taught third grade at Pettit Park Elementary. I have a B.A. in History and Political Science. I completed a transition to teaching program for my education courses. I have an Indiana Elementary Generalist K-6 license, and I am working on an Indiana’s Early Literacy Endorsement. My family includes my husband Greg and daughters Alexis, Addison, and Isabelle. We have two cats named Figaro and Pumpkin. We also have nine chickens that are spoiled and well loved. In my free time I love to read and listen to audiobooks. My evenings are often spent at the dance studio or various sports and activities for my children. I feel blessed to be a part of the Redeemer Lutheran School community.

In His love, Emily Farrell

nschneider@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Natalie Schneider is excited to start her first year at Redeemer as a teacher! Miss Schneider has been a “Redeemerite” since she was four years old and continued her education at Redeemer through eighth grade. The Lutheran faith and its history is something near and dear to her heart. Natalie studied Elementary Education and Special Education at Taylor University. At Taylor, she grew her love for faith and learning integration. Natalie loves singing in various choirs, tracking the Iditarod Sled Dog Race across Alaska, and Mary Poppins. Miss Schneider is eager to begin the school year and to continue to grow alongside her second-graders!

aplutat@redeemerkokomo.org.in

What a blessing it is to be a teacher at Redeemer Lutheran School! I am thrilled to teach
first grade in a school where I am able to bring my students closer to Our Lord and Savior,
Jesus Christ. I am also extremely passionate about teaching my students to love reading,
writing and math, as well as all other subjects.
Upon graduating from Indiana University Kokomo with a bachelor’s degree in
Elementary Education with a Kindergarten Endorsement, I have worked in several local schools.
Aside from a short time at home with my children, I have spent 26 years in a classroom. In
August of 2022, I achieved a pinnacle in my career with the help of God, becoming a Minister of
Religion Commissioned (called Lutheran School teacher). Philippians 4:13
When I am not in my classroom, I enjoy time at home with my husband of 35 years
Brian, and my golden retriever Lilly. I cherish time with my daughters Erica and Audrey, who are
my greatest accomplishments. I love reading, listening to smooth jazz & Christian contemporary
music, and cleaning and organizing. I am in my “happy place” when I am camping with my
family all over the United States. During my travels, I am able to witness the reflection of God’s
power, creativity and love, through the beauty of nature.

I am blessed to serve as the computer teacher and technology coordinator. I'm known for turning tech troubles into triumphs and  teaching kids that CTRL + Z can fix almost anything (except a glitter spill).  With a Bachelor of Media Arts and Science degree, I bring creativity and tech know-how to everything I do, I have a strong background in digital media, classroom integration and tech support. Skilled in video production, troubleshooting, and fostering digital literacy in young learners. Proven ability to develop engaging multimedia content, including graduation and heartfelt memorial videos. Passionate about making technology accessible and enjoyable in a school setting. 

When I'm not solving digital dilemmas, you'll likely find me with a pickleball paddle in hand, a good book on tape or planning the next epic game night with friends and family.  I am a true Lake Michigan enthusiast capturing countless sunsets on camera, each one reminding me of why its my favorite place to unwind and recharge.

God blessed my husband and I with three amazing children who are now young adults.  We hope that someday, we will be proud grandparents. 

sjohnson@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Greetings in Christ!

My name is Natalie Keck, and it is a joy and privilege to serve as the Resource Teacher at Redeemer Lutheran School. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a Master’s degree from Ball State University, and I have been blessed to work in education for 35 years. After 32 years in public schools, God led me to serve in a Christ-centered setting, and I am now beginning my third year at Redeemer.

In my role, I partner with classroom teachers to support students’ learning needs so that each child can thrive. I provide academic support to both general education and special education students, always with the goal of helping them grow in knowledge and confidence. Most importantly, together with you and your child’s teacher, I want every student to experience the love of Christ while developing the gifts God has given them.

On a personal note, I’ve always lived and served in the Kokomo community. I have two adult children and a sweet Goldendoodle named Bella. I enjoy traveling, kayaking, fishing, and reading a good book outdoors.

I look forward to meeting you and partnering with you in your child’s journey of faith and learning!

“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Proverbs 16:3

In His service,

Mrs. Natalie Keck

smiller@redeemerkokomo.org.in

ebaird@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Emily Baird attended Indiana University Kokomo where she received her bachelor's in psychology. She then returned to school to complete the transition to teaching program through Indiana Wesleyan University. Emily is now a licensed early childhood teacher in the state of Indiana. Emily is a Redeemer Lutheran School graduate. She is also a member at Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer. She worked as a pre-k aide at Redeemer for two years. This is Emily's first year teaching and she is excited to be a part of the RLS family for the 2024-2025 school year! 

jbell@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Hello, my name is Mrs. Bell. This is my third year teaching at Redeemer Lutheran School and my first year as a Pre-K teacher.  I'm passionate about helping young learners grow through their creativity, play and faith based learning while sharing God's love with them.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family, drawing, coloring, surrounding myself with all things blue-my favorite color but all with a large cup of coffee. 

lwence@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Hi! I’m Mrs. Wence! I have two children, ages 21 and 14; both are former students of RLS as well as my husband. My husband and I will be married 16 years in October. I love being a mom and wife. I also like nature walks, drawing, singing, and spending time with my family. It has also been my honor to begin taking care of my aging mother.  My husband has been a member of LCOR since he was a child, which is how I discovered Redeemer. We are so blessed to have the love and support of our church family. 

My journey here started as a book fair volunteer. I was encouraged to apply for an extended care position. I’ve been a sub, aid, cleaning help, kitchen help, and eventually a preschool teacher. I’ve had a wonderful 7ish years working for RLS. I feel called to work with small children and I can’t imagine doing anything else. I thank God that I have been allowed to walk this path and share the message of Jesus with your little ones. I hope you find as much peace at RLS/LCOR as I have. 

I am so glad you chose RLS!

jadams@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Hey Redeemer Family!

My name is Jennifer Adams, but the kids know me as Ms. Adams, Coach Adams, or Coach A! I’m currently in my third year teaching PE, second year teaching Health, and fourth year serving as the Athletic Director here at Redeemer Lutheran.

I graduated from IUPUI in 2009 with a degree in Physical Education and Exercise Science. In 2008, I also earned my Personal Training Certification through the American College of Sports Medicine.

Being a part of the Redeemer Lutheran School family has been such a blessing. I’ve truly enjoyed the opportunity to lead, teach, and inspire our youth, and I look forward to many more wonderful years ahead at Redeemer!

Go Redeemer!

mwerich@redeemerkokomo.org.in

ktucker@redeemerkokomo.org.in

Welcome to Redeemer Lutheran School's website.  I am Mrs. Kathy Tucker, the Admissions Counselor for the 2024-2025 school year.  I have been serving in the Lutheran school system for 55 years, the last 35 here at Redeemer.  Most of that time was spent teaching elementary grades, but after my "retirement", I served as the Admissions Counselor.  I was then asked to become the new principal.  This is both exciting and challenging as I now look at our students and families in a different way.  Having been in a Lutheran school since I was four years old,  I am continually reminded of our Lord's command to "train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it."  That's what we do here at Redeemer each and every day.- everything is embedded in God's Word.  This year we are focusing on "Endurance"; Scripture tells us that endurance produces character and character produces hope.  We, as Christians, hope for day when we will be with Christ in His heavenly kingdom. Everything we say or do is to point the child to Christ and His love and forgiveness for each one of us and that hope of eternal life. I encourage you, as parents, to join us as together we "train up your child".

Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.  I am here to serve you and your family.

May God bless us all as we serve Him.   Mrs. Kathy Tucker