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Staff and Executive Committee

CSF staff and Executive Committee members are credentialed and professional educators experienced in school leadership and accreditation protocols.

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Executive Director

Dana James

  • Executive Director, Christian Schools of Florida (2015–Present)
  • Head of School, Seven Rivers Christian School (2010–Present)
  • Adjunct Professor, College of Central Florida (2012–Present)
  • Head of School, Westminster Christian Academy, Watkinsville, GA (1996–2010)
  • Mathematics Instructor, Coach, Oconee County High School, Watkinsville, GA (1981–1996)
  • Van Lunen Fellow (2008–2009)
  • Post-Graduate Work, Educational Leadership, University of Georgia (1998–1999)
  • MSED Mathematics Education, University of Georgia (1988)
  • BSED Mathematics Education, University of Georgia (1981)

Director of Accreditation

Susan Taylor

  • CSF Director of Accreditation (2014–present)
  • CSF Director of Professional Development (2008–2022)
  • CSF President (2000-2007)
  • School Head, Providence Christian School (1994–2008)
  • MA Educational Leadership, Covenant College (1994–97)
  • MS English/German Teacher, Providence Christian School (1985–95)
  • MA German/Minor English, Villanova University (1974–75)
  • Middle School German Teacher, Lower Moreland, PA (1976–78)
  • Senior HS German Teacher, Berwick, PA (1973–74)
  • Teacher Certification, Bloomsburg State University ((1972–73)
  • BA German/English minor, Dickinson College (1972)

As the Director of Professional Development, Sue began work with web developer/designer Adam Khan of Engaging.net to digitize functions of the Master Inservice Program recognized by the Florida Department of Education. With approved applications from CSF schools, this program provides for staff re-certifcation through in-service.

In 2009 under the leadership of Executive Director Ken Wackes, CSF began to digitize its accreditation protocol. Over the next few years, Sue joined Ken in his efforts to continue development of that program online.

Both CSF programs now provide training for schools in accreditation protocols, for teams in conducting peer reviews, and for school in-service coordinators in applying for staff inservice.

Sue continues to work with Adam on both the functionality and design of the website.

Director of Professional Development

LuAnne Schendel

  • Secretary and Director of Professional Development for Christian Schools of Florida, 2022
  • Director of Legislative Affairs for Christian Schools of Florida, 2013–2022
  • Past President and currently Executive Committee member of the Florida Association of Academic NonPublic Schools, 2013–2022
  • Director, Lake Eola Charter School, Orlando, FL, 2018-2021
  • Elementary Principal, RLCA, Clermont, FL, 2016–2018
  • Elementary Principal, Bradenton Christian School, Bradenton, FL, 2013–2016
  • President, Christian Schools of Florida, 2009–2013
  • Head of School, Orangewood Christian School, Maitland, FL, 1997–2013
  • Head of School, Community Christian School, Tallahassee, FL, 1988–1997
  • Adjunct Professor, Florida State University, 1993
  • Classroom teacher prior to 1988
  • BS-Elementary Education, MS-History and Philosophy of Education, EdS-Educational Leadership, Florida State University

Director of Early Childhood

Beth Travis

  • Early Childhood Teacher, Granada Day School, Coral Gables, FL, 1990–1994
  • Director for Granada Day School, 1994–2011
  • M.Ed, Educational Leadership, Covenant College, Lookout Mountain, GA, 1998
  • CSF Secretary, 2005–2011
  • Early Childhood Director for CSF, 2012–

Director of Teacher Certification

Elizabeth Wilson

  • CSF Director of Teacher Certification and Executive Board Member, 2010–present
  • Director, Maitland Community Preschool, 2008–present
  • Preschool Teacher, Methodist School for Early Education, Winter Park, FL, 2001–2008
  • Second Grade Teacher, Lake Silver Elementary, Orlando, FL, 1991–1994
  • First Grade Teacher, Talbot Elementary School, Gainesville, FL, 1987–1991
  • BA and MA degrees in Elementary Education and Early Childhood from University of Florida, 1987

Executive Committee President

Luke Butler

I graduated with a B.A. in English and History from the University of Florida and an M.Ed from Covenant College. Additionally, I completed the Van Lunen Fellows program at Calvin College in 2017. My calling in Christian Education began at Orangewood Christian in 1994 where I taught middle grades ELA and Bible and coached basketball and soccer. Later, I served as Middle School Principal. God brought us to Colorado Springs Christian where I served as Middle School Principal. In 2012, God called us back to Florida for me to serve as Head of School at Redeemer Christian. I am married and have three children.

Director of Legislative Affairs

LuAnne Schendel

  • Secretary and Director of Professional Development for Christian Schools of Florida, 2022
  • Director of Legislative Affairs for Christian Schools of Florida, 2013–2022
  • Past President and currently Executive Committee member of the Florida Association of Academic NonPublic Schools, 2013–2022
  • Director, Lake Eola Charter School, Orlando, FL, 2018-2021
  • Elementary Principal, RLCA, Clermont, FL, 2016–2018
  • Elementary Principal, Bradenton Christian School, Bradenton, FL, 2013–2016
  • President, Christian Schools of Florida, 2009–2013
  • Head of School, Orangewood Christian School, Maitland, FL, 1997–2013
  • Head of School, Community Christian School, Tallahassee, FL, 1988–1997
  • Adjunct Professor, Florida State University, 1993
  • Classroom teacher prior to 1988
  • BS-Elementary Education, MS-History and Philosophy of Education, EdS-Educational Leadership, Florida State University

Executive Committee Vice-President

Joel Satterly

Dr. Satterly has served as Headmaster of Westminster Academy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, since 2016. Before coming to South Florida, Dr. Satterly had been the head of a school for more than two decades across five schools in several major markets. Prior to that, he was a secondary principal and a history teacher. Dr. Satterly was also the president of Christian Schools of Florida, where he was a colleague and friend of the late Dr. Ken Wackes, the executive director of CSF and headmaster of Westminster Academy for 32 years.

His professional roles have provided a range of experiences and opportunities for interacting with diverse people and settings, which have impacted his view of the kingdom and the significance of Christian education, giving him a deep passion for the gospel, worldview development, and developing leadership in others.

Dr. Satterly grew up in Lexington, Kentucky, and after college, served in the United States Army. He graduated from Officer Candidate School and completed his time in the service as a captain in armor. He has a B.A. in History and M.A. in Education from the University of Kentucky and an M.B.A. at Western Governors University. He completed the Doctor of Ministry program through Knox Theological Seminary. His dissertation, “Constructing an Effective Biblical Worldview: The Significance of the Christian Day School,” was the basis for much of the Westminster Academy Worldview Institute. He is an Eagle Scout and a Van Lunen fellow.

He and his wife, Carol, have been married for 30 years. They have three children—Margaret Brewer married to Christopher, Kassandra Reardon married to Scott, and Timothy married to Tess. They also have two grandsons, Carson and Blake.

Officer

Shawn Minks

Mr. Shawn Minks is enjoying his 11th year leading Cambridge Christian school after serving for six years as Headmaster at Foundation Academy in Winter Garden, FL. Prior to Foundation, he served for five years at Bridgeway Christian Academy in Georgia and nine years at Warner Christian Academy in Daytona Beach.

Mr. Minks received his Master’s in educational administration from Columbia International University in 2001. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education and Bible from Northwestern College in 1993. Mr. Minks hold a lifetime ACSI all levels principal certificate, and he is a Van Lunen fellow. He sits on the executive Committee of Christian schools of Florida, and he has served on 15 accreditation teams to other schools.

Mr. Minks is happily married to his wife of 32 years, Carol, who is also on staff at Cambridge. Mr. and Mrs. Minks have three children. Tal is a character animator at Steamroller Studios in central Florida. Tiana is a CCS alum, graduate of Florida Southern, and now teacher in our Upper School, and Tate is a CCS alum in his final semester at USF, gearing up to apply for PA (Physician’s Assistant) school.

Secretary

LuAnne Schendel

  • Secretary and Director of Professional Development for Christian Schools of Florida, 2022
  • Director of Legislative Affairs for Christian Schools of Florida, 2013–2022
  • Past President and currently Executive Committee member of the Florida Association of Academic NonPublic Schools, 2013–2022
  • Director, Lake Eola Charter School, Orlando, FL, 2018-2021
  • Elementary Principal, RLCA, Clermont, FL, 2016–2018
  • Elementary Principal, Bradenton Christian School, Bradenton, FL, 2013–2016
  • President, Christian Schools of Florida, 2009–2013
  • Head of School, Orangewood Christian School, Maitland, FL, 1997–2013
  • Head of School, Community Christian School, Tallahassee, FL, 1988–1997
  • Adjunct Professor, Florida State University, 1993
  • Classroom teacher prior to 1988
  • BS-Elementary Education, MS-History and Philosophy of Education, EdS-Educational Leadership, Florida State University

Executive Committee Member

Linda Walker

I am blessed with the opportunity to serve Westminster Christian School (WCS) as Curriculum Director since July 2013. My role at WCS is dedicated to continuing an exceptional academic and spiritual program by developing curriculum, monitoring assessments, and providing instructional support for our teaching staff and students. I have a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education, a Masters Degree in Mathematics and an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership. I am married and have two beautiful children, Ty (Class of 2022) and Kaitlyn (Class of 2026).

Executive Committee Member

Susan Taylor

  • CSF Director of Accreditation (2014–present)
  • CSF Director of Professional Development (2008–2022)
  • CSF President (2000-2007)
  • School Head, Providence Christian School (1994–2008)
  • MA Educational Leadership, Covenant College (1994–97)
  • MS English/German Teacher, Providence Christian School (1985–95)
  • MA German/Minor English, Villanova University (1974–75)
  • Middle School German Teacher, Lower Moreland, PA (1976–78)
  • Senior HS German Teacher, Berwick, PA (1973–74)
  • Teacher Certification, Bloomsburg State University ((1972–73)
  • BA German/English minor, Dickinson College (1972)

As the Director of Professional Development, Sue began work with web developer/designer Adam Khan of Engaging.net to digitize functions of the Master Inservice Program recognized by the Florida Department of Education. With approved applications from CSF schools, this program provides for staff re-certifcation through in-service.

In 2009 under the leadership of Executive Director Ken Wackes, CSF began to digitize its accreditation protocol. Over the next few years, Sue joined Ken in his efforts to continue development of that program online.

Both CSF programs now provide training for schools in accreditation protocols, for teams in conducting peer reviews, and for school in-service coordinators in applying for staff inservice.

Sue continues to work with Adam on both the functionality and design of the website.

Executive Committee Member

Shawn Minks

Mr. Shawn Minks is enjoying his 11th year leading Cambridge Christian school after serving for six years as Headmaster at Foundation Academy in Winter Garden, FL. Prior to Foundation, he served for five years at Bridgeway Christian Academy in Georgia and nine years at Warner Christian Academy in Daytona Beach.

Mr. Minks received his Master’s in educational administration from Columbia International University in 2001. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education and Bible from Northwestern College in 1993. Mr. Minks hold a lifetime ACSI all levels principal certificate, and he is a Van Lunen fellow. He sits on the executive Committee of Christian schools of Florida, and he has served on 15 accreditation teams to other schools.

Mr. Minks is happily married to his wife of 32 years, Carol, who is also on staff at Cambridge. Mr. and Mrs. Minks have three children. Tal is a character animator at Steamroller Studios in central Florida. Tiana is a CCS alum, graduate of Florida Southern, and now teacher in our Upper School, and Tate is a CCS alum in his final semester at USF, gearing up to apply for PA (Physician’s Assistant) school.

Executive Committee Member

Beth Travis

  • Early Childhood Teacher, Granada Day School, Coral Gables, FL, 1990–1994
  • Director for Granada Day School, 1994–2011
  • M.Ed, Educational Leadership, Covenant College, Lookout Mountain, GA, 1998
  • CSF Secretary, 2005–2011
  • Early Childhood Director for CSF, 2012–

Executive Committee Member

Joel Satterly

Dr. Satterly has served as Headmaster of Westminster Academy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, since 2016. Before coming to South Florida, Dr. Satterly had been the head of a school for more than two decades across five schools in several major markets. Prior to that, he was a secondary principal and a history teacher. Dr. Satterly was also the president of Christian Schools of Florida, where he was a colleague and friend of the late Dr. Ken Wackes, the executive director of CSF and headmaster of Westminster Academy for 32 years.

His professional roles have provided a range of experiences and opportunities for interacting with diverse people and settings, which have impacted his view of the kingdom and the significance of Christian education, giving him a deep passion for the gospel, worldview development, and developing leadership in others.

Dr. Satterly grew up in Lexington, Kentucky, and after college, served in the United States Army. He graduated from Officer Candidate School and completed his time in the service as a captain in armor. He has a B.A. in History and M.A. in Education from the University of Kentucky and an M.B.A. at Western Governors University. He completed the Doctor of Ministry program through Knox Theological Seminary. His dissertation, “Constructing an Effective Biblical Worldview: The Significance of the Christian Day School,” was the basis for much of the Westminster Academy Worldview Institute. He is an Eagle Scout and a Van Lunen fellow.

He and his wife, Carol, have been married for 30 years. They have three children—Margaret Brewer married to Christopher, Kassandra Reardon married to Scott, and Timothy married to Tess. They also have two grandsons, Carson and Blake.

Executive Committee Member

Sarah Wilson Hyde

The Lord led me to Sunlight Christian Academy in 2006, a small preschool in Port St. Lucie, FL, which is a ministry of Sunlight Community Church. I began as the Preschool Director, and now serve as Head of Schools for all four of our locations. Our school has grown from only 8 preschool students in 2006, to now 630 students grades PreK-8th grade in 2024.

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Middle School Science Education from IRSC, and I also achieved a Master’s Degree in Education Administration and Leadership from Walden University.

I am also honored to serve on the Christian Schools of Florida Executive Committee. I am truly blessed to be a part of such a wonderful organization.

Executive Committee Member

Luke Butler

I graduated with a B.A. in English and History from the University of Florida and an M.Ed from Covenant College. Additionally, I completed the Van Lunen Fellows program at Calvin College in 2017. My calling in Christian Education began at Orangewood Christian in 1994 where I taught middle grades ELA and Bible and coached basketball and soccer. Later, I served as Middle School Principal. God brought us to Colorado Springs Christian where I served as Middle School Principal. In 2012, God called us back to Florida for me to serve as Head of School at Redeemer Christian. I am married and have three children.

Executive Committee Member

Elizabeth Wilson

  • CSF Director of Teacher Certification and Executive Board Member, 2010–present
  • Director, Maitland Community Preschool, 2008–present
  • Preschool Teacher, Methodist School for Early Education, Winter Park, FL, 2001–2008
  • Second Grade Teacher, Lake Silver Elementary, Orlando, FL, 1991–1994
  • First Grade Teacher, Talbot Elementary School, Gainesville, FL, 1987–1991
  • BA and MA degrees in Elementary Education and Early Childhood from University of Florida, 1987

Executive Committee Member

Dana James

  • Executive Director, Christian Schools of Florida (2015–Present)
  • Head of School, Seven Rivers Christian School (2010–Present)
  • Adjunct Professor, College of Central Florida (2012–Present)
  • Head of School, Westminster Christian Academy, Watkinsville, GA (1996–2010)
  • Mathematics Instructor, Coach, Oconee County High School, Watkinsville, GA (1981–1996)
  • Van Lunen Fellow (2008–2009)
  • Post-Graduate Work, Educational Leadership, University of Georgia (1998–1999)
  • MSED Mathematics Education, University of Georgia (1988)
  • BSED Mathematics Education, University of Georgia (1981)

Executive Committee Member

Joanna Johannes

Dr. Johannes has had a long hybrid career involving Executive Finance and Education. Her passion for Accounting, Christian education, and the outdoors has fueled her direction. She spent 1989-2004 in executive management and financial consulting. During that time, she was a Director for a Fortune 500 company and a CFO for a large Miami based retailer. She founded her own profit recovery company in 1996 and still consults part-time for her clients.

In 2005, after becoming the mother of two sons, Dr. Johannes founded Lighthouse Private Christian Academy (lighthousepca.com). She was blessed to be guided by an amazing mentor, Dr. Ken Wackes, who founded the Christian Schools of Florida. She now has 4 nationally accredited (K-12th grade) campuses located in three counties: Santa Rosa, Escambia, and Okaloosa. Both of her sons have graduated from Lighthouse PCA and are now attending college. She still holds the role as Superintendent of Schools for Lighthouse PCA and serves on the Board of Directors for the Christian Schools of Florida.

Dr. Johannes loves teaching high school students about the Holy Word. She is a published author who has written about social media strategies designed to motivate high school students to succeed. She has also written a faith-based children’s book which encourages children to go outside and enjoy nature.
She is a licensed and active Florida Real Estate Broker specializing in waterfront properties. The name of her real estate firm is Coconut Palm Real Estate. She is an outdoor enthusiast that spends her vacation time in the Florida Keys or out hiking the rolling hills of Southern Indiana. She and her husband, Colin, reside in Gulf Breeze, Florida.

Executive Committee Member

LuAnne Schendel

  • Secretary and Director of Professional Development for Christian Schools of Florida, 2022
  • Director of Legislative Affairs for Christian Schools of Florida, 2013–2022
  • Past President and currently Executive Committee member of the Florida Association of Academic NonPublic Schools, 2013–2022
  • Director, Lake Eola Charter School, Orlando, FL, 2018-2021
  • Elementary Principal, RLCA, Clermont, FL, 2016–2018
  • Elementary Principal, Bradenton Christian School, Bradenton, FL, 2013–2016
  • President, Christian Schools of Florida, 2009–2013
  • Head of School, Orangewood Christian School, Maitland, FL, 1997–2013
  • Head of School, Community Christian School, Tallahassee, FL, 1988–1997
  • Adjunct Professor, Florida State University, 1993
  • Classroom teacher prior to 1988
  • BS-Elementary Education, MS-History and Philosophy of Education, EdS-Educational Leadership, Florida State University

Web Developer/Designer

Adam Khan

Since 1997 I have collaborated on the design and development of web sites and systems — like this one! Web Developer & Designer; Business Owner Engaging.net (Brighton, England)

2005-6: Developed web sites for larger clients including the World Food Programme and Boeing, who called from Seattle to ask how we did it so fast Web Developer %(school-name)Deepend.it (Rome, Italy)

2003-4: Wrote news updates for this newspaper’s web site and the occasional book review Online Editor %(school-name)The Jerusalem Post (Jerusalem, Israel)

2001-3: Edited technical documents; developed and maintained the team intranet site; took minutes at company meetings internationally, so really traveled the world and loved that Technical Writer %(school-name)Amdocs (billing software company, Hod Hasharon, Israel)

Education

1995: BA, “Fundamentals: Issues & Texts” as chaired by the redoubtable Leon R. Kass University of Chicago

1991–2: 1 year of study %(school-name)Deep Springs College

1988: High School Diploma Walworth Barbour American International School in Israel

Service

1988-91: Sergeant, Education Corps %(school-name)Israel Defence Forces

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