We are pleased to announce the hiring of Ashton Cluts as our first grade teacher for the next school year. Ashton currently teaches kindergarten at Model Elementary School in Goshen, having previously taught first and second grades as well. She recently completed a Master of Arts in Education degree from Baldwin Wallace University with a focus on literacy. She also brings a wealth of international leadership, service, and learning experiences to Bethany’s global student community.
“Ashton's ability to connect with kids and parents, her growth mindset, creative lesson planning, and her emphasis on experiential learning are all attributes that made her a natural addition to our team,” said Tim Lehman, Head of School.
New lower-school principal Juanita Hershberger will lead an experienced staff in our elementary grades. Linda Hochstetler and Adam Friesen have taught fifth and fourth grades, respectively, for the last 10 years. Their creative curriculum and caring ways have contributed to consistently full classes in their grade levels. Waldorf-trained third grade teacher Karin Fast welcomed Bethany’s first class of third graders this past fall. Her unique approach to holistic, hands-on learning has enlivened her students, and the elementary community as a whole. Jen Bontrager has been hired as the new second grade teacher and brings a wealth of experience and love of learning from decades of teaching in area public schools. Ashton now rounds out Juanita’s team for the 2022-23 school year – a group of committed educators who are excited to welcome the youngest Bruins into our community.
Welcome, Ashton!