DCS Staff and faculty

     The staff and faculty at DCS desire to make a godly impact on students during the school day, at school activities, and in the community. They see their occupation as service to young people and families. All full-time faculty members are required to have a minimum of a Bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university. Many DCS teachers have earned advanced degrees, and are certified (or qualify for certification) by various state and national educational associations. 

     DCS class sizes are limited, which allows the teachers to go beyond the basic educational experience. As godly role models, DCS teachers influence the students spiritually, socially, and emotionally.

  • Pastor Mark Montgomery

    School Administrator

         I have been the senior pastor of First Baptist Church and the Administrator of DuBois Christian Schools since 2002. 

         I was born in Johnson City, NY while my dad was a student at Baptist Bible  Seminary.  Most of my childhood and teen years were spent in Willingboro, NJ, where my dad was the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Willingboro. 

         I graduated from Baptist Bible College of Clarks Summit, PA in 1976 with a bachelor’s degree in Bible and Theology.  It was during those years that I married Deborah Smith.  We have three wonderful children, Melissa, Mark II, and Matthew.  My hobbies are fishing and coin collecting. 

         After graduating from BBC I began working at Summit Baptist Academy and attended Grace Theological Seminary and earned a MA in Christian School Administration. The first 14 years of my ministry career was spent in Christian schools, mostly as an administrator.

         My main duties as the DCS Administrator are to oversee the finances, work with the administrative team, and be available to handle various issues that may arise.  I have also been the Varsity Girls’ Basketball coach for over 10 years and greatly enjoy that opportunity with the students. It is a real joy and awesome privilege to partner with parents in the Christian education of their children. 

         One of my favorite verses in working with the students, parents, teachers and staff is Colossians 1:23-24, "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ." 

  • Fran Chittester

    Elementary Principal / Director of Instruction / Kindergarten Teacher / Elementary Chapel Director

  • Mark chittester

    Dean of Students / Director of Community Relations / 9th-12th Grade History Teacher / High School Bible Teacher

         I have a BS in Business Administration and Marketing from Clarion University, and many years of experience in the business world in buyer communications, marketing, and public relations.

         At DCS, my role is to work to form and maintain strong, positive relationships with our students, parents, local churches and the community. As Dean of Students, I also oversee discipline, discipleship, and the non-athletic lives of our secondary students.

  • Tracy Shenkle

    Director of Development 

         I grew up in Brookville, PA and currently live in Reynoldsville with my husband and 4 daughters. I am a 1998 graduate of First Baptist Church Academy (now DuBois Christian Schools), and a 2002 graduate of Penn State University where I received a BS in Nursing. 

         I married my best friend, Phil Shenkle, in 2002, and we have 4 beautiful daughters...Lilly, Ella, Anna and Ivey. I worked as a Registered Nurse for 4 years before my oldest was born, and shortly after her birth, I began volunteering at DCS and began serving on the School Committee. The volunteer service continued and grew over the years as our family grew. 

         In 2016 I was asked to come on staff at DCS as the Director of Development to manage and organize fundraising, grant writing, and events, as well as promotion of DCS to the community. Phil and I, and our girls, love our church family at First Baptist Church and for many years have served on the praise team and in Common Ground Youth Group as well as other ministries. We are so thankful to be able to serve the Lord in the church where we were raised! 

         If you get to know me and my family you will realize I don't sit still well. I love organization and lists, and enjoy spending time with friends and family! 

         My favorite Bible verse for this time in my life is Joshua 1:9, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

  • Nancy Mowrey

    School Secretary / 7th-12th Grade Art Teacher

         I grew up in DuBois, and I am a 1990 graduate of First Baptist Academy (now DCS). I started working at DCS as School Secretary in 2014. I live in Sykesville, PA with my husband and our two children.

         I have coached the DCS Eagles girls soccer team since 2017. I also assisted my husband as Athletic Director for five years. I have really enjoyed being involved with the DCS sports program.

         At home, I enjoy crafts, gardening and spending time with my family.

         My favorite verse is Romans 8:28, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, who are the called according to His purpose."

  • jen long

    Office Helper

         I grew up in the DuBois area and attended DuBois Business College where I received my Associates Degree in Accounting. I help out in the school office, and with the bookkeeping.

         I am married with two children, and enjoy music, camping, shopping and spending time with my family.

         My favorite verse is Philippians 4:13.

  • beckie kriner

    3 and 4-year Old Preschool Teacher

         I grew up in DuBois, PA. I am a 1984 graduate of First Baptist Church Academy (now DCS).  I attended Liberty University for two 1/2 years.

         My husband, Clair, and I live on the family farm where we raised our three children: Philip, Stephen and Stephanie. They are grown up and serving the Lord in other states.

         I received an online degree in Early Childhood Development studies. I worked at a nursing home for 15 years, and have also worked at Happy Hearts Daycare. I have church ministry experience with children and youth in AWANA and youth group.

         One of my favorite Bible verses as I work with children is Proverbs 22:6 -- "Train up a child in the way he (or she) should go, and when he (or she) is old, he (or she) will not depart from it."

  • colin thomas

    Preschool Aide / Lunchroom Aide and Custodian

  • kristin hills

    Kindergarten Teacher / Elementary Music Teacher

         I am originally from Falls Creek, PA. I graduated from Brockway Area Jr./Sr. High School, and I have been involved in elementary education since 2011.

         My family includes my dad: Harold Hills, my mom: Nancy Hills, my older brother: David, my sister-in-law: Laura Hills, my niece: Aurora Hills, my younger brother: Ryan Hills, and my sister-in-law: Alexas Hills. 

         My favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:13. 

         I enjoy music -- playing the alto saxophone, ukulele, and piano; and signing. I also enjoy knitting, spending time with family and friends, and reading.

  • grace dewing

    1st Grade Teacher

         I grew up in a small town in Northeastern PA.

         I graduated from Liberty University's online program in 2017 with my BS in Elementary Education.

         I spent one year teaching at a Christian school in Montrouis, Haiti before moving to DuBois.

         I enjoy playing guitar and piano, reading, and baking.

         My favorite verse is Philipians 4:6-7, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving  let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

         I am so blessed to be part of the DCS family.

  • linda deitch

    Elementary Teacher Assistant 

  • susan bundy

    2nd Grade Teacher

         I grew up in Luthersburg, PA. I was in the third grade when First Baptist Church Academy (now DuBois Christian Schools) started, and I graduated in 1984. I attended Indiana University of PA for 1 1/2 years, and then transferred to Liberty University to complete my BS degree in Elementary Education. Upon graduation, I became a Teacher's Aide at DCS for 1 1/2 years, and then moved to Florida and taught at West Florida Baptist Academy for 2 1/2 years. When I returned to DuBois, I began working at DCS again.

         I count it a privilege to serve God at DCS. My favorite verse is Lamentations 3:23, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end, they are new every morning: Great is your faithfulness."

  • diane kennard

    5th-6th Grade Teacher / High School Choir Director / 7th-8th Grade Science Teacher / Yearbook Coordinator

         {Click HERE to visit the DCS 5th and 6th Grade website.}

         I grew up in Grampian, PA. In 1984 I graduated from First Baptist Church Academy (now DuBois Christian Schools). In 1988 I completed a Diploma program in Christian Ministries at Tennessee Temple University (now Piedmont International University). Just one month following graduation from TTU I married my high school sweetheart, Dan Kennard, who is also an 84 grad from DCS and 88 grad from TTU. In 2010, I completed my BS Degree and Master's Degree through Clarks Summit University. 

         It has been a privilege to teach multiple subjects and class levels at DCS since 1996, as well as serve on the school committee and DCS Administration.

         Dan and I have been blessed with a wonderful daughter and son, Deidre Brown (DCS class of 2010) and Dan Kennard II (DCS class of 2013); son-in-law Tim Brown (DCS class of 2009), and daughter-in-law, Hannah Kennard. We have two wonderful grandsons, Reagan and Everett; and a precious granddaughter, Murphy.

         I enjoy fishing, and going to Ocean City, New Jersey.

         My favorite verse from  God's Word is Psalm 37:4-5, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Trust also in HIm, and He will bring it to pass." 

  • Paul Simpson

    3rd-4th Grade Bible Teacher / Middle School and High School Math Teacher / Director of Maintenance and Security

         I have spent my life living locally in Rockton, PA besides some time spent in the military and college. I went to Clarion University of Pennsylvania where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an area of emphasis in the Natural Sciences. After graduating from college I spent the next three years as a day-to-day substitute teacher and a long-term substitute teacher. I worked in the Dubois and Clearfield school districts teaching Kindergarten through 12th grade.

         After three years of substitute teaching, I decided it was necessary to pursue other careers in order to provide for my family. I worked numerous different careers and trades including construction, mechanic on diesel heavy equipment in the coal industry, and facility maintenance. During this time I did not understand what purpose this was serving or what God’s plans were for me. I have come now to realize that I needed time for God to prepare me to be able to serve in my current position here at First Baptist Church and Dubois Christian Schools. Most of all, I needed time and experiences to help me get to the point where I was ready and willing to serve our Lord in this capacity.

              A significant influence, and source of continual and greatly needed support, is wife. Together we work to raise the four daughters of our blended family to grow and develop knowing the Lord.  

         One of my favorite scripture verses is Isaiah 41:10 (ESV), “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

  • matt montgomery

    School Chaplain / 7th-8th Grade Bible Teacher / 7th-12th Grade Chapel Director

         I have been on staff at First Baptist Church as an Assistant Pastor since 2008. I married Erin that same year, and we have two amazing boys, Hudson and Charlie. 

         I grew up in Southern California, but moved to DuBois in the middle of high school when my father, Pastor Mark, was called to pastor First Baptist Church. During my college years, I spent eight months living and working with missionaries in Durban, South Africa. I earned a bachelor’s degree from Clarks Summit University, a master’s degree from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary, and was ordained by First Baptist Church in 2014. 

         My current responsibilities at FBC and DCS include leading Common Ground (youth group), teaching and serving as the chaplain at DuBois Christians Schools, preaching, counseling, playing guitar on the praise teams, and individual discipleship. 

         In my “down time,” I enjoy spending time with family, running, hunting, and fishing.

         Philippians 3:8 “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord."

  • deb montgomery

    High School Math Teacher

         I grew up in Michigan and Upstate New York where I came to know Christ at 17. While attending Bible college, I met and married Pastor Mark, and we have served the Lord together in PA, CA, and IN.

         For over 36 years, I have worked in Christian schools in many capacities: classroom aid, school librarian, English teacher (grades 5 through 10), and math teacher (grades 5 through 12).

         I enjoy many blessings, but I especially enjoy being a grandma to Hudson and Charlie. One of my favorite verses is Ephesians 4:32 -- "And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you."

  • sherri ramsey

    Middle School-High School English and Speech Teacher / 7th-8th Grade History Teacher

         What I love about teaching are the students. I love their energy, their thoughts, and their vulnerability. God gave me the gift of being a part of their lives and enlightening their education. I teach 7th-12th grade English and 7th-10th grade Speech.

         I graduated from Clarion University of PA with a degree in Secondary English Education. For four years I worked at DuBois Public Schools as a long-term English sub. I have many years experience of teaching gymnastics, cheerleading, and piano.  

         First Baptist is my home church, and I'm involved in worship, nursery, MOPS, and VBS.

         My husband, two little girls, and myself reside in DuBois, PA. We love to travel, hike, and play music.

         My favorite verse is Romans 8:38-39 "...nothing can separate me from the love of Christ Jesus, my Lord" No matter what we face as adults or students, we are promised fellowship and love from our Lord.

  • krista hallowell

    High School Math and Science Teacher

  • katie chamberlin

    High School Spanish Teacher / Math and English Substitute Teacher

         I grew up in Erie, PA and earned a BA in Spanish (minor in German) from Westminster College. After one year of teaching German and two years of substitute teaching, I began teaching at DCS in the fall of 1976, just a few months after I was married to my husband, Jack. I have served at DCS in some capacity ever since, except for the six years I took off when our children, Tracy and Barry, were small and the first year of granddaughter, Lily's, life. Our other grandchildren are Ella, Anna and Ivey Shenkle, and Brylan and Kason Chamberlin.

         When I began teaching at DCS, we used the ACE self-instructional curriculum, and I had a room full of 45 junior highers! When we changed to traditional classroom instruction in 1996, I taught English and Math. At the present time I am enjoying just teaching my first choice -- SPANISH! The Lord has been faithful in all of the changes, and I am so grateful that He heard my heart's desire to serve in some sort of ministry when I dedicated my life to Him fully at the age of 16!

  • Shelley muth

    Girls Gym Teacher / Elementary Gym Teacher

        I grew up in Woolrich, PA, and currently live in DuBois with my husband, daughter and many animals. I am a certified personal trainer and health coach. My passion is helping people learn how to take care of these amazing physical bodies God has given us. I enjoy a good workout, especially running, and even better if it's on a trail in the woods.  I also enjoy spending time with my family and my dogs, soaking up fresh air and sunshine.

         One of my favorite verses is 1 Corinthians 10:31, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do...do it for the glory of God."

  • derrick polohonki

    Boys Gym Class

         I grew up in DuBois, and graduated from DCS in 2015. I then attended Clarks Summit University where I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sports and Recreational Ministries, and also met my wife, Grace.

         Shortly after graduating from college in 2019, I began to work at DCS. Part of my role at DCS is coaching soccer, and teaching boys P.E. I love working with students in gym class and on the soccer field so I can use athletics to challenge the students spiritually, and challenge them to grow in strength and skill.

         My favorite passage of Scripture is Romans 12:1-2.

  • alexis szymanski

    Family Consumer Science Teacher

  • Terry Blankley

    Custodian

         I grew up in Curwensville, PA and currently live in Treasure Lake, DuBois, PA. My family includes my wife, Patty; as well as our son, David. Our daughter, Jennifer Bailey, lives in York, PA with her husband, Keith, and our grandson, Ethan.

         I graduated from Curwensville Joint High School and DeVry Technical Institute of Chicago, IL.  After over 35 years of service I retired from AT&T, and became Custodian at First Baptist Church and DuBois Christian Schools in October 2002.

         My favorite portion of Scripture is John 14.

2020-2021 DCS

school committee


2020-2021 DCS Administrative Team

(L to R): Pastor Mark Montgomery, Tracy Shenkle, Fran Chittester, Mark Chittester