About Rock Christian Academy
Vision
RCA's vision is to create a partnership with parents in education where Jesus Christ is our foundation, children learn and grow, and God is glorified.
We are truly standing on the Rock as we embark on this journey.
“There is no one holy like the LORD; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock.” — 1 Samuel 2:2
Staff
Laurie Mondragon | Campus Director
Welcome! I'm honored to be pioneering this adventure with you and yours. Over the past 33 years, I have taught in public, private, and homeschool settings. I have also been a tutor and instructional advisor. Currently, in addition to being the founder and campus director of The Rock Christian Academy, I teach art for homeschooled children. Staying closely connected to children is of utmost importance to me.
I graduated from Northern Arizona University with a BA in Elementary Education and an MA in Multicultural Education, with an emphasis in Speech Communications.
Beyond teaching, I have been blessed to foster children, house international students in my home, and participate in many outreach ministries. I cherish spending time with my now-adult daughters, Sarah and Amy, and my precious grandbabies, Annabelle, Rosalie, and William. I am honored to be the helpmate of my husband, Pastor Paul.
I love to dance, sing, cook, and eat. I also enjoy the outdoors and playing with my two pugs. Jesus, my Lord and Savior rescued me and set my feet upon the rock. (Psalm 40:1-3) I want to honor Him and praise Him all the days of my life.
Sarah Lanning | Lead Tutor
Marhaba! (Arabic for “Hello!”) My name is Sarah Lanning, and I have had the privilege of serving as an educator for over twenty years. Initially getting my feet wet teaching English to Arab students in the Middle East, I have now instructed students in American public schools, tutored homeschooled children in Classical Conversations, and finally taught in a Christian, private school for the past nine years. I love working with children!
I earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Science from Northern Arizona University after initially pursuing pre-medical studies at Baylor University. God has blessed me with a loving husband (an educator and worship leader) and four beautiful children (three of whom the Lord gave us through adoption). Seeking first God’s kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) and making disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20) are guiding verses in my life. Some of my passions include overseas mission trips, cooking, and playing tennis.
Jenn Coleman | Administrative Assistant
Hello! My name is Jenn Coleman, and I am the Administrative Assistant at The Rock Christian Academy. I was born and raised in Upstate New York and hold a paralegal degree. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in various roles, most recently as the Business Manager for Ballet Yuma. I’ve also served as the administrator for Southwestern Christian School, among other leadership positions within our community. Throughout it all, I’ve felt a deep calling to serve and support those around me.
I am married to my wonderful husband, Christopher Coleman, and together we have three children: Abigail (24), who is the proud mom of our adorable granddaughter, Summer (4); Harley (20), who is currently attending Grand Canyon University in Phoenix; and Wyatt (19), who is studying Youth Ministry at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia.
My true passions are to serve and to love others in whatever ways God leads me. I feel blessed to be a founding member of RCA, and I look forward to being a part of this opportunity to grow strong Christian families.
Kelly Fromm | Tutor
Hello! My name is Kelly Fromm, and I’m so excited to be a part of The Rock Christian Academy. It is an honor and privilege to teach children about the love of Jesus and draw them closer to Him. I have been teaching for over 20 years at Christian schools and churches in California and Arizona. My experience includes teaching preschool, kindergarten, and special education. Most recently, I have taught as a substitute teacher for kindergarten through 5th grade at Southwestern Christian School.
I truly love children and have a heart for children with special needs, including a strong desire to help families. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, serving at church, coaching soccer, and drinking lots of coffee haha! The Lord has blessed me with 5 beautiful children and an amazing husband (who is always up for my adventures). My family is currently in the process of opening our home to foster children. We are faithfully trusting in God as he leads us in this ministry.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Ashley Hicks | Tutor
Hi! I’m Ashley, and I’m so blessed to be part of this amazing school community. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of Texas at Arlington and loved teaching 1st and 2nd grade back in my home state of Texas. Life took an exciting turn when I married my husband, Kevin, who serves as an officer in the United States Army.
For the past 14 years, God has led our family on incredible adventures across the country. Along the way, I’ve had the joy of homeschooling our four children, embracing classical education tools to help them grow academically and spiritually.
I’m passionate about building a Christ-centered school community where families feel supported and children thrive. I truly believe that learning is a beautiful journey we get to take together, and I can’t wait to see what this year holds!
Zack Kondracki | Tutor
Hello! My name is Zachary Kondracki, and I am one of the junior high teachers at the Rock Christian Academy who teaches Bible. I am an associate pastor at the Rock who is, in his spare time, an author of theological works including a book on biblical relationships, dealing with depression as a Christian, working through guilt, and a Ruth commentary. I am married to a wonderful woman named Jennifer who has helped encourage me in all things Jesus!
In my spare time I enjoy weightlifting, writing, reading, and board games. I look forward to meeting you and your child at The Rock Christian Academy.
Sara Morales | Tutor
Hi! I'm Sara Morales. I'm a primary tutor with a deep love for Jesus and a passion for guiding young minds. Born and raised in Arizona, I've spent the past 10 years working with children as a teacher and aide. I've had the privilege of teaching Kinder, 2nd, and 4th grades.
Alongside my love for education, I've pursued nutritional therapy school, reflecting my commitment to holistic wellness. I'm happily married and a proud dog mom to my adopted pocket pitbull, Siggy. I also have a soft spot for cows, and I find joy in the simple, wholesome things in life.
Helen Shaya | Tutor
Greetings! My name is Helen Shaya, and I am excited for the opportunity to teach your children. I hold a degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood from Moorhead State University in Moorhead, MN. My experience as a educator includes tutoring English grammar, teaching K-1 Literature and Poetry, Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) for the Classical Conversations program and various co-op classes over the years.
In addition, I was blessed to home-educate my own two children during their whole academic career. Currently, my son is serving in the United States Air Force and my daughter is enrolled in college classes, pursuing her passion. Our family has explored many, many books together over the years. The conversations and activities that we have done together are by far the most memorable experiences in their home education. I believe great literature can be the glue that brings a family together.
I serve a mighty God and have been serving Him for decades. I believe and trust in Jesus Christ and share in His ministry to teach and bless the children and adults He has entrusted me with. To Him be all honor, glory, and praise forever!
Cindy Straka | Tutor
I am Cindy Straka, and I was raised in a military family and spent my formative years in Southern Maryland. I earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Frostburg State University in Maryland and a master's degree in elementary education from Bowie State University.
My teaching career began as the inaugural second and third grade teacher at a newly founded Christian school in Lexington Park, Maryland. After teaching third grade at Camp Springs Christian School (also in Maryland), my childhood dream of full-time missions was finally realized through The Evangelical Alliance Mission, where I taught missionary children at Vienna Christian School in Vienna, Austria. Upon my return home, I married and moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where I taught fourth and fifth grade, including a stint as a music teacher and intervention specialist.
Four years ago, the Lord called my family to Yuma, Arizona, where I taught second grade at Southwestern Christian School. During this time, I earned a seminary Biblical studies certificate from Lancaster Bible College/Capital Seminary. I enjoy hiking and outdoor activities, reading, quilting, and playing and teaching piano. I desire to honor God in the gifts He has given me and to instill in children a passion for missions.
FAQ
Will there be breaks for Jr. High?
Each teacher will provide breaks between each class. There will be a lunch/recess as well.
Will the elementary classes have breaks?
There will be one morning recess for K-5th grades. There will be a lunch recess for K-8th grades.
Are parents required to volunteer at RCA?
We will need volunteers to help with recess and lunch duties, but it is currently not required. Other opportunities for involvement may arise as we delve in, but none yet. We’d love to see families creating learning opportunities for the classes to go on field trips, see historic sites, and just be together whenever possible, but it is not required to attend.
Is attendance required?
There is no attendance policy, but absences may cause your child to struggle with key concepts covered in class.
Why are you starting this school?
The Lord has called us to be obedient, so we are walking by faith, hoping to be a blessing to many families in this community. This program provides a unique alternative for families regarding their child’s education that includes more family involvement and freedom outside the classroom walls to engage in real-world experiences where additional learning and discovery take place. We are excited for our tutors to partner with parents in implementing a homeschool hybrid curriculum that focuses on core subject matter in a Christ-centered, loving, community environment.
Are parents required to be on campus on in-school days?
No, but we hope to foster a family environment and a community of like-minded families who share life together.
Is there space for the kids to play?
There is a large, grassy play area outside and a shaded, expansive bay area with picnic tables where kids can play games and enjoy the fresh air.
Aside from operating expenses, what benefits does tuition offer our family?
Four days a week of thorough lessons in 5 core subjects.
Curriculum for each child in all subject areas
Highly qualified, caring tutors available for guidance and support
Classroom supplies, space, and maintenance
On-site security during in-school days
Are uniforms required?
Uniforms are required for the two on-campus school days. Just as any sports team or ballet studio would do, it’s a symbol of community, professionalism, identity, and unity. At RCA, the time spent in the classroom should have minimal distractions.
What are the Parent/Home Educator’s Responsibilities?
As a homeschooler, the parent is ultimately responsible for the child’s grades. RCA will put a strong emphasis on learning and progress, but not on comparison and grades. The parent is the primary home educator. The parent will ensure weekly work is being completed before returning to in-school classes each week and will communicate often with classroom tutors. At home, the parent has complete flexibility on when, where, and how they choose to complete those lessons.
What is the role of the classroom tutor?
The tutor/educator is responsible for preparing 32 weeks of well-constructed curriculum that can transfer from classroom to kitchen table weekly. The tutor ensures that on in-school days, core concepts are taught in Bible, math, language arts, science, and history. With the small class size, the tutor can focus on students’ individual needs. In addition, the tutor is available to provide guidance and assistance for home educators.
Will there be any opportunities for the children to play sports on a team?
Many homeschoolers join existing private or public school teams in their districts, but sometimes those teams can get very full. Therefore, we are working to develop a sports program that would be inclusive to other homeschoolers that would compete with the private school league. If you would like to assist in this endeavor, please contact Rhoda coachrhoda22@gmail.com or c@909-809-8740.
How can I become a tutor for RCA?
If you have a strong desire to serve the Lord and homeschooled families, we would love to chat with you, especially if you have children attending RCA, and/or have a teaching or special subject matter degree! Please reach out by emailing director@rcayuma.com We offer part-time hours and competitive pay in a most rewarding environment!
Is there anything that the school needs?
We would appreciate any donations to the school. We are a ministry of the Rock Church, which is a 501c3 organization. We are in need of playground equipment (basketball hoop, soccer goals, field marker machine, volleyball net, balls, and more) and a large and small shade covering for the school entrance and the playground.