Our Middle School (6-8) Team

Mrs. Sandusky began her career as an accountant. She became a teacher so she could spread the word of Jesus and the joy of learning to her students. She loves teaching the middle school students at Immanuel; they make her smile every day!

Mrs. Sandusky attended Northern Illinois University where she earned her bachelors degree in Finance. She continued her education at Benedictine University where she completed an Alternative Educator Licensure Program and earned her masters degree in Secondary Education. Mrs. Sandusky additionally completed the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod teacher colloquy through Concordia University in Chicago. She is licensed through the Illinois State Board of Education and holds endorsements in Math (grades 6-12), Social Science (grades 6-8), Business (grades 6-12) and Secondary Education (grades 6-12).

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.

Mr. Saunders decided to become a teacher in the Ninth Grade when he realized during his Ancient History class that he loved learning about the past and knew he would love to teach it in the future. While attending college he was asked if he had considered teaching in a Christian school. The Holy Spirit kept that thought alive in his heart and lead him into the teaching ministry. Mr. Saunders treasures the classroom experiences and interactions he has with his students. The Middle School years are a special stage of life; he finds it wonderful and incredibly rewarding to teach important topics and values in the framework of a Christian world view.

Mr. Saunders attended University of Illinois, Urbana, where he earned his bachelors degree in Secondary Education; he continued his education at Concordia University, Chicago, where he earned his Teacher Colloquy as well as a masters degree in Theology and Education. Mr. Saunders is licensed through the Illinois State Board of Education and holds endorsements in French (grades 9-12), Mathematics (grades 6-8), Elementary Education (grades K-9), and Secondary Education (grades 6-12).

Titus 3:5a
He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.

Mrs. Henderson has over 15 years of teaching experience and loves to teach Immanuel’s middle school students. As a student-oriented educator, Mrs. Henderson is mindful of the individual needs of each of her students and uses a kind and supportive approach to keep her class engaged and encouraged. Mrs. Henderson feels honored that God called her to work with middle school students and considers it a blessing to spend her day with them!

Mrs. Henderson attended North Park University, Chicago, where she earned her bachelors degree in Mathematics and Elementary Education. Mrs. Henderson is licensed through the Illinois State Board of Education and holds an endorsement in Elementary Education (grades K-9).

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Mrs. Nelson began serving at Immanuel, primarily as a substitute teacher, while her children were attending as students. Beginning in 2020, Mrs. Nelson will serve as the middle school teacher’s assistant. With an eighth grade class of 30+ students, her presence will allow us to maintain our commitment to social distancing and small classes.

Mrs. Nelson attended Winona State University, where she earned her bachelors degree in History. Mrs. Nelson is a licensed Illinois State Board of Education Substitute Educator.

1 Timothy 4:12
Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.