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Meet Our Amazing Staff

The staff at Shepherd's Heart Christian School, are not only skilled, educated, and gifted, They are each passionately committed to serving the students and families of the school.

 

 


 
Pastor Darin Shedelbower President of Shepherd’s Heart Christian Ministries Inc./School Administrator/ Lead Pastor Pastor Darin Shedelbower attended Calvary Chapel Bible College and has more than 10 years experience as children and family discipleship pastor and Christian school administrator. He has been a senior pastor for five years and has been the administrator at Shepherd’s Heart Christian School for two years. Pastor Darin has more than 20 years experience teaching in a variety of contexts. He has taught youth and adult Bible studies and parenting classes. He also regularly teaches verse by verse through the Bible. He also has 18 years experience in marriage and family counseling. Mrs. Liza Marie Shedelbower 3rd-5th Vice President of Shepherd’s Heart Christian Ministries Inc./School Director/ Lead Elementary Teacher Mrs. Liza Marie Shedelbower has a Bachelor of Arts from Ringling College in Interior Design. She holds certificates in behavioral learning, classroom management, and shadow support training. Mrs. Shedelbower has completed 150 hours of teacher training at Pensacola Christian College and has almost 20 years of classroom experience. In addition to her classroom experience, Mrs. Shedelbower has worked with three different private schools over the past 16 years overseeing student scholarship funding, including McKay Scholarships. She has hired and trained tutors to work in conjunction with students to fulfill the needs outlined in individual education plans (IEP). She has designed multilevel learning classrooms with zone teaching for more than two years. For nearly 20 years, Mrs. Shedelbower has been involved in a variety of aspects of ministry. She has taught women’s Bible studies, led children’s ministry and been involved in family counseling and training. Mrs. Florence Sommer K-2nd Mrs. Florence Sommers K-2nd Teacher Mrs. Sommers teaches Kindergarten through second grade, which she focuses on the foundational elements of reading, writing, and math. She is very skilled in teaching these building blocks of elementary learning. She has experience in Classical education, as well as, traditional learning environments. In addition, she teaches a hands-on science and classical approach to history. She has completed 80 hours of teacher training at Pensacola Christian College and has almost 13 years of classroom teaching experience. She has worked in various Private and public schools school settings. Mrs. Amy Sietsma 6th-12th Teacher, Literature, Grammar, and History Mrs. Amy Sietsma has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from Murray State University. She has completed 40 hours of teacher training at Pensacola Christian College and has almost 10 years of classroom experience in addition to almost 10 years of experience in academic publishing. She has completed most of the academic coursework for a masters in education. Mrs. Sietsma teaches a variety of literature courses for both middle and high school. Her courses incorporate a project learning approach to literary analysis and appreciation. She teaches fundamental grammar concepts in conjunction with practical writing skills. Using the "Mystery of History" program, she teaches courses that focus on world history from the early church to modern day. Mrs. Sietsma has a variety of ministry experience including teaching Sunday school, leading children’s worship, teaching women’s Bible study classes and serving as part of women’s ministry leadership. Ms. Wendy Jo Lowe 6th-12th Facilitator/Teacher Science and Mathematics Ms. Wendy Jo Lowe has Bachelor of Arts degrees in Allied Legal Services and Psychology from the University of Central Florida where she graduated summa cum laude. She has completed 40 hours of teacher training at Pensacola Christian College and has almost 2 years of classroom experience. Ms. Lowe teaches middle school earth science which focuses on geology, climate, and astronomy. Her high school physical science course focuses on physics, chemistry, and energy. She also teaches an upper elementary mathematics class. In addition, she facilitates a middle school life science course that focuses on cellular biology, genetics, botany, zoology and human anatomy. Ms. Lowe has a variety of ministry experience including working with youth and women’s Bible studies. Mrs. Nicole Hetherington 9th-12th Teacher of Upper-level Math, Government, and Economics Mrs. Nicole Hetherington has a Bachelor of Science degree from Columbus College of Georgia and an associates degree in Meteorology and weather forecasting from the Community College of the Air Force. The 2017-2018 school year was her first formal classroom experience, but Mrs. Hetherington has more than 20 years experience as a homeschool teacher. Mrs. Hetherington teaches two high school courses, government, and economics. Her government course focuses on the founding principles of the United States government, including private property rights, representative governments and the concept of the consent of the governed. Her economics c

 

Pastor/ Chief Administrator

Darin Shedelbower

Pastor Darin Shedelbower wears a lot of hats—and somehow manages to keep them all straight. With over 27 years of teaching experience, 23 years in marriage and family counseling, and more than two decades serving in children’s and family discipleship, he’s kind of like a Swiss Army knife for ministry (only taller and with better sermon illustrations).

After attending Calvary Chapel Bible College, Pastor Darin poured his heart into ministry, spending 20+ years helping families grow in faith and connection. For the past five years, he’s served as senior pastor of Shepherd’s Heart Church, and for the last four, he’s also taken on the joyful chaos of leading the school as administrator. Somehow, he still finds time to teach Bible studies, parenting classes, and walk people verse by verse through Scripture—all with a calm presence and a dash of dad energy.

Whether he’s preaching, teaching, counseling, or just grabbing coffee with a student or parent, Pastor Darin leads with wisdom, grace, and the kind of dry humor that sneaks up on you. His passion? Seeing families strengthened, students rooted in truth, and a whole community growing together in Christ.

Mrs. Liza Shedelbower

With nearly 22 years of teaching experience, Mrs. Liza Marie Shedelbower brings a wealth of knowledge and a heart for education to our school. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture and Design from Ringling College, along with specialized training in ABA behavioral learning, classroom management, and shadow support.

Over the past two decades, she has played a key role in private school education, working to integrate students with 504 plans and IEPs into mainstream classrooms while securing scholarship funding. She has also spent years developing multilevel learning environments and training educators to meet diverse student needs.

Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Shedelbower is passionate about mentoring students and families, blending biblical principles with life skills coaching. She is currently pursuing certification as an Autism Specialist and has helped numerous students successfully graduate and transition into college and careers.

With over 25 years in ministry, she has led women’s Bible studies, directed children’s programs, and provided family counseling. Whether she’s in the classroom, mentoring students, or supporting families, her mission remains the same—helping others grow in both faith and knowledge.

 

 School Director/ Lead Teacher

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2nd and 3rd Grade

Dr. Sherry Brower

Meet Dr. Sherry Brower—a lifelong learner, passionate teacher, and proud connoisseur of cheesy jokes (the cleaner the pun, the better). With over 20 years in education, she brings a wealth of experience, a heart for ministry, and a deep love for helping kids grow both academically and spiritually.

Dr. Brower’s journey started with a music scholarship at the State College of Florida, but somewhere between the scales and the sheet music, she realized her true passion was teaching young minds. She traded the piano bench for a classroom rug and never looked back. Her dedication to learning didn’t stop there—she went on to earn both a master’s and a doctorate in theology, blending her love of education with her heart for faith.

Before joining Shepherd’s Heart, Dr. Brower spent nearly a decade leading the charge for Child Evangelism Fellowship across Florida, helping reach thousands of children with the gospel (and probably sharing a joke or two along the way).

These days, her favorite roles include teacher, mentor, reader of many books, and deliverer of delightfully corny humor. Whether she’s guiding a lesson or encouraging a student, Dr. Brower is all in—faith-first, joy-filled, and always ready to make learning a little more fun.

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 Mathematics and Science Department

Ms. Wendy Jo Lowe

Ms. Wendy Jo Lowe isn’t just a teacher—she’s a math and science enthusiast with a knack for making complex topics exciting! She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Allied Legal Services and Psychology from the University of Central Florida, graduating summa cum laude (yes, she’s that smart!). On top of that, she has completed 40 hours of teacher training at Pensacola Christian College, along with 40 hours of Needs Focus Learning training, and has over eight years of classroom experience.

 

Ms. Lowe has taught a variety of subjects across math and science, adapting to the needs of different grade levels. Whether she’s exploring the wonders of the universe, diving into the foundations of physics and chemistry, or making numbers come to life in math class, she’s always finding ways to keep students engaged and curious.

 

Beyond the classroom, she has a heart for ministry, with experience working in youth and women’s Bible studies. She believes that learning should be both meaningful and fun, and she strives to create an environment where students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and enjoy the journey of discovery.

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1st-2nd Grade/ Higher Level Math

Ms. Nily

Ms. Nily brings energy, creativity, and a love for learning into everything she teaches! With a Master of Business degree and a B.A. in Computer Animation, she has a knack for making lessons both engaging and meaningful. She has seven years of classroom experience in church and private school settings, along with 80 hours of teacher training at Pensacola Christian College and 40 hours of Needs Focus Learning training—so she’s well-equipped for whatever the school day brings!

 

She enjoys helping students develop strong reading, writing, and math skills, but she also knows that learning is about more than just textbooks. Whether she’s making science and history interactive, introducing students to Spanish, or finding creative ways to keep young minds engaged, she’s always ready to make the classroom a fun and encouraging place to learn.

 

No matter what subject or grade level she’s teaching, Ms. Nily’s goal is simple: to help students grow in confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning!

With over 34 years of classroom teaching and more than 24 years in children’s ministry, Mrs. Yvonne Albritton is a seasoned pro at shaping young minds—and hearts. She’s guided generations of students with patience, wisdom, and just the right amount of caffeine.

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Mrs. Albritton is fueled by three key things: her love for Jesus, her love for her students, and a strong cup of coffee (not necessarily in that order before 8 a.m.). Her classroom is a place where faith and learning walk hand in hand, and where every child is known, loved, and encouraged to grow into who God created them to be.

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She brings a steady joy to her work, and it’s clear that for Mrs. Albritton, teaching isn’t just a job—it’s a calling.

K-4/ K-5  Teacher

Mrs. Yvonne Albritton

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Jr High/High School/

  Science/Bible/Personal Finance/ Technology 

Mr. LeGrange has been a dedicated educator at Shepherd’s Heart Christian School, teaching junior high and high school students in science, economics, and government. With two years of classroom experience, he is passionate about helping students grow academically and spiritually. He also serves in youth leadership at Home Fellowship Church, where he teaches Bible studies and actively supports the church community.

Mr. LeGrange has a deep thirst for studying God’s Word and a heart for discipling students, guiding them to develop strong biblical foundations alongside their academic education.

Before transitioning to education, he worked in the technology industry for over 13 years, holding multiple certifications in technology and IT. He attended St. Petersburg College, where he developed a strong foundation in his field.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. LeGrange and his wife, Maggie, are raising their five children, three of whom attend Shepherd’s Heart Christian School. His commitment to faith, family, and education makes him a valued member of our school community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr. LeGrange

4th grade-12th grade/  

  Literature/History/Bible 

Mr. Elijah Shedelbower

Shepherd’s Heart Christian School is proud to welcome back one of our own—Mr. Elijah Shedelbower—as our very first alumni-turned-teacher! A graduate of our school and now a passionate educator, Mr. Shedelbower brings both a deep love for the Lord and a heart for teaching into every lesson.

He holds a degree from Southeastern University and is currently pursuing his master’s through Calvary Chapel University (yes, he's still doing homework—but now he's assigning it, too). He teaches history, literature, and Bible, and infuses his lessons with a love for storytelling, encouraging students to think deeply and live boldly in their faith.

In addition to his two years of classroom experience, Mr. Shedelbower has served with Child Evangelism Fellowship’s summer programs and has been actively involved in youth and children’s ministries at Home Fellowship Church. Whether mentoring students, leading devotions, or helping navigate the complexities of comma splices, he leads with grace, humility, and a whole lot of heart.

We couldn’t be more excited to have him on staff—not just as a teacher, but as a living example of the mission and heart of Shepherd’s Heart in action.

 

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After years in the business world, Mrs. Abby Ungarelli felt a tug on her heart that led her in a new direction—straight to the classroom. Now teaching 4th through 6th grade, she brings a unique blend of practical wisdom and ministry-minded passion to her students every day.

Mrs. Abby earned her degree in Christian Ministry from Ohio Christian University before adding a Bachelor’s in Business to her toolkit. Her background ranges from boardroom meetings to worship team rehearsals, giving her a well-rounded perspective she uses to connect with her students in meaningful ways.

Outside of school, Mrs. Abby has worn many ministry hats: college academic advisor, worship leader, youth ministry volunteer, and even church accountant (yes, she can balance both books and a classroom!). Whether mentoring young hearts or managing behind the scenes, her passion for serving the Lord shines through.

When she's not teaching, you’ll probably find her casting a line on the water with her husband, sampling something delicious from a local Florida favorite, or enjoying a worship playlist under the open sky. Her favorite passage, Psalm 23, reflects her gentle, guiding spirit—and her steady trust in the Good Shepherd.

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 4th-6th grade

Ms. Abby 

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