Pre-Kindergarten - 2nd Grade: Michelle Kittleson
Michelle Kittleson teachers PreK-2 at Greater Lansing Adventist School. She was the Preschool Director at Hinsdale Adventist Academy for nine years and for four years was the Director in Washington State. Mrs. Kittleson also taught kindergarten and first grade at Spencerville Adventist Academy in Maryland for 11 Years. Mrs. Kittleson love teaching the little ones because she never knows what the day is going to bring. It’s always a surprise! Her biggest enjoyment and greatest reward are being able to be a part of her students’ spiritual journey. Mrs. Kittleson is married to Brian. They have three children--Devon (his wife is Amber), Brianna, and Matthew. Mrs. Kittleson is a grandmother to Parker, the cutiest toddler ever!
Pre-Kindergarten - 2nd Grade Teacher's Aide: Molly Dean
My name is Molly Dean and I grew up and lived in different parts of Southeast Asia, but I have lived in Lansing for the past 25 + years. I graduated from Southeast Asia Union College, Singapore. I taught at Ekamai International School, Bangkok, for three years before coming to Andrews University to complete my graduate studies. I am married to Tony Dean and we have two children. Ishaan, our son, is an internal auditor for an insurance company. Our daughter, Joya, is finishing her last year of college at Andrews University. My hobbies are reading, watching history documentaries, cooking, and spending time with family. I am so blessed to be working with young minds and teaching them about God’s love, preparing them for the kingdom of God. It is an honor to be a part of God’s work at GLAS.
3rd Grade - 5th Grade
& Pre-Kindergarten - 5th Grade Vocal Choir: LeAnn Austin
I am LeAnn Austin and am married to Dennis Austin who is an Adventist Chaplin. We pastored together for many years in Pittsburgh, PA and Joshua, TX. I have two adult sons Caleb and Andrew. I live in an old farmhouse north of Grand Ledge with two large dogs and a grumpy cat. My favorite thing to do is read a book in the tree swing in my yard. My husband and I also love to travel and see lighthouses and places of historical significance. I love learning about other people and cultures and enjoy being of service to those in need.
This is my third-year teaching at GLAS. I enjoy working with students and love spending time helping them improve their skills.
6th Grade - 7th Grade: Heidi Rasmussen
My name is Heidi Rasmussen and I am excited to be serving again at GLAS this year! I am the homeroom teacher for grades 6-7, and am teaching grades 6-10 English and History. I am an alumnus of Pacific Union College and have taught in Northern California and Wisconsin. My hobbies include learning more about God, hanging out with family and friends, music, and spending time in nature. One of my favorite Bible verses is Psalm 16:11: "You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
8th Grade - 10th Grade: Manny Alamo
My name is Manuel M. Alamo Jr. but everyone just calls me Manny. I am blessed to be a part of Greater Lansing Adventist School. I serve as homeroom to grades 8-10 and Science/Math subject teacher for grades 6-10. It has always been my wish to serve God in any way I can. As a missionary kid growing up in different parts of the world, I witnessed the joy of serving God. When God gave me the opportunity to be a teacher/principal missionary in Thailand and in the Micronesian islands I accepted. I am grateful that God can use me as a tool in furthering His cause. I believe time is short on this old earth but looking forward to the new one with all my students living for eternity with our loving Savior who is the ultimate Teacher.
6th - 10th Grade Handbell Choir: Howard Chambi
Mr. Chambi is a part-time teacher at GLAS directing the school's Handbell Choir now for a third year. He also is a private piano tutor to several grade school age students. Mr. Chambi grew up in Southern California in a Seventh-day Adventist home, and has a vast musicology, mainly from his piano and choir singing background, and real-life professional experience derived from his legal and historical background. He currently is a member of the Lansing Spanish SDA church and is heavily involved in his local church's pathfinder club. Mr. Chambi has a wife, two minor children, a dog, and a cat.
3rd - 5th Grade Ukulele Choir: David Christenson
David Christenson is the part-time Ukulele Choir instructor at GLAS. His enthusiasm for both music and children is a valuable combination! Mr. Christenson also shares his love for music and the ukulele with the children's Sabbath School classes at the Lansing SDA Church each Sabbath. In addition, Mr. Christenson holds the position as a Pathfinder Area Coordinator for the Michigan Conference of SDA which further highlights his commitment to youth development.
Principal/3rd Grade - 5th Grade: Melinda Widdicombe
My name is Melinda Widdicombe and grew up in Pennsylvania, but I have lived in Lansing for the past 30+ years. I graduated from Andrews University and completed my graduate studies from Michigan State University. I am married to my wonderful husband, Bill and we have one daughter, Lilly (who recently graduated from Andrews University!). We have one dog named Petunia. My favorite hobbies include reading, cooking, gardening, and hanging out with my extended “family tree.” I am excited about how God is moving Greater Lansing Adventist School; this is HIS school! GLAS is a demonstration of answered prayer –in the lives of students and faculty! I am proud to be a part of such a Spirit-filled school family!