Originally a Communications-Mass Media major, Charles came to education after an 8-year stint as a Russian Linguist in the United States Army. After retiring from public school teaching in Texas three years ago, he and his beautiful wife Debora lived and worked in Colorado for two years before moving to Indiana last year (to this area, where Deb is a native). In addition to their hug-giving cat, Conrad, they have four children and are expecting their third grandchild in the Fall. Among his many interests, Charles cites writing (he has written and published several plays), computer and board games, and, of course, teaching.
“What I love about teaching,” he says, “is the ability to make a positive contribution to our world, and to other people’s lives. This happens most often when we do things in service to each other, and to a greater cause, as we do when we gather in worship and praise. Coming together, learning about each other, and life, and of our place in this world is what our education is really all about. We learn to make sense of who we are, and to give thanks for all of it. I am thankful to be a part of this team, and to be able to contribute to this sacred mission.”
April’s family is originally from Kentucky but she has lived in Wabash since she was four years old. I attended and graduated from Wabash High School. She and her husband have been married for almost 17 years and are blessed with 2 daughters, Paige (age 15) and Brooklyn (age 11). Both girls are very active in their school. Paige participates in Cheer, FCA, and show choir. Brooklyn plays volleyball, basketball, and is on a competition dance team. Both girls keep the family very busy but April and her husband enjoy supporting them in their element. April and her family are actively involved in their church where she enjoys supporting the youth and seeing them grow in their own relationships with God. April’s favorite evenings are spent by a campfire with friends. She enjoys reading a good book and she aspires to be a crafty gal. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Indiana University Kokomo. She was previously employed by the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) for 13 years and held many different positions. That opportunity provided April with experience working with children and teens who had been abused and neglected. Her final position with DCS was supporting adoptive and foster families. Prior to her time at DCS, she taught at two different local schools.
Caitlin Cornett has grown up in Wabash, Indiana. She has been married for 3 years. She is currently attending Western Governor’s University for Special Education. Caitlin’s connection to Compass Rose Academy is through her family working in the residential and foster care program. Caitlin’s passion for working at Compass Rose is due to family history with adoption and fostering. Her favorite part of her job is seeing students transform from their past traumas and being able to witness them learn healthy coping skills from them. She has two dogs, a cat, and loves spending time with family.
