Mr. Stephen Sprague served 20 years as a Naval officer before transitioning to a second career in classical Christian education. Since then, he has been the Head of School for two previous classical Christian schools. He holds a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, a Master of Art in Military Art and Science, and is working on a Master of Divinity from the Reformed Theological Seminary. Stephen is a member of Forestgate Presbyterian Church. He and his wife, Andrea, have two children in the school: Lydia (14) and LeighAnna (17). Stephen grew up in a family of educators, and he has long sought to work in education, but the specific application of classical Christian education both inspires him and touches his heart. He loves to work with students, families, teachers, and administrators to advance the God-glorifying mission of the school.

Education: BA, Organizational Communications: Murray State University. MA, Organizational Leadership: Regent University

Before teaching World Literature, British Literature, American Literature,  AP Literature/Composition, and AP Language/Composition at ECA, Mrs. Butler partnered with homeschool families to teach classical literature and composition classes in hybrid settings. Mrs. Butler is passionate about teaching literature that offers students the opportunity to experience models of virtue and God’s truth. “The beautiful truth begins and ends in these two statements: Humans are flawed and need a savior, and Jesus died for us. What a joy it is to discover beauty and truth alongside our students.”

Education B.S. in Education from Baylor University

Mrs. Chance has a BS in Education from Baylor University with emphasis in secondary art and
math. She taught for 9 years before moving into the admin and finance field for 12 years. She
is overjoyed to be teaching again at ECA. Her favorite mathematical concept is the golden ratio as it’s applications so perfectly reveal God’s beautiful creation as revealed in math, art and nature.

Education Master of Divinity from Sangre de Cristo Seminary

Nicki grew up in New Jersey, but moved to Colorado in 2018. While in Colorado, he went to Sangre de Cristo Seminary where he received a Master of Divinity. Not only did he find an excellent seminary, but he also found the love of his life, Kimia. They were married in August of 2019, and have been enjoying their early years of marriage. As a part time teacher of Old and New Testament Survey, Nicki is also pursuing licensure and ordination exams in the RPCNA (Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America) in the hopes of one day becoming an ordained minister of the Word of God. Nicki and Kimia both love playing pickleball, getting together with friends and family for food and games, and they also enjoy meditating on Christ by singing the Psalms. The Imperatos have a passion for raising up the next generation and are grateful for Nicki’s opportunity to serve at ECA.

Education B.A., Elementary Education: Calvin College.

Mrs. Jones attended Christian schools from Kindergarten through college and has taught in
Christian schools in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Fort Collins, CO, and she wholeheartedly values the importance of Christian education and the impact it can have on the children in our society.  After working in the ECA Pre-Kindergarten program, Mrs. Jones currently serves as the Assistant Principal, Middle School in addition to teaching Pre- Algebra, Language Arts 7 and Ancient History/ Bible 7. “I desire to be a teacher and administrator who can open up every child’s heart and mind to learning and to loving the Lord so that they may find their purpose in the Lord. “

Education B.A. summa cum laude, K-8 Education with a Psychology and Bible minor: Tennessee Temple University

After teaching elementary through high school in several Christian schools in various states, Mrs. Leidecker joined the faculty at ECA in 1995 and teaches Life Science 7, Earth Science, Physical Science, Biology, Honors Anatomy & Physiology, and Business Math.  “It is a great joy to be able to minister Christ’s love to my students through the subjects of science and math.”

Education B.A. Music Composition and Sound Design: University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Before joining ECA, Mr. McDowell worked both as a freelance composer for film/television and a before-and-after school childcare director. “God fulfilled a lifelong desire of being able to share the process of creating music through teaching here at ECA. While watching concert pieces come together certainly is the goal of directing a band, watching students consider and develop their character is the best part of teaching! I want my students to use their skills, talents and drive for their Godly purpose; my hope is that they will use the bandroom as a practicing ground for that."

Education B.S. Physics: Geneva College

Mr. Pinson teaches Geometry, Algebra II, Honors Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, and Honors Physics. Before joining ECA he built decks for about 9 years. Mr. Pinson loves math and science, and considers it is a joy to explore these fields with students, seeking to unfold a little bit of the mystery and wonder as well as the orderliness of God’s creation. “The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.” Psalm 19:1

Education B.A. Theater: University of Colorado-Boulder.

Mrs. Ross previously worked at our Elementary campus and has joined our Secondary faculty to teach Spanish I, II, and III. “I had my life wonderfully changed by God in college, and He led me to Spain as a missionary. I am so thankful for the opportunity to teach my students the language God has used in my life, and I hope it will be a blessing to them as well!”

Education B.A., History, minor Print Journalism from Shepherd College

Prior to transitioning into teaching, Mrs. Smathers spent many years writing professionally for newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. She has a passion for Classical education and helping students grow into disciples of Christ.