Leading With Purpose: Meet Avail Academy's Leaders
Author: Avail Academy President Dr. Ross Douma
From coaching on the basketball court to leading one of the most steadfast Christian schools, my journey has always been driven by a singular purpose: to inspire and equip the next generation to lead lives of influence and service in God’s Kingdom. I am proud to have helped people and organizations reach their potential, and I am grateful to God for allowing me to use my gifts in teaching and administration to positively impact the lives of students and families of Avail Academy.
I deeply value Avail Academy’s unwavering commitment to its Christian mission since our founding in 1961. This dedication, supported by bold leadership and strong parental involvement, ensures that we remain distinctly Christian in all we do.
As the newly appointed President of Avail Academy, I am honored and excited to introduce and, in some cases, reintroduce you to the exceptional leadership team at Avail Academy.
First, being relatively new to Avail Academy, I want to share a bit about myself. Before joining Avail Academy in January 2024, I worked in various capacities at Dordt University (Sioux Center, Iowa), including Athletic Director and Associate Professor in the Health, Physical Education, and Recreation Department. I’ve also held teaching positions at Waukee High School (Waukee, Iowa), Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn High School (Sanborn, Iowa), and Chicago Christian High School (Palos Heights, Illinois) where I also served as assistant principal. I’ve also been a basketball coach at each of these institutions.
At Avail Academy, we utilize the Teaching for Transformation (TfT) framework. Part of that philosophy is considering what our Deep Hope is for our students and those we lead. It is my Deep Hope to inspire and equip young people to lead lives of influence and service in God’s Kingdom and to partner closely with families as they seek to raise their children in the Christian faith.
My educational background: Doctor of Education in Education Administration from the University of South Dakota, Vermillion. Education Specialist Degree in Education Administration from the University of South Dakota, Vermillion. Master of Arts in Education Administration from Governors State University in University Park, Illinois. Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education and History, Northwestern College (Orange City, Iowa).
The Role of Leaders at Avail Academy
At Avail Academy, leadership is more than a position; it is a calling. Our leaders are entrusted with the responsibility of guiding our students, supporting our staff, and upholding the mission that has defined our school since its inception in 1961. They are the stewards of our vision, ensuring that every decision made and every strategy implemented is aligned with our commitment to providing a distinctly Christian education.
In the past year, our leadership team has grown; we have added new positions and welcomed new members to our team. Our leaders bring a wealth of experience, passion, and a shared dedication to Christian education. Together, we are poised to lead Avail Academy into a future that remains firmly rooted in our foundational beliefs while adapting to the ever-changing educational landscape.
Meet the Leadership Team
Sarah Benbow, Director of Marketing and Public Relations.
Deep Hope: That all will hear the stories of God’s faithfulness to Avail Academy and its students, and that God will build a strong and thriving school that furthers His Kingdom.
Sarah blends the science of marketing with the artistry of communications to tell and spread the stories of Avail Academy. With expertise in crisis communications, digital and traditional marketing, and a love of good data, Sarah is helping grow Avail Academy for the glory of God. Her career has included roles at Walker Methodist Senior Living as the Vice President of Communications and Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, Crown College in fundraising and alumni relations, and Dordt University as Associate Director of Marketing. She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from Dordt University.
Stephanie Christianson, Director of Admissions and K-5 Principal of Avail Academy Blaine.
Elementary Principal Deep Hope: My deep hope is that the elementary staff and families will work together as part of Avail Academy's community to support each student academically and in their overall development, including their spiritual growth and understanding of their place in God's plan.
Stephanie’s journey with Avail began as a Kindergarten teacher, a role she cherished from 2016 to the end of the school year 2024. She has served on the Avail leadership team in various capacities, including chapel planning, professional development, licensing support, coaching, and Teaching for Transformation training for staff. Before Avail, Stephanie worked as the Site Director for the Lake Area Discovery Center, where she mentored and coached teachers, and developed curriculum. She holds a Master’s of Organizational Leadership from the University of Northwestern–St. Paul, and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with minors in Preprimary and Biblical Studies.
Kevin Distad, Director of Mission Advancement.
Deep Hope: To cultivate a community of generosity and passionate advocates for Christian Education, united in our commitment to expand the opportunities for students to grow in their faith and learning.
Kevin’s passion is to bring clarity and elegant simplicity to the investor and donor experience. He possesses a depth of expertise in wealth management, has experience in financial planning and personal stewardship, and is an active volunteer, having just concluded his service on the Avail Academy Board of Directors. Kevin holds a Series 66 and state insurance licenses, and he is an alumnus of the University of Northwestern–St. Paul.
Kristin Hatton, Principal of Avail Academy Edina.
Deep Hope: That students and staff of Avail Academy will know that they are loved by God, chosen by him for a purpose, and that they will live courageously as they become people of valor.
Kristin joined Avail Academy in the 2022-23 school year as the 4th grade classroom teacher and moved into the role of Principal a year later. Her career has included various teaching, coaching and support roles in Rochester Public Schools, Lake Bluff Public Schools, Beach Park Public Schools, Fort Dodge Public Schools, Pinellas County Public Schools, and West Lake Christian Academy and Community Christian School. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood from Bethel University, a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Winona State University, an additional minor in Educational Psychology from National Louis University, and an endorsement in Talented and Gifted Education grades K-12 from the University of Iowa. She is currently working on her School Leadership licensing track through Dordt University.
Jon Kroeze, Director of Faith Formation.
Deep Hope: That students will know deeply that they are loved children of the King, that they spend their lives growing in relationship with their Redeemer – Jesus – bringing Him glory through service and in building the Kingdom of God.
Jon’s journey with Avail Academy began 25 years ago, and in that time, he has worn many hats, including teaching 4th and 5th grades at the Blaine campus, serving as assistant principal and elementary principal, and coaching middle school cross country and high school track and field. Before Avail, he worked as a teacher and coach at Sheldon Christian School (Iowa) and as a 4th grade teacher at Quisqueya Christian School (Port-au-Prince, Haiti). Jon holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, both from Dordt University. In his current leadership role, Jon aims to develop students and staff to help them live out their faith in vibrant service and worship, and to partner with churches and Christian leaders to work together to disciple youth.
Kyle Mast, Middle and High School Principal of Avail Academy North Campuses.
Deep Hope: To encourage and equip people to develop and use their unique gifts to enjoy God and His Kingdom, while bringing glory to Him.
Kyle finds great satisfaction in creating a meaningful learning community for students and collaborating with teachers to bring learning to life in the classrooms through the Teaching for Transformation framework. Through his interactions and encouragements, it is evident that he enjoys helping students discover their gifts and role in God’s kingdom. Kyle has served as principal with Avail Academy since 2020, supporting both Blaine K-8 and the high school. Prior to Avail, he taught primarily math and science in grades 5 through 8 at Summit Christian School (Fort Myers, Florida), and covered social studies, Bible, PE, and other electives. He served as Head of School for Summit Christian School for three years. Kyle has a Master’s Degree from Dordt University in Educational Leadership–School Leadership and a Bachelor’s Degree in integrated science with a minor in elementary education.
Jeff Piehl, Director of Finance.
Deep Hope: The students and staff would know how wide, how long, how high, and how deep God’s love is for them.
Jeff dedicated 30 years to student ministry before transitioning more than a decade ago to leverage his spiritual gift of “helps.” He serves organizations by aiding their recovery from financial distress, improving performance, and stabilizing systems to provide a clear path forward. He holds bachelor’s degrees in Agri-Business and Business Administration, master’s degrees in Divinity and Business Administration, and a Doctorate of Ministry (ABD) in Nonprofit Leadership Development.
Wendell Schaap, Director of Learning.
Deep Hope: That we–both students and teachers–would find great joy in learning about all aspects of God's good creation, connecting what we learn about creation with our Creator, and discerning the ways we can use what we know and learn to actively engage in the redemptive story God is writing.
Wendell Schaap has been an integral part of Avail Academy since 2000. He has taught middle school language arts and served as the Dean of Students and Principal of our high school. He currently teaches high school language arts courses and leads as the Director of Learning. In this role, Wendell leverages his extensive experience and wisdom to guide and support fellow teachers in delivering the highest quality Christ-centered education. In addition to his role at Avail, he serves as a Teaching for Transformation School Designer, a position he holds through the Center for the Advancement of Christian Education (CACE). Wendell graduated from Dordt University with a Bachelor’s Degree in secondary English education with minors in theatre and communications. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Calvin University.
Kari Zylstra, Director of Admissions (Edina).
Deep Hope: That families will see themselves within God’s story at Avail Academy throughout the admissions process, feeling welcome, safe, and invited into covenantal Christian education.
For the past 20 years, Kari has been deeply involved in the Avail school community, serving as the Band Director for Beginner Band and Middle School Band. She’s also volunteered in roles ranging from accompanist for choir and chapels, costumer for the middle school musicals, and “a backstage mom.” Before moving to Minneapolis, she and her husband lived in Washington, D.C., where she worked for U.S. Senator Sam Brownback. She also worked at Yale University, helping students apply to graduate schools, and taught elementary music at Greens Farms Academy in Connecticut. Kari holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Dordt University in elementary education and music education.
—------------------
It is our privilege to serve at a school like Avail Academy, where God is central, and the education provided is exemplary. Our leadership team is united in its commitment to this mission, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside motivated teachers, staff, and committed families. Together, we will continue to inspire and equip the next generation to lead lives of influence and service in God’s Kingdom.
In Christ,
Ross Douma
President, Avail Academy