Mrs. Heather Driggers
Academy Aftercare Supervisor
Current Role at RSCA: Mrs. Driggers serves as the Academy Aftercare Specialist. She has served at RSCA since 2026.
Personal Notes: She grew up in Ocean Township, New Jersey, and moved to Savannah in 2016. She met her husband Chandler at Tybee Island, and they have two girls Gracelyn (in kindergarten) and Madalyn, not yet in school. She loves to drink coffee, thrift shop, and find new dinner recipes to make.
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Mr. Dan Douglas
Teacher (Grade 6)
Current role at RSCA: Mr. Douglas teaches sixth grades and physical education for grades three through eight. He has served at RSCA since 2021.
Past professional experience: Mr. Douglas has served at two of our Lutheran grade schools before RSCA. He served first at Mt. Calvary Lutheran School in Redding, CA. He served as principal and 5th-8th grade teacher for 10 years. He then moved to Overland Park in Kansas where he served as 5th-8th grade teacher and principal for 5 years. Mr. Douglas also has experience teaching math and physical education in 2nd-4th grade. He has enjoyed coaching a number of sports teams over the years as well.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Martin Luther College, 2006)
Personal notes: Mr. Douglas is married to Katie Douglas (RSCA preschool teacher). They have three children - Sophia (RSCA 2024), Ella (RSCA 2026), and Levi (RSCA 2029). Mr. Douglas enjoys a wide variety of activities. He enjoys the outdoors and recreational activities like golf. He and his wife always seem to find new house projects to work on. They’ve enjoyed remodeling the two homes they have lived in and will surely find more projects in their current home. He has recently started a new hobby and has enjoyed dialing in his automotive skills by working on his grandfather’s 1966 F-100.
Mr. Douglas loves serving our young adults and helping them grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
Joshua 1:9 - Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Mrs. katie Douglas
Teacher (4 Year-Old Preschool)
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Katie teaches the 4 year-old preschool class. She has served at RSCA since 2021.
Past professional experience: Mrs. Katie served as a Spanish teacher and literacy aid in Redding, California and most recently she served as a Mornings with Mommy program director in Overland Park, Kansas.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Spanish (Minnesota State University - Mankato, 2006)
Personal notes: Mrs. Katie was born and raised in Watertown, Wisconsin. She and her husband, Dan, have been blessed with three children: Sophia (RSCA 2024), Ella (RSCA 2026), and Levi (RSCA 2029).
Mrs. Douglas loves seeing the joy of Jesus that exudes from all the staff members. It is exactly where she wants her kids to grow and nurture in their faith and academics.
Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Mr. E. John Fredrich
Teacher (Grade 3)
Current role at RSCA: Mr. Fredrich teaches Grade 3 and STEM for Grades 3-8. He has served at RSCA since 2024.
Past professional experience: Mr. Fredrich served as a principal and teacher at St. John’s, Goodhue MN (1996-2001); taught English in Beijing, China (2001-2003), International Relocation Coordinator and Bible Study Leader, St. Paul, MN (2003-2005); teacher at Salem, Stillwater, MN (2005-2006); headmaster at St. John’s, Antigua (2006-2010); principal and teacher at Gethsemane, Oklahoma City, OK (2010-2013); and principal and teacher at Grace, Glendale, AZ (2013-2024).
Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Martin Luther College, 1996); Master of Science in Instruction (Martin Luther College, 2016)
Personal notes: Mr. Fredrich was born in Wisconsin and has traveled around the world. He and his wife have been blessed with two children.
Mr. Fredrich enjoys robotics and using LEGO building materials in his classroom and considers it a great privilege to be able to share God’s Word with others.
Ephesians 6:10-11 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.
Mrs. Amy Gensmer
Teacher (7th-8th Grade)
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Gensmer teaches 7th-8th Grade and PE for grades 3-5. She has served at RSCA since 2025.
Past professional experience: Mrs. Gensmer served taught grades 5 and 8 at St. Lucas School in Milwaukee, WI; taught art and home studies at Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School in Jackson, WI; taught with Classical Conversations; worked in Curriculum Design and substitute teaching at Crown of Life in Fort Myers, FL; and taught 7th-8th grade English and History as well as coaching tennis at Divine Savior Academy in Doral, FL.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Dr. Martin Luther College, 1995)
Personal Notes: Mrs. Gensmer was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is a mother to three adult sons and a daughter in high school.
Mrs. Gensmer enjoys playing tennis, thrift shopping, oil painting, and a good book.
1 John 3:1-2: See what love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!
Mrs. Katie Hefti
Teacher (Kindergarten)
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Hefti is the kindergarten teacher. She also teaches music for grades K-8. She has served at RSCA since 2021.
Past professional experience: Mt. Olive Lutheran School, Overland Park, KS - K-1 Aide, 5-8 ELA and Music, 2nd Grade Social Studies and Science (2020-2021); Grafenwoehr Elementary School, Grafenwoehr, Germany - K-5 Music (2018-2020); Reece's Creek Elementary, Killeen, TX - 3rd grade teacher (2008-2009); Zion Lutheran School, Toledo, OH - K-4 and school music teacher (2006-2008)
Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education - music minor (Martin Luther College, 2006); Certified Reading and Dyslexia Specialist (Brain Friendly Reading, 2021)
Personal notes: Mrs. Hefti was born and raised in New Ulm, MN. She and her husband, Mike, have been blessed with 4 children: Titus (RSCA 2023), Zeke (RSCA 2024), Gideon (RSCA 2026), and Sonora (RSCA 2029). They are a military family and Ft. Stewart is their 7th duty station. They love to travel, hike, swim, and play board games as a family. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, music, and volleyball.
Mrs. Hefti feels blessed that she can share God's love with the families of RSCA!
John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Ms. Liz Henke
Teacher (Grade 2)
Current role at RSCA: Ms. Henke teaches second grade and physical education for kindergarten through second grade. She has served at RSCA since 2014.
Past professional experience: Risen Savior Lutheran School, Milwaukee, WI - Middle school science and history teacher (2013)
Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Martin Luther College, 2013); Pursuing teacher mentoring certificate
Personal notes: Ms. Henke grew up in New Berlin, WI. Her parents and brother and sister in law still reside in Wisconsin. They love to come visit the south! Ms. Henke loves to read books and hang out with family and friends in her free time. She enjoys running and being at the beach. She loves trying new food (especially cheese) and visiting new places!
Ms. Henke enjoys meeting families and building relationships with them. Most importantly, she loves sharing the power of Jesus' resurrection with her students every day!
Psalm 16:11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence , with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Mrs. Mollie Henrich
Teacher (Grade 4)
Current Role at RSCA: Mrs. Henrich serves as the 4th grade teacher. She has served at RSCA since 2025.
Past professional experience: Educator at Luther Prep School, Watertown Wisconsin (2002-2010); Skola Martin Luthera, Plzen, Czech Republic (2007-2008); Atonement Lutheran School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, (2010-2015); English Language Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin,(2011-2013); Wisconsin Lutheran High School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, (2013-2015); York Region District School Board, Toronto, Ontario (2021-2025).
Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Martin Luther College, 2002); Certificate of Teaching (Ontario Teachers College, 2021)
Personal Notes: Mrs. Henrich was born in Minnesota and has lived many places around the midwest, lived a year in the Czech Republic and has lived in Canada for the last decade. She and her husband, Mark have been blessed with daughters Essie (RSCA 2028) and Evangelina (RSCA 2030). They also have a puppy named Toronto Weasley, Ron for short. The Henriches love puzzling, reading Harry Potter, spending time with extended family and traveling.
Mrs. Henrich loves teaching, learning new things and telling the story of HIM.
Micah 6:8 "Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God."
Mr. Joshua Felsing
Teacher (Grade 5)
Current role at RSCA: Mr. Felsing serves as 5th Grade teacher. He is also in the principal training program.
Personal Notes: Mr. Felsing is very excited to teach 5th Grade at Risen Savior. He was born in Park Ridge, Illinois and has live there his entire life. He went to public school from Kindergarten to 5th Grade and Jerusalem Lutheran School in Morton Grove, Illinois 6th-8th Grade. He then went to Luther prep School in Watertown, Wisconsin for the next four years. there he participated in soccer, tennis, and ran track. From there he went to MLC in New Ulm, Minnesota and participated in soccer and track. He loves being outside , being active and meeting new people.
Mrs. Anja Norton
Academy Aide
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Norton serves as the Kindergarten assistant. She has served at RSCA as the Kindergarten assistant since 2022.
Past professional experience: Mrs. Norton was a nanny for seven years before joining our academy. She has served at RSCA as a preschool teacher’s aide (2019-2021) and a substitute teacher’s aide (2021-2022).
Personal notes: Mrs. Norton was born in Germany, but she was raised in the U.S. She has been a member of Risen Savior Lutheran Church for many years. She and her husband, Robert, have been blessed with four children: Skarlett, Rhett (RSCA 2030), Raegan (RSCA 2032), Talia, and Michael. She enjoys singing and spending time with family and friends.
Mrs. Norton loves being able to teach children about Jesus.
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world the he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Mrs. Jodi Rowe
Teacher (Grade 1)
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Rowe teaches first grade and music for third through fifth grade. She has served at RSCA since 2025.
Additional details coming soon!
Mrs. Christine Shawl
Academy Aide
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Christine is an assistant in the 2 and 3 year-old preschool classroom. She has served at RSCA since 2020.
Past professional experience: Mrs. Christine has been a preschool assistant at RSCA since 2020. She is also a dance teacher at two local dance studios. She was a professional concert dancer for 10 years in New York City and Detroit. She has taught dance in colleges, high schools, as well as in many private dance studios for 25 years.
Education: BFA Ohio University; MFA University of Michigan; CMA (Certified Movement Analyst) Laban Institute
Personal notes: Originally from Long Island, NY, Mrs. Christine grew up in Ridgewood, NJ and lived in Royal Oak, MI with her husband Alec before making Pooler home in 2008. She has been blessed with two wonderful children, Katherine and Ryan. In her free time she is usually attending her kids sporting events and performances but also enjoys reading, travel, and down time at the beach.
Mrs. Christine enjoys working together with the staff, parents, and students at RSCA.
Psalm 107:1 - Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.
MRS. Alyssa Schmidt
Academy Secretary
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Schmidt is the Academy Secretary. She has served at RSCA since 2025.
Personal Notes: Mrs. Alyssa grew up just outside of Hood River, Oregon at the base of a majestic snow capped volcano Mt Hood, lived briefly in Seattle, Washington with her husband Andrew Schmidt before moving across the country to the Savannah area in 2016. They now have three kids, Charlie, Penelope, and Wesley who all attend RSCA. Mrs. Alyssa, having formerly been homeschooled, is enjoying “going” to school for the first time. When not at school, she is probably cooking, sewing, or dreaming of their next family trip to the mountains or to see family.
Philippians 4:6-7- Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Mrs. Jessie thiesfeldt
Teacher (3 Year-Old Preschool)
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Jessie teaches the 3 year-old preschool class. She has served at RSCA since 2018 with various grade levels.
Past professional experience: Northdale Lutheran School, Tampa, FL - substitute teacher and aide (2014-2018); English Lutheran School, Viroqua, WI - substitute teacher and aide (2008-2010 & 2011-2014); preschool and kindergarten teacher (2010-2011)
Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Martin Luther College, 2008)
Personal notes: Mrs. Thiesfeldt was born and raised in Florida. She and her husband, Mark, have been blessed with three children: Annalise (RSCA 2025), Graham (RSCA 2027), and Mabel (RSCA 2030).
Mr. Mark thiesfeldt
Principal and Teacher
Current role at RSCA: Mr. Thiesfeldt serves as principal and high school supervisor. He has served at RSCA since 2018.
Past professional experience: Northdale Lutheran School, Tampa, FL - principal and grades 7-8 teacher (2014-2018); English Lutheran School, Viroqua, WI - principal and grades 1-8 teacher (2008-2014)
Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Martin Luther College, 2008); Master of Science in Educational Leadership (Martin Luther College, 2018)
Personal notes: Mr. Thiesfeldt grew up in Wisconsin and Minnesota. He and his wife, Jessie, have been blessed with three children: Annalise (RSCA 2025), Graham (RSCA 2027), and Mabel (RSCA 2030). He enjoys playing music and sports.
Mr. Thiesfeldt is thankful for the opportunity God has given him to serve at Risen Savior.
1 John 3:1 - See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!
Mrs. Maggie Wethington
Academy Aide
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Maggie is an aide in the 4 year-old preschool classroom. She also leads the preschool afternoon childcare programs. She has served at RSCA since 2021.
Past professional experience: Mrs. Maggie worked as a caregiver in US Army Child Development Center for 3 years as her husband was serving our great country overseas. Back in the United States, she worked for a private daycare as an aide for the preschool program.
Personal notes: Mrs. Maggie grew up in Rochelle, IL. After graduating from High School, she joined the U.S. Army and met her future husband while serving in Germany. She and Bill have a daughter who is married with two children (Rylee and Aiden) living in South Carolina. She has lived in Georgia since 1995 when her husband retired from the U.S. Army. They are members of Risen Savior Lutheran Church. They enjoy spending time with grandchildren and taking rides on our motorcycle. They have two dogs who bring them joy - Lizzy, a 16 year-old Yorkie, and Blue, a 3 year-old Chihuahua, who is blind since birth.
Mrs. Maggie loves serving and working with people who have the same desire as she does, to make known to all the agape love of Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:8 - For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.
Mrs. Catie Pollock
Academy Floating Aid
Current role at RSCA: Mrs. Pollock is a floating aid, she assists each of the classrooms as needs arise.
Personal Notes: Mrs. Pollock is a floating aide at Risen Savior. She moved to Georgia from Ohio over the summer. She has 3 kids that go to risen savior, Lizzy (7th), Becca (6th), and Scarlette (4th). She was born and raised in Michigan where she met her husband Ricky. She loves spending the weekend with family and friends, shopping, drinking coffee and going to the beach.