Guiding Students
Towards Success

About Us

At Calvary Episcopal Preparatory, we prioritize the values of Reverence, Respect, and Responsibility in all aspects of education. Our faculty believe in forming a partnership between home and school, with involved parents playing a crucial role in our students’ success. We set high expectations and encourage effective communication, resulting in students who perform well above the national norm on achievement tests. Our well-rounded curriculum includes hands-on learning, field trips, and a variety of classes, such as Bible, chapel, physical education, music, theater arts, art, Spanish, library, and computer instruction.

CEP consistently excels in academic and athletic competitions, and all students participate in community service around Richmond, TX. Here, we celebrate diversity in our students’ and faculty’s religions, culture, and socioeconomics. Our students leave our Christian high school prepared for the world’s challenges academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally enlightened.

Learn how to enroll your child today!

Our Mission

Calvary Episcopal Preparatory provides superior education while inspiring Reverence for God, Respect for others, and Responsibility for self.

Goals to Achieve Our Mission

  • Provide a safe Christian environment that enables students to excel in spirit, mind, and body.
  • Offer an academic curriculum emphasizing literature, written and oral communications, mathematics, science, and technology.
  • Encourage high work standards to better prepare each student for the demands of high school and beyond.
  • Develop within each student a sense of self-worth and the value of all individuals as members of God’s kingdom.
  • Promote responsibility for self and others by modeling proper behavior and wise decision-making.
  • Foster awareness and concern for others by encouraging participation in campus and community projects and activities.
  • Provide qualified and experienced teachers and specialists in all major academic areas, art, foreign language, music, physical education, band, speech/drama, and computer literacy.

Our Accrediting Agencies & Memberships

A Message From Our Head of School

Thank you for your interest in Calvary! We hope this virtual visit will acquaint you with Calvary Episcopal Preparatory and the many things we offer to children from pre-kindergarten (age 3) through grade 12.

Read More

Each year the Calvary family welcomes a number of new students. Whether you are considering Calvary as the first step in education for a three-year-old or are contemplating a change in academic settings for an older child, we believe you will not find a better educational value than at CEP. We are highly aware of what goes into the mix of thoughts as parents weigh the major decision of a child’s future education. We also recognize that you have a variety of choices and that those choices are as varied and unique as the student’s. Regardless of the calculus, the faculty, staff, and school board are honored that Calvary is one of your considerations.

So why Calvary?

  • We live our Mission Statement and teach The 3 R’s: Reverence for God, Respect for others, and Responsibility for self. These teachings are evident throughout the school day in chapel, Christian Character classes, and Bible class and are lived out in our interactions with others.
  • As important as academics are to a child’s future, the arts and athletics are of equal value in life-long happiness and success. Our students receive recognition for their visual and performing arts and as champions on the stage, on the field, and on the court. CEP has outscored our larger private counterparts year after year in the Private School Interscholastic Association (PSIA) competitions. Our athletic teams consistently win district championships.
  • Our teachers are certified, qualified, and experienced and provide a classroom atmosphere that is nurturing and student-centered.
  • We welcome and appreciate our volunteers who are actively involved in the life of our school.
  • Our students reflect our school’s long-time reputation. As one of the oldest private schools in Fort Bend County (established in 1956), our alumni have excelled in their continued academic, personal, and career lives. We thank you again for visiting our website.

We encourage you to call for a tour to meet the most impressive teachers and students you have seen. Thank you for considering Calvary; we would love to welcome you to our family. For All God’s Children, Dr. Maria Fondon – Head Of School

Meet The Administrative Team

Dr. Maria Fondon - Head of School

Dr. Maria Fondon brings over twenty-eight years of experience in education. She has served as a teacher, assistant principal, and associate principal/dean of students in Lamar Consolidated ISD. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and History and a Master of Education from Houston Baptist University, and earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration from Baylor University. Dr. Fondon has devoted the last twenty years to serving students, teachers, counselors, supervising assistant principals, and overseeing a broad range of content areas and programs that include English, Science, Fine Arts, Foreign Language, Career and Technology, Special Education, Advanced Placement, and the Dual Credit Program. Dr. Fondon, and her husband Rudy, have been married for over 30 years and have been the proud parents of a Calvary Crusader for the past ten years. Their son, Donnie, has been a student at Calvary since Pre-K and will be a ninth grader next year. Dr. Fondon has been a resident of the Richmond community for almost thirty years, where she has built strong relationships with community members that include former students, parents, business owners, civic leaders, and other stakeholders. Dr. Fondon is honored to serve as the Head of School at Calvary Episcopal Preparatory. She is passionate about putting children at the forefront of her work in education and strongly believes that it is her job, along with her staff, to motivate students to aspire to greatness. She is dedicated to maintaining the Calvary traditions of academic excellence and instructing the whole student – including the student’s intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual life; always “inspiring Reverence for God, Respect for others, and Responsibility for self.” Dr. Fondon has dedicated her career to improving the educational experiences for the students and staff she has served. She is committed to preserving the “Calvary Way” in which teachers, staff, and families work together to provide the best educational experience in a Christian environment for every child. Email Dr. Fondon

Father Ralph Morgan - Rector, Calvary Episcopal Church

Fr. Ralph was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Don Wimberly in June 2006. After many years of youth ministry and Episcopal School administration, he answered the call for ordained ministry. Ralph was an assistant at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church in North Houston for three years, Rector of Christ Church in Eagle Lake for six years, and St. Cyprian’s, Lufkin, for nearly six years. Fr. Ralph is married to Terri Silver Morgan, a retired attorney. Ralph and Terri have three daughters and seven beautiful grandchildren. Fr. Ralph is a diehard baseball fan and lifelong supporter of the Astros. He enjoys playing golf, walking his dog, and spending time at Camp Allen. Ralph and Terri love the theater and especially enjoy musicals. Fr. Ralph holds a BA degree from Houston Baptist University in Education and a Master of Divinity from the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest in Austin. Email Father Ralph

Donna Estrada - Dean of Students

Donna Estrada enters her new position as Dean of Students with a broad spectrum of educational skill sets. After earning her Music Education degree from the University of Texas at Austin, she began her career in HISD as a middle school band director, then continued as a band director in Cy-Fair ISD.  While raising her daughters, Donna volunteered in her other areas of interest and expertise through teaching and leading science lab and recorder choir at the elementary level.  In 2011, when Ms. Estrada joined the Cavalry staff, she developed and expanded the grades 4-12 instrumental music program.  The Calvary Crusader Band has grown under her leadership, and they have placed several members in the TPSMEA All Region Bands over the last several years.  In addition to her experience in instrumental music, Ms. Estrada also taught 7th -12th US History, Economics, US Government, and Texas History.

Through her myriad of other responsibilities at Calvary, both academic and musical, Ms. Estrada exhibited a strong work ethic, organizational skills, respect for the Calvary vision, and a commitment to lifelong learning. We are proud to have Ms. Estrada join our administrative staff and applaud her willingness to serve the Calvary community.

Email Ms. Estrada

Wes Vela - Chief Operating Officer

Wes is a native Texan, born and raised in Port Arthur, TX, and has been in Fort Bend County since 2003. He earned his BBA in Accounting from the University of Texas and is a Certified Public Accountant. For the past 30 years, he has been a Finance Director of several municipalities, the most recent being the City of Fulshear. Wes is most proud of his beautiful children: his two daughters, two sons, two grandsons, and one granddaughter. His interests include anything Longhorn sports, sailing whenever given the opportunity, the arts, including the theatre and symphony, and Avenger movies with my youngest. Email Mr. Vela

Krista Kuperus - Director of Admissions and Advancement

CEP’s Director of Admissions and Advancement, Krista Kuperus, joined CEP in 2012. Ms. Kuperus oversees Calvary’s admissions, social media, website, marketing, international program, and development programs. She brings over ten years of experience in sales and project management to Calvary and holds a bachelor’s degree in business from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota.  Ms. Kuperus and her husband, Andy, live in Fairchild and are the proud parents of two Calvary Crusaders, Aubree, and Cora. Email Ms. Kuperus  

Missy McClellan - Director of Technology

Missy McClellan has been teaching at Calvary since 2007. She currently teaches computer classes in addition to overseeing technology for CEP. She has also taught third and fourth-grade language arts classes. She has also been involved with CEP as a parent since 2001 – she and her husband, Jeff, are the proud parents of 3 alumni Crusaders: Will, Chris, and Katie. Ms. McClellan was born to a career Navy family in San Diego, CA. She spent most of her adolescent to teenage years in Fulton, NY, and moved to West Columbia, TX, in 1986. Ms. McClellan received her BBA degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and took post-baccalaureate courses in education at the University of Houston. Ms. McClellan completed her education certification through the Region IV Alternative Certification Program. In her previous life, Ms. McClellan worked at KnowledgeBase Marketing for 14 ½ years as a manager in the Processing Services department. She managed project teams and developed and implemented employee training programs. Email Ms. McClellan

Patti Flowe - Counselor

Patti Flowe worked at Fort Bend ISD for over 33 years, with 27 years as a high school counselor. She earned her Bachelors of Science in Secondary Education at Texas A&M University and her Master’s in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University. Patti lives in Sugar Land with her husband Mark, a retired math teacher. They have been married for almost 24 years and have two daughters and a son. Kayla is a 2nd-grade teacher in Fort Bend ISD, Marshall is a senior at University of Houston, and Mackenzie is a senior at Texas A&M University. Patti is a Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo volunteer and enjoys watching college sports (especially the Aggies), traveling, and game nights with her friends and family. Email Ms. Flowe

Meet The Faculty & Staff

Jennifer Aldridge - 1st Grade Teacher

Before becoming an elementary school teacher, Jenny studied Communications at LSU and worked as a journalist and editor for several publications across the country winning regional and national awards for her writing. She also taught writing as an adjunct instructor for a year at the University of Alabama, while her husband was finishing his graduate degree. Jenny also worked in the nonprofit sector overseeing fundraising and communications for several organizations including the national headquarters of the American Red in Washington, D.C. After moving to Texas, Jenny earned her teaching certification in 2014 and taught first and second grade in Lamar CISD. She lives in Richmond with her husband, Dave, their son Jack, a Calvary Crusader, and their two wiggly, slobbery dogs.

Rebecca Arreola - Kindergarten Teacher

Mrs. Rebecca Arreola is a seasoned kindergarten teacher and is excited to be teaching at Calvary! She was born in Marshall, TX, and moved to Louisiana when she was 6 years old.  She came back to Texas when she began teaching at Houston ISD, where she remained for 40 years until her retirement from the public schools.  Mrs. Arreola has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.  Along with spending her life working with children, she has a large family which includes 6 children (Nathaniel, Ethan, Karen, Christy, Cicely, and Amy), 8 grandchildren, and 8 adorable great-grandchildren.

Louisa Longoria - PK4 - 5th Grade Spanish, Yearbook

Mrs. Longoria is a native of Port Arthur, TX, and a graduate of Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.  She is a certified Spanish teacher with 33 years of experience.  She has taught Exploratory Spanish, Spanish 1, Spanish 2, and Spanish for Native Speakers.   Mrs. Longoria and her husband, Lorenso, have two children Lisette and Guillermo.  Lisette is a Lamar University graduate and Guillermo is a student at the University of Houston.  Her hobbies include dancing, thrifting, spending time with family, and trying new activities.  Mrs. Longoria enjoys teaching and her biggest joy is watching students grow and learn

Mary Lou Baughman – 2nd Grade Teacher

Mrs. Mary Lou Baughman was born and raised in Louisiana and attended the University of Louisiana at Monroe. She is married to her husband Chris, has four children, and is known as Lulu and PopPop to their four beautiful grandchildren. They own a couple of businesses in the community and love supporting local groups.

Michele Beard - Librarian

Michele is a Fort Bend County native raised in Richmond. She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of St. Thomas in Houston and holds teaching certifications in Elementary Education and English. She began her teaching career with Lamar CISD in 1991, teaching second grade. Since then, Michele has taught various grades and subjects and has also served as Reading Facilitator and Gifted and Talented teacher at the elementary school level. Since earning a Master’s Degree in Library Science from the University of North Texas, Michele has had her “dream job”, a school librarian. Michele has a passion for helping students discover the joy of reading, and for challenging them to become life-long learners. She and her husband, Jay, live in Richmond and have four grown daughters: one in New York, one in Washington, and two here in the Fort Bend county area.

Dennis Beaver - Director of Bands

Dennis Beaver over 28 years of teaching experience, the past two as Assistant Band Director at Mayde Creek High School in Katy ISD.  He also spent two years as an Adjunct Instructor at Victoria College. Mr. Beaver received a Bachelor of Music degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Music in Conducting from Southern Oregon University.  Bands under Mr. Beaver’s direction have received numerous awards in contests around the state of Texas. He is a member of Texas Music Educators Association, The Texas Bandmasters Association, and Texas Music Adjudicators Association.  He was named an Outstanding Educator in Katy ISD in 2023 as nominated by one of his students.
            
As a woodwind performer, Mr. Beaver has performed as the Principal Bassoonist of the Brazosport, Temple and West Shore (Michigan) Symphony Orchestras.  He has been an oboist and English Hornist with the Temple Symphony and the St. Peter’s United Methodist Church Orchestras.  He was a member of the 1990 All-American College Orchestra at Walt Disney World playing multiple woodwind instruments.  Equally adept as a jazz performer, he has had the honor of sharing the stage with Dizzy Gillespie, Mel Torme’, Rosemary Clooney, Nell Carter, Della Reese, Eric Marienthal, Bill Watrous, Ernie Watts, John Fedchock and many others.
           

Mr. Beaver lives in Katy with his wife, Sarah.   Jack, the first of three sons, is pursuing a Computer Science degree at Texas State University while his twin, Ryan, is pursuing his degree in Urban Planning at Texas A&M University.   His youngest son, Adam, will be entering the Honors College at Lone Star College in Cypress in the fall and will be a Psychology major.  

Crystal Brock - MS Language Arts & Geography, and Middle School Team Lead

A native Texan and Calvary Episcopal alumna, Crystal Sims Brock began her career as a fourth-grade teacher at CEP in 2015. She is a fighting Texas A&M Aggie with a BA in Economics. She resides in Richmond with her husband, her two beautiful twin boys, Landon and Caden, who are Calvary Crusaders, and 2 dogs. She’s no stranger to the Calvary Community, as she has served as vice president on our PTO board and has volunteered her invaluable time & impeccable creativity.

Brandon Campbell - P.E, Bible & Photography Teacher

Brandon Campbell was raised in New York on Long Island, where he spent the first part of his career working with the New York Police Department. He promoted his way up to Special Class Sargent by assisting with the Honor Guard and New York Police Dept of Forensics by taking forensic photography. He has owned his own photography business for the past 14 years. Mr. Campbell will be assisting with PE and teaching Bible for grades 1-5. He and his wife have been married for 13 years and have two daughters, one graduating from Sam Houston State University and one who is a Crusader. Brandon enjoys both nature and street photography, working with his church (Calvary Episcopal Church), and spending time with family.

Kristina Castillo - Art Teacher

Kristina Castillo was born and raised in Richmond, TX, where she graduated from Foster High School. She earned bachelor’s degrees in both Business and Art from Southwestern University in Georgetown, TX before returning to work in the corporate world as a part of the Management Development Program for GEICO Claims Department. It was through her experience in leadership positions that she discovered her passion for teaching, after which she joined Hodges Bend Middle School in Fort Bend ISD teaching 6th-grade Art. She is joining the Calvary family in the 2019-2020 school year as the K-12 Art Teacher and is excited to share in the growth and expression of all of the beautiful hearts entrusted to CEP.

Jalon Debbs - Athletic Director

Jalon Debbs is Calvary’s, Athletic Director and coach. He graduated from San Diego State University as a student-athlete scholar in 1990 with a BS in Industrial Engineering. His passion is running a mentoring program for student-athletes (boys and girls) that prepares them for college. He splits his time coaching and being a spokesman for Adidas grassroots basketball programs across the country. Mr. Debbs is a parent, husband, former school board member, and dedicated coach. 

Liz Doyle - High School English Teacher

Liz Doyle earned her Bachelor of Arts in English at Texas Lutheran University and a Master of Liberal Arts from Houston Baptist University. She comes to us with 15 years of teaching experience in LCISD. She has taught 9th-12th grade English, with 11 of those years spent as the 12th grade AP, honors, and academic teacher. Liz was also employed as an adjunct professor for WCJC and taught the 1301 and 1302 Dual-Credit courses. She is thrilled to be back in the classroom after taking time off to raise her son and serve as a community and school volunteer. She loves to read, practice yoga, cross-stitch, and spend time with her family. Liz and her husband, Jason, have a 13-year-old son, Garrett, and reside in Rosenberg.

Sarita Ferris - Kindergarten Teacher and Primary (PK3-Kinder) Team Lead

Sarita Ferris comes to us with 30 years of experience in education. She spent 23 of those years teaching kindergarten for Lamar CISD.  Sarita has three sons. Her youngest is a junior at George Ranch High School, and the older two are Texas A&M graduates just like their mom. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outdoors, and relaxing with a good book. Her favorite bible verse is Zephaniah 3:17.

Lori Francis – 4th/5th grade ELA Teacher

Ms. Francis graduated from the University of Houston-Victoria with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and from Texas A&M with a Master of Science in Reading. She has been an educator for over 30 years and has worked with students in Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools. Ms. Francis loves board games and music.

Alicia Frattini - Spanish, 7th - 12th grade Teacher and Middle School Science Teacher

Ms. Frattini is from Argentina and came to the U.S. with her family at the age of 2. She has lived in the greater Houston area all of her life. Ms. Frattini earned a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from the University of Houston and a Master of Science from Texas Women’s University. Prior to working in the field of education, she worked in healthcare as a Registered Dietitian for a local hospital. After having her two children, she decided to become a stay-at-home mom, until the Lord opened the door for her to work as a teacher at Southwest Christian Academy where her children attended and graduated.  Ms. Frattini has been ministering and teaching there for the past 10 years, and she has loved every minute of teaching high school students! She has taught Spanish 1,2 and 3, as well as Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, and Health. She has also been the school’s Yearbook Advisor for the past 5 years and Student Council Representative for the past 2 years. She loves being part of students’ lives and helping them reach their greatest potential. 

Ms. Frattini currently lives in Richmond with her son and daughter who are both going to Wharton Junior College. She is passionate about fitness, nutrition, and healthy living and loves doing anything outdoors, such as biking, hiking, running, etc. She also enjoys reading and music.

Andrew Furukawa - Social Studies, Middle & High Teacher

Born and raised in Austin, Texas, William Andrew Furukawa has a diverse background of experiences. He has led teams and developed supervisors in the corporate world, earned awards as an Army Engineer Captain, and navigated the rigor of entrepreneurship starting multiple businesses. He is a fightin’ Texas A&M Aggie with a BS in Political Science, a certificate in Leadership Study and Development, and a MA in Public Administration. After living the ‘tiny house” life in the Pacific Northwest he and his wife Mariana currently live in Houston with their 2 cats, Picard and Lionel. He is honored to be a part of the Calvary family.

Donna Garcia - 3rd Grade Teacher

Mrs. Garcia is a 1992 graduate of Texas State University in San Marcos. Her degree is in Elementary Education with a specialization in early childhood. Mrs. Garcia was named teacher of the year at her former campus and has served as a team leader, liaison for reading curriculum, GT teacher, and holds an ESL certification. Most recently she served as a 3rd grade ELA and Social Studies teacher. In 2022, Mrs. Garcia retired after teaching for 27 years in public schools and is excited to be teaching at CEP! She enjoys reading, walking, gardening, cycling, and game night with her family.

Charlyn Harris - Pre-Kindergarten (3-year-old) Teacher

Charlyn Harris is a native Houstonian and has over 20 years of early education experience. She attended the University of Houston where she received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood Specialization. She also received her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Houston. Ms. Harris is a returning teacher to Calvary, having taught previously in Fort Bend ISD, Houston ISD, and a Head Start program. She is a member of Calvary Episcopal Church. Ms. Harris lives in Richmond with her two daughters, Delaney (a Calvary alum) and Bridgit (a current Calvary student). Ms. Harris believes that every child has infinite learning possibilities and wants to share her love of learning with her students.

Sandy Hernandez – 4th & 5th grade Science & Social Studies Teacher

Mrs. Hernandez has been teaching since 2012 and has taught middle school and lower school students. She was born and raised in Houston, TX, and graduated from the University of Houston-downtown. She met her husband, Jesus, in their church and resides in the Richmond/Rosenberg area with their dog, Rex. Mrs. Hernandez believes that it is her vocation and passion to be an educator. She loves learning and being part of the education and development process for students.

Stacie Higgins - American Sign Language Teacher

Ms. Stacie is a native Houstonian and long-time resident of the Fort Bend area.  During her Bachelors of Arts degree at Stephen F. Austin State University, Stacie completed two years of American Sign Language and fell in love with the language itself and the Deaf culture.  She then completed her Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology with Sam Houston State Univeristy, in which she obtained experience working with the prison population as well as children in Child Protective Services.  During this time, Stacie maintained her connection with the Deaf community by serving in a Deaf ministry program at a local Methodist church.  She is currently completing her next college degree with Houston Community College in their Interpreting/ASL program, aspiring to provide interpreting services for the Deaf and hearing communities.  Stacie’s family has a long history of support for an involvement with Calvary Episcopal Church and Calvary Episcopal Preparatory.  God has called her to give back to the Calvary community by teaching the next generation of students to appreciate, enjoy, and respect both ASL and Deaf culture. 

Amy Howard - Front Office Manager

Amy Howard has over 20 years of experience in education, working in LCISD as a classroom aide, library aide, ISS monitor, behavioral specialist, and Special Ed Management Systems clerk. She has been married to our High School science teacher Kelly Howard for 30 years. The two have 5 children ranging in ages 27 to 10.  Her oldest daughter, Kylie, is the Extended Day Coordinator, and her youngest son, Kaleb, will be a 5th grader at CEP this year.  Stop in to say hello and introduce yourself the next time you are at CEP!                                                                                                       

 

Kelly Howard - Middle & High School Science Teacher

Kelly Howard is a valued member of our secondary staff with 31 years experience in in the classroom, in administration and on the sports fields. He began his career at B. F. Terry in 1991, teaching IPC and coaching football and baseball. While at Terry he taught AP Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and IPC. He also has coached track, golf, and soccer. In 2008 he left the classroom to be an administrator at Sweeny Junior High. After four years there he’d decided the classroom was his home and returned to Terry HS.

A native Houstonian, Kelly moved with his family to California when he was 14, where he attended high school and college, earning his BA from Cal State-Long Beach.

Married to his wife Amy for 29 years, the two have 5 children, ranging in age from 26 to 9.

Kylie Howard - Extended Day and Teacher's Aid

Kylie Howard, born and raised in Rosenberg, is our Extended Day Coordinator and Pre-K 3 Teacher’s Aide. She is the daughter of our front office manager, Amy Howard, and our upper school science teacher, Kelly Howard. She is enrolled at WCJC and is working her way towards a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Kylie loves kids and believes that as adults, we can learn a lot from children. In her free time, Kylie enjoys reading, watching her favorite TV shows and movies and spending time with her family and friends. 

Veronica Howard - 3rd Grade Teacher

Ms. Howard was born in Houston and is a Southern girl through and through. She married her wonderful husband, Art, in 1984 and they are now empty nesters. Ms. Howard began her teaching career in 1977 as a third-grade teacher and retired from public schools in May 2020. She has taught 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade in her 43 years. She has also been a team leader, a GT teacher, a professional development presenter, a yearbook chairman, a teacher of the year, an online math/science teacher, and a technology liaison. During this time, Ms. Howard realizes that many changes have occurred in education. Teaching has been quite a rewarding experience that gives her so much joy. She wants her students to not only learn academically but grow socially/emotionally. She looks forward to a rewarding year full of adventures and life-long learning with all of her students!

Helen Jackson - 2nd Grade Teacher

Helen Jackson earned a BS in elementary education from Penn State and an MEd in teaching from the University of Houston. Ms. Jackson had a long career in Fort Bend ISD, where she specialized in gifted education. Before joining CEP in 2016, Ms. Jackson spent seven years in private schools. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, reading, and scrapbooking. Her grandson Noah is a student at CEP.

Jenny Jones, BSN, RN - School Nurse

Jenny Jones has served as the School Nurse for Calvary since 2013. She was born and raised in the Houston area, graduating from Clements High School in Sugar Land. She later went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Houston Baptist University. Nurse Jenny has always had a passion for kids, which is why she became a nurse specializing in pediatrics. After 14 years at Texas Children’s Hospital, she felt God called her to become a school nurse so that she could have more time with her family. She and her husband, Jerry, are the proud parents of four children, including two Calvary students.

Lynn Kidda - Pre-Kindergarten (4-year-old) Teacher

Lynn Kidda has been a member of the faculty since 2007 and teaches pre-kindergarten at Calvary. She is a native of Shreveport, Louisiana where she taught pre-k for eight years before moving to Houston. In HISD, Mrs. Kidda taught kindergarten for two years at an Environmental Science Magnet school. After moving into this area, she taught kindergarten right across the street at Jane Long Elementary for fifteen years. Mrs. Kidda and her husband, Jim are the proud parents of their son, Andrew. They are active members of Calvary Episcopal Church. When not teaching, she enjoys camping, fishing, and family activities.

Janis Knuckols - Lower School Art Teacher

Janis Knuckols is a native to the area and graduated from B.F.Terry high school and SFASU. She lives in Pecan Grove with her husband, Will. They have two children, Jay (a UT Graduate, and Olivia (a Senior at the University of St. Thomas.) Mrs. Knuckols has been a teacher for 17 years, 13 of which have been in Elementary Art. She has a passion for kids and all things creative. Her hobbies, in addition, to art include thrift shopping, beachcombing for shells and sea glass on Matagorda beach, and taking care of an abundance of plants and two very spoiled dogs.

Danielle Leon – PK4 Teacher

Ms. Danielle Fallacaro was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. There she began her career as an educator. She has several years of teaching experience working with various age groups. Danielle obtained her master’s degree in early childhood education and believes that begin a teacher is her God-given purpose in life. Her educational philosophy is to ensure that all her students develop a love for learning through hands-on instruction. Danielle’s number one goal is to make sure all her students leave school with smiles on their faces.

Christin McDonald - Librarian

Christin McDonald joined the CEP staff as Co-Librarian in 2015. For the past several years, she has been a mom and an active volunteer in our library, musicals, and faculty luncheons, just to name a few. Ms. McDonald, who is a parent of 3 Crusaders, is a graduate of UT San Antonio. She spent a number of years after college in Washington, DC, involved in the government and political scene, working for the US House of Representatives as a staff assistant with the Committee on Agriculture. She also served as a legislative assistant for Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson. Ms. McDonald and her husband, Pat, live with their children in the Richmond area.

Terri Morgan - Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten Bible Teacher

Ms. Terri Morgan has been an active member of Calvary Episcopal Church since October 2020 when her husband, The Rev. Ralph Morgan, was called as Calvary’s Rector. Terri graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University summa cum laude with a B.A. degree in Political Science and History, and a minor in English. She graduated from the University of Houston School of Law Magna Cum Laude with a J.D. degree and practiced law in the Houston and Austin areas for 35 years. She is now a retired attorney.

Miss Terri (as your children affectionately call her) is a life-long Episcopalian, and she has taken many Bible courses over the years. When Fr. Ralph attended the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest, Miss Terri took several Old and New Testament seminary courses. She has also taken several years of Education for Ministry (EfM) courses through the Episcopal University of the South School of Theology in Sewanee, TN, and is qualified as an EfM mentor.

Miss Terri has taught children and adult Sunday school and Vacation Bible School for 45 years at various Episcopal churches. She was a founding member of a children’s ministry called Kids of the King at Holy Apostles Episcopal Church in Katy and Christ Episcopal Church in Eagle Lake, where she developed a Bible curriculum for children that included drama, music, puppets, and art. She has a passion for studying the Bible, and for sharing God’s love with children.

Ms. Terri and Fr. Ralph enjoy spending time with their 3 adult daughters and their families, including 7 amazing grandchildren. They also enjoy going to the theater and traveling. Several years ago they went to Israel, and they hope to lead a group to the Holy Land in the future. When not teaching you will find Ms. Terri needlepointing, gardening, and spending time with her grandchildren and her 4th child – a miniature goldendoodle named Honey.

Kristie Pearson - 4th & 5th Grade Math and Science Teacher, 3rd - 5th grade Team Lead

Mrs. Kristie Pearson graduated from Houston Baptist University with a BA in Elementary and Special Education. Since that time, she has dedicated her life to teaching.  Mrs. Pearson and her husband Rick, have two grown children and three spoiled dogs.  They attend Crossbridge Community Church and Mrs. Pearson enjoys walking, reading, and Bible journaling. She is excited to be part of the Calvary family!

Patsy Salazar - Pre-Kindergarten (4-year-old) Teacher Assistant

Patsy Salazar has been a part of the Calvary family since 2000, teaching Spanish and music in the lower school. Ms. Patsy, as the students call her, loves playing her guitar and harp, sketching, and needlepoint. She also loves using music in Spanish class and Bible, knowing it really helps the children have fun while they learn! She also enjoys teaching pre-kindergarten bible where the students sometimes take part in small plays as it helps them understand the story better. Music is such a big part of Ms. Salazar’s life and she loves to sing! Ms. Salazar worked for LCISD for 8 years before coming to Calvary. She is from Santa Fe, New Mexico and she loves to visit whenever she can. She has 2 children and 3 grandchildren that she adores!

 

Brad Schneider - Speech and Debate Teacher

Brad Schneider was born and raised in Minnesota and earned his BA degree in Speech Communications and Theatre Arts from The University of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.  In addition, he has a MS degree in Educational Administration from Chadron State College, Chadron, Nebraska. He begain his teaching career in the Midwest where he directed full length plays, one act competitions, debate classes, and yearly musical productions. He has instructed Speech and Debate and has been involved with many competitive tournaments which also included individual events.  Brad has been teaching in the Houston area since 1993 instructing students in subjects like: SAT, ACT, PSAT, Debate, Public Speaking, English and Theatre Arts, plus extracurricular events such as UIL Spelling competitions.   

Heather Shogren - Math, Middle & High Teacher and High School (9th- 12th grade) Team Lead

Heather Shogren teaches middle and upper school math. In 2014, she moved to Richmond from rural Minnesota with her husband and two Crusaders. She attended Central Lakes Community College and obtained an Associate’s degree in Engineering. She then advanced her degree at St. Cloud State University and received a B.S. degree in Mathematics Education. One of her short-term goals is to receive a Master’s Degree in Mathematics. Before joining CEP, Ms. Shogren was the lead teacher in one of the highest-rated middle schools in MN for the previous 7 years. What she loves most about teaching is what she calls the “light bulb moment”. Seeing students’ eyes light up when they conquer that problem they have been working so hard on. In her spare time, Ms. Shogren enjoys coaching Crossfit, reading, spending time outdoors, and time with her family.

 

Pam Smalley - Physical Education Teacher, Enrichment Team Lead

Pam Smalley teaches Physical Education at Calvary Episcopal Preparatory. Her goal is to promote and encourage all students to participate in physical activities for the rest of their lives. She graduated from Southwest Texas State University with a degree in Physical Education and Health. Before teaching physical education in 2002, she served as a substitute teacher at Calvary for 4 years. Mrs. Smalley has been happily married for 24 years and has two beautiful daughters, Autumn and Ryann. Mrs. Smalley enjoys cooking, being outdoors, and spending time with her family.

 

Mindy Standlee - Middle & High School Bible

Mindy Standlee has a Bachelor’s degree is in Psychology from Texas A&M. Gig ‘em Aggies! Teaching the bible in a variety of ways to children, teens and adults has been a huge part of Mindy’s life for over twenty years. She spent ten of those years working in children and youth ministries at multiple churches and she also taught Chapel at Calvary for the past five years.  Mindy has a passion for helping kids and youth connect with their faith, helping scripture to become relevant in their lives, and she has a love of building relationships with people of all ages.  

Mindy Standlee is married to Mark and has three boys – two current Calvary Crusaders and one previous Crusader. She is very active and involved in her church, serving in both youth and women’s ministries.  In her spare time she love to teach, scrapbook, travel and spend time with family and friends.  

 

Jane Tevis - 1st Grade Teacher

Jane received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Illinois State University.  In her many years of education, she has taught grades kinder-fourth.  She had the pleasure of teaching in Northwest Iowa and McAllen, Texas before moving into the Sugar Land area to teach in Fort Bend ISD. She is both G/T  and ESL certified. Jane and her husband, Dan, are the proud parents of two sons. Their oldest son is in the Coast Guard stationed in Maine and their youngest son is attending Texas A and M with plans of joining the Army after graduation. In her free time, Jane enjoys gardening, reading, and bicycling. 

 

Amanda Thompson - Math and Science Teacher, 6th & 7th Grade

Mrs. Thompson earned her BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Mathematics and Music from the University of Houston and recently earned a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction: Mathematics from Concordia University. She has taught in both public and private schools in the area for 20 years. She previously taught 4th grade at Calvary and is returning after five years in Fort Bend ISD as a classroom teacher and Math Intervention Specialist.

Mrs. Thompson also has a great love of music and is an accompanist and singer on her church’s praise team. She is a lifelong Texan and lives right here in Richmond with her husband of 22 years and her three cats. Her son, Cameron, is also a proud graduate of Calvary.                   

 

Bill White - Technology Instructor

Bill White is Calvary’s Technology Instructor. Alongside his loving wife, Elizabeth, and their son, Liam, Bill has been part of the Calvary Family since 2016.
 
With a remarkable career spanning over two decades in the Information Technology industry, Bill’s professional journey has seen steady growth, culminating in his role as Global Transformation Executive and Senior Program Manager at IBM Global Services.
 
Beyond his passion for technology, Bill has served as a scouting counselor for both the girl and boy scouts with Culver Military Academy. Most recently, Bill lent his support to the Pecan Grove Hurricanes during their successive runs for league championships.
 
He was a Division 1 Student-Athlete at The Ohio State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing and MIS. Further enhancing his expertise, he successfully completed a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification program at Villanova University in Pennsylvania.            

Brenda Zatopek - Office Manager

Brenda is a lifelong resident of Fort Bend County. She brings to Calvary 30 years of experience in accounting. Brenda also works for Calvary Episcopal Church and is excited to be part of the Calvary Church and School community. She and her husband, Mark, have 3 grown married children, their wonderful spouses, and 5 grandchildren that she enjoys and adores. Brenda loves cactus and succulents, attending estate sales, and reading, but most of all she loves spending time with her grandkids.

 

Meet The School Board Members

Father Ralph Morgan – Chairman
Chris Bradley – President
Amber Zentis – Secretary
Marian Briscoe – Treasurer
May Tape – School
Ali Facker – School
Rhonda Fanning – School
James Milford – Church
Teri Mason – Church

Mike Zanghi– Church
Frank Plut – Church
Alex Vakulenko – Church
Zee Turnbull – School
Lauren Byars – School
Donna Anderson – Church
Marian Briscoe – Vestry
Maria Fondon – Head of School, Adviser/Non-Voting
Joe Robinson – Adviser/Non-Voting
Jeff McClellan – Adviser/Non-Voting

Calvary’s History

1857

The movement to establish an Episcopal Church in Richmond was first begun by Rev. H. Pratt. In 1859, Calvary Episcopal Church was formally organized, and the first church building was erected.

1956

Calvary Episcopal Preparatory is established, making it the second oldest private, parochial school in Fort Bend County. CEP educates students from the communities of Richmond, Rosenberg, Pecan Grove, Greatwood, New Territory, Aliana, Waterside Estates, Cross Creek Ranch, Fulshear, Katy, and the FM359 corridor.

1973

Calvary begins operating as a private, non-profit corporation under the State of Texas charter.

1981

CEP receives accreditation from the Texas Education Agency.

1986

CEP receives accreditation from the Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools (SAES), a member of the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC). CEP also becomes a member in good standing of the Texas Association of Non-Public Schools (TANS) and the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES).

2006

CEP begins offering college prep programs for high school students. Since 2006, CEP students have been admitted to many colleges and universities of their choice, with an average scholarship of $120,000.

2011

CEP receives approval to operate as an International School, offering the I-20 Visa for international students to study at CEP through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS).

School Board Resources

To learn more about Calvary Episcopal Preparatory
and our goals, please contact us today at 281-342-3161!