A professor explaining something to a student
Group of five young individuals posing with smiles in a winter tree farm setting. They are dressed warmly for the season, with the background featuring a sparse snowy landscape and evergreen trees.
Two women talking in the art classroom.

About Us

We have an amazing team of people who love students and Jesus.

Aaron Monts

Executive Director
BA Christian Education, Lincoln Christian University
MA Contemporary Theology and Philosophy, Lincoln Christian Seminary
PhD Organizational Leadership, Johnson University
Cert. -Executive Leadership, Harvard Kennedy School of Government (Grad. 2025)

At EA since 2021

Dr. Aaron Monts is the Executive Director for Eastside Academy. Aaron brings over 20 years of leadership experience in organizational development helping guide teams through periods of transition. Aaron is dedicated to maintaining stability and driving forward the mission of Eastside Academy. 

In addition to his extensive leadership background, Aaron is known for his collaborative approach and commitment to fostering a positive and transparent organizational culture. He holds a PhD in Organizational Leadership and a certificate in Leading Change from Harvard Kennedy School. Additionally, he has been a trusted consultant and advisor to various nonprofit boards and community groups around the country. 

Education Team

Jeffrey Britcher

Director of Educational Team
BS in Secondary Social Studies and Physical Education
Certified Secondary Social Studies Teacher
Spring Arbor University

At EA since August 2013

Senator Scott

Dean of Student Services and Chaplain
BA Political Science, Emory University
MDiv (May 2024), Portland Seminary

At EA since 2023

Naomi Williams

Registrar, Volunteer Coordinator & Music Teacher
Central Washington University, Broad Area Music Education (K-12)
Washington State Teaching License
At EA since 2023

Therese Koelmeyer

Office Manager

Annie Averett

Teacher

Kelly Fish

Science Teacher
BA, Integrated Studies: Natural Science, Biology Minor Seattle Pacific University
Washington State Residency Teaching Certificate, K-8 At EA since 2024

Samuel Hinson

Teacher

JR Kuiper

Teacher

Elizabeth Matson

History & Civics Teacher
BA History, Public History Certification  
Northern State University
Education Certification 
South Dakota State University

At EA since 2023

Madison Swanson

English Teacher
Taylor University, BS English Education Washington State Teaching Certification, Secondary English

At EA since 2024

Counseling Team

Drew Hale

Head of Counseling
B.A. in Psychology
University of Washington
M.A. in Counseling Psychology
Northwest University
At EA since 2018

Abi Gross

Counselor
MA in Mental Health Counseling, In Progress
Northwest University
Formation Certificate
Christian Counseling Education Foundation

At EA since 2023

Aaron Sedlacek

Counselor
Northwest university, MA in Mental Health Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counseling Associate (LMHCA)
At EA since May 2023

Mandy Rice

Counseling Intern

McKenzie Eader

Counseling Intern

Housing Team

Trevor Uhler

Head of Renew Housing
B.A. Business Administration
Northwest University

At EA since 2013

Colt Black

House Parent
Bachelor of Arts
Moody Bible Institute
M.A Counseling Psychology Candidate (Grad June 2024)
The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology

At EA since 2021

Sydney Black

House Parent
At EA since 2021

Andrew Cotogna-Denny

House Parent

At EA since 2022

Raunwyn Cotogna-Denny

House Parent
At EA since 2022

Tessa Fuller

Renew Associate
At EA since 2023

Atlantis Murphy

Renew Associate
At EA since 2023

Yahme Young-Hammock

Renew Associate
At EA since 2024

Advancement Team

Joksan Torres

Head of Advancement
Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico, BS Psychology, Minor Sports Sciences & Physical Conditioning University of Puerto Rico- Rio Piedras Campus
MA Social-Community Psychology (In Progress)
Professional Certification Grant Writing & External Funds Management
Universidad Ana G. Mendez- Professional Certification Competitive Grant Writing & Management
Universidad Pentecostal Mizpa- Ecclesiastic Ministries Certificate
At EA since 2024

Marina Coates

Foundations Manager
At EA since 2025

Hannah Kaas

Development Manager
B.A. in Business Management
University of Washington
At EA since 2021

Tyler Scott

Admissions Specialist
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Giving Tuesday is December 2nd!

Join millions across the U.S. giving to causes they care about

Your donation to Eastside Academy will provide essential educational services to students in your community.

Join us for our Annual
Fundraising Gala!

In honor of Eastside Academy’s 25th School Year, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to 25 years ago, when it all began!
 
Join us for our Y2K Throwback Gala
October 3rd | 6:30pm

At Seattle’s MOHAI

Exciting News at Eastside Academy

A new chapter begins! We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Aaron Monts has been appointed as Eastside Academy’s new Executive Director!
Under his leadership, EA is entering a season of growth, transformation, and expanded impact––ensuring every student has the support, education, and encouragement they need to thrive.
The future is bright, and this is just the beginning!
Read more about EA’s exciting future on our blog