Praise Christian Academy Staff

Our Staff:

Mary Ann Jacobs
Academy Principal

Our Teachers:

Mrs. Betty Jean Sjoberg
Kindergarten

Teaching at Praise since 1998
BA Degree in University of Minnesota
Dual teaching degree from Seton Hill College, Greensburg in Elementary Education and Early Childhood

"Teaching young children and introducing them to schook, to reading and to God's love is a great joy." - Betty

Mrs. Cathryn Munshower
First Grade

I am a graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a B.S. in elementary education. I am married with three children. I enjoy teaching the young children, and I always treat them the way I would want my own children treated - with patience and love. 

Mrs. Marlene Merkt
Second Grade

It is a blessing to return for my second year of teaching second grade at Praise Christian Academy. I previously taught kindergarten for one year, first grade for seven years and pre-school for three years at PCA. My Family and I attend Praise Assembly of God Church. My husband John and I have been married for 17 years and are blessed to have two sons, Jonathan and Jeremy that both attend PCA.
Rev. 4:11 "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being."

Mrs. Elise K. Gwynn
Third Grade

B.S. in Education from California U. of PA
Certified in Elementary and Early Childhood Education
Started Sept. 1998

Married to an awesome husband named Frank and has 2 children, Krystal & Brett

Mrs. Fischer
Fourth Grade

Hello! My name is Mrs. Fischer. This is my second year as fourth grade teacher at Praise Christian Academy. I received my Bachelors of Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh (at Johnstown). I began my career as an educator five years ago. I have worked as an instructional aide with student in special education and taught two full years as a K-1st grade teacher in Appomattox, VA. My hometown is Penn Hills, PA. I now reside in Monroeville, PA with my loving husband Jim and our dog Daisy.

Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." 

Mrs. Kelly Porter
Fifth Grade

Graduated from West Virginia Weslyan College
Degree: BA in Elementary Education

Teacher since: 2004 

Patty Mueller
6th, 7th & 8th Grade

I began teaching second grade at PCA in October 2002. Although the little ones are fun, moving to middle school in 2005 was wonderful. Helping sixth, seventh and eighth graders explore their own creative writing talents is a blessing to me and students. When I'm not here, I am busy with my son, Adam, a senior at Norwin High School. I love using my home computer to keep in touch with my other "kids": Amanda is in the US Airforce, stationed in Texas; Krista is a Junior at Toccoa Falls College in Georgia; Jonathan is a Marine, stationed in Okinawa, Japan. One of my favorite Verses is Psalm 100:1 "Should for Joy to the Lord, all the earth Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs."

Mrs. Margaret Conrad
6th, 7th & 8th Grade

Mrs. Margaret Conrad has been a middle school teacher for over 20 years, teaching in several Christian schools in the Pittsburgh area. Her subjects are History, Literature and Bible. "I enjoy bringing History to life through hands-on projects and activities and through discussion of present day events in light of the past."

Margaret was born and raised in England but has been living in the USA for the past 40 years. She is happily married to Richard and loves the company of her 4 grand-daughters. Jesus Christ is her Lord and Savior who has led, guided and blessed her life. She enjoys her involvement at her church and her crafts of cross stitching and knitting keep her busy.

Cindy Lindow
6th, 7th & 8th Grade

I've been involved in Praise Christian Academy and Praise Assembly of God ministries for over 25 years. It has been a privilege watching God move in and through young people at PCA. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the educational and spiritual development of our students and to share the hope and peace that only Christ can provide.