Mrs. Marrero
Lehman College – BA in Economics with minor in Elementary Education K-6
When asked why she has chosen to teach at CLA, Mrs. Marrero said, “I believe and support Christian education because when we teach our children from birth and throughout their years of most influence then we give them the time and opportunity to follow His word and develop their character while being able to be equipped with the armor of God.
Believe it or not, I was lead by the Lord. I find it amazing that our curriculum is aligned with a course I’m taking at my church! I asked the Lord to show me my purpose and fill me with His word. Every instance has been working as He has chosen.”
Favorite Scriptures: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23
“Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord.” Psalm 119
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. He will always make a way when there is no way as long as you obey and follow His commandments.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Tyler Rohlfsen
B.A. in Religion/Biblical Studies, Baylor University
M. Div. [In-Progress], Kairos University
Tyler began teaching music at Christian Life Academy in August 2024. He & wife Aleah have three children, two of which attend CLA. He has led worship in churches and taught private piano, guitar, and voice lessons for over 15 years, and he currently serves as the Director of Worship & Communication at St Paul Westport.
The ability to teach, speak, and make music from a Jesus-centric worldview is the primary reason Tyler loves being a part of the CLA community.
Favorite Scripture: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20
Amanda Vasas
Gordon Hiltz
Michael Joseph
B.S. Justice and Law Administration: Criminology, Western Connecticut State University
When asked why she chose to teach at CLA, Mr. Joseph said, “Christian education provides students with a solid foundation, not just academically, but also spiritually, socially, and emotionally. A Biblical worldview in education shows students why the world is the way it is and the role that we play in it. It shows how we fit into the broader picture and how much God provides for us. Ultimately, it gives a basis to greater success later in life.“
Favorite Scripture: “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” Psalm 94:19
Robert Zupnyk
Mrs. Pinzon
Housatonic Community College – Associates in Early Childhood Education
When asked why she has chosen to teach at CLA, Mrs. Pinzon said, “I believe Christian Education is important, because it helps students understand the truth about the Word of God. The Word of God is a lamp to our feet so it helps guide the students in every decision making in their life, whether they are in preschool or middle school. Only the Word of God can show them the way because it’s God’s words talking to them. By having a Christian education, it helps them grow in a healthy environment, the atmosphere is different, every lesson is worthwhile and every teaching will be carried throughout their life. It’s just definitely a blessing.
I chose to teach at Christian Life Academy because when I was looking for a Christian school for my children, as soon as I walked through those entrance doors I felt peace. Being able to teach the Word of God freely and so openly to children has helped me grow even in my faith with Jesus. To see the joy, expectations of each of the students make you want to share more of who Jesus is in their life. Teaching in CLA has made me realize the hunger there is for Jesus and the difference you can make by serving the children and the parents in this great community.
CLA is just not a school, it’s a family. I am so grateful to God to have brought me to a place where we all share that faith we can express and share with others with confidence.”
Favorite Scripture: Psalm 27 is my favorite verse, but I always repeat to myself: The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? (but in Spanish) Jehova es mi luz y mi salvación de quién temeré.
Jenna Steeves
Stephanie Annunziato
BA Early Childhood Education, Nyack College
When asked why she chose to teach at CLA, Mrs. Annunziato said, “After graduating, I knew I wanted to teach in a Christian school so I would have the freedom to teach about God’s love for us. Christian education can help students become confident in their identity, bear the image of God, and develop a strong understanding of how biblical truth influences all area of their lives.
I want to help prepare children for their future, reach their goals in life, and instill Christian values in each one. It is a joy to teach children about the world God created, how our faith is woven into each area of learning, and how to find purpose and meaning through God’s Will for our life.”
Favorite Scripture: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11