Leadership
Meet Our Head of School
Dr. Becca Thomas
Degrees: BS, concordia University; MA, University of northern colORado; ed.d, liberty university
Dr. Becca Thomas serves as Head of School at Covenant Christian Academy, bringing a distinguished record of leadership and a deep commitment to Christian education.
Prior to joining CCA, Dr. Thomas spent 18 years at Valor Christian High School, where she served in a variety of leadership roles, including Associate Head of School and Academic Dean. During her tenure, Valor earned two National Blue Ribbon awards and achieved ACSI Exemplary Status, reflecting a culture of academic excellence and Christ-centered learning. Her experience also includes foundational years at Orange Lutheran High School, where she developed a passion for helping students flourish academically, spiritually, and personally.
Since joining Covenant in the spring of 2025, Dr. Thomas has brought energy, vision, and strategic leadership to every area of school life. She has championed initiatives designed to strengthen academics, enhance the student experience, invest in faculty development, and position the school for long-term growth. Her leadership has fostered a culture of collaboration while remaining firmly rooted in Covenant’s biblical mission and classical Christian identity.
Known for her ability to inspire others, build meaningful relationships, and cast a compelling vision for the future, Dr. Thomas has already made a significant impact on students, faculty, and families. She is passionate about helping Covenant continue to grow in excellence while remaining steadfast in its commitment to developing wise and virtuous followers of Jesus Christ. Grounded in a servant leader’s heart, she seeks to lead with humility, authenticity, and a deep commitment to the people who make Covenant such a special place.
Through her strategic leadership, unwavering faith, and dedication to Christian education, Dr. Thomas is helping lead Covenant into an exciting new season of growth and opportunity.
Email Dr. Thomas: headofschool@covenantchristian.net
CCA Leadership
Mrs.MyrandiBallesteros
Early Childhood and Elementary School Principal
BA, Dallas Baptist University M.Ed, Dallas Baptist University
Mrs.MyrandiBallesteros
Early Childhood and Elementary School Principal
BA, Dallas Baptist University M.Ed, Dallas Baptist University
I grew up in East Texas in the Rose Capitol of the World, Tyler. Strangely enough, my name, Myrandi, is actually the name of a rose, the Mirandy rose. After high school, I moved to the big city to attend Dallas Baptist University on an Art Scholarship. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree (not in Art, by the way, but in Christian Education), married the love of my life, and taught kindergarten while completing my Master’s degree from DBU. Victor and I have two beautiful daughters, Brynlee (24) and Maycee (21), who both graduated from CCA, love Jesus, and seek to serve Him daily in their jobs and lives. As of October 2024, I have the most wonderful grandson, Lawson. My dear husband went to live with the Lord in November 2021 after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. The journey God has me on today was definitely not what I was expecting, but there is joy and blessing in trusting His plan and walking in faith.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? An artist and a teacher
Why do you choose to work at CCA? I felt called to Christian Education. After interviewing for an open position, I was immediately drawn to the philosophy/mission and like-minded community.
What is one fun fact about you? I have never had a cup of coffee. I took one sip and realized very quickly that I didn’t like the taste, and the smell gives me a headache.
What is your favorite book of all time? Besides the Bible? When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin.The story is powerful, speaks to my soul, and reminds me that God can redeem any situation, circumstance, or person.
What is one thing that can instantly make your day better? A reminder of my husband, the smile and hug from a CCA student (or a piece of chocolate!)
What do you like to do for fun? Hanging out with my daughters; playing games with friends; doing puzzles; playing pickleball; reading; watercolor painting
Mrs.Mary LouCrist
Elementary Music Teacher Director of Fine Arts
BA, West Texas A&M University
Mrs.Mary LouCrist
Elementary Music Teacher Director of Fine Arts
BA, West Texas A&M University
I’m thrilled to be a part of the wonderful community at Covenant Christian Academy as the Elementary Music Teacher and Performing Arts Director. I am a proud Texan. Originally from Amarillo, I’ve called DFW home for the past 18 years. With 26 years of experience teaching choral music and 23 years in Christian education, music has always been my passion and calling.After high school, I was fortunate to receive a full scholarship to study vocal performance at Arizona State University. My journey eventually brought me back to Texas, where I earned my Bachelor of Music in Opera from West Texas A&M University. I have taught K-12 music, middle and high school choir, and band. For 15 years, I had the privilege of serving as the Director of Fine Arts and Choral Music at Fort Worth Christian School. I have been happily married to my husband, Lyle, for 35 years. We have four grown children, two sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law, four delightful grandchildren, and three beloved dogs. Above all, I am grateful for the opportunity to share the beauty of music with my students and to celebrate the wonders of God’s creation through this universal language.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I always loved music class and singing when I was a child. It was my passion then, and it has continued throughout my life. I wanted to sing, and it led me to an amazing career.
Why do you choose to work at CCA? I have always believed that Christian education was the best choice for our own children, and I wanted to be a part of a classical Christian environment. Covenant Christian Academy is an excellent example of all that a classical Christian school has to offer and more!
What is one fun fact about you? My Dad named me after both of his sisters because he couldn’t choose just one. So, I essentially have two first names. Mary Lou and Helen. My aunts were honored, and I have always felt very loved.
What is your favorite book of all time? I love Mitch Albom’s Have a little Faith. It is a fantastic reminder of the goodness of God and the power of Faith in the lives of His believers.
What is one thing that can instantly make your day better? Talking to my children and grandchildren can make even the most challenging day better! I also enjoy the greeting of my three precious dogs when I come home at the end of a long day.
Mrs.KimGarcia
Executive Assistant to the Head of School
Mrs.KimGarcia
Executive Assistant to the Head of School
I grew up in and around the Dallas area. My husband and I have been married for almost 30 years and have two kids. I was a stay-at-home mom for 17 years. When my son was a senior at CCA, and my daughter was starting kindergarten, I felt the Lord move me back into the workforce. I have been the Executive Assistant to the Headmaster at CCA since 2013.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A flight attendant
Why do you choose to work at CCA? I love serving my co-workers and all the CCA families.
What is one fun fact about you? I love to read.
What is your favorite book of all time? Becoming by Elisabeth Elliott – I loved this book because it reminds me of God’s faithfulness and love, even in the darkest of times.
What is one thing that can instantly make your day better? Prayer and coffee
What do you like to do for fun? Hanging out with my family
PastorMikeHarvey
Director of Spiritual Formation
BS, Stephen F. Austin State University MA, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
PastorMikeHarvey
Director of Spiritual Formation
BS, Stephen F. Austin State University MA, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Mrs.JulieKrull
Chief Financial Officer
BBA, University of North Texas MBA, Louisiana State University
Mrs.JulieKrull
Chief Financial Officer
BBA, University of North Texas MBA, Louisiana State University
I was born and raised in Whitehouse, a small town outside of Tyler; my parents still live there and have been married for 53 years. I moved to the DFW area in the mid-’90s to finish my degree at UNT in Denton; I graduated from UNT in August of 1998 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. I worked in the car business for 12 years, starting in sales and ending in the finance office as the Director of Finance. In 2008 I left the car business to work at a University Model School in Denton, where I was the Business Administrator for 13 years. I married my husband, Chris, in 2008, and we have one daughter, Emily, who is a competitive gymnast. We reside in Colleyville with our Labrador Murray and a pocket black kitty.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A teacher
Why do you choose to work at CCA? Before CCA, I was driving 80 miles to work round trip, and after 13 years, it started to wear me out, making me bitter and tired. I was struggling to balance my family and work life. I prayed for a change, and God opened the door at CCA- I had previously worked with Dr. Jeffrey at another school and learned so much from his leadership. Being at CCA allows me to work and grow with like-minded Christian colleagues, it helps balance my family life, and I now drive in a week what I was driving in a day. Working here allows me to grow in my relationship with Christ both on the professional and personal side.
What is one fun fact about you? I’ve purposely ran three marathons- one of which was the New York City Marathon.
What is your favorite book of all time? Oh goodness- just one? The Circle Maker: Praying Circles by Mark Batterson -This book shows the wonderful power of prayer. Lemons on Friday is another good one- this covers the various levels of grief and that it is ok to experience any grief. I love history-type books for learning and memoirs for great mind escapes.
What is one thing that can instantly make your day better? Good coffee and words of affirmation
What do you like to do for fun? I enjoy snow skiing, being outdoors, working out, and spending time with my family.
Mr.TravisNiemeyer
Middle School Principal
BBA, University of North Texas MS, University of Texas Arlington
Mr.TravisNiemeyer
Middle School Principal
BBA, University of North Texas MS, University of Texas Arlington
My name is Travis Niemeyer, and I’ve been the Middle School principal at Covenant Christian Academy since 2022. I believe deeply in the power of faith and purpose, a conviction shaped by my upbringing in Garland, Texas, where my Christian parents modeled a life of faith. After earning my Marketing degree from the University of North Texas and working in technology sales, a profound sense of calling led me to a career in education. I began teaching 5th-grade American History and Language Arts at Timberline Elementary in 2003. Later, I moved to Northwest ISD where I spent time teaching 7th-grade Texas History at Chisolm Trail Middle School and 5th-grade at Granger Elementary. In 2013, I stepped into an Assistant Principal role at Colleyville Middle School. My journey in education, including meeting my wife Michelle through a shared teaching role, truly reflects my belief in God’s guiding hand. Michelle and I are proud parents of three boys, two of whom have attended CCA since PK-3. Away from school, I love to read and spend quality time outdoors with my family.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? The first baseman for the Yankees
Why do you choose to work at CCA? I love the community of CCA. Michelle and I have been CCA parents for nine years and still have friends that began when Asher was in Pre-K 3. We have grown as parents with these friends and met many others over the years. I have told people before that one of the reasons I’m so excited about coming to CCA is that I can build a much deeper relationship with the kids and their families.
What is one fun fact about you? I am an award-winning gardener. I won two awards for my tomatoes years ago from Calloway’s Nursery (the fact that I was the only entry is purely inconsequential).
What is your favorite book of all time? As someone who loves books and reading, this is an impossible question but also one I can’t resist. Books are a passion for me. I love reading them, discussing them, and quoting them. So picking one favorite book is like picking your favorite child. In 5th grade, my teacher read Where the Red Fern Grows each day before lunch, and I loved it. However, like many boys, I was too busy and active in middle school to spend much time reading. However, Huck Finn was the book that ignited my love for reading. Wild at Heart was read at a time when I needed to be challenged not to play it safe but to make bold steps of faith. The Book Whisperer and In the Middle transformed how I taught. And The Divine Conspiracy and Celebration of Discipline challenged me to go deeper in my faith.
What is one thing that can instantly make your day better? A great worship song
What do you like to do for fun? Most anything outdoors – disc golf, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting
Mr.AaronRusso
Athletic Director Head Girls Basketball Coach
BS, Dallas Baptist University M.Ed., Dallas Baptist University
Mr.AaronRusso
Athletic Director Head Girls Basketball Coach
BS, Dallas Baptist University M.Ed., Dallas Baptist University
I received my Bachelor of Science in Sports Management and Marketing from Dallas Baptist University. After graduating, I accepted a role as a Graduate Assistant in Sports Information while working on my Master’s in Educational Leadership and teaching and coaching in Birdville ISD. Upon completing my Master’s program, I returned to my hometown school to teach AP Physics and coach basketball and cross country. After a few years, I transitioned to assistant principal and then principal, all within the Liberty Hill ISD school district. Now, I am grateful to take on the role I have aimed for since college. I am honored to serve our CCA community as Athletic Director.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? As a child, I knew I wanted to work in sports. I envisioned myself in sports marketing, as a sports agent, or in some capacity within the sports industry.
Why do you choose to work at CCA? We have the opportunity to use our position, power, and platform in sports to make a positive difference in our players’ lives at CCA, all rooted in Biblical principles.
What is one fun fact about you? I taught AP Physics without ever taking physics in college.
What is your favorite book of all time? Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth because it profoundly enriches the understanding of the psychology behind maximizing the potential of those you work with. It challenges and refines my approach to various aspects of my work.
What is one thing that can instantly make your day better? The laugh or smile of my children.
What do you like to do for fun? This may sound cliché, but I enjoy watching sports. I also still enjoy playing various sports, being near water, fishing, hiking, or going to a good movie.
Mrs.VictoriaWimmer
High School Principal
BA, Dallas Baptist University M.Ed. Texas A&M University-Commerce
Mrs.VictoriaWimmer
High School Principal
BA, Dallas Baptist University M.Ed. Texas A&M University-Commerce
I am originally from Albuquerque, N.M., and moved to the DFW metroplex for college. I am a graduate of Dallas Baptist University, where I doubled-majored in English Education and Biblical Studies with a minor in Communication. I have also obtained my M. Ed. in Educational Leadership and Administration from Texas A&M Commerce. I hold a Texas Certification and Teaching License for English Language Arts grades 4-12. I have a private, public, and charter school background in education. This is my 10th year teaching and my 14th year working full-time with students. I have served students and families as a substitute teacher, paraprofessional, classroom teacher, coach, and Assistant Principal. I reside in Bedford, TX with my family of four – a wonderful, godly husband and two brilliant, spirited daughters ages 7 and 2.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a professional Broadway dancer.
Why do you choose to work at CCA? CCA is an answer to prayer for me and my family. Having spent many years in public education, I longed to be in a Christian environment where I would be challenged to grow not only in my profession, but also in my faith.
What is one fun fact about you? I have never broken a bone or been stung by a bee. I live a very charmed life. The Screwtape Letters; for its brilliance.
What is one thing that can instantly make your day better? Snow
What do you like to do for fun? Read a book, or watch a good a movie
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Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees oversee the continuing operation of CCA and generally oversee CCA’s business affairs. The responsibilities of the Board include policy governance, hiring and firing of the Head of School pursuant to other provisions of the Bylaws, strategic planning, establishing tuition and fees, promoting Christian education in the community, fundraising, and annually contributing to CCA.
Board Members serve for 3 years and may serve a second successive 3-year term.
Rachel Ballard – Alumni and Full-Time Parent. Attends Church at the Cross.
Aaron Cho – Chief Financial Officer, Eyemart Express. Attends Victory Church.
Jimbo Cross – Chief Development Officer, American Vision Partners. Attends White’s Chapel.
Mark Ganaway – General Director Forecasting and Strategic Planning, BNSF Railway. Attends 121 Community Church.
Corey Holtman (Chairman) – Co-Owner and Operator, Ranger Ridge Ranch. Attends Fellowship of the Parks Grapevine.
Ryan Longfield – Vice President of Revenue, Americas at Shopify. Attends Gateway Church
Chris Orona (Vice Chairman) – Senior Corporate Counsel, Kubota North America. Attends The Hills Church.
Dr. David Stroman – Physician. Attends Compass Christian Church.
Katie Tuttle – Former Educator and Full-Time Parent. Attends Compass Christian Church.
Emris Varghese – Head of Digital Programs, Fidelity Investments. Attends Countryside Bible Church.