School Staff

Meet the faculty and staff of Paradise Adventist Academy. They serve the students and families of PAA with care and commitment fueled by their love for Christ and a desire to see young men and women reach their full potential.

Caleb Rasmussen

English, Photography/Cinematography, Yearbook

Education & Experience

Subjects Taught at PAA: English I, II, III, IV; Photography/Cinematography I, II
Graduate and Educational Certifications: Pacific Union College, Bachelor of Arts in English, 2008, Pacific Union College, Masters in Education 2012
15 Years of Educational Experience
“I’m passionate about teaching at PAA because it’s rewarding to lead students as they develop their talents and use them to serve God.”

Dane Bailey

Principal

Education & Experience

Subjects Taught at PAA: Religion III, IV
Graduate and Educational Certifications: Undergraduate degree in History from U.C. Berkeley, Educational Certification from Pacific Union College, Final year of completing Master’s program in Educational Leadership from Andrews University
26 Years of Educational Experience: 19 years as a 5th & 6th grade teacher, 2 years teaching a K-8 school, and 17 years as a school administrator.

David Goymer

Math, Physics

Education & Experience

Subjects Taught at PAA: Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Physics, PreCalculus, Soccer, Woodworking
Graduate and Educational Certifications: Degrees in Health Science & Theology
Educated in Calculus & Physics through Cambridge University, Walla Walla University, & Chico State University.
Professional Certification. Endorsements in multiple subjects including Biology, English, Health, History, Mathematics, & Physics
32 Years of Educational Experience in the U.S; 5 years teaching internationally
“I’m passionate about teaching at PAA because I wholeheartedly desire each student to realize their full potential, to acquire subject mastery, and to personally know that Jesus Christ is the Author of Life, salvation, and all knowledge. My favorite verses to remind of this are John 17:3, “This is eternal life that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ Who You have sent” and “I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me”. Philippians 4:13

Glenda Purdy

Administrative Assistant

Education & Experience

“I am passionate about working at PAA because I enjoy helping in any way I can. I love the energy and ideas involved in being around teenagers. Isaiah 40:30 & 31 says “Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Jason Eyer

Vice Principal, Physical Education, Athletic Director

Education & Experience

Subjects Taught at PAA: Geometry, Physical Education
Graduate and Educational Certifications: Bachelors of Science in Physical Education
SDA professional certificate with endorsements in Math and Religion
28 Years of Educational Experience
“I’m passionate about teaching at PAA because of the wonderful supportive families and the great students. One of my favorite Bible texts as an educator is Proverbs 16:3, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established”

Julie Ching

Registrar

Education & Experience

Graduate and Educational Certifications: Occupational Therapy, Bachelor of Science from Loma Linda University
“I am passionate about working at PAA because of the tremendous value and benefits that Adventist and Christian education have to offer. To be able to help guide high school students as they navigate challenges, set goals, and prepare for their transition to college is truly rewarding. It’s a pleasure to support and encourage students during an important stage of their lives and watch them grow academically, spiritually, and personally throughout their time at PAA. “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.” Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God will be with us throughout our journey in life.

Laura Maas

Science, Math

Education & Experience

Subjects Taught at PAA: Advanced Biology, Biology; Art I, II; Chemistry, Health, Physical Science
Graduate and Educational Certifications: Walla Walla University, Bachelor of Science and Masters in Education; Washington State, Certification in Chemistry and Science; NAD, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Integrated Science, and Jr. Academy Math
11 Years of Educational Experience
“I’m passionate about teaching at PAA because it is a family-like environment where students, parents, staff and community come together to learn, grow, build friendships and support one another, and demonstrate God’s love through each person’s unique personality and gifts.”

Monte Nystrom

Spanish I & II

Education & Experience

Subjects taught at PAA: Spanish I and Spanish II
Educational degree and Certifications: Bachelor’s degree at Walla Walla University
Master’s Degree at College of Idaho
42 years of educational experience
“I’m passionate about teaching at PAA because I believe that helping our youth grow towards the Kingdom of God is one of the most worthwhile things we can do during this life.”

Ronda Untersher

Choir Teacher

Sean McMurphy 

History Teacher

Education & Experience:

Subjects Taught at PAA: Religion I; Computers; World History; U.S. History; Government and Economics
Graduate and Educational Certifications: Walla Walla University, Bachelor in Education and History; Minor in Religious Studies
2 Years of Educational Experience
“I’m passionate about teaching at PAA because I get to use my God given talents to serve His children without having to exclude Him from the culture and curriculum, which is the ‘total package!’”