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Alumni Stories

Since its inception in 1978, College Heights Christian School has graduated and sent out over 1100 servant-leaders into the world, continuously fulfilling the school's mission of glorifying God through excellence as a Christ-centered learning environment that produces servant-leaders with a Biblical worldview. Our alumni are not only ministers, missionaries, worship leaders, and evangelists, but also scientists, educators, retailers, servicemen and women, doctors, and parents who are daily making a positive difference in the lives of their families, co-workers, and communities. We are proud of their dedication to God, home, and country.

John (‘88) and Leah (‘87) Blankenship - CHCS Teachers - Joplin, Missouri

John and Leah Blankenship have a long association with College Heights. Having met as high school students, they developed a friendship as they bonded over sports. After graduation, they obtained their teaching degrees, got married, and returned to College Heights as teachers where they’ve been since the early 90’s. They love serving at College Heights because they want to make an impact on kids and serve Jesus. They love the atmosphere, their coworkers and the uplifting and encouraging environment. John teaches high school Bible, and Leah teaches second grade.

Brian Jennings (‘93) - Minister and Author

Brian fondly remembers being taught, “Read till you bleed” at College Heights. No doubt that led to his love for writing. Now a published author, his books include Lead Your Family and Dancing in No Man’s Land. He states, “CHCS prepared me to think, write, speak and study.” After graduating from Ozark Christian College with a Bachelor's degree in Theology, he moved to Tulsa to preach at Highland Park Christian Church, the church he is still ministering at today. He is married to Beth and they have four children. Brian serves on the Board of Directors for Blackbox International (help for trafficked boys) and Ozark Christian College. You can find out more about his books at brianjenningsblog.com.

Madison (Hart) Lyonhart (‘07) - Program Coordinator - Cambridge, United Kingdom

Madison credits her years at College Heights for instilling a love of History, as well as a solid foundation in reading and writing. After receiving an undergraduate degree from Ozark Christian College, she went on to receive her Master’s in Theology degree with a concentration in Church History from Regent College. Now married and a mother to twins, Madison has served alongside her husband, Jonathan, in various ministries. They currently live in Cambridge in the United Kingdom where Madison works for her church, St. Edward King and Martyr, as Jonathan pursues his PhD.

David Calandro (‘11) - Wildlife Biologist, Tampa, Florida

David developed his love for science through the academic rigor and personal attention of teachers that College Heights provided. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Missouri with dual degrees in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences and also in Forestry. While in college, he was instrumental in starting a statewide program, the Missouri Collegiate Conservation Alliance, as well as serving on several committees and boards related to these industries. At the same time, he served in the Army National Guard for six years earning the rank of Sergeant. David is quick to point out some of the greatest lessons he learned at College Heights were spiritual in nature. He credits the scripture memorization and study of the Bible as foundational in forming who he is today.