Joann comes to the Children’s Department with a BS in Elementary Education with an Early
Childhood Education endorsement from Taylor University (1984), a year of postgraduate
studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School focusing on biblical studies and discipleship (1987-
1988), 19 years of missions experience in Eastern Europe and Bolivia, and 16 years of
homeschooling experience.
Joann met her husband Rusty in Bulgaria, where they continued to serve together after being
married in 1994. Joann homeschooled their children as well as participated in ministry outside
the home as they transitioned from Bulgaria to Texas to Bolivia and back to Texas.
Joann has a passion for teaching biblical truths and godly living to children. A systematic and
chronological study through the Bible permeates our children’s department. One can also find
much emphasis on godly character and holy living as truths of the Word of God are applied to
everyday life.