All of our teachers, staff, and volunteers are fully vetted (DOJ-FBI)
Teachers, Staff & Volunteers
Nancy Danelson TK - 8th Teacher / school principal
I've been teaching for over 30 years. After struggling with God, I graduated from Union College with a Bachelor of Science in Education and from the University of Phoenix with a Master’s in Technology in Education. With a love for learning, teaching was definitely something I could excel at. I am the Ridgecrest Adventist Elementary Principal and the TK -8th grade teacher. I'm known to most as simply Ms. D.
I am a native to California having grown up in Southern California my entire young life. I went to Newbury Park Academy and later went to Union College. Growing up Adventist, my relationship with God has only blossomed bigger, brighter every day through the smiles of the children she helps grow closer to God and learn more about our world. My favorite thing is to hear back from past students about how well they are doing and how close to God they are because I was part of their lives.
Aside from teaching, I love to camp. Camping takes me away from the hustle and bustle of life to somewhere amazing, somewhere created by God instead of man, nature. In what little free time I have, I love to read because it takes me to so many different places and times, a dream come true for a teacher who puts everything into helping students grow.
Martha Morales Administrative Assistant
My name is Martha Morales, and I am the Administrative Assistant at Ridgecrest Adventist Elementary School. I’ve been with the school since February 2024, and I truly believe in the purpose of our Seventh-day Adventist schools. I have a strong belief in the creation story — the complexity and design of the human body and the world around us are too intricate to have come about by chance. I’m passionate about my family, my hobbies, and traveling. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the amazing staff and students at RAE, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in our community.
laryssa primo TK-2 teacher's assistant
I’m currently an Education major with a passion for creating engaging and inclusive learning environments. I moved to Ridgecrest in 2022 after marrying my wonderful husband, and it's been an adventure ever since! Outside of the classroom, you can usually catch me blasting my favorite tunes while driving around, getting lost in a good book, or hunting for the latest blind boxes to add to my collection. Disney movies are my go-to comfort, and I’ll never say no to a good rewatch session. I believe in finding joy in the little things and bringing that positivity into everything I do!
Elena tores Teachers aide 1-8
I’m a lifelong learner who loves to drive, discover new skills, and help others spread kindness. I enjoy diving into new experiences, whether it's making natural handmade soaps or keeping my home organized. Previously, I taught Sabbath school in Spanish for kindergarten, primary, and junior children—a role that deepened my love for working with kids. An animal lover at heart, I have a special place in my heart for dogs. Nature is my sanctuary, where I find peace listening to waterfalls and swimming in natural waters. I stand firmly against any form of abuse, advocating for respect and kindness toward both people and animals.
Dyan Frohlich home and school
I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from La Sierra University (2008). My husband and I moved to Ridgecrest in 2010 and have two beautiful daughters who keep us busy all day. We enjoy going on bike rides, walks around the park, and the occasional picnics in our yard. We also don't mind staying at home reading a book with the kids or relaxing with a movie.
Evangeline Defluiter Music Director
My name is Evangeline Ellen deFluiter, but my nickname is Hud which is short for Hud-a-bud. That is what I was always called by my family when I was growing up. I am the baby of my parents four girls.
I grew up knowing that I was going to be a math teacher, but instead God has had me teaching music for the past 20 years.
I love hiking, waterskiing, rock climbing, camping (as long as I have an air mattress). I also love reading and cooking and almost anything to do with music. I mostly like being involved. I want God to guide my steps while I am here on earth, and I want Him to come soon to take me home.
Dave Calvert Robotics Instructor
Henry frohlich Robotics Instructor
Michael Bowlin Robotics assistant Instructor
My name is Michael Bowlin, and I grew up in Tehachapi, CA. I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, which laid the foundation for my career in engineering. In 2016, I joined the Naval Surface Warfare Center, where I've been working ever since. For the past eight years, I've had the privilege of serving as a program manager, overseeing various engineering projects and collaborating with a talented team to drive innovation.
Outside of work, I’m passionate about spending time in nature. I enjoy a good hike through the wilderness, camping in the woods, and skiing the fresh snow up in the high mountains. These activities provide me with a sense of peace and adventure.
In May 2024, I took a significant step in my spiritual journey and was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church. This decision has been a meaningful part of my life, and I'm excited to continue growing in my faith
Jeremy Rood Robotics assistant Instructor
My name is Jeremy Rood, I was born and raised in Walla Walla, WA, a similar sized town and isolation compared to Ridgecrest. I obtained my BSE with a concentration in Mechanical Engineering at Walla Walla University, and also where I met my wife, Kristiana. We then spent 5 years in Loma Linda for Kristiana to continue her education while I started working on base. This meant I had to drive back and forth between Ridgecrest for work and Loma Linda to see my family. When our son Landon was born in Loma Linda, the importance of having my family all in one place became clear. Once Kristiana graduated, we made the move to Ridgecrest, and we’ve been incredibly happy to call it home.! In the evenings I like to show Landon the wonders of the world that can be discovered through STEM projects, or he helps me fix the cars that always seem to be breaking.
Pastor Brad Traxler Chaplain
I’m Brad Traxler, the loving husband of Cheryl for 45 years and the proud father of Kimberly and Ryan. I hold a BA in Theology and have had the privilege of pastoring churches for over 25 years. Throughout my ministry, my greatest passion has been sharing the love of Jesus with others. My dedication to faith and service has been a guiding force in both my personal and professional life. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve in my community and look forward to continuing my work in spreading hope and inspiration.
Dina Morales Janitor
My name is Dina Morales, and I’m a devoted member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church who believes strongly in the unity of families. I’m passionate about cooking, card making, and decorating events, and I find joy in expressing my creativity through these hobbies. I made sure all four of my children attended Adventist academies, and I deeply value the importance of Seventh-day Adventist education. I advocate for all families to provide their children with the opportunity to attend Adventist schools around the world, nurturing both their faith and academic growth.
