Meet our Founders!
Kat Wada - Co-Director
Hello! My name is Kat Wada. I am first and foremost a redeemed sinner saved by grace for God's glory. My husband Marcus and I have been married for 15 years and we have 6 wild but sweet children. Our lives are full but we wouldn't want it any other way. We are so thankful for the ups and downs that have shaped our walk with the Lord. We started homeschooling when I was a new believer in California and when my oldest was 5 years old. We were so blessed by wise friends and a community of other homeschoolers, The Lord knew we needed to be poured into in that season and I am forever grateful for those friends. We moved to Arizona in 2020 without the safety net of our mentors. The Lord grew us immensely as a family. In 2022, my 5th son, Zion, was diagnosed with Autism and we knew we had to make a change in our lives and especially our homeschool day. I searched for a way to accommodate his special needs into our current co-op and home but it wasn't working. I didn't want to separate our children during their days since we have such a short precious season with them. I wanted to be able to keep them together as much as I could. Lori Castillo, my wonderful co-director and I decided to try out our ideas with a soft open in Spring 2023. It was such a blessing to have all of our kids together learning in one place. We pray more than anything that our Branches Special Need class will be able to provide an enriching, appropriate, and loving environment that is enabled by our own love for the Lord, who loves and cares for his people. Solas Academy also wants to provide families with a strong pre-k-12th grade school. We want our families to be challenged and edified, our moms to grow and be encouraged when days are long. We have a special mom's time portion where we can be equipped so in turn will be able to pour into our children. We continually pray for our current students and future families to come to know the Lord. Leadership continually depends on God to give us wisdom as we make decisions for this Solas Academy. We are not here to take your place as an educator but rather help parents to be more present and excited to homeschool their own families with one day of instruction, electives, and a schedule to follow at home. We have schedules to follow along from home for new families or for families that need a little extra help in different seasons. We pray for a year filled with learning and fun! Check out our calendar and email us to visit or for any questions you may have.

Lori Castillo - Co-Director
Hello, my name is Lori Castillo, and I get the privilege of serving as the Solas Academy Co-Director. My hardworking husband Joe Castillo and I have four wonderful children: Ricky, Rey, Olivia and Ezra. As parents, we are committed to an education that is built on God's inherent word and a biblical worldview. We began our homeschooling journey in 2020 as many did, and the Lord opened doors that ultimately led to the beginning of Solas. It is vital for us as directors to provide an environment that is Christ honoring, Christ centered, and gospel focused. We are thankful for the opportunity to serve your families and support you throughout your time here at Solas Academy.

Meet our Teachers!
God has blessed us with an amazing staff of teachers that love the Lord and empower children to grow at their own pace and honor the Lord.

Mrs. Chelsea Boersema
Math Teacher
Hi! My name is Chelsea Boersema, and I am beyond blessed to be teaching math for Buds, Leaves, Stems, and Shoots this year at Solas! I taught third and fourth grade in Arizona public schools before staying home with my three children, and I truly cannot wait to be back in the classroom! I currently homeschool my oldest, and it has been such a joy and blessing to discover the freedom and beauty of educating him at home. I love connecting with students and creating a classroom where learning is engaging, encouraging, and fun. As I prepare for this year, I have been meditating on Ephesians 4:1–3: “Walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” I am so grateful to the Father for allowing me to fulfill the calling He has placed on my life. My prayer is that I would teach in a way that honors Him and brings glory to His kingdom. I would be nothing without Him, and I pray that each precious child I have the privilege of knowing this year will come to know His love above all else—and maybe even discover that math is pretty fun, too.

Mrs. Christie Brooks
Sprouts Teacher
I was born in Illinois and have lived in Gilbert, Arizona, with my husband since 1994. Together, we have been blessed with a wonderful family that includes two daughters, a son, a daughter-in-law, two sons-in-law, and two granddaughters. I enjoy spending time with my family, scrapbooking (both paper and digital), kayaking, and working with students both in the classroom and in Sunday School. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University and my Master’s degree in Educational Technology from Boise State University. I have taught a variety of grade levels and subjects, including Discovery Science and reading intervention in a traditional school setting for six years. I also spent seven years teaching grades 3–6 in a virtual school, where I worked closely with students in reading and math intervention groups. In addition, I have had the privilege of teaching Sunday School at Gateway Fellowship for more than 13 years. I am excited to work with students at Solas Academy, helping them explore new ideas, discover their God-given strengths, and grow in both their academic abilities and their knowledge of Jesus.

Mrs. Julia Brooks
Robotics and Math Teacher
My name is Julia and I get the pleasure of pouring into the next generation through Robotics and Vines Math. I'm seeking to encourage students to cultivate an engineering mindset and to develop an appreciation for the work of the master engineer which is God. I was saved by the grace of God alone through the work of Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect life yet died a sinner's death on my behalf. By faith I live in light of the truth that I am hidden in Christ! And rely on him daily for mercy, for spiritual growth, and to accomplish the work he has made for me today. Favorite verse: “The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness”. -Exodus 34:6

Mrs. Brittanie Cutkosky
Adventure Club Teacher
I am excited and honored to help teach Adventure Bible club! I love helping children learn and memorize scripture through fun activities,movement, songs, repetition, and lots of engagement. In the past, I have taught grammar level classes through Classical Conversations as well as science classes at another co-op. I currently homeschool my three children and personally enjoy scripture memorization, having memorized the book of Philippians and currently working through James. I look forward to having fun together while growing in God‘s word!

Mrs. Lexi Dominguez
Branches and Trellis Teacher
Hi my name is Lexi Dominguez, and as someone who was not homeschooled, the ability to educate and participate in learning alongside my own children and my students has been a tremendous joy and blessing the last 4 years. Which is why I am thrilled to continue the adventure working with our Branches and Trellis programs. As a mother of special needs, these students are dear to me at a personal level. With each child having been made beautifully in His image (Psalm 139:13-14), my heart to meet them in their individualized learning styles and needs is a fun and rewarding journey that I am looking forward to embarking on with each student and family. I take a wholistic approach to all my students encouraging them to use their entire self (body, mind, and soul). I truly enjoy building sensory rich environments and curriculum that engage them at every angle. With a masters degree in Biblical Counseling, I have a firm aim to point these hearts towards Christ (Acts 4:12) and support families as they navigate special needs within their homes. It is a gift to do that through teaching and I look forward to what God has in store for this upcoming year.

Mrs. Julia Frohlich
Administrative Assistant / Journalism and Yearbook Teacher
My name is Julia Frohlich and I give my Savior Jesus Christ all the praise and glory due His name! I am so thankful Jesus saved me from my sins and has given me a new life in Him. I have been married for 19 years to my sweet husband Bobby. I was born in Oregon and moved to Washington for college until moving to Arizona in 2022. I have a Communications degree which I have used in Human Resources positions. I have two beautiful daughters, Aubrey and Keira. I have been homeschooling for 12 years. I am excited to teach the Journalism and Yearbook class this year and to see the students grow in their love for writing articles, improve in their interview skills, and use their creativity in creating the newsletters and school yearbook. I am also the administrator for Solas and have enjoyed being able to help our wonderful directors continue to serve and love our Solas families and community. I enjoy spending time with my family, playing games and sports, hiking, going for walks and jogs, reading, singing and time in fellowship. I look forward to continuing to see God work through Solas and I pray more are brought into God’s family. “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.” 1 Peter 4:10

Ms. Faith Johnson
History, Memoryography, Grammar/Spelling and Entrepreneurship
My name is Faith Johnson, and I have the privilege of teaching across multiple grade levels here at Solas Academy. If you had asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would have answered, “A teacher.” It truly feels like a gift from the Lord that I get to live out that dream every day. I graduated from Colorado Christian University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. After college, I taught for four years primarily in third grade. This past year, I served as the Kids Director at Christ Church Mesa, but the Lord clearly placed it on my heart to return to the classroom. I am so grateful for His direction and guidance in leading me to Solas Academy. He is the ultimate provider of all our needs, and I am excited to see how He continues to work in this new season. When I’m not teaching, you’ll probably find me painting, playing pickleball with friends, traveling with my family, or serving at my church. I can’t wait to meet your family and partner with you in your child’s education. It is a joy and privilege to help students grow academically while pointing them to the truth of God’s Word. One of my favorite passages as I think about teaching the next generation is Psalm 145:3–5: “Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.” My prayer is that together we would praise the Lord, faithfully pass His truth on to the next generation, and watch Him work in the hearts and lives of our students.

Mrs. Riley Jones
Literature and Writing Teacher
My name is Rylie Jones, and I will be teaching Literature and Composition this year across multiple grade levels. Growing up in California, alongside my two younger siblings, I received a classical Christian education, which God used to develop my love of reading and writing. In 2023, I graduated from The Master’s University with my B.A. in Spoken Communication. During my time at TMU, I learned how to study literature through a biblical lens and developed my skills in debate, as well as persuasive and creative writing. After graduation, I followed my family to Gilbert, AZ, where I met my husband, Noah. For the past two years, I have been working for Great Hearts Academies as an Assistant Teacher (2023-2025) and Art/PE Teacher(2024-2025) for grades K-6. I am thrilled to begin teaching at Solas, pointing students to Christ and supporting parents in the education of their children. “Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” Jude 24-25

Mrs. Ali Kilgore
Literature Teacher
Hi! I’m Ali Kilgore, and I’m so excited to be part of the SOLAS Academy! I’m a wife, mom of three, and longtime homeschool mom who has spent the past 14 years teaching and raising my children. I have a genuine love for kids and believe some of the best learning happens when they feel known, encouraged, and excited to participate. I love bringing creativity, conversation, and hands-on activities into the classroom while helping students grow in confidence and curiosity. Most importantly, my faith in Christ is the foundation of my life and the way I approach teaching. My hope is to encourage students not only academically, but also in character and in their love for what is true, and good. When I’m not teaching, you’ll usually find me with my husband and our three kids, serving in our church, or dreaming up my next project!

Mrs. Brie Olvey
Science and Math Teacher
Hello! My name is Brie Olvey, and I am delighted to continue teaching math and science at Solas this year. I was raised as a believer in Christ and know that it is only by His grace that we are redeemed. This will be my 10th year in education, and I have taught students from 1st grade to college level as a private tutor, and have taught science and intervention math in a traditional classroom setting. In 2017, I graduated from ASU with a Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Bioscience and Biotechnology, and in 2021 from GCU with a Master’s degree in Secondary Education. My husband Taylor and I have been married for 8 years, and we have three beautiful children. Our eldest, Eliza, went home to be with the Lord 5 years ago at 11 months old. Our middle child, Lily, is 3, and our youngest, Liam, is 8 months old. Outside of teaching, I love spending time with my family, reading, sewing, crocheting, and hiking when the weather is nice! I am looking forward to seeing what the Lord is going to do in our students this year!

Mrs. Aly Padrnos
Geography/Memoryography Teacher
My name is Aly and I’m so grateful for the steadfast love of my Savior who saved a sinner like me! I’m a mama, and specifically a homeschool mama, of my three children. I’ve been homeschooling for fourteen years, and along with Christ being our foundation, it has become a central part of our families identity and a huge source of joy. I’m so excited to get to teach more friends at Solas now alongside my own kids!

Mrs. Sarah Robbins
History and Debate Teacher
Hi, I'm Sarah Robbins. I'm excited to be teaching at Solas this year. I'm a former classroom teacher and current homeschooling mom with 20+ years of experience in education. I'll be teaching history and debate this year from a Classical and Charlotte Mason perspective. I'm an Arizona native who moved away for a decade to travel all over the country with my family and then moved back a few years ago. I have four awesome kids. In my free time, I enjoy running, reading, and eating tacos.

Mrs. Noelle Rymer
Science, Adventure Club and Great Artists Teacher
My name is Noelle Rymer, and I have had a passion for teaching, science, and homeschooling for as long as I can remember. I was homeschooled for the majority of my childhood, and I could not be more grateful for the education I received. I feel privileged to be teaching science for the stems and vines, as I have always had a heart for creation and the beautiful world our God has created. I believe understanding God as our Creator is fundamental to studying the world around us and pivotal to one’s understanding of the gospel. As such, I seek to magnify Him in my teaching and provide an environment where students are as excited to learn about His creation as I am. As Roman 1:20 says, if we have witnessed His creation, we are without excuse if we fail to offer Him the recognition and praise He so clearly deserves. Favorite verse: Luke 12:24 "Consider the ravens: they do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn, and yet God feeds them. How much more valuable you are than the birds!"

Mrs. Patty Tyler
Spanish Teacher
My name is Patricia Tyler, but everyone calls me Patty. I have been adopted in God's family by the grace and love of Jesus Christ. He gave me a love of learning which I am forever grateful. Since I remember, I have been in a school related environment. Either because I was a student or I was teaching. I have been married to my husband Brady for almost 23 years. Even before we had kids, we knew we wanted to homeschool them, so I have been in the homeschool world more than 15 years. We are a family of four, we have two boys, Jared and Owen. My husband works from home, and I am a happy stay-at-home mom, always serving my homeschool communities and my church in one way or another, but mostly by teaching in some way. I am so excited to teach Spanish to the students at Solas Academy. I am looking forward to getting to know the students and their families. I know we will have fun learning together!

Mrs. Anne Zellers
Adventure Club and Homeroom Teacher
Hello! My name is Anne Zellers and I am so excited and honored to be teaching both the Shoots Adventure Club and the Buds Homeroom class this year. My husband, Tim, and I have been married for 15 years, and together we have four amazing children. For the past five years, I have had the joy of homeschooling our family. Since I was homeschooled myself until my junior year of high school, I have experienced firsthand the rich blessings of a Christ-centered education and am grateful to now be part of that same journey with other families. Over the years, the Lord has given me wonderful opportunities to teach children, from serving at a children's Bible camp in Australia to working as an assistant director at a Christian preschool here in the Valley. One of my greatest joys is seeing children experience those "lightbulb moments" as they grow in their understanding of God's Word. My prayer is that my classrooms will be places where students learn that God's Word is sufficient for every part of life. Scripture teaches that God "has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3) and that "all Scripture is God-breathed and profitable" (2 Timothy 3:16–17). My desire is to help students see that the Bible is not simply a book of stories, but God's living and trustworthy Word that provides wisdom, hope, and truth for every question they will face. Most importantly, I give all praise and glory to my Lord and Savior for His saving work in my life and for His steadfast love and faithfulness. It is only by His grace that I have the privilege of sharing His truth with the next generation. I can't wait to learn and grow alongside your children this year!
