Our Leadership Team
Heather Harrison
Head of School
For over 30 years, Mariners Christian School has partnered with parents to build a firm foundation through Christ-centered education. We are a distinctly Christian school dedicated to the continual pursuit of our core values to foster a deep Love for Christ, provide Exemplary Academics, build Connected Community, and promote a Culture of innovation with a purposeful Focus on the Whole Child. From transitional kindergarten through eighth grade, we desire for our students to thrive in every way as we provide an outstanding education with authentic spiritual development in a Christ-honoring environment.
At MCS we are passionate about discovering and nurturing the unique gifts of each child. Our highly skilled and dedicated faculty is committed to inspiring children to grow in who God has created them to be as they explore their God given gifts and talents, uncover the creativity inside of them, strengthen their ability to think critically and solve problems, and expand the necessary skills of communicating and collaborating with others. Our rigorous and comprehensive programs focus not only on learning but on developing skills, habits, and character that will shape them for a lifetime. Above all else, our entire staff is committed to encouraging students to building an authentic and personal relationship with Jesus Christ and this is our highest calling.
In this ever-changing and challenging world, it is vital that children know God’s truth, understand their identity lies in being a son or daughter of the King, mature in wisdom and knowledge, and grow in confidence in all God created them to be. Within the Mariners Christian School community of administration, faculty, staff, parents, and students are safe to learn and grow as they become difference makers for His kingdom.
I invite you to visit our campus, tour our classrooms, and personally discover the difference that a Mariners education can make in the life of a child.
In Him,
Heather Harrison
Head of School
Johanna Hendries
Elementary Principal
As a new member of the community at Mariners Christian School, I am deeply moved by the climate of God’s grace that radiates through our staff, leadership, and families, and it is an honor to lead and serve alongside a dedicated staff of faithful believers. Throughout this community, a generosity of spirit and an embodiment of Colossians 3:23, whole-hearted service unto the Lord, are on display, and it is inspiring! In this Christ-centered setting, it is clear that learning is rooted in faith first, accompanied by high standards of academic excellence, and I am excited to live out God’s plan for my service here. I am thankful that Mariners Christian School is a place where students, families, and staff are cherished as God’s masterpieces, encouraged to embrace their identities in Christ, and shine brightly for others to see!
At Mariners Christian School, learning begins with faith. Our mission, “Building a Firm Foundation through Christ-Centered Education,” is a daily commitment and sustained through our CORE values- Love for Christ, Exemplary Academics, Whole Child Focus, Connected Community, and Culture of Innovation. Within this connected community, we partner with parents to nurture the development of the whole child- spiritually, cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically- to meet the needs of all learners and celebrate their unique design.
At Mariners Christian School, a challenging curriculum is presented through appropriate use of technology, interactive strategies, engaging lessons, innovative opportunities, and creative exploration. Biblical integration is implemented to sharpen learning lenses, deepen our purpose, and ensure a Biblical worldview. As part of the educational process at Mariners Christian School, students are mentored to become critical thinkers, responsible leaders, community builders, and difference makers for Christ.
Through the application of Depth and Complexity, data-driven instruction, SEL learning, Student Support services, Lion’s Pact behavior management plan, and an ensemble of specialty classes, students are known, valued, and celebrated.
Mariners Christian School is a site-to-see. Our campus reflects our high standards and mirrors the excellence within- state-of-the-art classrooms, vibrant learning spaces, an interactive playground, a spacious sports field, and an atmosphere that inspires growth and joy. I invite you to visit and experience firsthand the grace-filled culture and Christ-centered community that makes Mariners Christian School truly extraordinary!
In His Love and Peace,
Johanna Hendries
Elementary Principal
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things”. Philippians 4:8
Kim DeAllen
Elementary Vice Principal
At Mariners Christian School, our love for Jesus is at the center of all we do. In our elementary program, this is shown through the way we shepherd children with care, begin each day in prayer, and encourage them to serve and love others. Our deepest desire is to see every student flourish in a Christ-honoring environment where their faith, learning, and character are strengthened daily.
Psalm 139 reminds us: “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” We believe each child is uniquely created by God, made in His image, with their own gifts and talents. At MCS, we foster those gifts through rich academic instruction, engaging programs like Maker Education, Art, and Music, and opportunities that inspire curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity.
Elementary is such a foundational chapter in each child’s story, and our goal is to help students build a strong love for Christ that is reflected in their character, relationships, and choices. We want every child to know they are deeply loved by Jesus, rooted in His truth, and secure in their identity as His child. Alongside academic excellence, we focus on nurturing the whole child—spiritually, socially, emotionally, and academically—so they grow in both confidence and compassion.
Mariners Christian is more than a school; it is a community where families and teachers come together to shape children into confident, compassionate followers of Christ, prepared for the journey ahead. It is my joy and honor to serve as the Elementary Vice Principal, and I am excited about the opportunity to partner with you in building a firm foundation of faith and learning that will last a lifetime.
In Him,
Kimberly DeAllen
Elementary Vice Principal
Jennifer Herrera
Middle School Principal
Mariners Christian Middle School is truly a unique place; a dynamic community of scholars, athletes, artists, and innovators all thriving as they develop their God-given abilities. Families and students at MCS become part of a Christ-Centered connected community where each student is inspired and encouraged towards excellence. With mentoring and encouragement, students become innovators, problem-solvers, collaborators, and difference makers for Christ! Whether focusing on academic excellence or discovering their God-given gifts, talents, and passion, students are encouraged and equipped and prepared to impact the world around them.
“Building a Firm Foundation through Christ-centered education” is not just a saying, but the heart of Mariners Christian Middle School. Through rigorous curriculum and intentional Biblical integration, students explore each content area through a lens that seeks to develop a deep understanding of God’s intentional design and purpose. Educators challenge and inspire students towards excellence through effective teaching, engaging applications, and meaningful connections in each content.
Mariners Christian Middle School is a distinctive and inspiring school environment that fosters a strong connected community and partnership between families and the school, all in support of the whole-child. Our commitment to ensure a firm foundation in Christ is spread through all parts of our school and lives of each child, creating an intentional foundation where every child is empowered towards excellence. Our middle school program seeks to provide a rich opportunity for students to explore areas of interest, deepen their passions in areas such as athletics, theater, instrumental, arts, and innovation, or engage in student life activities that build leadership skills and relationships. Students will cultivate the skills necessary to navigate an ever-shifting culture, preparing them to leave here ready and rooted in Christ.
Beyond all the achievements, honors, and success —from our committed and passionate faculty and staff, to our supportive community and families, and of course, our amazing students — It’s the people who make MCS truly unique!
We invite and encourage you to visit our beautiful campus and see more of how each core value is lived out daily in student’s school experiences. We can’t wait to welcome you to our campus!
Created in Him,
Jennifer Herrera
Middle School Principal
Jordan Brown
Middle School Vice Principal
When I say MCS, you say Lions! MCS…Lions! MCS…Lions!
Here at MCS, we have so much pride in our school. Not simply for the awesome sports teams we have, or the amazing teachers, or the incredible students, but because we know we are not just representing the bravery and leadership of a lion, but also striving to emulate the servitude and compassion of the Lion of Judah, Jesus Christ. It is my great privilege to model a faithful walk with Christ every day, shepherd their hearts, as well as prepare them academically as the Middle School Vice Principal.
Middle school is such a transformative experience, and at MCS, because we have a whole-child focus, we have been able to successfully assist students in their ability to navigate these influential years with patience, purpose, and prayer for over 30 years. Our talented team believes in teaching and training students to let their gifts shine in every area of their lives; whether it is writing an essay, finding solutions to real-world problems, putting their efforts into an athletic competition, creating engaging, meaningful entertainment, or meeting the needs of others via service. In middle school, our students have the opportunity to be “rooted and established in love” (Ephesians 3:17), so they can grow and be a witness to what God’s power can do with a humble heart full of purpose.
Through the guidance of following our core values, the middle school has created a rigorous academic program that allows students to persevere and strive for excellence academically in a manner that carefully and compassionately supports their development. By engaging in dynamic learning opportunities, our scholars will discover their spiritual gifts and talents, develop skills to be lifelong learners with a strong biblical perspective, and build upright character so they can lead as effective and impactful difference makers in our world.
Therefore, I invite you to come visit a community that I call home. I am excited for you to have the opportunity to learn more about our middle school, and witness for yourself how we don’t just have school spirit, but how we walk by the Spirit every day.
With Gratitude,
Jordan Brown
Middle School Vice Principal
Our Board of Trustees
The School Board is a dynamic group of volunteers committed to the success of the students, families, and faculty of Mariners Christian School. Their primary responsibilities are to set policy, assist in long-range planning, provide financial and legal oversight, serve as ambassadors for the school, and to hire, support, and evaluate the Head of School.
Board members are committed Christians who typically have experience in leadership and/or management, or prior leadership on non-profit boards. Members are carefully selected through a self-perpetuation process, and they reflect a balance in church affiliation, gender, age of children, home city, and professional background.
24-25 Board of Trustees
Kaley Brandon
Board Chair
Kaley and Chris Brandon have been married for twelve years and have two children at MCS: Gavin (Class of 2027) and Elle (Class of 2030). The Brandon family enjoys spending time with friends and family, being active in God’s creation, and reading. They attend Mariners Church in Irvine. After graduating from the University of Southern California, Kaley pursued a career in Sales and Sales Management. In 2009 she and her husband, Chris, founded Brandon Architects. Kaley has had the privilege of working alongside her husband since the company’s inception on the business management side of the firm. Though she is no longer active in day to day operations,
Kaley now enjoys supporting the firm in an advisory role. As an MCS parent, she has enjoyed volunteering in various roles on campus. Kaley has a heart for upholding the mission of MCS, building a connected parent community, and supporting the amazing teachers, faculty and staff. It is an honor for Kaley to serve MCS, a place that is His.
Jacob Clemons
Jacob and his wife Teri have been married for 13 years and have two daughters, Emily (MCS ’29) and Janie (MCS ’31). Jacob grew up in Colorado. He received his undergraduate in Business Management at Metro State University in Denver, CO, and received his MBA from Biola University. Jacob has been in upper-level management for 20 years in financial services and restaurant industries. He currently is the Director of Operations of Board & Brew and recently opened his own Board & Brew franchise in Ladera Ranch. He and his wife also serve on the board for MAVEN, a youth-focused worldview and apologetics training ministry. The Clemons family attends Grace Fellowship Church in Costa Mesa. They enjoy going to Disneyland and watching the Denver Broncos play. In the short time that they have been involved at Mariners Jacob and Teri have been so pleased that Christ is at the center of everything that is taught to the students.
Dr. Punita Christopher
Secretary
Punita and Vinod Jeyakaran have been married for fourteen years. Their daughters, Naomi (Class of 2025) and Selah (Class of 2028) joined MCS in 2021 when the Jeyakaran family moved to Orange County, and have truly been blessed to be a part of the community. In this season of their lives, they enjoy traveling and spending time together, building Lego or baking some treats! They attend Crossroads Community Church in Mission Viejo.
Punita was blessed to be born and raised in a loving, Christian home in India. After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, she moved to the US to pursue her PhD in Biomedical Engineering at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. After graduating, Punita moved to Southern California where she worked for over 13 years at Second Sight Medical Products helping restore vision in blind individuals. Since 2021, Punita has worked at Edwards Lifesciences in Irvine where her focus is on obtaining regulatory approval for early-stage cardiovascular medical devices for patients with heart disease. Punita is very passionate about helping people and is extremely grateful that her professional experience allows her to directly touch the lives of patients. Punita is also very involved in mentoring younger professionals at work.
Punita strongly supports Christian education, and has enjoyed getting to meet the wonderful teachers, faculty, and staff at MCS. Her favorite volunteer opportunity at MCS has been driving Naomi and her volleyball teammates to their games. The Jeyakaran family have been blessed by MCS, and Punita would love to give back and support the MCS Mission.
Joel Klatt
Joel and his wife Sara have been married for 19 years. They have three sons, Henry (MCS ’30), Sam (MCS ’33), and Theo (MCS ’35). Joel and his family attend Mariners Church where he serves as a Shepherding Elder. Born and raised in Colorado, Joel played two seasons of minor league baseball following high school in the San Diego Padres organization. After leaving baseball, he went to the University of Colorado to pursue his bachelor’s degree in economics. While at Colorado, Joel joined the football program as a walk-on and earned the starting quarterback role. A walk-on mentality, coupled with hard work and dedication, has aided him in his professional career. Joel began his career at FOX Sports in 2006 where he is the lead college football game analyst. He has had the opportunity to work with some of the best leaders in the country while covering the top CFB teams in America. This experience has taught him the art of effective communication and strong leadership. In Colossians 1:23 Paul encourages believers to “remain steadfast and grounded in the faith, not shifting away from the hope of the gospel you have heard.” Joel believes that staying grounded and steadfast in the faith is critical to avoid the slow drift that can eat at an organization, church, or school. It is his desire to help MCS remain true to its mission and values in order to build a firm foundation through Christ centered education and truly have a kingdom impact.
Milagro Maggette
Milagro is a God-fearing woman who desires to share the Love of Christ everywhere she goes. Milagro and Corey Maggette have been married 17 years and are the parents of 5 energetic children. Three currently attend MCS, Sofia ( 7th grade), Fiel (3rd grade), Miliana (kinder), Mila Coco 10 months and their oldest Sergio (12h grade) graduated from MCS. The Maggette’s love sports and being active, family movie night, spending time with friends, Maggette Basketball and getting donuts at their home church Mariners in Irvine.
Milagro attended Georgia Institute of Technology on a full ride scholarship for basketball. She graduated with a Bachelors in business. Milagro and Corey founded Maggette Basketball Association in 2013. They enjoy sharing their passion and knowledge of the game with the next generation with a spirit of excellence as unto the Lord. Milagro also works on the administrative side of the business utilizing her business degree.
Milagro loves getting on campus and serving whenever she is able to do so. She has a strong desire to support the mission of MCS and the spirit of excellence in which the school operates. Milagro is truly honored to serve MCS.
Joey Patierno
Joey and his wife Shaheena have been married for 15 years and are blessed with 3 children: Joyelle (1st grade), Jacob (Kindergarten) and Joseph (attending TK in the fall). Joey grew up in Southern California and received his undergraduate degree in Accountancy from the University of San Diego and his MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management. Joey is a licensed CPA and began his career as an external auditor at Ernst & Young before becoming a Manager in the firm’s Transaction Advisory Services group. He has held various managerial roles in accounting and finance over his career and is currently the Director of Global Business Planning at American Vanguard Corporation.
The Patierno family attends Mariners Church in Irvine. They enjoy being outdoors together, spending time with family and friends and cheering for the Angels at Angels Stadium. During their time at MCS, Joey and Shaheena have been encouraged to see the school’s desire to bring students into greater knowledge of who Jesus is and how much He loves us. Joey is honored to have the opportunity to serve MCS.