Instructors
Ms. Heather Amann
I was Homeschooled, became a teacher, married my husband Joey, have taught both public and private school for about 10 years, and have two daughters. I have been homeschooling since 2016. I taught both of my girls to read and love phonics! I love singing and know it is one of the easiest ways to memorize information. I believe in the Golden Rule and asking the Question-What would Jesus Do? I praise God for this Church and Homeschool Ministry and am grateful for the opportunity to teach preschool and care for the children here!
Ms. Angie Anderson
Well, hello!
My name is Angie Anderson. I’m a homeschooling mom of five and wife to one, and the 2026–2027 school year will be my 12th year homeschooling. I’ve also been teaching with Biltmore since 2018 (with one tiny pause while cuddling my preemie during COVID!).
I’m originally from Charleston, SC, and have called Asheville home for the past 11 years.
When I’m not teaching or washing what feels like an endless number of dishes, I’m usually diving into something creative—crocheting, baking, reading, or listening to an audiobook while washing the dishes. I’m a self-proclaimed bookworm and a bit of a serial audiobook listener, and I truly love sharing that joy of learning, creativity, and stories with my own kids and my students. I love to show everyone I meet that stories- whether fiction, nonfiction, or everything in between have a special magic about them; they stretch us, root us in truth, and gently reveal God’s heart along the way.
More than anything, I love helping kids see that they don’t have to wait until they’re “good” at something to begin. Success doesn’t belong to perfection—it lives in the trying. I believe we are all artists, writers, leaders, and readers… we just have to be brave enough to pick up the tools.
I’m so excited for another year of learning together!
Ms. Caroline Bellamy
Hi! My name is Caroline Bellamy and I am so excited to be teaching at Biltmore for my second year. I am a nurse and esthetician by trade and have been teaching in many different capacities since we began our homeschooling journey in 2021. When I am not teaching I am running my in-home care agency, helping my husband with our 3 barber shops, or chasing farm animals around our property. We have a very full and blessed life! I am heavily involved in my church and am also the troop leader for American Heritage Girls troop NC0610. As a family we like to go to Comicons and nerd out! I look forward to getting to know you and your family as the year progresses and to learn along with them.
Dr. Trish Brostrom
As a former collegiate professor and most recently on our 7th year of homeschooling, I am extremely passionate about hands-on, dynamic teaching. I love to encourage students to love learning by using movement learning games, focusing on enhacing critical thinking, and always with a Biblical foundation. I am a wife of almost 20 years to my best friend, the mother of 3 daughters, and most importantly a child of God. I love to serve my church by leading music and drama with the K-6th graders and helping out with AWANA. I earned my Bachelors degree in biology in 2004 at Grace College and Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana and my Doctorate degree in 2008 at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ. I love to travel and discover new things. In my free time, I enjoy snuggling up with my family, playing family board games (Sequence and Ticket to Ride are family favorites), going on bike rides, and of course watching Hallmark / GAF movies. I am so blessed and honored to be apart of this wonderful homeschool ministry.
Mrs. Megan Corona
I am excited to be joining Biltmore Homeschool Christian Ministries to teach American Sign Language and Earth Science. I love helping students explore God’s creation through science while also learning new ways to communicate and connect with others through ASL.
I grew up in Temecula, California in a Christian family and have been involved in church for as long as I can remember. I graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a degree in Allied Health Science and a minor in Biblical Studies. During college, I spent five summers working as a camp counselor at Forest Home Christian Camps. I primarily worked with Family Camp and also participated in outreach programs that partnered with churches in low-income neighborhoods.
I have been involved in children’s ministry for many years and have taught Sunday school for the past five years at Living Stones. My family and I currently attend Alabaster Church here in Asheville.
Before moving into homeschool education, I spent five years teaching in the classroom. I taught middle school science for one year and then taught high school Environmental Science, Biology, and AVID for four years. I enjoy helping students become curious about the natural world and see the complexity and beauty of God’s creation.
I have studied American Sign Language for six years and have attended several Deaf community events. I enjoy sharing ASL with students and helping them learn about Deaf culture and communication.
I am married to my husband, David, who serves as a chaplain. We have a toddler son and are expecting a baby girl this year. After living in Carson City, Nevada for the past four years, our family recently moved to Asheville this winter, and we are grateful to be part of this community.
Rev. Gerard Freeman
Rev. Fr. Gerard Vincent Freeman, M. Min
Gerard was born the 12th child in a large musical family. After performing professionally at age 17, Gerard was invited to and saved at a youth camp in 1981. After returning from that camp he dedicated all his talents to the Lord. He has since ministered extensively in the U.S. and abroad as an evangelist, performing artist, youth pastor, teacher, and camp director. He is an instructor in voice and other instruments. He holds a master’s degree in ministry from St. Michael’s Seminary and is an ordained priest in the Charismatic Episcopal Church.
He has written two music courses, Fun Guitar and Ease at the Keys, and many Christian songs in various styles. He and his wife Ingrid have three adult, married children, Susan, Cherie, and Vincent. They have been blessed with 6 Grandchildren.
Credentials:
Private Trumpet and Guitar Instructor, Pensacola, Florida
Previous Private Instructor, Piano, Guitar, Trumpet, Voice, Bass; Asheville Christian Academy
Mountain Messenger VBS Camp, writer and director
Alabare’ Music Camp Director, uniting Spanish and English-speaking congregations
Director of Gifted for God’s Glory; week-long seminar encouraging creativity
Ease at the Keys keyboard seminars
Youth Pastor, 1987 - present
Teaches guitar and keyboard at Biltmore Church Home School Association.
Taught choir and various instruments at New City Christian School, Emmanuel Lutheran, and Asheville Christian Academy (private).
Written and directed 5 biblical, musical, and dance dramas in conjunction with In His Steps Dance Ministry.
Other Skills:
Written and recorded audio and visual plays.
Works with outreach teams in indoor/outdoor events, such as running sound and video.
Studio productions.
Worked extensively in the creative arts: products and services.
Website: www.hofmin.com E-mail gvfreeman2@gmail.com
cell 828.301.1199
Ms. Taylor Gregg
Hi!! My name is Taylor Gregg, and I am a mother of three boys, a business owner of Chestnut Ridge, and—by God’s calling and grace—a homeschool mom. Homeschooling wasn’t my natural desire, but God convicted me to take this path—not just for my children, but also for me. I was longing for a deeper connection with my children and desperately wanted to bring them up in Christ, and so my calling began.
I have absolutely loved teaching my children and, along the way, discovered a second love for teaching while serving as a substitute for Biltmore Co-op. While I am a businesswoman through and through, I am super excited to step into the role of a teacher this year. My family loves to travel, and I can’t wait to share different parts of the world with your children through geography.
Mrs. Samantha Heath
Samantha Heath is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach and advocate for learning practical self defense. Alongside her family, she helps lead Blue Ridge Jiu Jitsu in Mills River, where the focus goes far beyond sport. Emphasizing character, discipline, and real-world readiness.
Her journey in Jiu Jitsu began over a decade ago when she met her husband who is now a Royce Gracie black belt. What started as personal training quickly grew into a deeper calling to help others, especially women and children, discover the confidence that comes from understanding leverage, control, and composure under pressure in high-stress situations.
At Blue Ridge Jiu Jitsu, Samantha works extensively with their youth programs (ages 3-12) and beginners, helping students develop resilience, humility, and respect through the art. She believes Jiu Jitsu is one of the most powerful tools for building both physical capability and strong character.
Faith is the foundation that shapes how she approaches both life and Jiu Jitsu. As a Christian, she believes the discipline, humility, and perseverance learned on the mats reflects and strengthens biblical purpose.
Ms. Amanda Henderson
I have been married to my husband, Andrew, for 18 years. We have two boys, Jacob (13) and Jonathan (7). My husband and I are both Haywood Co. natives, and this is still home to us today. We are actively involved in our church, Antioch Baptist Church in Waynesville. I have homeschooled for 9 years, and during this time, my boys have attended Biltmore Homeschool Group. I have undergraduate degrees in Elementary Education and Psychology from Meredith College in Raleigh. I am certified in reading in grades K-12. I have a masters degree in Elementary Education and a masters in School Administration from Western Carolina University. I am an instructor in the College of Education at Western Carolina University and teach in the Birth to Kindergarten Program. I am also the owner of Time to Travel, a travel agency that is based out of WNC. I grew up on a farm, and agriculture is a huge part of our lives to this day. When my boys finish with their schoolwork, they run off to help their grandfather on the farm. As a family, we love to travel. We spend all our spare time traveling the world and seeking new adventures. We also spend quite a bit of time at Disney. The world is our classroom, and we fully embrace the motto: "Learning is Living and Living is Learning."
I am looking forward to getting to know all the new kiddos and parents that enter my classroom!
Mr. Mike Herring
Greetings y'all. I am a retired pastor and former U.S. Army Chaplain, I attended CSUSB in California graduating with a B.A. degree in History with an emphasis on Russian and Chinese History. I also earned an MDIV. degree from Western Theological Seminary in Michigan. While in the Army I served as a Chaplain in mostly airborne units including Special Operations, Special Forces, and Army Intellegence and completed numerous deployments in the Middle East. My wife and I love hiking and travel; we were fortunate to lived in Germany for three years. History has always been one of my greatest passions, after my wife, family, and popcorn.
Ms. Rebekah Journey
Rebekah Journey, has her Masters in Public Health and studies cyber safety for fun. She has had the privilege of homeschooling her children part-time and full-time since 2014! We are a neurodiverse family and we laugh, pray, sing and dance through it all!!! She looks forward to meeting your family and learning from each other!!!
And if you really want to know... LOL
Rebekah is a published author of Cambodia and Panama's first and only Human Trafficking Prevention Notebook “Safety with Sopheap”. She has served Stateside and abroad with survivors, assisting in developing policy and procedures for safe homes, leading retreats to house parents and workers for self care and burnout prevention. She is honored to have served as a volunteer for over 15 years. Rebekah has been at the front lines of public health anti-violence advocacy prevention and education for over 25 years. She was formerly the CEO of Legacy of Hope International, INC., with Trafficking in American Task Force leading the “Sister Walk” Initiative as well as assisting in Law Enforcement Training's. Rebekah has also had the honor of working alongside Salvation Army, Rescue Mission, On Eagles Wings, Child Helpline, Chab Dai Coalition, Love146, Rapha House, as well as Teen Challenge. She has developed and led many training's for college professors, social workers, students of all ages, as well as medical personnel on equality, equity, and disparities within our society that lead to unhealthy relationships; familial trafficking/abuse. Rebekah currently serves on the Life 107 Board and one of the founding leaders of NC Demand Reduction Taskforce. Like many in the field of public health profession Rebekah is best described as an impatient optimist that drives Hope home in every relationship.
Ms. Carrie Knapp
Carrie has called Asheville home for the past 22 years. She and her husband have five children and attended their first homeschool conference over 18 years ago. She and her family enjoy hiking in the Blue Ridge mountains, camping, and bear watching in their backyard. They have graduated two kids from homeschooling, two from the public school system and is currently homeschooling their fifth child.
Carrie earned a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from the University of Arizona and a master's degree in Occupational Therapy at Colorado State University. This is her 6th year teaching for the Biltmore homeschool ministry.
Ms. Susan Marshall
I am Susan Marshall, a former homeschool mom of 20+ years. My husband and I homeschooled our 4 children here in Asheville for the main purpose of leading them to Christ. They are all married believers and we have many grandchildren, most of whom are being homeschooled. I am a former public and private school teacher in SC and NC. I volunteered and was a substitute teacher at New City Christian School for 15 years. I am an active member of Trinity Presbyterian Church where I have taught Children's Sunday School and lead Women's Bible studies. I have been a student of God's word under many faithful pastors and teachers.
I am also a seamstress. I love to sew and have years of experience in garment making, embroidery (both hand and machine), smocking, quilting, accessories, home fashion and whatever I'm asked to do.
Ms. Sarah McKinney
Hello! I’m Sarah McKinney and I absolutely love art. I hold a degree in K-12 Art Education, and while I love working with kids of all ages, middle and high schoolers are my favorite age group. While homeschooling my own children has always been in my heart, we have only been homeschooling for about three years now.
I grew up outside of Washington D.C. in a small town called Spotsylvania, VA. (Fun fact about my hometown: Chick-fil-a sauce was invented at our local Chick-fil-a in the mall, and for a long while was only available in 3 local stores around town!) My husband and I have 3 kids, ages 12, 10, and 8! We love to travel, hike, and play board games.
I really look forward to meeting you or having you in my class again!
Mrs. Mary Beth Mehaffey
I'm a mom to three fun loving daughters, married for 11 years this year and we are in a fifth year of homeschooling, and fifth year with Biltmore. I am so excited to be able to have the opportunity to teach again this upcoming 2026-2027 year.
A little bit about me, In 2016 I started working at Chick-fil-A, I started as crew and moved up to the Hospitality Director, then the Drive-Thru Director to finally being the Executive Director of my store. During that time I decided to go back to school and graduated with my Bachelors Degree in Innovative Leadership & Entrepreneurship from Western Carolina University during 2020. I was passionate about my job and loved what I was doing. Then in 2022 I got pregnant with our third daughter, so we decided it was time for me to stay home. Four years in I am loving this opportunity to be with my girls in every-part of their life.
I also taught piano lessons for 12 years and absolutely love everything that music embodies. Just to see kids faces light up when they learn or here new musical ideas or composer or even instruments. Makes my whole day! I am excited to teach these a music fundamental class again and share the love with more and more students.
Besides teaching, being a mom, and homeschooling, I am on staff and the Hospitaltiy Director and Events Coordinator at our church Reach Life Church, and I do social media for Chick-fil-A.
I am so excited to be working with all these new kiddos and families at Biltmore this year!
Ms. Jerica Pate
My name is Jerica Pate, I live in Waynesville, North Carolina. I am married to my husband Luke and we have two sons. My oldest son Gabe is 12 and Grant is 10. I own a small salon and work part time as a hair stylist. I enjoy homeschooling my boys. I teach Sunday school and youth at my church as well. As a family we love being outside, hiking, swimming and gardening. I also love working with fiber. I usually always have a project on my knitting needles or loom.
Mrs. Erica Pence
Erica Pence is a passionate music educator, worship leader, and classically trained vocalist who loves helping students discover the joy of making music. With over ten years of experience teaching in public schools, private schools, churches, and private studios, she has worked with students of all ages—from young beginners to advanced singers and musicians. Erica teaches voice and piano lessons and has directed children’s choirs and ensembles for many years, including conducting large choirs of more than 130 students.
Erica holds a Master’s degree in Music and Worship and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Music degree. She is also a songwriter, composer, and choral director who loves exploring the beauty, creativity, and wonder of music with her students.
More than anything, Erica is passionate about helping children grow in confidence and creativity while discovering their gifts. She believes music is a wonderful way to explore God’s creativity and to learn how to use our voices and talents to praise Him. In her classes, students sing, move, play instruments, learn the language of music, and experience the joy of making music together.
Erica loves creating a fun, encouraging environment where students can grow as musicians, develop their skills, and learn to use music as a way to worship and glorify Jesus.
Ms. Ronda Phelps
Hi there! I am both excited and ready to go on this learning adventure with your children. I have always enjoyed the artistic side of life. Ever since I was young my mother would encourage me to draw whatever she would put in front of me. I took every art class I could possibly get my hands on, even all through college as well.
Pre-covid I taught an open homeschool class, where moms and kids would come enjoy art lessons and then dive deep into application. It was both fun and challenging. To encourage the children, to push through and let the art come to life for them, was enriching! I absolutely love seeing the progress and joy come to life in my students.
My family and I moved to the area a few years ago. We have been homeschooling for 11yrs now if you count pre-k and all that. It's been a great experience and one I am grateful for.
We are all excited to get back into community with other homeschooling families. We have definitely missed the co-ops, field trips and gatherings these last few years. It will be a wonderful change of pace.
From my family to yours, thank you for having us and we look forward to meeting you!
Ms. Nadine Robinson
Nadine and her husband, Steve, have been married for 34 years. They currently have a mix of 6 bio, adopted, and foster kiddos they call theirs. Nadine left the public shcool classroom to become a stay at home mom when her second child was born in 2002. God called her to homeschooling in 2008 and that journey continues. It has brought more joy and sometimes frustration than she could have ever dreamed. The family followed a second calling in 2016 when they became foster parents. Never imaginging that God would grow their family through adoption but incredibly grateful He did. The Robinson family are active members of Brookstone Church in Weaverville and enjoy volunteering in the childrens ministry there. Nadine looks forward to spending time with your kiddos in class and getting to know more familes in the co-op.
Ms. Amy Sellers
Hello!
I have been a homeschooling mother for 17 years, and my two children are now 15 and 17. We’ve been active members of the Biltmore Homeschool Ministry since 2016, where I am now in my fifth year of teaching.
My experience also includes several years in ministry; I’ve taught in the children’s department, served as a church pianist, assisted with the Children’s Choir, and I’m currently helping with our youth program. Additionally, I have experience as a substitute teacher in public schools.
Currently, I’m back in college finishing my degree in accounting. In my free time, I love studying the Bible, playing piano, and staying active with my kids—whether we’re traveling, biking, or hitting the bowling alley!"
Ms. Heather Taylor
Hi! I'm Heather Taylor and I have lived in WNC my entire life. I am married to my husband Jonathan, we have one son and a high energy goldendoodle! Our family loves children and decided to become foster parents 2 years ago. Our family loves to travel and explore new places. We spend a lot of time in Tennessee at our camper enjoying the lake and fishing.
Before I became a mom I worked in the banking world! I love anything with numbers and science related. I have been homeschooling my son for 4 years and I'm so blessed to be with him everyday to learn together. I enjoy teaching with hands-on activities and having fun while learning.
My hobbies are cooking, baking, thrift shopping and crafts. My favorite vacation spot is on the Island of St. John, USVI. I enjoy being anywhere near water and sunshine!
I am so excited to meet your children and learn together!
Mrs. Megan Thelen
This is my second year teaching at Biltmore Homeschool! I have been a substitute for many different schools and I enjoy watching students learn new things. I am a mom of a 5 year-old boy and a 4 year-old girl who keep me very busy! I also have two 13 year-old twin boys who love adventures! In my limited spare time, I love to read and my goal is to read 26 books this year. We are a football family and cheer for the Dallas Cowboys.
Mrs. Mallory Thomas
Hey Homeschoolers!
My name is Mallory and I will be teaching Exploring Creation with General Science, Guest Hollow Geography and Cultures, and Principles of Mathematics for middle schoolers for the 2026-2027 enrichment school year.
I have been homeschooling my two kiddos, Colton (12) and Adalyn (10) since August of 2020, and our family joined the Biltmore Homeschool Ministry August of 2021. I am a native to our beautiful 828 area and graduated from T.C. Roberson High School. I have been with my husband Lane since 2008 (together 18 years, married 14 years). Before homeschooling, my passion was working in healthcare. My last job before homeschooling was working for a private OBGYN office doing in-office surgical scheduling and as a clinical research assistant. I have an Associates Degree in Medical Office Administration, and 82% of my Bachelors degree completed in Business Administration with a focus in Management through East Carolina University. The bachelors degree was put on hold after we started our homeschool journey.
When I am not homeschooling my kiddos and cleaning house, I love to knit, read books, make soap, and spend time with my family and friends. You will most likely find me every week with an iced coffee, hair in a bun, and ready to have some fun!
Ms. Jeanette Wayne
I am very happy to be joining this wonderful group of Biltmore homeschoolers! I grew up in Colorado, but have called Western North Carolina my home for about 23 years. I earned a Bachelor's degree in social work at Metropolitan State University of Denver and have worked with children of all ages and abilities for over 40 years. I have always had a deep love for children and God has given me many extraordinary opportunities to form meaningful connections with them. My desire is to encourage and empower children in their journey of learning, growing and becoming the spectacular people God intended them to be.
I had the privilege of serving the Lord as a missionary in Panama, Canada and Brazil. Through those life-changing experiences, God ignited a passion for other peoples and cultures in my heart. At any given time, you might hear me speaking Portuguese!
I am the proud mother of 3 awesome adult children. I was blessed with the joy of homeschooling them for 13 spectacular years. My eldest daughter is a graduate of New York University and is pursuing her career in Germany. My middle daughter works with children in South Carolina and my son is studying engineering at the University of Colorado. I cherish every moment of those homeschooling years with my precious children. I am honored to have the opportunity of sharing some wonderful moments with the children at Biltmore.
Ms. Jennifer Webb
Hello! I’m Jennifer Webb (Ms. Webb, for my students) and I've lived in the Asheville area for over 2 decades! I grew up in a military family and bounced all around the country...beautiful locations like Annapolis, Maryland and Monterey, California. I'm a homeschool mom of four...but 3 of my Loves have graduated with "me" and finished their college studies/degrees. That leaves one last kid, Agatha, and she'll be in 8th grade this year.
My favorite ages/grades for teaching are middle and high schoolers. My academic passions and strengths are subjects that involve math and science. Over the past couple of years of our family joing Biltmore Church Homeschool Ministry, your student might have experienced me as their occasional substitue teacher. Now that I'm a full-fledged co-op teacher this year, I aim to bring a level of creativity and sunshine to my classes. I whole-heartedly believe that learning CAN BE FUN!
I really look forward to meeting you or having you in my class!
Ms. Jinny Wick
Hello, Y'all. I am a homeschool mother of 6. I have been homeschooling from the begining. My kids range from 3-15 years old. I love learning, love teaching and love adventures. This is my first year at Biltmore. Im excited to get to know this community.