Bachelor of Arts: Broadcast Journalism, English, University of Southern California
Master of Fine Arts: Writing for Children and Young Adults, Vermont College of Fine Arts
Joined ECS: 2023
I was born and raised in Washington State where I met Jesus as a middle schooler. After graduating from college, I worked in campus ministry for ten years, teaching Bible studies, speaking to large groups of students, and leading worship. I enjoyed my time with this age group but felt called to write – for a younger audience. God provided the opportunity for me to attend an MFA program where I honed my creative writing skills. Two years later, I published my first novel with Random House, and received the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent award from the American Library Association, which brought my work national attention. I have had the privilege of publishing six novels and a picture book. I continue to write and publish professionally.
God has given me the opportunity to travel around the country speaking to young people from K-8th grade, where schools have used my books in their curriculum or for whole community reads. I love connecting with kids, and the joy and energy this brings me is why I said yes to the invitation to teach in a school setting. I believe that God brought me to ECS for a reason!
Story is one of the primary ways God communicates with His people. Jesus told stories continuously. Scripture itself is a narrative filled with conflict, intriguing characters, and a glorious ending where love triumphs over evil. My goal is to connect kids with the power of stories. I want them to dig deep and discover how truth is conveyed in a well-told narrative. I am excited to empower the students in their own writing: to find and use their unique voices to say what matters to them; to understand themselves better at this crucial time of their development; and to communicate their perspectives compellingly in ways that influence people toward Kingdom of God values.
Bachelor of Arts in Education: Western Washington University
Washington State Teaching Certificate
Began teaching: 1995
Joined ECS: 1996
I have been teaching at ECS for over 20 years, and am currently teaching math to 6th and 7th graders. Over the years, I have filled many positions here at ECS – Kindergarten teacher, basketball coach for girls and boys, middle school science assistant, MS math teacher, and I created the MS study skills elective. Over the course of my adult life, and through the various stages, God has found ways for me to utilize my skills here at ECS.
My children, who are now adults, started here in preschool and now they are studying at Texas Christian University. A couple fun facts about me: I played college basketball at Edmonds College, and I am becoming an expert at mowing my parents 1.5 acres. John Deere is becoming one of my best friends.
Bachelor of Arts: Western Washington University
Master of Education: Grand Canyon University
Washington State Teaching Certificate
Began Teaching: 1998
Joined ECS: 2004
I have been teaching at ECS for over 10 years. I am currently teaching middle school science for all 6th-8th grade students. Some of my other teaching experiences include teaching 3rd grade and being the Science Specialist at a public school, teaching Kindergarten at a Montessori school, and teaching 5th grade and Bible here at ECS. I also have the unique experience of having had my children attend ECS. Both of my children attended ECS from preschool through their eighth grade graduation. I know my children have been blessed by their time here. They have created lasting friendships and consider the ECS community to be an extension of our family. Their knowledge of the Bible and its principles for life will carry them through many of life’s challenges. Family time is the most important thing to me. My family and I enjoy playing games like Settlers of Catan, competing in a game of 2-on-2 basketball, traveling, and reading and discussing book series together.
Bio coming soon
jkok@ecswa.org
Bachelor of Arts: Music & Media, Wheaton College;
Certified in Zumba Basic 1
Began Teaching: 2017
Joined ECS: 2022
Hi! I’m Mr. Kok and I was born in a little town called Seattle, WA on February 29th (Leap Day) where I direct worship, teach piano, instruct Zumba and rock out with my 80’s cover band.
Growing up, I went to The Bear Creek School, so I’ve always been surrounded by private Christian education. I landed my first gig playing piano at Fall City Bistro when I was sixteen and placed 3rd nationally through MTNA when I was seventeen, being featured multiple times on Classical King FM 98.1 and since then, I’ve been refining my skills in music and media graduating from Wheaton College. I’ve performed everywhere from Benaroya Hall, Bellevue Towers and Seafair and led worship at many churches, youth and VBS camps all around the great Seattle Area.
I started teaching privately in 2017 which gave me the opportunity to explore and develop my skills in education. Within this field, I am a major advocate for shepherding, discipleship and mentoring because I used to not believe in myself when I was a student, and it took great teachers in my life to help me recognize my gifts and talents, and how to glorify God and serve others with them. I want students to know they are capable of excellence and can fulfill that same calling. Though I do not know how long I’ll be here at ECS, I am willing to be all in to develop the students here and I hope they will give their all too!
Bio coming soon!