School Board
A Parent-Governed School: It’s All About Partnership!
TCCS is governed by a Board of Trustees made up of parents and supporters who are elected by fellow parents and school supporters. Today’s board shares the same vision established by our founders. We believe that the Bible is the ultimate source of truth for both faith and life and must be at the heart of all education.
Together through this Christian school/Christian home/Christian church partnership, every day we are actively raising up the next generation of Christian leaders who will impact the world both near and far for Jesus Christ!
A Plan For Growth
In 2024, Traverse City Christian School adopted a forward-thinking strategic plan, charting a bold path for the future of faith-based education. This comprehensive blueprint serves as a roadmap that aligns resources, priorities, and actions to foster sustainable growth and excellence. By anticipating challenges and identifying opportunities, the strategic plan ensures long-term viability, empowers informed decision-making, and unites the community around shared goals. For TC Christian, this plan is not just a document – it’s a commitment to stewarding God’s gifts responsibly, enabling the school to thrive amid evolving educational landscapes while remaining rooted in timeless biblical principles.
At the heart of the plan are key focus areas designed to strengthen the school’s foundation and enhance its impact. These include:
* Financial stability – prudent budgeting and resource allocation safeguards TCCS’s ability to deliver high-quality education without compromise.
* Philanthropy – cultivate generous partnerships with donors and alumni, fueling scholarships and program expansions that make Christian education accessible to more families.
* Facilities – modernize classrooms, labs, and communal spaces, creating inspiring environments that support holistic student development.
* Enriched educational offerings – introduce innovative curricula, technology integration, and experiential learning, equipping students with the skills and worldview needed for success in a complex world.
This strategic plan seamlessly integrates with TC Christian’s core mission to glorify God, partner with parents, and equip students to transform the world for Jesus Christ. Every initiative reflects a dedication to honoring God through excellence and stewardship, while collaborative efforts with parents strengthen family-school bonds in nurturing faith-filled young leaders. Ultimately, by fortifying these pillars, the plan empowers students to emerge as compassionate, capable change-makers, ready to live out their calling and advance Christ’s kingdom in their communities and beyond.
Key Documents
Board of Trustees
Mr. Chris Butz
President
Mr. Chris Butz
President
Chris is a lawyer and lifelong entrepreneur who owns and operates Hawkins Outfitters. He and his wife, Angie, have been married since 1997 and have five children and a grandson including Asher (Class of 2031), and future Sabre, grandson, Nico. Chris and Angie attend Westside Community Church and they enjoy everything from hunting and fishing to riding mountain bikes and BMX racing. Chris serves on the Philanthropy Committee.
Mrs. Kelli Sutphen
Vice-President
Mrs. Kelli Sutphen
Vice-President
Kelli is a TC Christian alumnus and a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force Reserve. She and her husband, Jeremy, have been married since 2007 and they attend Harvest Bible Chapel. They have three daughters who attend TCCS: Abigail (Class of 2030); Madeline (Class of 2032); and Charlotte (2038). Kelli serves as the Board President.
Mr. Jon Torbet
Treasurer
Mr. Jon Torbet
Treasurer
Jon is a financial advisor and senior partner at Centennial Wealth Advisory. He and his wife, Jessica, have been married since 2004 and have three children who attend TCCS: Isaac (Class of 2028); Noah (Class of 2029); and Emma (Class of 2032). Jon is a keen athlete and coaches several sports at TCCS including baseball, basketball, and soccer. The Torbets attend New Hope Community Church. Jon serves on the Finance Committee.
Mrs. Rachael Jenneman
Secretary
Mrs. Rachael Jenneman
Secretary
Rachael is a published author and radio broadcaster for Northern Christian Radio (WLJN). She and her husband, David, have been married since 2005 and have three children who attend TCCS: Paige (Class of 2025); Caleb (Class of 2027); and Jayce (Class of 2031). The Jennemans attend Bayview Church in Traverse City. Rachael currently serves as Board Secretary.
Mr. John Sandula
Trustee
Mr. John Sandula
Trustee
John is a retired special education teacher of 24 years at Northwest Education Intermediate School District. John and his wife of 24 years, Aimee, attend St. Michaels Lutheran Church and have three children at TC Christian: Storm (Class of ’22); Winter (Class of 2025); and Snow (Class of 2031).
Mr. Josh Coates
Mr. Josh Coates
Josh serves as Operations Director at Harvest Church in Traverse City. There he oversees all aspects of facilities, administration, and budgeting. He and his wife, Lindsay, have been married since 2017 and have four children: Asher(Class of 2027); Liam (Class of 2028); Alannah (Class of 2038); and Rosalie(Class of 2040). Outside of work, Josh is an avid sports fan who loves spending time with his family. The Coates family attends Harvest Church.