Hello

     My name is Carrie Miller. I was born and raised in Marshall, Illinois and am a 1996 graduate from Marshall High School.  I earned my Early Childhood Education degree from Lake Land College, followed by my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in May of 2013 from Eastern Illinois University.  My endorsements include grades 5-9 in General Science and Language Arts and I’ve taught in both private and public schools for a total of 9 years of combined experience.  I’ve known since I was a child that I wanted to be a teacher.  My experiences so far have been extremely rewarding and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity for further personal and professional growth .  

 

     In addition to my educational background, I’ve served on a variety of committees in our community and am currently the President of the Marshall Schools Foundation.  I’ve also taught for over 20 years in the children’s ministry at our home church, New Rivers Church of Marshall, Illinois.  But the experience that has prepared me the most for this next step in my life is that of being a mother and a grandmother.  

 

     My husband Scott and I are blessed with two sons, Derrek and Carter Miller.  Derrek and his wife Alli have further blessed us with two beloved grandchildren, Lenna Jo and George Wayne.  As our extended family continues to grow, we are grateful to know that while we are far from perfect, we do serve a perfect God.  He has helped us through many of life’s trials and continues to help us grow in our walk with Him.  God is good!  

 

     Why start a private school?  There are three main reasons.  First, I’ve had the privilege of teaching Life Science to 8th graders in Marshall for the past seven years.  To learn about cells and DNA and how life works without being able to even mention a Creator is very challenging. Public school education limits educational material to only a few accepted theories.  With a private school, I can teach science and all other subjects with a Biblical worldview.  The second reason is my professional experience in public schools and my youngest son’s experience with public schools.  Not every child fits the mold of public school, and my youngest child has encountered continued difficulty in the public school academic arena. Though we are blessed in Marshall with caring teachers who work diligently to provide a learning environment where all students can thrive, an alternative is necessary for some students.  Smaller student teacher ratio, a more individualized education plan, and the proximity of an adult’s personal attention for each student allows time for mastery and success.  It is my hope to provide that alternative for those who need it.  Finally, I want to be available to spend time with my grandchildren and still continue teaching. Having a private school will provide that opportunity.  

 

     With the support of community, family, friends, coworkers, and most importantly, God, Lions Tribe Academy hopes to provide a safe, nurturing environment for families that seek an alternative educational opportunity for their children.  

 

Positively,

     Carrie Miller

     Executive Director/Teacher