make a lasting impact. Lifelong residents of Rusk County, their journey began on  dairy farms for them both and led them to marriage shortly after her technical school graduation. At the age of 21, they took over Gordon's parents' screen printing and embroidery business, Artisans, Inc., which they successfully ran for 43 years.

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Throughout their decades of entrepreneurship, Bev wore "many hats" while Gordon focused on the business's growth. They built not just a company, but a legacy, culminating in their retirement in 2017 and the creation of an ESOP, placing ownership in the hands of their employees. This act of generosity reflects their commitment to their community and their belief in empowering others.

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Their lives are deeply rooted in their faith and their connection to the land. They reside on a tree farm where Gordon cultivates red pines, produces maple syrup, grows Christmas trees, and manages timberland, while Bev finds joy in her flower, berry, and vegetable garden. They raised three children and now cherish their seven grandchildren. Both have actively served on various community boards and committees.

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Their shared passion for their community and their deep Christian faith led them to found Firm Foundation Academy. They observed that the current educational system often overlooks students who are not college-bound. This concern, coupled with their desire to provide a faith-based educational alternative, drove them to establish the academy. They believe that providing a nurturing, faith-centered environment will allow students to thrive academically and spiritually.

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Gordon, as Vice President, and Bev, as President of the Board of Directors, are committed to offering a "positive way to change the lives of young adults" in their community. They aim to provide a practical education grounded in Christian principles, helping students, whether they know Christ or not, to embark on a positive life journey and become valuable contributors to their communities. Their goal is to see this dream unfold, all for the glory of God.

Heidi Jo Sovacool is an accomplished entrepreneur and dedicated community servant. As the Secretary of the Firm Foundation Academy School Board, she brings a wealth of professional and personal experience to her role.

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Ms. Sovacool is the owner and operator of a thriving outpatient occupational and physical therapy practice, where she provides comprehensive care to individuals across the lifespan, from infants to geriatric patients. A significant portion of her professional focus is devoted to assisting school-aged children with emotional and physical challenges, enabling them to achieve success in their academic pursuits.

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Her commitment to community service extends beyond her professional practice. For over two decades, Ms. Sovacool served as a swimming instructor, and she dedicated 24 years to teaching Sunday School, demonstrating a long-standing passion for nurturing and educating others.

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Married since 2001, Ms. Sovacool cherishes her family and finds joy in spending quality time with her husband and two grown children. Her personal interests include participating in and attending music ensembles, camping, and sewing.

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Driven by a deep faith, Ms. Sovacool is committed to serving others through the vision and mission of Firm Foundation Academy. She believes in the transformative power of education and seeks to enrich the lives of future generations by integrating faith and learning.

Bill and Yvonne Rands, are a critical part of the team driving toward the establishment of Firm Foundation Academy, where Bill serves as a founder and Chairman of the Board, and Yvonne as a founder and member of the Board of Directors.

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Bill, a seasoned entrepreneur and community leader with a long history of self-employment and successful business launches, brings invaluable experience and strategic vision to the school's leadership. His deep connection to Rusk County and concern for its youth fueled his desire to create an alternative educational environment. Recognizing the challenges faced by students within the public school system, and the increasing presence of law enforcement, he helped to envision a school prioritizing individual student needs with a distinct, faith-based approach. His vision centers on a tailored curriculum that fosters a Biblical worldview, cultivates a servant's heart, and equips students for self-sufficiency, empowering them to become contributing members of society.

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Yvonne, a retired physical therapist, brings a wealth of service-oriented experience and a deep understanding of individual growth and well-being. While enjoying family, friends, and travel, her primary focus is making a meaningful impact on local youth. She is driven by a desire to provide students with a "firm foundation," fostering their faith and empowering them to reach their full potential. She envisions Firm Foundation Academy as a place where young people can develop into the individuals God intended them to be, contributing positively to their community and beyond.

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Together, Bill and Yvonne are passionately dedicated to serving the young people of Rusk County, providing them with an educational foundation that will positively impact their futures, and ensuring they have the tools and values necessary for a successful and fulfilling life.

Michele and Dave Bailey are dedicated members of the Firm Foundation Academy Board of Directors, united by a shared passion for empowering students to succeed both academically and spiritually. With a combined wealth of practical skills and a deep commitment to their faith, they are instrumental in shaping the school's vision and mission.

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Michele brings over 25 years of experience as a home educator, coupled with a diverse skill set encompassing cooking, baking, quilting, knitting, and homesteading. Her proficiency in gardening, preserving, homemade dairy production, traditional cooking, and animal husbandry provides invaluable resources for students seeking practical, real-world knowledge. She is particularly motivated to share her expertise and guide students towards a Biblical worldview, equipping them for successful lives.

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Dave's expertise in water/wastewater treatment, industrial environmental management, fabrication, welding, and equipment repair further enhances the school's commitment to practical education. His passion for woodworking and homesteading, including market gardening, animal husbandry, maple syrup production, beekeeping, and sawmilling, offers students hands-on learning opportunities.

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Both Michele and Dave recognize the challenges facing contemporary society and are driven by their Christian faith to provide students with a strong foundation in Biblical principles. They view Firm Foundation Academy as an opportunity to minister hope and equip young people with the practical skills necessary for daily living, enabling them to thrive as responsible and contributing members of their communities. Their combined dedication reflects a profound desire to see students succeed in all aspects of life.

Jon Jenneman serves as the Treasurer of Firm Foundation Academy, bringing both professional acumen and a deep commitment to his Christian faith to his role. As the owner of Keystone Tree Service, a family business, he demonstrates strong leadership and financial management skills.

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Mr. Jenneman's personal interests reflect his dedication to his faith and family. He prioritizes the study of scripture and Christ-centered literature, seeking to deepen his understanding and strengthen his spiritual foundation. He also cherishes moments spent fishing and hunting with his children, fostering family bonds and creating lasting memories. His active involvement in his church, including serving as a youth leader, underscores his commitment to serving his community and nurturing the spiritual growth of young people.

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Driven by a profound sense of calling, Mr. Jenneman views his service at Firm Foundation Academy as an opportunity to minister to and support the youth of Rusk County. He believes he has been divinely appointed to serve as a spiritual leader, guiding the school's growth and positively impacting the lives of all those who engage with it. His desire is to provide a solid, faith-based foundation for students, empowering them to thrive academically and spiritually.

Beth Chepil, a retired elementary school teacher, brings her extensive educational experience and deep-seated commitment to community to her role on the Firm Foundation Academy Board of Directors.

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With a distinguished career in elementary education, Ms. Chepil possesses a thorough understanding of pedagogical principles and a passion for fostering student growth. Her personal interests, which include playing piano, gardening, and creating various forms of art such as mosaics, wire art, and driftwood art, reflect her dedication to creativity and lifelong learning.

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Ms. Chepil's involvement with Firm Foundation Academy stems from a long-held desire to contribute to an educational environment that prioritizes active learning and student autonomy. Inspired by a childhood fascination with inquiry-based learning, she is particularly drawn to the school's mission of creating a Christian educational institution grounded in Biblical truths. Her dedication to the school reflects her desire to create a lasting, positive impact on the community by providing a unique and valuable educational opportunity for its youth.