Gladys James
Principal & Grades K-2
Ms. Gladys James became the principal of South Bend Junior Academy on July 01, 2023. She graduated from Pakistan Adventist Seminary. Ms. Gladys has been an educator for over 12 years. Before joining South Bend Junior Academy, Ms. Gladys served as a principal in Aboite Christian School Fort Wayne. Prior to that she was a missionary in the Federate States of Micronesia and the Republic of Marshall Islands. She served as a headmistress and teacher at Pakistan Adventist Seminary. The best part of her life is being able to share the love of God with her students. Her master teacher Jesus is a role model in her life.
From Ms. James:
"It is my honor to lead South Bend Junior Academy and the many talented teachers and students here! My goal is to continue to provide a supportive climate and culture at South Bend Junior Academy that is beneficial to teaching and learning. By doing so, each individual student and teacher can experience growth to their highest potential. I look forward to interacting with all stakeholders in our school community this year!"
Kendra FitzGerald
Grades 3-5
Kendra FitzGerald graduated from Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska in 2016 with a Bachelor's degree in elementary education. Immediately following she went to work at Indianapolis Junior Academy teaching Pre-K-first grade. It was exciting to see things click for the littlest and watch them as they went through life experiencing things for the first time. She also taught music during school and started an advanced handbell choir that would meet after school. It was always fun to see where the group started and how much progress they made throughout the year.
Mrs. FitzGerald has been working at SBJA since 2019 teaching anywhere from 3rd to 6th grade. She is currently teaching 3rd and 4th grade and has enjoyed working with this age group. She is excited to share the love of Jesus with those around her and create an inviting and positive atmosphere in her classroom. When Mrs. FitzGerald is not teaching she enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, hiking, and anything crafty.
Jake FitzGerald
Grades 6-8
Jake FitzGerald was born and raised in Green Bay, WI. He is currently finishing a Bachelor’s in Arts in Social Studies for Secondary Education at Andrews University.
He currently serves as the 7th and 8th grade teacher. When time permits, Mr. FitzGerald loves participating in sports, playing music, and taking in some reading.
Mr. FitzGerald believe in creating a Christ-centered atmosphere in his classroom, where students feel safe to learn and ask questions to deepen their knowledge. He holds students to high standards, not only in academics, but in overall school leadership.
Carole Daher
Title I Intervention Specialist
Mrs. Carole Daher is a Title I Intervention Specialist joining SBJA part-time as a Reading and Math tutor for grades K-5. Mrs. Daher has years of elementary teaching experience in several public and parochial schools in the South Bend area. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a Reading Endorsement from Indiana University and an English Language Learner’s License from Holy Cross College. She is excited to work with our faculty and students. Mrs. Daher likes to spend her free time with her husband and three children.
Makayla Kruse
Assistant Teacher
Makayla Kruse was born and raised in South Bend, IN. She has attended First SDA church since she was born. She worked as a teacher at Great Kids Academy and then went on to be a nanny. She is now serving as an assistant teacher at SBJA. She loves being able to teach children about Jesus and watching them form their own relationship with Him. In her free time Makayla enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoys volunteering at the pet refuge.
Akram Yoqub
School Pastor
Akram Yoqub has an educational background in theology, having graduated from Andrews University with a Master of Divinity degree. While he has a strong foundation in religious studies, his work experience has been diverse and includes roles in education, accounting, and treasury.
Before joining South Bend Junior Academy as a pastor in August 2023, Mr. Yoqub had a career spanning various locations and roles. He worked in Pakistan, the Federated State of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Hawaii Conference of Seventh-day Adventist. Mr. Yoqub loves outdoor activities and sports.
From Pastor Yoqub
"As we navigate this academic year together, let's keep spiritual principles in our hearts and minds. Let's support one another in our academic pursuits, personal growth, and, most importantly, in our journey to be better human beings. May your time at school be filled with knowledge, wisdom, and a deep sense of purpose. Remember that you are loved, and you have the potential to achieve greatness."
Jhesica Gutierrez
Administrative Assistant
Jhesica Gutierrez completed her degree in elementary education and commenced her career at South Bend Junior Academy in 2020. Prior to joining the team at SBJA, Jhesica served as a teacher both in Venezuela and in the United States, accumulating seven years of teaching experience.
With her strong educational background, Jhesica has a passion for engaging with students and organizing extracurricular activities to enrich their learning experiences. Currently, she holds the role of administrative secretary at South Bend Junior Academy, where her expertise and dedication continue to benefit the school community.