Faculty & Staff
The educators at St. Paul are more than staff; they are mentors and dedicated Christians who view their work as a calling. Because our teachers believe deeply in our mission, many have stayed for decades—and some are even alumni who returned to lead the next generation.
Here, your child isn't just a face in a crowd. Our intentional class sizes ensure that every student receives the dedicated attention they deserve. These aren't just one-year assignments; they are lifelong relationships built on a foundation of faith, academic excellence, and genuine care.
Learn more about our programs or contact us to schedule a visit.
About: Mr. Francik was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and moved to Escondido, California when he was six months old. After a childhood in California, Mr. Francik attended Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and completed his bachelor's degree in education at Concordia University, Nebraska. He earned two master's degrees: Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University, Irvine, California and Educational Administration from Concordia University, Nebraska. Mr. Francik has been married to his wife, Sue, since 2002. They have two teenage sons, Ben and Sam, who are Lutheran school graduates.
Favorite Bible Verse: "I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." – Psalms 121:1-2
Most inspiring part of your job: "I enjoy building relationships with the students and their families. These relationships which often span many years allows me to see the work of Jesus in the lives of these individuals over many years."
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About: Blythe Mackinder is an alumnus of St. Paul School and member of the church. She completed her bachelor's degree in fine arts from Wayne State University. She has completed the 20 Early Childhood Educational credits required to be lead teacher and program Director in the Preschool. She is currently working on completing her master's degree in Curriculum Instruction at Concordia Ann Arbor/Wisconsin.
She has twin daughters and a son who are currently enrolled at St. Paul. Blythe and her husband share a love of baseball, hockey, and spending time together as a family which includes their two dogs Honeysuckle and Trumbull.
Favorite Bible Verse: Proverbs 3:10, 25-26
Most inspiring part of your job: Watching the children in her class grow — their vocabulary, actions, emotions, and especially love of Jesus!
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About: Julie grew up in the Detroit area. As both a staff member and a proud St. Paul parent, Julie understands the importance of finding the right school for your child. She combines her Bachelor of Nutrition Science degree with over 20 years of administrative and office management experience in healthcare to support families through every step of the admissions process.
Favorite Bible Verse: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." – James 1:2-3
Most inspiring part of your job: "Seeing children grow, learn, and thrive here at St Paul, and knowing I can play a role in supporting both them and their families along the way."
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About: Sue grew up in the Detroit area and has since lived in California, Kentucky and Kansas. She has a degree in Business Management and has been working in various business and/or management roles for over 25 years. Most recently, Sue has worked in universities and churches. She is passionate about organization, finances, streamlining processes and supporting and helping others.
Favorite Bible Verse: "And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age." – Matthew 28:20
Most inspiring part of your job: I have the privilege to help people in so many various ways. I love to find a way to brighten someone's day - every day!
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About: Mrs. Lorence was born in Eastpointe, Michigan. She earned her Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education from Baker College and has started working towards her graduate degree at Oakland University.
Favorite Bible Verse: "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." – Mark 9:36-37
Most inspiring part of your job: "The most inspiring part of my job is that I get to impact the lives of children and mold the foundation of their education."
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About: Mrs. Eising was born in Flint, Michigan but moved to Royal Oak when she was five. She received her B.A. in Education from Concordia, Ann Arbor, and her Master's in Learning Disabilities from Wayne State University. She and her husband, Chip have three children who have graduated from our school.
Favorite Bible Verse: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." – Philippians 4:13
Most inspiring part of your job: I love getting to know each child as a person, as a student, and as a child of God, and then helping them imagine the possibilities of what they might do.
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About: Jaclyn Moelich grew up in Plymouth-Canton. She attended MSU earning a bachelor's and master's degree in special education. Mrs. Moe has a husband, Rob, who she married here at St. Paul Royal Oak Church! They have two daughters, Mayla and Kenna who attend the preschool here at St. Paul Lutheran School!
Favorite Bible Verse: "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you." – Matthew 7:7
Most inspiring part of your job: I enjoy being the students' first experiences with school! I am passionate about instilling a love of learning and an eagerness to participate.
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About: Mr. Schmidt was born in Cleveland, Ohio. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Education degree at Concordia University, Nebraska, he accepted a call to teach band in Lutheran schools throughout metropolitan Houston, Texas. His longest call served was at St. John, Fraser, where he taught 5th Graders, bands, and led the church's brass choir for 16 years. Mr. Schmidt has three grown daughters, three wonderful sons-in-law, and five grandchildren.
Favorite Bible Verse: "Cast all your cares upon Him, for He careth for you." – 1 Peter 5:7
Most inspiring part of your job: "Hearing a student say something like, 'ooohh, I get it now', especially during a Bible lesson, keeps bringing me back to school confident that the joy in my heart is affecting students."
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About: Miss Thomas grew up in Royal Oak, MI and attended St. Paul as a child. She graduated from Oakland University with her Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education and has started her graduate degree at Concordia Mequon. In her free time she enjoys baking, singing with the choir, spending time with friends, and playing with her pets.
Favorite Bible Verse: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." – Psalm 46:1
Most inspiring part of your job: "The most inspiring part of my job is seeing students live out their faith. I love watching the older students step up and encourage the younger ones. I learn just as much from them as they do from me!"
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About: Mr. Paul began his college studies at Concordia University, Ann Arbor then transferred to Concordia University, Seward, NE, where he received his B.S. degree in Education with a concentration in church music. Mr. Paul earned a Master's in Organ Performance from Wayne State University in 2003. He serves St. Paul Church and School by playing the organ for worship, directing various choirs and ensembles, and teaching in the middle school.
Favorite Bible Verse: "Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty." – 1 Chronicles 29:11-13
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