Our Staff

Our Staff

Our Staff

Meet Your PrincipalCarol Gnehm

Hello, my name is Carol Gnehm, and I am the principal at Christ Lutheran School. I received my Bachelors Degree from Illinois State University, followed by a Masters in Teaching from Aurora University, a Masters in Administration from Illinois State University and my Superintendent Endorsement form Western Illinois University. My over thirty years in education began as a math instructor, followed by administrative positions. I’ve been married to my amazing husband Andy for over thirty years and we have been blessed with a son, Mitch and daughter, Sondra. I look forward to building upon my faith as part of the Christ Lutheran Family.

Our Staff

Meet Your PastorPastor Eckhoff

Born and raised in the Springfield area, Pastor Eckhoff returned to Central Illinois to serve as Pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in September of 2005. Pastor can be seen at CLS teaching Confirmation, leading chapel, serving as a substitute or a field trip driver/chaperone.

Our Staff

Meet Your Title One TeacherTracy Buzzell

My name is Tracy Buzzell and I would like to welcome you to Christ Lutheran School and to our website. I have been teaching at CLS as a Title One teacher since 2007. I have two bachelor’s degrees, one from University of Iowa and one from Illinois State University. My husband, Tom, and I have two children, CJ and Logan, who both graduated from CLS. I love teaching at Christ Lutheran School because I get to serve the Lord by using my education. I only teach part time, allowing me to do some other things that I love, such as spending time with my family, working out, volunteering at CLS, and traveling.

Our Staff

Meet Your School SecretaryStephanie Belvery

I joined the staff of Christ Lutheran School in 2018 as the school secretary. I bring a wealth of experience gained over the years from a variety of jobs. I have been an office manager, a department manager at a large outdoor retailer and have served as an MP in the United States Army. My husband and I are members of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in East Peoria, IL where I currently chair the church council.

I have three children who all attended Christ Lutheran School with my youngest child graduating in 2008. I am very proud of my children who all faithfully serve God in their vocations. My oldest grandchild attends Christ Lutheran Preschool where he loves learning about Jesus.

I enjoy working with the staff and students at Christ Lutheran, as well as our many parents and volunteers.