A Missional Approach to Christ-Centered Learning

Distinct from other educational institutions, at Payson Christian School, we nurture “The Whole of the Child” in a haven where academic excellence meets spiritual and ethical grounding. Discover a community focused on holistic development, where students preschool through 7th grade are empowered and relationships flourish. Join us for a transformative education in a safe, respectful, and positive environment—
Your child’s journey to a well-rounded future starts here.
Dual Accreditation
Here at PCS we don’t take our accreditations lightly. Our continuing education process is rigorous because we understand the educational power that accreditations hold. They equip and advance how effective we are in terms of innovation and research and are at the center of each of our programs.
All of the teachers at PCS are ACSI certified and Cognia certified and hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree – more than half have a master’s or higher. Regardless of the degree, each teacher is dedicated to continuing their professional development and takes part in continuing education opportunities regularly.






A Note From Our School Administrator

Welcome to Payson Christian School, Celebrating 40 years 1986 → 2026.
Hello, I’m Dr. Walp, PhD, DMin, EdS, the school administrator, and I’m delighted you’re here! My wife, TJ, and I have been married for over 35 years, we have two adult sons and a wonderful granddaughter who live on the East Coast. We love spending time outdoors, whether it’s backpacking, kayaking, or simply enjoying Arizona’s breathtaking scenery.
I have had the privilege and honor of serving in various leadership roles in six states, bringing a diverse background to my work. My goal since arriving in 2018 has been to implement a series of positive, data-informed improvements, always keeping students and families at the heart of every decision. Our guiding principles are: honoring God, never settling for mediocrity, avoiding the mindset of “That’s the way it’s always been,” and recognizing that there is always room for improvement. Further, we believe that nothing is beneath anyone; we are one Team with one voice, and as partners with you, we can accomplish much.
As servants of the Most High, we’re committed to forever growing, learning, and finding better ways to help students thrive. We’d love for you to join us as we make PCS a place where students, families, and staff thrive!
“Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33
Meet Our
Dedicated Staff
Administrative

Dr. Walp, PhD, DMin, EdS
Administrator

Susan Sanders, MA
Dean of Faculty and Students

April Stickley
Registrar and Special Events Coordinator

TJ Walp
Scholarships Coordinator

Andrea McQueen
Financial Coordinator

Pastor James Lake
School Chaplain
Preschool Staff

Judy Contratto
Preschool Instructor

Gwen Nees
Preschool Instructor

Amie Horsley
Preschool Instructor
Elementary School Staff

Teryn Fabian
Kindergarten Instructor

Rae bailiff
First Grade Instructor

Sara Kario
Second Grade Instructor

Hunter Horsley
Third Grade Instructor

Aidan Stockman
Fourth Grade Instructor
Middle School Staff

Margot Tan, MA
Middle School Science: 6 – 8th & Whole School Art

Gina Whitmarsh
Middle School Instructor: 5th Grade

Nikki Brown
Middle School Instructor: 6 – 8th
“I have been blown away by the administration at this school. They ensure high-quality care to both the students and the parents, and they are always looking ahead to prepare the students for the future. On top of it all, they are centered on Christ!”
– The Campbell Family
News
Coming soon!
Calendar of Events

For more information about Payson Christian School please call our office at 928-474-8050, or share your information via a form and we will be in touch.
Payson Christian School
1000 E Frontier St
Payson, AZ 85541
Phone:
928-474-8050
Email:
info@pcspayson.org
Hours During School:
Monday – Thursday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM
Hours During Breaks
Monday – Friday 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM
Payson Christian School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, or athletic and other school-administered programs. As a Christian ministry, PCS reserves the right to select students and staff based on biblical standards of spiritual commitment, lifestyle choices, and personal conduct.