07/10/2026
Charis Academy is excited to welcome Laura Bottia as our new Head of Education!
After an extensive search that included outstanding candidates from multiple backgrounds, we are thrilled to announce that Laura Bottia will officially join Charis Academy on July 27.
Laura brings nearly a decade of educational leadership experience from one of the highest-performing schools in the Dominican Republic, where she helped strengthen academic programs, coach teachers, and improve student outcomes. She has a passion for developing educators, building strong systems, and helping students flourish.
More importantly, Laura has a deep love for Jesus and a heart for Christian education.
Executive Director Mike Jarrell shared:
From the very beginning of the process, Laura expressed that she believed God was leading her to Charis Academy. Throughout the search, her humility, teachability, Christ-like character, and passion for students continually stood out.
Laura is fluent in both English and Spanish, and she and her husband, Juan Luis, along with their two young children, are excited to become part of the Hazleton community.
As our Head of Education, Laura will provide leadership in academics, faculty development, curriculum, student life, and family engagement while helping us continue to grow our unique, hands-on, conversational approach to learning.
We are also incredibly grateful for the faithful leadership of Kelly Knowlden and the strong foundation he helped build. Laura isn’t coming to replace that foundation—she’s coming to build upon it as we continue pursuing the vision God has given Charis Academy.
Please join us in praying for Laura and her family as they prepare for this exciting transition, and help us give them a warm Charis Academy welcome! 💜💛
