Administration
Sergiy Pronin, Principal - CEO
Mr. Sergiy Pronin is a Principal-CEO of Bryte Christian Academy. He is confident that only Jesus Christ and Bible could be a basement for a development and growth of every person, and because of that the Christian education is the best way to nurture children, to growth them spiritually, and to prepare them to be the leaders of the society. Mr. Pronin was born in Ukraine, where he graduated from Donetsk Music College and worked as a Music Teacher at public school, Choir and Voice Teacher at Donetsk School of Arts, and Music Director at а church. In 2008, all his family emigrated to the USA, and currently, they live in Sacramento, California. After emigration to the U.S., Mr. Pronin graduated from California State University – Sacramento with BS degree in in Business Administration (Accountancy). In 2018, he obtained his Master of Divinity degree from Moscow Theological Seminary, and in 2020, he received his second Master’s degree, Master of Business Administration, from California Baptist University. Currently, Mr. Pronin continues his education at Harvard University.
Mr. Pronin has extensive administrative experience. After the immigration to the USA, he and his wife Alina founded and operated their own business - Music School; in different times, Mr. Pronin worked as Accountant at Grace Family Church and Sierra Pines Camp; and he was a Department Director at Pacific Coast Slavic Baptist Association. In 2016, Mr. Pronin accepted a position of Principal at Bryte Christian Academy, and from 2017 he became a Principal-CEO of our school.
In addition to his main job at BCA, Mr. Pronin works as Adjunct Assistant Professor at Blagovest Institute of Ministry, where he teaches Theology and Apologetics, and as Visiting Professor at Moscow Theological Seminary, where he teaches Theological Writing and Management of Christian Organization.
Mr. Pronin and his wife Alina have six children and three of them are students at BCA.
One of the Mr. Pronin’s favorite Bible verses is Proverbs 4:7: “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (KJV)
Alina Pronina, Director of Operations
Alina Pronina is occupying position of BCA Director of Operations. Her passion in life is to work with children and she already has an experience in teaching for more than seventeen years. Mrs. Pronina was born in Donetsk, Ukraine, where she graduated from Donetsk Music College and continue her education in S. Prokofiev Donetsk State Academy of Music. She repented to the Lord in eighteen years old and her life has changed dramatically. After immigration to the United States, Alina decided to continue her education where she got her AA in Business from Folsom Lake College (FLC) and later BS in Business Administration with concentration in Management Information Systems from California State University, Sacramento (CSUS). In addition to her secular education, Alina graduated from Blagovest Institute of Ministry and received Bachelor of Church Ministry with concentration in Sunday School Teaching. During her studying at CSUS, she started to work at FLC in Counseling department, and after she also received a position of Administrative Assistant to the President of Pacific Coast Slavic Baptist Association. When Mrs. Pronina’s husband, S. Pronin, accepted a position of Principal at BCA, she started to help him in his role. Mrs. Pronina worked in our school as a Music and Choir teacher and Computer Science teacher for last three years. In August of 2020, she accepted a position of Administrative Assistant to the Principal of BCA.
Together with her husband Sergiy, Alina has six children, and she is very happy that three of them has a privilege to be the Bryte Christian Academy students. Alina likes to spend her free time with family and visit beautiful places in California. She like to do crafts with her children and little projects for her home.
One of the most encouraging Bible verses she likes is: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” 1 Peter 2:9-10.
Roman Novik, Accountant - CFO
We would like to introduce you to Roman N., the Accountant - Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Bryte Christian Academy. As CFO, Roman brings extensive experience and knowledge to the academy, providing strong financial leadership and management.
Roman is responsible for a wide range of financial functions at BCA, including accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, personnel files, parent accounts, and budget development. In the coming years, he will be focused on improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing financial performance.
With a bachelor's degree in Finance, Risk Management & Insurance from California State University of Sacramento, Roman is a highly analytical and detail-oriented individual with a strong background in both media ministry and the software industry. He has dedicated 10 years to media ministry, serving in various roles including translator, media presenter, media controller, and video director, as well as volunteering in other areas such as event planning. In addition, he has more than 10 years of experience in the software industry where he held increasingly senior finance and management positions, contributing to the company's success through his expertise in financial analysis and management.
Roman is known for his strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to develop innovative solutions to complex financial challenges. He has a proven track record of collaborating effectively with senior executives and cross-functional teams to drive growth and achieve common objectives.
Outside of work, Roman enjoys traveling with his wife and staying current on industry trends and best practices through ongoing professional development.
We hope you have the opportunity to meet Roman and learn more about his experience and expertise.
One of Mr. Roman’s favorite Bible verses is James 2:14-17 “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
Teachers
Tom Furze, HS Vice Principal, Math, Science, Literature
Six years may seem like a long time. To someone sitting in a dentist’s chair having their teeth drilled, it’s a very long time. To someone trying to watch a pot of water boil, it seems like six years. However, for someone who was called a long time ago to work with children and teach, six years goes by very quickly.
I have enjoyed teaching at Bryte Christian Academy for six years. I started here with a class of 4th and 5th grade students. I have been blessed to work with those same students for all six years. My oldest students are now currently in 9th and 10th grade. We are currently studying Algebra together and discussing great works of literature. I received my bachelor’s degree at Sonoma State University in Environmental Science Education. I also received my teacher’s credential from Sonoma State University.
I have been married to my beautiful wife for twenty-three years. One of our favorite things to do as a couple is to read together. We go to the bookstore, choose a new book, and take turns reading it to each other. We also have two daughters that are in college.
One Bible verse that I have found encouraging is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
Andrea Furze, Elementary Vice Principal, 5-6 Grade Teacher
I have been blessed to work at Bryte Christian Academy for six years. I have had the privilege of teaching kindergarten, 1st grade, 2nd grade, 3rd grade and 4th grade during my time here. Currently, I am enjoying my class of 5th and 6th grade students. I have had the joy of teaching many of my students for more than one school year. This has allowed me the opportunity to develop deep relationships with my students and their families. Prior to coming to BCA, my husband and I worked at a small Christian school in Sonoma County. I earned my Bachelor’s degree at Simpson University in Christian Education. I received my teaching credential at Sonoma State University.
I have been blessed to be married to my wonderful husband for twenty-three years. We have two daughters. They are both in college and are studying education. We also have a small Chihuahua named Indie. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, reading, and planning future travels. I hope one day to visit all of the National Parks that I teach my students about. My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love the music, the lights, the sweets, and of course the Christmas Story! One Bible verse that I find comforting is Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you and expected end.”
Anna Stephenson, Kindergarten Teacher
My name is Anna Stephenson, I have had the privilege of working with Preschool-Pre-k over the last 17 years in various schools in the Sacramento region.
During the school year of 2016-2018 I had previously worked for BCA in the position of K-4 Teacher, while supporting the K-5 Teacher with Phonics and Writing curriculum.
In the spring of 2019, I graduated from American River College with an AA Degree in Early Childhood Education, along with a Teacher and Master Teacher certificates in Early Childhood Education. I transferred to California State University in the fall of 2019 to obtain a BA degree in Child Development. I am currently continuing student with a junior student at CSUS, as well as a continuing student at Wilson University studying in “Congregational Care Series.”
In my spare time I enjoy listen to gospel music and spending quality time with friends and family and a grandparent to 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. These are my precious blessings.
Hobbies I enjoy are crafting, baking, cake decorating for friends and family. I am also a Sunday School teacher for our two’s class and wherever I am needed. I have many scriptures I hold deep in my heart. Psalms 37:4
“Delight thyself also in the Lord and he shall give them the desires of thine heart.”
Brad Meyers, 1 Grade Teacher
Hello BCA families! If we have not had the chance to meet, here is a little bit about me. I have been married to my wife Sandra for 31 years and she is most certainly the best part of my life while I am here on earth. She is an amazing woman of God and I am so blessed (more than I deserve) to do life with her. I have raised 2 boys (Jordan and Jason). While they are just starting out life as adults, they are pretty great kids! I have a dog named “Roy” and he is pretty annoying. I love him anyway! I have lived in Sacramento for a little over 20 years and I attend a church that is absolutely amazing! I do hope to do missions work full time, but I don’t know when that will be. I will have to wait on the Lord and go when I am called.
I graduated with an AA degree in Administration of Justice, a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies and received my teaching credentials from Western Governors University. I have done many things with my education, including law enforcement, engineering for nearly 20 years and I have been a teacher for the last 12 years. By far, my favorite career has been being a teacher. I absolutely love it! God has given me such a heart for children and I intend to use my gift to serve him as best as I can.
I have lots of hobbies but my favorites are kayaking, long distance bike riding and reading. I absolutely love history. I can’t get enough of it! I will participate in almost anything that is sports related. I am pretty competitive, but I do it mostly for fun.
Perhaps my biggest desire is to serve God and others. So, what is my favorite Bible verse? Well, I have 2 of them! The first verse is Proverbs 9:10 “Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom.” This had particular meaning to me as a new believer many years ago. The other is 1Timothy 1:12 “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he has considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service." Whenever I have doubts, I think of this verse.
That’s pretty quick window into my life! If you ever have any questions about me, my life, my walk with God… just ask! My life is an “open book.”
Hnin Ei Phyu Pyar-Ho, 2 Grade Teacher
Dear BCA families,
It is such a blessing to be a teacher to your children. Here is a bit about me!
I graduated with an Associate degree in Accounting from American River College and a Bachelor of Science in Management from University of Phoenix with magna cum laude. I was a para educator for about 9 years working at Natomas Unified School District (NUSD). It was a wonderful experience working with students who came from diverse cultures and backgrounds. During my tenure working in the NUSD, I worked with different grade levels from elementary all the way through high school. I have extensive experience in supporting students in the Resource Specialist Program, which is designed to give support to children with learning disabilities and help them to be successful in their education. Establishing a good rapport with each individual student and following through procedures have helped me to provide best support and reinforce the students to perform well in school.
I have also been teaching Sunday school for about 8 years trying to serve the Lord using the ability that HE has blessed me with. After a few years went by, I found my passion for teaching! When I was in school trying to earn an associate teacher certificate, I learned that the surrounding environment plays a key role in shaping a child's life. I believe the children should grow up in an environment where they can witness the love of God and love one another. I'd like the children to see the goodness and glory of the true God and grow in HIM. I will put my very best effort to make sure the students succeed in school and love them as my own. If the students need extra help, I am willing to tutor after school. I am very flexible, and you are welcome to contact me as you have any concerns or questions!
I have been blessed to be married to my husband for twenty-one years. We have two beautiful teenage girls. In my spare time, I like listening to music, drawing, and watching movies. I also love traveling to different places and trying out authentic food from around the world.
A few of my favorite Bible verses are Ephesians 2:8-10: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (KJV)
Inna Bondar, 3-4 Grade Teacher
Hello, my name is Inna Bondar and I was born in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. I graduated with an AA in Music Conducting from Moscow Sacred Music Academy in 2004, and I also have an AA in Finance. I moved to the United States in 2004 and started my American educational path since then. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a concentration in Organizational Communications from CSU Sacramento in 2015. Currently, I am working on my Master of Education Degree from Bob Jones University.
It is a blessing and honor to be a part of the Bryte Christian Academy. My objective is to create an excellent learning environment and to help each child improve their academic performance and abilities. I encourage students to do their best and express their potential.
My husband and I have two children. We enjoyed visiting Lake Tahoe, California Academy of Science, Legion of Honor Museum and Palace of Fine Arts. We have two Yorkshire Terriers named Mickey and Rex. I wish you all an excellent and happy year.
Мy favorite Bible verses: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength:” Isaiah 26:3-4
Sherwood Haisty, Bible, English, History
Rev. Sherwood E. Haisty, Jr. serves BCA by teaching classes for both the Junior and Senior High department. Sherwood is originally from a small farming town and is a native of southeast Arkansas where his mom and sister reside. His sister is married and has three grown children. Sherwood’s beloved father passed away in 2015. Sherwood is a bachelor himself, having never been married.
Rev. Haisty revived his ordination to the Gospel ministry from Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, TN. As an ordained Baptist minister he has served in several Baptist churches either on staff or as Pastor including serving as Senior Pastor of three different churches over the course of his ministry career. As a member of First Ukrainian Baptist Church in Roseville, Sherwood currently is an active preacher in his home church and among the Slavic community in the Sacramento area preaching regularly in other churches and at various retreats and camps for children, youth, and adults. Sherwood also preaches as well in BCA chapels. Furthermore, he has taught Bible classes for the youth at Bryte Baptist Church as well as taught courses in Blagovest Institute of Ministry for adults. Sherwood is an evangelist and has conducted evangelistic tent meetings and church revival meetings. For many years Sherwood has done open air street preaching and college campus evangelism, taking the Gospel straight to unbelievers of all types and religious backgrounds, while using bold public preaching, apologetic debate, or one on one encounters.
Not long after high school as a young man, Sherwood first earned an AA degree in electronics engineering technology from Arkansas College of Technology in Little Rock, Arkansas. After surrendering to the Gospel ministry, Rev. Haisty became a graduate with an ADiv from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, in Memphis, Tennessee. He also received a BA from Creighton College (formerly Mid-South Bible College), also in Memphis, Tennessee. His most recent degree was earned as a graduate with a MDiv from The Master’s Seminary in Los Angeles, CA. While at the Master’s Seminary, he more extensively studied Greek and Hebrew exegesis, systematic theology, and biblical counseling among other courses. Sherwood loves and is highly committed to expository preaching, giving the meaning of the text verse by verse and book by book.
Besides ministry, Rev. Haisty has an interest in politics and recently ran for U.S. Congress in District #6 in the Sacramento and West Sacramento area. He ran as a Republican candidate, and is a devout biblical and political conservative who is unapologetically pro-life, pro-biblical family, pro-righteousness, pro-capitalism, and pro-American.
Sherwood’s favorite verse from the Bible is as follows: Philippians 1:20-21 "According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Among other important convictions Sherwood believes that Jesus Christ must reign as Lord and that the Bible is the perfect and final authority by which Jesus Christ reveals His will and exercises His lordship.
Yulia Andreus, PE Teacher and Extended Care
My name is Lia Andreus. I was born in the coldest region of Russia, Noyabrsk where snow was on the ground for 10 months out of the year. I moved to California in 1999, since then God started working in my life. I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior in 2003. I graduated with A.A. Degree from Sacramento City College. I am very passionate about the medical field and psychology.
Currently I have three jobs, but with God’s help making time for an amazing family God has gifted me. All Glory to God for waking up spiritually with my husband and serving Him with passion. Together as a family we are a part of Sunday School, Family Ministry and V.I.P. Ministry with youth group at the Bryte Church. My favorite Bible verse is: “Never let the fire in your heart go out. Keep it alive. Serve the Lord.” Romans 12:11
Rima Starovoytov, Teacher Assistant
My name is Rima Starovoytov. I am a teacher assistant at Bryte Christian Academy. I help the teacher by making sure each and every student has the support they need for their lessons. I love to help teachers grade work, watch over the children, and even substitute.
I was born and raised in California, and currently I am working towards my future career as a Respiratory Therapist at American River College. I am very happy to be where I am right now. I am glad to be praising God through this job at Bryte Christian Academy.
Besides my job I am a helper at our Church Sunday School with children 5-7 years old, also part of our Youth choir and missionary trips. I come from a Christian family of 11 children. It is a blessing to have so many siblings, together we help each other grow spiritually.
One of my favorite Bible verse: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord…” Colossians 3:23
Tavifa Starovoytov, Teacher Assistant
My name is Tavifa Starovoytov. I am a Teacher Assistant at Bryte Christian Academy. In my position, I am ready to be helping the teacher with anything they have for me. I can also help and maintain with each student.
I have lived in California since birth. I come from an amazing family with children of 11. I am a part of our church’s youth choir and missionary.
Currently I am studying at Liberty University, which would be where I can hopefully graduate with an Associate’s degree in the Medical Field.
Favorite Bible Reference: Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid … for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”
Alex Pronin, Teacher Assistant
My name is Alex Pronin. I am currently a Teacher Assistant at the Bryte Christian Academy. My place of birth is Donetsk, Ukraine, but I have grown up in the state of California since I was 2 years old. I am the oldest child in our family and have 3 brothers and 2 sisters.
Currently, I am a studying at Liberty University where I am working on my AA degree in Management Information Systems. In my free time I enjoy playing sports such as volleyball or basketball.
My favorite Bible verse is Revelation 3:11, “I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.”
Supportive Staff
Olga Tscherenkow, Staff
Olga Tscherenkow joined the BCA staff in 2019, when her family immigrated from Germany to the United States. Olga was born in Russia, where she graduated from Bryansk Medical College and obtained her degree in Nursing. She is married to her husband Stanislaw and together they have wonderful four children, three of them are current BCA students. During her leisure time, she likes to read and cook something delicious.
Olga’s favorite Bible verse: “Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20–21