Meet our Staff

Lauren Boyd is excited to teach the music classes at Potter’s Clay this year. A dedicated and passionate music educator, she graduated in 2014 with a degree in Music Education and has spent the past 11 years teaching private flute and piano lessons. Throughout her teaching career, she has found great joy in helping students develop their musical skills, confidence, and appreciation for the art of music.

At Potter’s Clay, Lauren is eager to create a dynamic and engaging classroom where students can explore their creativity, grow as musicians, and experience the joy of making music together. She believes that music has the power to inspire, connect, and bring people together, and she looks forward to a fantastic year filled with learning, laughter, and, of course, plenty of music!

Mariah Drew is thrilled to be joining Potter’s Clay in 2025, combining her love for painting and teaching young kids. Mariah grew up in the homeschool community and was heavily involved in art, theater, and dance. She studied graphic design at Liberty University and took several studio arts classes, but she credits her grandma for her artistic knowledge and ability. Over the past two years, Mariah has gotten married, joined as staff at a ministry at Lindenwood, taught dance classes, and started her own art business, Mariah Grace Originals. What began as a hobby when she was a child has now turned into her career as she paints custom commissions and offers live wedding services to people across the country. Mariah is thankful for the opportunity to inspire young kids’ creativity and pass on her passion for turning blank canvases into beautiful masterpieces. She hopes her classroom is a space where kids can learn both about art and Jesus, exploring how they can use their unique gifts to bring Him glory.

With over a decade of experience as a business owner, Shaina brings a wealth of knowledge in entrepreneurship and marketing. She launched her business in 2013 on Etsy, growing it into a thriving brand before opening a brick-and-mortar shop, Katy Trail Collections on historic St. Charles Main Street in 2019. Beyond running her store, she organizes street-wide events throughout the year, helping to foster a strong local shopping community.

In her business class, she will be sharing practical, real-world insights on how to successfully market and sell handmade products in today’s competitive landscape. Her expertise spans key areas such as pricing, SEO, merchandising, sourcing materials, and marketing for profit. She is continually learning through industry-specific courses to stay ahead of trends and best practices. She is excited to equip students with the tools and strategies they need to turn their passions into sustainable businesses!

Born and raised in St. Louis, Nathaniel was homeschooled alongside his two brothers, fostering a deep love for learning from an early age. Currently pursuing a degree in English literature, he is starting his first year at Potter’s Clay, specializing in literature, with a particular focus on Tolkien and Lewis. Passionate about the power of language and music, he draws inspiration from the natural world—especially towering trees, star-filled skies, and flowing water. As an educator, Nathaniel is dedicated to helping every student thrive in their pursuit of knowledge and appreciation for the subjects they explore. He strives to cultivate discipline, critical thinking, curiosity, and creativity, ensuring that each student is equipped to engage with the world in meaningful and thoughtful ways.

Andrew Scheltens is passionate about building God’s kingdom by sharing the gospel and helping children and families grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. He serves as the children’s pastor at Faith Church and holds a degree in Pastoral Theology. With years of experience in children’s ministry—including broadcasting the Power Club Radio Show for kids— Andrew has developed a unique ability to engage young learners through creative and impactful teaching.

His heart for ministry shines through in his dedication to making biblical truths accessible and meaningful for children. Whether through storytelling, interactive lessons, or hands-on activities, he strives to create an environment where kids can develop a strong foundation in their faith. Andrew is excited to continue equipping the next generation to know, love, and follow Christ!

Ashley Todd joined us at Potter’s Clay in 2024, bringing a wealth of artistic knowledge and a deep passion for mentoring young creatives. She teaches Foundational Art, Intermediate Art, and Advanced Art, equipping students with the techniques and confidence to develop their artistic voice. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts and background in studio art, graphic design, and ministry, Ashley has spent several years working in diverse roles within the art world, from being a Sr. Graphic Designer to working in higher education alongside art professors as a Studio Art Technician and Gallery Exhibition Preparator. Outside of class, she is often painting in her home art studio or volunteering as the Worship Art Coordinator at her church. Ashley is passionate about helping young creatives cultivate both technical skill and artistic expression, encouraging them to create with freedom, excellence, and a heart for glorifying God. Through hands-on projects, guided instruction, and meaningful discussions, Ashley fosters an environment where students can grow as artists and individuals. We are thrilled to have her on the team, inspiring the next generation of faith-driven creatives!

Josh West brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Potter’s Clay, where he has been teaching digital arts for over a decade. With a strong background in graphic design, photography, and painting, Josh’s creative journey has spanned multiple disciplines, allowing him to equip students with both technical skills and artistic insight.

As a graphic designer for 15+ years and a professional real estate photographer for over 10 years, Josh has worked extensively in the creative industry, applying his knowledge in real-world settings. His experience in digital media, visual storytelling, and design principles makes him an invaluable mentor for students looking to develop their skills in digital illustration, photography, and graphic design.

This year, Josh is also co-teaching book publishing alongside Gina McAndrew, guiding students through the creative and technical aspects of bringing a book to life.

Katie is our early childhood expert, bringing warmth, creativity, and expertise to our 4-9 year old students at Potter’s Clay. With a deep understanding of how young minds learn and grow, she creates a nurturing and engaging classroom environment where children can explore their creativity with confidence.

An avid artist herself, Katie incorporates hands-on activities and imaginative projects that make learning both fun and meaningful. Her cheerful disposition fosters a loving and joyful atmosphere, encouraging students to develop their artistic skills while building curiosity and confidence.

In addition to her role at Potter’s Clay, Katie works for the First Steps Program with children who have developmental delays, and previously taught in early childhood for five years. Her elementary teaching degree, coupled with her background in early learning development allows her to design lessons that captivate, challenge, and inspire, ensuring that even the youngest students gain foundational artistic skills while having fun.

We are so grateful for the creativity, patience, and enthusiasm she brings to our youngest learners at Potter’s Clay!

Gina McAndrew is the Founder and CEO of Potter’s Clay Applied Arts and The Mark Project, our parent organization dedicated to evangelism and discipleship through specialized, mission-focused art kits. With a BFA in Studio Art, an MS in Industrial Communications, and an MBA in General Business from Lindenwood University, Gina combines artistic expertise with business acumen to create meaningful educational experiences. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Theological Studies, further deepening her commitment to integrating faith and creativity.

For nearly 20 years, Gina has taught art and written communication to students of all ages, equipping them with the skills needed to apply their creativity in practical and impactful ways. As a former upper-level manager and homeschool mom of four grown children, she brings both leadership experience and a passion for innovative, student-centered learning. At Potter’s Clay, she continues to develop new and engaging approaches that inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of how art can be used to serve God’s kingdom.