Meet our Staff

Sewing is more than just a skill for me—it’s a lifelong thread that connects my childhood memories to my professional journey. My passion began at home, watching my mother meticulously craft costumes for my siblings and me every year. After taking my first 4H sewing program at age ten, I was hooked.

Since those early days, I have spent decades as a self-taught maker, diving into everything from intricate quilting and home decor to garment construction. I eventually turned my craft into a business, selling handmade blankets, crib sets, aprons, and baby items at the Lake St. Louis Farmers Market.

With over 25 years of experience homeschooling my four children and leading adult workshops on canning, homeschooling, couponing, and home management, teaching is my second nature. I specialize in breaking down complex skills into manageable, fun projects. My goal is to empower students to move from just playing around with a machine to enjoying the creation of their own handmade products which they can use.  After the success of my "Intro to Sewing" week-long intensives, I am thrilled to help the next generation of students discover the joy of creating something beautiful with their own two hands.

Wendi Dicken is a dedicated music educator, conductor, and performer who joyfully works with students from kindergarten through adults. She is passionate about helping each student grow in both skill and confidence, designing thoughtful, age-appropriate curriculum that builds a strong musical foundation while cultivating a lifelong love of music.

Wendi serves as Artistic Director of Midwest Center for Creative Arts and the St. Charles Concert Arts Association. She has also had the privilege of guest conducting with Mid America Productions, leading ensembles such as the New England Symphonic Ensemble and the Stockholm Concert Orchestra, and is honored to be scheduled to conduct the Orchestre Symphonique Bel’ Arte de Paris in 2027.

She holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Miami University (Oxford, Ohio) and brings both professional performance experience and a heart for teaching into every class. Wendi is committed to creating a supportive, encouraging environment where students are not only trained in music, but inspired to pursue excellence and use their gifts with purpose.

Mariah Drew is thrilled to be returning to Potter’s Clay this year as our Middle School Art Instructor, combining her love for painting with 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.

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!

Natalie Tucker serves as the High School Art instructor at Potter’s Clay Applied Arts. She is grateful for the opportunity to share her passion for fine art with our advanced students. In the classroom, Natalie thoughtfully balances mentorship with technical instruction, fostering both skill and confidence as students learn to express their unique artistic voice.

Natalie holds a BFA in Fine Art from Fontbonne University, where she specialized in Figurative Studies. Trained across a variety of mediums, she focused on the study of the human figure, drawing from the techniques of the masters. For her senior thesis, she created a life-size figurative sculpture—an uncommon opportunity at the undergraduate level. This depth of classical training informs and enriches her teaching at Potter’s Clay.

Following her graduation in 2018, Natalie served as Exhibitions Manager at the Foundry Art Centre. In this role, she worked closely with a wide range of artists, organizing, curating, and promoting exhibitions. This experience now equips her to guide students as they prepare to present their own work to the community.

In this season of life, Natalie finds great joy in raising her three energetic boys. She also continues to pursue her own artistic practice, especially enjoying watercolor portraiture for family and friends.

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 using his artistic expertise to also teach our Junior High students in Studio Art.

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!