Our Founders and Staff

 

Rebecca Ballard (left), Marla Ray (middle), and Katie Finkenbinder (right) came together in the spring of 2022 after receiving a calling from the Lord to have a presence in downtown Greenville. Their hearts and passion for discipling students has transformed into a new adventure in one of the most historic places in Greenville, the Katy Depot. Their hope and vision is for students to learn to connect in community while exploring their God-given passions.

Meet Our Staff

Katie Finkenbinder

Principal and Elementary Teacher and Co-Founder of DCS

Katie Finkenbinder is a graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce. She has a BA in Early Childhood Education and a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies. She has 20 years of teaching and coaching experience in various capacities including public school, private Christian school, and homeschooling. She has completed training for dyslexia coaching and has experience teaching students with various learning needs. Katie is a Greenville native and has been involved in the community since early childhood. She resides in Hunt County with her husband. Her passion for discipling students in walking with Christ is the main focus of her role as the elementary educator and all-school Principal.

Marla Ray

Pathway Counselor, Junior High & High School Teacher, Co-Founder of DCS

Marla Ray is a graduate of Howard Payne University. She has a BA in Christian Studies, a minor in Music, and an emphasis in English. She has 24 years of teaching experience in various capacities including public education, private Christian education, and private music instruction. She is a vocal coach for TMEA (Region to State) auditions. Marla resides in Greenville with her husband and their 3 boys, who are now all in college. Currently studying at Harvard University’s Extension School, Marla is seeking ALM candidacy in English. She has a love for aiding junior high and high school students in the pathway that God has chosen for them and is looking forward to partnering with families to guide their students on that journey.

Marleny Escobar

Volunteer for Spanish and Library

DCS Volunteer, Marleny Escobar, is a native Spanish-speaking teacher of foreign language and assists in various capacities as needed. Marleny has been volunteering at the Depot since 2023. She enjoys baking, gardening, tending her animals, and spending time with family and friends. She and her husband have three daughters and reside in Greenville.

Tara Hix

Science and Math

Tara Hix is a graduate of Oklahoma State University, where she earned a BS in Zoology. She homeschooled her children for 11 years before joining the staff at The Depot Christian School. Tara and her husband live in Greenville with their son and 2 daughters. She spends a great deal of time volunteering in the youth and children’s ministries of her local church, co-teaching a preteen class on Wednesday evenings with her husband and hosting youth events in their home. Tara has a heart for discipling and connecting with young people. She also loves learning about God’s creation through science, encouraging students to marvel at the mighty God we serve.

Tina Fehr

Volunteer and Assistant

Tina Fehr has been a great asset to The Depot Christian School through her work on the DCS Foundation and in volunteering to help with
Elementary students. Tina joins The Depot as a volunteer on campus, assisting in various capacities in the fall of 2025. She is married and has two precious sons.

Christy Smith


Teacher’s Aide/Student Teacher

Christy Smith joins the Depot Christian School staff in the fall of 2025, to share her love for students, and to better educate children in all departments of the school. She will be serving as an aide as well as a student teacher. Christy is married and has two young children, a son and a daughter.

Rebecca Ballard

Retired Teacher and Co-Founder of DCS

Rebecca Ballard, retired in 2025, is a graduate of the University of North Texas, has a BA in English Linguistics as well as French and a minor in history. She has many years of teaching experience including homeschooling, private Christian school, adult education classes, and private French classes. She helped found The Depot Christian School in May 2022 and resides in Greenville with her husband and 2 daughters. She is active in various organizations in Greenville and has a passion for connecting with people.