Trailblazers Homeschool Enrichment Program
Hosted at Trinity Church in Marble Hill, Trailblazers is a faith-based homeschool enrichment program designed to support families in their homeschooling journey. We offer weekly, in-person classes that are hands-on, Christ-centered, and focused on helping students grow both academically and spiritually.
Trailblazers serve students beginning at age 5 (as of September 1st of the current school year) through high school. Our program is modeled after the traditional one-room schoolhouse approach. Grouping children by age while fostering a sense of shared learning, community, and collaboration across age groups.
Our goal is not only to help students build strong foundations in science and literature, but also to help point them to Christ in all they do. We believe that true learning begins with a heart rooted in faith, and we strive to cultivate both knowledge and character in every student.
Each week, students participate in engaging lessons led by experienced, certified and caring educators who are passionate about teaching and discipleship. Our staff brings a wide range of expertise, deep faith, and a genuine love for children.
Meet Our Team
Tressie Norrell – Administrator
Tressie Norrell brings over 15 years of experience in operations, finance, and program management. With a passion for creating systems that serve people well, she enjoys supporting both staff and families by ensuring things run smoothly behind the scenes. Her professional background spans a variety of industries, with a consistent focus on streamlining daily operations, enhancing communication, improving financial processes, and building strong organizational structures.
Tressie holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and is deeply committed to nurturing both learning and community. She and her husband, Johnathan, homeschool their two children and are devoted to faith, family, and service. They have been members of Trinity for several years and deeply value the love and care the church pours into its ministries. It is a heart for service that is truly unmatched.
With a sharp eye for detail and a heart for helping others, Tressie is honored to serve as Administrator at Trailblazers, where she works to foster an environment where students and families can truly thrive. Growing in both their faith and academic goals.
Kathy Darnell Ebener – Science Teacher
Kathy Darnell Ebener holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in science Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She brings over 30 years of
experience as a science educator in public and private schools, including running a private tutoring business and teaching at Kennesaw State University.
Kathy is passionate about helping students reach their goals, think critically, and discover the excitement of science. She enjoys showing students how interesting and relevant science can be in everyday life.
Throughout her career, Kathy has been recognized for her dedication and excellence in teaching, including receiving awards for superior performance and being involved in selecting recipients for Governor’s Honors in Science.
She has been married for 33 years to Dirk and has a daughter, Kaylin, who is currently studying medicine at the Medical College of Georgia.
In her free time, Kathy enjoys reading historical fiction, exploring books about faith and family, crafting, and traveling. She also serves on the Board of Advisors at the University of Tennessee College of Education, staying connected with current educational trends.
Sandra Applewhite – Literature Teacher
Sandra Applewhite earned her B.S. in Education from the University of Southern Mississippi and her M.Ed. from Southeastern Louisiana University. She and her husband Larry have two sons: Mark, who lives in Cumming with his three children, and Major, who lives in Mobile, AL with his two children.
Sandra enjoyed a 40-year career as an elementary educator, which took her across several southern states, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina. This diverse experience shaped her teaching style and deepened her passion for education.
Since retiring in 2011 and moving to Big Canoe, Sandra has stayed active in her community by teaching Sunday School, leading summer Vacation Bible School, and substituting in the Pickens County School System.
In her free time, she enjoys pot gardening on her decks, daily Bible devotionals, and most of all, spending quality time with her family and especially being close enough to be involved in her grandchildren’s lives.
So, whether you're just beginning your homeschool journey or looking to supplement your curriculum, Trailblazers provide a supportive space for your child to thrive.
Have questions or want to learn more about Trailblazers? We’d love to connect! Please reach out to us at trailblazers@trinitychurchmh.org.