WHATCOM Academy
Welcome to Whatcom Academy's official website! Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about our private school — including our philosophy, policies, events, and how we serve the community.
Our Mission
Welcome to Whatcom Academy's official website! Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about our private school — including our philosophy, policies, events, and how we serve the community.
Affordable Education
Why Choose Us
Small Class Sizes
More one-on-one support and individualized interventions to meet each student’s unique learning needs.
Affordable Tuition
Starting at just $5,000/year ($500/month)—making private education accessible to more families.
Non-political Approach
Education free from state or federal mandates, allowing for a values-driven and family-centered learning environment.
Inclusive Learning
Open to children of all backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, and abilities—everyone is welcome.
Focus on Character
Strong emphasis on moral growth and personal responsibility alongside academic achievement.
Meet Our Staff
Janis Cornelsen
I grew up in Sumas, Washington on a dairy farm, the second of four children. My mother was widowed when I was 6 years old, and out of necessity, I learned the value of hard work. I was taught from a very young age to value and respect my parents, teachers, and those in authority over me. I was fortunate to have a mother who valued my education and supported my learning at home, ensuring my grades reflected my fullest potential and that homework and assignments were completed and turned in on time.
Graduated from Nooksack Valley High School, Nooksack, Washington — Salutatorian
BA in Elementary Education, Western Washington University, Bellingham, Washington
Minor in Geology
Master’s Degree in Elementary Sciences (Operation Physics program), Western Washington University, Bellingham, Washington
I have worked in education for over 40 years and am retired from the Lynden School District, where I taught second and fifth grades. I currently return as a Substitute Teacher in grades TK-5.
In Spring 2024, I helped to open a private school under the name Khalsa Academy. I am now the Principal/Administrator of Whatcom Academy and teach wherever needed. Our recent name change reflects our desire to welcome children of all ethnicities.
My passion is ensuring that all children have access to a quality education, regardless of race, culture, or ethnicity. I am honored to work alongside a Board and Staff who share this passion. Together, our mission is to deliver high-quality curriculum, challenge every student to reach their full potential, and help children grow in character—instilling the values of hard work, perseverance, rigor, honesty, kindness, and respect.
Diana Khripunov
My name is Diana Khripunov, and I was born and raised in Whatcom County, where I currently live with my husband, Daniil. We were married in the spring of 2025.
My family values private school education, and I attended private schools from an early age. After graduating, I worked as an administrative assistant in a private school. Soon after, I was invited to be a teacher assistant, which I loved so much that I became a preschool teacher for several years. These experiences gave me valuable classroom knowledge and a love for making learning both fun and educational.
I am honored to be part of Whatcom Academy (Khalsa Academy). I began as a K5–2nd grade teacher and am excited to watch the school grow, especially since I’ve been here from the very beginning.
My passion is ensuring that all children have access to a quality education, regardless of race, culture, or ethnicity. I am honored to work alongside a Board and Staff who share this passion. Together, our mission is to deliver high-quality curriculum, challenge every student to reach their full potential, and help children grow in character—instilling the values of hard work, perseverance, rigor, honesty, kindness, and respect.
Kelly Klem
Kelly Klem has lived in Indiana and Canada but has made Washington state her home, where she has spent most of her life and developed a deep connection to the community. She values the opportunities education provides to build meaningful relationships and believes in learning from her students just as much as they learn from her.
Kelly earned her Bachelor’s degree in the Arts from Western Washington University, her teaching certificate from the Woodring College of Education, and her Master’s degree in Education from Eastern Washington University. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Education at Rockhurst University, where she has also earned a certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
She brings a strong background in public education, curriculum design, and accessibility compliance, blending research-based strategies with her dedication to equitable opportunities for all students.
Kelly serves as the 3rd–5th grade teacher at Whatcom Academy, where she leads daily instruction, supports curriculum development, and fosters a positive, inclusive learning environment.
Kelly is passionate about ensuring that all students have equitable access to high-quality education. She is excited to welcome new students each year, helping them grow while also continuing her own journey as an educator and lifelong learner.
Piff Jenkins
Teacher
Brian Cumin
Team Leader
Hanson Deck
Education Assistant
Student Community
Feedback
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