Jan Tjomsland

Jan Tjomsland (pronounced "Chumsland") is joining the team at The Ecclesial School at Northland to teach Mathematics in 6th-9th grade! As a classical math teacher, Jan’s role is to guide students through the timeless principles of mathematics, emphasizing the beauty and logic inherent in the discipline. In a classical education setting, mathematics is not just about mastering equations and formulas; it is about understanding the underlying truths that have shaped our understanding of the world. Through a focus on fundamental concepts, historical development, and rigorous problem-solving, Jan aims to cultivate a deep appreciation for mathematics as a vital part of a well-rounded education. 

Jan homeschooled her two boys in the classical, Christian model. She joined a local Classical Conversations community and became a director, tutor, and mentor to high school students and a speaker and trainer for teaching parents. Jan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the United States Coast Guard Academy. Following graduation, she served in the US Coast Guard as a search and rescue helicopter pilot. She qualified as a maintenance test pilot and instructor pilot while deploying throughout the Pacific and Caribbean. As an Aeronautical Engineering Officer, Jan’s roles included supervisor, facilitator, leadership trainer, and career mentor.  After meeting her husband Dale, she joined the USCG Reserve and helped him run franchise homemade ice cream stores as their company’s bookkeeper and payroll manager.

The Tjomslands live in Sanford and attend Central Church. They love sports and traveling, and are learning how to be empty-nesters now that both sons are in college. Jan is excited to inspire students to see math not just as a set of rules, but as a language of the universe, full of patterns, structures, and profound truths that connect to every aspect of life.