Derek Simonsen
Assistant Professor of Teacher Education
Education
- Superintendent Credentials, University of North Dakota
- M. Ed. Educational Administration, Grand Canyon University
- M.A. Religion: Intercultural Studies, Liberty University
- B.A. Physical Education and Health, Biblical Studies and Coaching Minor, Trinity Bible College
About
Derek Simonsen joined Trinity Bible College & Graduate School’s faculty in August 2024. He teaches in the education department and has experience in public, private, and international K-12 teaching and administration. Over the last eight years he has served four of those as an elementary/middle school principal and four years as a public school superintendent.
Simonsen completed his undergraduate studies at Trinity in 2008 and played for the Trinity Lions men’s basketball team from 2003-2008. After graduation he spent time overseas in China, Thailand, Israel, Germany, Moldova, Ukraine, Canada, and Belize. Time overseas included playing basketball, teaching English, and working with local churches. One of the trips overseas was for the adoption of his son, Noppakun, from Thailand in 2018.
Derek is married to Chelsey Simonsen, who is also a faculty member at Trinity. He has two kids Nora and Noppakun (Benji). They enjoy spending time outside on their farm, going to the swimming pool, and attending local sporting and community events.
Grow here, go anywhere.
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