Dr. Craig Hefner, Head of School
Dr. Craig Hefner has a Ph.D. in systematic theology from Wheaton College, an M.Div. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a B.A. in pre-seminary with a minor in Greek from Cedarville University. Prior to coming to Covenant, Craig taught at the collegiate level and worked in church and campus ministries. He lives in Huntington with his wife, Rachel, who is an occupational therapist and a family/newborn photographer. In his free-time, Craig enjoys reading great books, CrossFit, playing piano, and walking his dog. If you have questions about the school, please feel free to email Dr. Hefner.
Rebekah Shaffer, Lower School Principal
Rebekah Shaffer is a graduate of Pensacola Christian College with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education. Mrs. Shaffer taught school for four years before deciding to stay home with her two children, Grace and Luke. After her children enrolled in Covenant School, she began serving here as a substitute teacher, art teacher, and full time first grade aide at Covenant School. Mrs. Shaffer is now in her third year teaching the kindergarten class.
Shane Artrip, Upper School Academic Advisor
Mrs. Shane Artrip teaches secondary math, science, and grammar Latin. Mrs. Artrip holds a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Texas State University and a Master’s degree in mathematics from Marshall University. She has taught for 30 years at varying levels from grammar school through university. She and her husband, Jim, attend Rock Branch Independent Church where she serves as the choir director and as an assistant in children’s music ministry. They have three grown children and two grandchildren. Mrs. Artrip served as Covenant’s Headmaster for 5 years and currently serves as Secondary Academic Advisor.
Mrs. McSweeney, Administrative Assistant
Melody McSweeney joined the staff of Covenant in 1998 and currently serves as the administrative assistant to the Head of School. Her greatest joy working here is the “family” atmosphere she has enjoyed with teachers and families over the years. She is the wife of Nazarene minister Danny McSweeney. Married for 45 years, they have raised three sons and ministered through preaching and singing throughout their time together.
Dr. Wayne Harrison, Business Manager
Prior to entering the ministry, Dr. Wayne Harrison owned a medical supplies business in Scott Depot. A graduate of West Virginia State College (now university), he earned his Ph.D. in religion at Covington Theological Seminary in Rossville, Georgia. Since receiving the call to ministry, Dr. Harrison has been a Christian school teacher and director, prison minister, and missionary. He and his wife, Ruby, have been married for 53 years and have three daughters, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. “I truly believe teaching is a calling,” he says. “By working together, we can help shape the next generation into successful, God-honoring adults.” Email Dr. Harrison.
Franklin Norton, Director of Marketing & Communication
Franklin Norton has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Advertising and Public Relations from Marshall University. He has previously worked on the communication teams for the Huntington Mayor’s Office, the Huntington-Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Marshall Artists Series, and Marshall University, where he also served as Managing Editor of the university newspaper. He believes in the potent power of story, and works to tell the Covenant School story in all its truth, beauty, and virtue, while building authentic and meaningful connections within the school community, as well as establishing strong partnerships locally. He currently holds membership on the My Huntington Advisory Committee and the United Way of the River Cities’ Prevention Empowerment Partnership (PEP). Mr. Norton is a member of Redemption Church and serves as a leader with the Greater Huntington Young Life ministry.