Our Staff
Meet Our Team
Chris Rutz
Head of School
Chris Rutz
Head of School
Why VCA:
The best Christian education environments are those that embody academic excellence and a commitment to developing an authentic faith in Christ. VCA is a tight-knit community that personifies these characteristics and it is a privilege to lead such a wonderful community of educators, students, and their families.
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Secondary Education, Western Oregon University
- B.A. History, University of Minnesota
- M.Ed Educational Leadership, University of Oregon
- Head of School, Capistrano Valley Christian School
- Head of School, Providence, Santa Barbara Christian School
- Assistant Head of School, Calvary Christian School of Pacific Palisades
Hobbies: Running, Pickleball, Skiing, Reading, Hiking, Family Time
Favorite Bible Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Wendy Ramirez
Early Education Director
Wendy Ramirez
Early Education Director
Why VCA: I love helping young students develop a lifelong love of learning. VCA’s Christ-centered community and nurturing environment make it a wonderful place to support children’s growth academically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Experience & Education:
- 15+ years in early childhood education, including 8 years teaching Pre-K at VCA
- Currently serves as Director of Early Education at VCA
- Degree in Early Childhood Education
- Early Childhood Teaching Certification & Early Childhood Director Certification
Hobbies: Cooking healthy vegan meals, gardening, hiking, and camping, spending time with family
Favorite Bible Verse: Luke 10:27 — “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind.”
Kristin Fery
Elementary Principal
Kristin Fery
Elementary Principal
Why VCA: It is a place where all educators and students are inspired to learn at the highest level and demonstrate their learning in meaningful ways. A place where our core biblical values of community, love, self-discipline, and responsibility are lived out. A place where an environment of excellence, hard work, and fun is fostered.
Experience & Education:
- B.S. Liberal Studies, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
- M.A. Leadership, National University
- Administrative Services Credential & Multiple Subject Clear Teaching Credential
- Nearly two decades of teaching experience
Hobbies: Family time with husband Jason and their two children, gardening, hiking, and cooking, loves hosting friends and family
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 63:3 — “Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.”
Lauren Maslyar
Middle School Principal
Lauren Maslyar
Middle School Principal
Why VCA:
What I love most about VCA is the opportunity we have to truly know and care for our students while encouraging them to grow in their learning, their character, and their relationship with Jesus. I love being part of a community where students are challenged to discover their gifts, become curious about the world around them, and understand how deeply they are known and loved by God. It is such a privilege to walk alongside our students during these important years and be part of a school community that cares so deeply about who they are becoming.
Experience & Education:
- California Administrative Credential, San Jose State University
- M.Ed – Educational Leadership, San Jose State University
- B.A. Social Science, San Jose State University
- 19 years of teaching experience (Middle/High School)
- 18 years of administration experience (Elementary/Middle/High School)
Hobbies: Visiting grandkids, quilting, and anything water…beach, lake, pool!
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Katelyn Adam
Marketing Associate
Katelyn Adam
Marketing Associate
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Communications Studies, CSU Chico
Hobbies: Running, spending time with friends and family, and time at the beach or in nature
Favorite Bible Verse: John 1:4-5 — “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Renée Blokhuis Liu
Middle School Teacher
Renée Blokhuis Liu
Middle School Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. English Language and Culture, Utrecht University
- M.A. English Language and Culture, Utrecht University
- M.A. Teacher of English for Higher and University Education, University of Amsterdam
- 7 years of teaching experience (Middle & High school)
Hobbies: I love to watch a good series with my husband, listen to informative podcasts while working out, and play (video) games with my family!
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 139: 9-10 “If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”
Shelene Booker
Music Teacher and Performing Arts Director
Shelene Booker
Music Teacher and Performing Arts Director
Education & Experience:
- B.A. – Music, Santa Clara University
- MBA – Management emphasis in Public Administration, University of Phoenix
- Diploma of Arts in Religion with a concentration in Pastoral Church leadership, World Harvest Bible College (now known as Valor College)
- 30 years of music teaching experience (preschool- collegiate)
Hobbies: collecting Winnie the Pooh Bear, watching cooking shows
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 138:8 “The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.”
Bethany Callahan
Middle School Teacher
Bethany Callahan
Middle School Teacher
Education & Experience:
- B.A. – English and Comparative Literature, San Jose State University
- M.A – Education, Santa Clara University
- California Teaching Credential, Santa Clara County Office of Education
- 7 Years of teaching experience
Hobbies: Reading, gardening, hiking, chatting with family and friends over coffee or tea
Favorite Bible Verse: Ephesians 3:17b-19 — “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long, and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge — that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
Olivia Carter
Preschool Aide
Olivia Carter
Preschool Aide
Education and experience:
- 12 ECE units
- Supported Venture Christian Church’s Childcare Team for weekly events for 2 ½ years
Hobbies: I really enjoy reading my kindle, making art, grabbing matcha with friends, and thrifting vintage decor for my bedroom.
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 37:4 — “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
Michelle Castaneda
Second Grade Teacher
Michelle Castaneda
Second Grade Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Elementary Education, Bethany College
- M.Ed Human Development & Psychology, Harvard University
- California Administrative Credential, Santa Clara County Office of Education
- 19 years of teaching experience (Elementary – high school)
Hobbies: Reading and writing (mostly Christian fiction), Traveling, hiking, and baking
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 16:5-6 — “Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”
Denise Chester
Educational Care Program Director
Denise Chester
Educational Care Program Director
Education & Experience
- B.A. – Fine Arts, Judson University
- Multiple Subject Teaching Credential – State of California
- M.Ed. – Master of Education in Crosscultural Teaching
- Professional Lifetime – All Levels Principal , ACSI
- 37 years of teaching and tutoring experience (Preschool – college)
Hobbies: Reading, traveling, spending time with friends and family
Favorite Bible Verse: Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work heartily as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”
Bethany Clemons
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Bethany Clemons
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Experience & Education:
- Worked as a classroom aide for many years
- Credited Pre-Kindergarten teacher
Hobbies: Writing and spending time with family, published author of two children’s books
Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11
Lyn Cussary
Instructional Aide
Lyn Cussary
Instructional Aide
Experience & Education:
- Years of experience as a classroom aide
Hobbies: Gardening
Favorite Bible Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.”
Danielle Dequine
Middle School Teacher
Danielle Dequine
Middle School Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Elementary Education, Minor in Cultural Diversity & Biblical Studies
- M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction
- 5th Grade Teacher, San Jose Christian School (CA)
- 4th Grade Teacher, Onward Christian Academy (VA)
- 5th Grade History & Science Teacher, Liberty Christian Academy (VA)
Hobbies: Volleyball, soccer, hiking, running, swimming, ceramics, and art
Favorite Bible Verse: Isaiah 64:8 — “Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.”
Lisa Downey
Admissions Director
Lisa Downey
Admissions Director
Experience & Education:
- B.A. in English, Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo
- M.S. in Management, University of Colorado, Denver0
- 20+ years serving mission-driven organizations in Silicon Valley and around the world
Hobbies: Beach time, hiking, biking, reading, and ice cream tasting
Favorite Bible Verse: John 15:5 — “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.”
Linda Evans
Art Teacher
Linda Evans
Art Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. in Art
- Studied pottery in Japan
- Former clothing designer, interior designer, and commissioned artist for businesses and private collections
Hobbies: Everything ocean and beach-related, finding free materials and turning them into something fun
Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11
Jenny Felberg
Kindergarten Teacher
Jenny Felberg
Kindergarten Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Elementary Education, Westmont College
- Teaching Credential, Bethany College
- 20 plus years of teaching experience
Hobbies: Shopping, reading, exploring coffee shops, and watching her son play water polo
Favorite Bible Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and he will make your paths straight.”
Makepa Fojas
Instructional Aide
Makepa Fojas
Instructional Aide
Experience & Education:
- 10+ years working at VCA
Hobbies:
- Skateboarding, basketball, and video games
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 2:3-4 — “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.”
Stephanie Gamble
Kindergarten Teacher
Stephanie Gamble
Kindergarten Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Educational Studies, Grand Canyon University
- 12 years in Early Education as a teacher and director
Hobbies: Peloton enthusiast, DIY projects, gardening, day road trips, soccer mom, documentary watcher, and TED Talk listener
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13 — “I can endure all these things through the power of the one who gives me strength.”
Ashely Jacobs
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Ashely Jacobs
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Experience & Education:
- Early Childhood Education credits, West Valley College
- Worked at VCA since 2013
Hobbies: Cooking, gardening, and walking
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13 — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Sarah James
Instructional Aide
Sarah James
Instructional Aide
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Liberal Arts, Sonoma State University
- Experience as a P.E. teacher in elementary education for 3 years
- Summer camp teacher and worship leader
Hobbies: I enjoy writing music, playing piano, singing, hiking, camping, basketball, running, gardening, and
going to the beach.
Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:13 – “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Selene Johnson
Office Assistant
Selene Johnson
Office Assistant
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Communications
- Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor CADC-1
- 15 years experience working with at-risk youth in Santa Clara County
Hobbies: Traveling, Community Service, Crafting
Favorite Bible Verse: 1 John 4:7 “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.”
Michelle Kim
Fifth Grade
Michelle Kim
Fifth Grade
Experience & Education:
- B.S. in Kinesiology
- 3 years of teaching experience at Challenger School
Hobbies: Passionate runner who trains for races year-round, favorite distance: the marathon
Favorite Bible Verse: 1 Corinthians 1:3-4 — “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
Eric Lamb
Middle School Teacher
Eric Lamb
Middle School Teacher
Experience & Education:
- Multiple Subject Credential, Saint Mary’s
- Taught English in China for two years
- Taught in San Jose for over five years
Hobbies: Hockey, Reading, Cooking, Hiking, Learning Languages, and trying new foods!
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Bella Lazar
Middle School Teacher
Bella Lazar
Middle School Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.S. Electrical Engineering, University of Illinois
- 12 years teaching at VCA
Hobbies: Reading, creating graphics, and knitting
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 121 — “I lift up my eyes to the hills, from where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth…”
Noel Ledesma
Registrar and Communications Director
Noel Ledesma
Registrar and Communications Director
Experience & Education:
- 12 years as an Early Education teacher and administrator in private schools
- 3 years as a Children’s Ministry Director
Hobbies: Watching movies, trying new foods and restaurants, and spending time with family
Favorite Bible Verse: Isaiah 40:31 — “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”
Kate Lundy
First Grade Teacher
Kate Lundy
First Grade Teacher
Education and experience:
- B. A. Linguistics with a concentration in TESOL from the University of Central Arkansas
- M.Ed. Elementary Education from Western Governor’s University
- 3 years Teachers aid experience in Early Ed
- 1 year Teaching experience in Elementary Ed
Hobbies: Reading, traveling, playing board games, and movies
Favorite Bible verse: Eph. 2:4-5 “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ, by grace you have been saved.”
Nichole Malek
Fifth Grade Teacher
Nichole Malek
Fifth Grade Teacher
“Education & Experience:
- B.A. – Liberal Studies- San Jose State
- M.Ed – Cross-Cultural Teaching- National University
- California Teaching Credential, National University
- 19 years of teaching experience (Elementary)
Hobbies: Working out, dancing, sports
Favorite Bible Verse: 1 Corinthians 14:33 “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.”
Ranjani Manuel
ICI Director
Ranjani Manuel
ICI Director
Education & Experience:
- B.S. Tech Engineering in Information Technology, Anna University, India
- M.S. in Management Information Systems, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Software Security Engineer (Cigital, PlayStation and Amazon).
Hobbies: I love to play music with my husband and friends, love spending time with my 2 kids (bike rides, board games, crochet) and go on trips.
Favorite Bible Verse: Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Donna Meyer
Pre Kindergarten Aide
Donna Meyer
Pre Kindergarten Aide
Education/Experience
- Early Childhood Education units from San Jose City College
- Worked as a Preschool teacher for 20 years in the San Jose community
Hobbies: In my spare time I enjoy thrifting for unique finds and enjoy attending my son’s basketball and bowling tournaments.
Bible Verse: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Nyssa Nunez
Preschool Aide
Nyssa Nunez
Preschool Aide
Experience & Education:
- A.A. English; currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
- 7 years at Christian schools working with preschool, elementary, and middle school students
Hobbies: Making art and crafts, playing instruments, singing, baking, and video games
Favorite Bible Verse: Matthew 22:37-40 — “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Theresa Paulson
Office Manager and ESS Coordinator
Theresa Paulson
Office Manager and ESS Coordinator
Experience & Education:
- 20+ years in the dental industry
Hobbies: Outdoor adventures with family — beach trips, hikes, and neighborhood walks with golden retriever Oliver Finn
Favorite Bible Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.”
Ann Pin
First Grade Teacher
Ann Pin
First Grade Teacher
Experience & Education:
- 15 plus years of teaching experience
Hobbies: Dancing and arts & crafts
Favorite Bible Verse: Joshua 1:9
Victoria Pon
Third Grade Teacher
Victoria Pon
Third Grade Teacher
Experience & Education:
- 18+ years of teaching experience
Hobbies: Trail running and spending time with family
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 1:6 — “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Cynthia Porter
Pre-K Teacher
Cynthia Porter
Pre-K Teacher
Experience & Education:
- Studied Performing Arts and Education at Central Washington University, Ellensburg
- Toured the US and abroad as a performer and arts educator with a touring theatre company
Hobbies: Quilting, reading, camping, gardening, and cooking with family
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:8
Diane Price
Instructional Aide
Diane Price
Instructional Aide
Experience & Education:
- 20+ years in Children’s Ministry
- Nearly 10 years in public and private schools
- Year-long cohorts at Fuller Seminary and Western Seminary
- Participated in Sticky Faith cohort — focused on supporting lasting faith development into adulthood
Hobbies: Hiking, photography, travel, reading, and gardening
Favorite Bible Verse: Matthew 6:33 — “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Samantha Regidor
Instructional Aide
Samantha Regidor
Instructional Aide
Education & Experience:
- B.S. Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources, California State University, East Bay
- Background supporting children’s learning and development through school and youth programs
- Community-minded and passionate about supporting others, serving families, and contributing to a warm, Christ-centered environment
Hobbies: I find joy in movement, family, and creativity—whether I’m running, staying active, traveling to new places, or crafting something by hand
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13 — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Margaret Reyes
Preschool Teacher
Margaret Reyes
Preschool Teacher
Education & Experience
- B.A. Fine Arts, University of Santo Tomas, Philippines
- Early Childhood Education, De La Salle University & San Jose City College
- 20 years of teaching experience (Preschool, Pre Kindergarten, TK)
Hobbies: Crafting, Painting, Thrifting, and painting furniture.
Favorite Bible Verse: Exodus 14:14 – “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still”.
Paula Rhodes
Preschool Aide
Paula Rhodes
Preschool Aide
Education & Experience:
- B.A. Child Development, California State University, Sacramento College of Education
- Site Supervisor Permit, Child Development Training Consortium
- Multiple years of teaching experience (Preschool through 8th grade)
- National D Coaching License, US Soccer
Hobbies: Reading and gardening, cooking and entertaining with friends & family, volunteering with a local Equine Therapy program, swimming, time with my family and dogs
Favorite Bible Verse: Lamentations 3:22-23
Kristin Rutz
Instructional Aide
Kristin Rutz
Instructional Aide
Education & Experience
- B.S. Psychology, Westmont College
- M.S. Counseling, Oregon State University
- Served as an elementary school counselor for 5 years and a junior high and high school academic counselor for 6 years.
Hobbies: reading, hiking, playing pickleball, cooking, and traveling to see my kids and grandson.
Favorite Bible Verse: Zephaniah 3:17 – “The Lord God is in your midst. He is a mighty one who will save. He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will quiet you with his love. He will exult over you with loud singing.”
Catherine Scott
Third Grade Teacher
Catherine Scott
Third Grade Teacher
Experience & Education:
- A.A. Child Development, West Valley College
- B.S. Business Management/Studio Art, Liberty University
- 7 years of teaching experience
Hobbies: Beach trips, coffee dates with friends, watching dramas, and hiking
Favorite Bible Verse: Romans 8:6 — “The mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.”
Deborah Smith
Preschool Teacher
Deborah Smith
Preschool Teacher
Education & Experience:
- A.A. – Early Childhood Education, West Valley College
- B.A. – Child Development/Early Childhood Education, Pacific Oaks College
- 9 years Teachers Aide, Village Preschool, Saratoga
- 15 years Teacher, Village Preschool, Saratoga
Hobbies: Reading, Mahjong, Gardening
Favorite Bible Verse: Isaiah 40:31 – “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Rosalba Sokhanvari
Spanish Teacher
Rosalba Sokhanvari
Spanish Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Interior and Marketing Design, University of Maryland, College Park
- Romantic Languages, ETH Universität, Switzerland
- 26 years Spanish teaching experience in grades k-12
Hobbies: Walking with my dog Luna, swimming, reading, history and languages.
Favorite Bible Verse:Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Rosalina Soli
Fourth Grade Teacher
Rosalina Soli
Fourth Grade Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Behavioral Science, Notre Dame de Namur University
- Multiple-subject teaching credential; additional graduate work
- 30+ year career spanning grades 1–6, Middle School English and Spanish (K–8), educational therapy, program direction, interim vice principal, and Dean of Students
Hobbies: Reading, gardening, hiking, and traveling
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 1
Robert Starke
Middle School Teacher
Robert Starke
Middle School Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.A. Bible and Theology, San Jose Christian College
- M.Div. Westminster Theological Seminary
- 20+ years of teaching experience at the collegiate, high school, and middle school levels
Hobbies: Fishing, construction, and working on classic cars
Favorite Bible Verse: Galatians 2:20 — “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Shelby Stewart
Instructional Aide
Shelby Stewart
Instructional Aide
Education & Experience:
- Currently pursuing degrees in Psychology and Graphic Design from Liberty University
- Valley Christian Elementary School Aide
- 4 years in Elementary, K-5th grade Aide
Hobbies: missions trips, Traveling, baking, watching/playing sports, designing logos and doing anything creative(coloring, painting, etc.).
Favorite Bible Verse: Joshua 1:9 — “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Andrea Taormina
Fifth Grade Teacher
Andrea Taormina
Fifth Grade Teacher
Experience & Education:
- M.Ed. Specialization in Differentiated Instruction
- Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
Hobbies: Baking, hiking, biking, and traveling
Favorite Bible Verse: Isaiah 41:10 — “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Moni Tautu
PE & STEM Teacher
Moni Tautu
PE & STEM Teacher
Lisa Tencati
Instructional Aide
Lisa Tencati
Instructional Aide
Experience & Education:
- Worked at VCA as a Teachers aide for 19 years.
Hobbies: cooking and spending time with my family.
Favorite Bible verses: Philippians 4:13 “for I can do everything God asks me to do with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power.”
Erin Toombs
Instructional Aide
Erin Toombs
Instructional Aide
Experience & Education:
- 4+ years of elementary school teaching experience
Hobbies: Yard work, gardening, biking, and hiking in scenic areas, unapologetic Pokémon Go player
Favorite Bible Verse: Romans 12:2
Ellen Ward
Elementary PE Teacher
Ellen Ward
Elementary PE Teacher
Experience & Education:
- PE Teaching Credential & Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
- Taught 1st and 3rd grade
- Taught elementary and middle school PE
- Coached recreational and competitive gymnastics for ages 1–18
Hobbies: Spending time with her husband and two young sons, being active outdoors and reading
Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 — “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Katie Worrell
Instructional Aide
Katie Worrell
Instructional Aide
Education & Experience:
- A.A. Elementary Education, West Valley College
- 12 Units of Child Development, West Valley College
- 1 year of TA experience (Elementary)
Hobbies: Reading, gardening, wake surfing, camping, and home decorating
Favorite Bible Verse: Matthew 11:28-30 — “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Lisa Xu
Pre-K Teacher
Lisa Xu
Pre-K Teacher
Experience & Education:
- Preschool teacher since 2021
- Early Childhood Education Certification
- Pursuing advanced ECE certification at De Anza College
Hobbies: Hiking, swimming, and reading
Favorite Bible Verse: Luke 1:78-79 — “Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
Tingru Yin
Fourth Grade Teacher
Tingru Yin
Fourth Grade Teacher
Experience & Education:
- B.S. Finance, St. John’s University
- M.A. Elementary Education, Western Governors University
Hobbies: Traveling and gardening
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 23:6 — “Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of Jehovah for the length of my days.”
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