Discover Our Staff

May Oey is the founding principal of Valor Academy Elementary School, and she leads the school’s dynamic community to cultivate an environment where students achieve and believe in themselves and their school.

May has dedicated her entire life to educating students. Prior to joining Bright Star Schools, she served in various roles in education throughout the Los Angeles area for 11 years. As a school leader for a local charter public school, May learned a great deal about running and implementing successful school programs as well as maintaining a healthy and happy school community.

Previously, May taught for nine years, including teaching 3rd and 4th grades for three years in Hollywood, where her school was recognized as the highest performing school in Hollywood.

May holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from UCLA, a master’s degree in elementary education and teaching from Pepperdine University, and a credential in educational leadership and administration from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

Contact Yadira: ysanchez@brightstarschools.org

Yadira Sanchez is the Community School Manager at Valor Academy Elementary School (VAES), spearheading initiatives aimed at transforming the school into a vibrant community hub through enhanced family engagement, collaborative partnerships, and tailored support services.  

Prior to joining VAES, Yadira played a pivotal role in transforming a public charter high school into a community school, establishing vital family resources and support programs. With over a decade in community outreach, including eight years with the City of Pasadena's Police Department Community Relations section, Yadira has a proven dedication to improving community well-being. She holds a bachelor's degree in biology with a minor in psychology from California State University, Northridge. 

Yadira believes in equality for all, regardless of socioeconomic status, and is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment. She grew up in the San Fernando Valley near VAES, and her roots in the community inspire her work every day.