Aaron
Hernandez
Instructional Assistant
Aaron Hernandez
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Abdulmalek
Sulaiman
Teacher
Abdulmalek Sulaiman
Teacher
Contact
Abetzi
Espana
Teacher
Abetzi Espana
Teacher
Contact
Abra
Shay
Community Schools Program Chair
Abra Shay
Community Schools Program Chair
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Abraham
Martinez
Teacher
Abraham Martinez
Teacher
Contact
Adelaide
Jones
Teacher
Adelaide Jones
Teacher
Contact
Adonahi
Ascencio
Family Engagement Coordinator
Adonahi Ascencio
Family Engagement Coordinator
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Adriana
De La Cruz
Instructional Assistant
Adriana De La Cruz
Instructional Assistant
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Adriana
Padilla Perez
Instructional Assistant
Adriana Padilla Perez
Instructional Assistant
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Afreen
Ahmed
Staff
Afreen Ahmed
Staff
Contact
Ahjia
Moore
Restorative Practices Director
Ahjia Moore
Restorative Practices Director
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Ahmire
McKoy
School Psychologist
Ahmire McKoy
School Psychologist
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Ailyn
Galvan
Teacher
Ailyn Galvan
Teacher
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Ajay
Ghingoor
Teacher
Ajay Ghingoor
Teacher
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Ala
Aslani
Teacher
Ala Aslani
Teacher
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Albert
Beltran
Assistant Principal of Culture
Albert Beltran
Assistant Principal of Culture
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Alberto
Vera
Teacher
Alberto Vera
Teacher
Contact
Aleida
Cajahuaringa
Speech and Language Pathologist Assistant
Aleida Cajahuaringa
Speech and Language Pathologist Assistant
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Alejandra
Cruz
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Alejandra Cruz
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Alejandra
Sanchez
Teacher
Alejandra Sanchez
Teacher
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Aleksandra
Vargas
Cluster Data Coordinator
Aleksandra Vargas
Cluster Data Coordinator
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Alexander
Huerta
Cloud Support Manager
Alexander Huerta
Cloud Support Manager
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Alexandra
Brown
School Counselor
Alexandra Brown
School Counselor
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Alexandra
Duggins
Mathematics Instructional Coach
Alexandra Duggins
Mathematics Instructional Coach
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Alexandra
Hernandez
Teacher
Alexandra Hernandez
Teacher
Contact
Alexandra
Lee
Vice President of Academic Initiatives
Alexandra Lee
Vice President of Academic Initiatives
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Alexandra
Martinez Ramirez
Speech and Language Pathologist Assistant
Alexandra Martinez Ramirez
Speech and Language Pathologist Assistant
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Alexis
Blanco
Instructional Assistant
Alexis Blanco
Instructional Assistant
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Alexis
Carrero
Teacher
Alexis Carrero
Teacher
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Alexis
Gonzalez
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Alexis Gonzalez
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Alexis
Roldan
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Alexis Roldan
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Alexis
Scott
Dean of Academic Support
Alexis Scott
Dean of Academic Support
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Alexis
Thompson
Counselor
Alexis Thompson
Counselor
Contact
Alexsandr
Kanevskiy
Alexsandr Kanevskiy
Contact
Allen
Andrews
Assistant Principal of Instruction
Allen Andrews
Assistant Principal of Instruction
Contact
Allison
Gillett
Teacher
Allison Gillett
Teacher
Contact
Ally
Nanji
School Psychologist
Ally Nanji
School Psychologist
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Alondra
Medina
Instructional Assistant
Alondra Medina
Instructional Assistant
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Alyssa
Amador
Teacher
Alyssa Amador
Teacher
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Amalia
Zayas
Counselor
Amalia Zayas
Counselor
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Amanda
Akens
Speech & Language Pathologist
Amanda Akens
Speech & Language Pathologist
Contact
Amanda K.
Lopez
Paraprofessional
Amanda K. Lopez
Paraprofessional
Contact
Amanda
Lopez
Campus Aide
Amanda Lopez
Campus Aide
Contact
Amy
Weng
ELD Interventionist
Amy Weng
ELD Interventionist
Contact
Ana L.
Martinez
Lead Executive Officer
Ana L. Martinez
Lead Executive Officer
Ana Martinez launched her career in education in the same district she attended the majority of her K-12 career, the Los Angeles Unified School District. She is a Teach For America alumni corps member who began teaching in a large comprehensive middle school. She also served as a Dean of Students at another LAUSD middle school, where she embarked on turnaround work and grew her background with culture and systems change at her school.
In 2009, Ana transitioned to Aspire Public Schools where she continued her work as a Dean of Students and then as the Assistant Principal in their Huntington Park middle school. Her most impactful and humbling role was that of a founding Principal in South Los Angeles where she opened up an Aspire school under LAUSD's Public School Choice Model. She led that school for eight years before becoming the Chief of Staff to the Chief Schools Officer and focusing on strengthening home office communication with schools, as well as the professional development offerings for leaders.
Most recently, she served as the Chief Academic Officer and Superintendent at a charter management organization serving a large rural community in the Central Valley of California.
She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, a master’s in education from Loyola Marymount University, and is also a Pahara fellow.
Contact
Ana
Magana
Maintenance
Ana Magana
Maintenance
Contact
Ana Maria
Martinez
Meal Server
Ana Maria Martinez
Meal Server
Contact
Ana
Vargas
Vice President of Human Resources
Ana Vargas
Vice President of Human Resources
Contact
Anahi
Perez
Teacher
Anahi Perez
Teacher
Contact
Andrea
Chicaiza
Teacher
Andrea Chicaiza
Teacher
Contact
Andrea
Garcia Chavez
College & Career Counseling Assistant
Andrea Garcia Chavez
College & Career Counseling Assistant
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Andrea
Lopez Quintana
Instructional Assistant
Andrea Lopez Quintana
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Andrea
Padilla
Teacher
Andrea Padilla
Teacher
Contact
Andres
Paniagua
Dean of Student Culture
Andres Paniagua
Dean of Student Culture
Contact
Angel
Cerritos
Transition Specialist
Angel Cerritos
Transition Specialist
Contact
Angel
Hernandez-Romero
Teacher
Angel Hernandez-Romero
Teacher
Contact
Angelica
Quintero Caballero
Teacher
Angelica Quintero Caballero
Teacher
Contact
Angelina
Calderon
Vice President of Outreach and Engagement
Angelina Calderon
Vice President of Outreach and Engagement
Contact
Angelique
Lopez
Teacher
Angelique Lopez
Teacher
Contact
Angie
Trae-Greenbarg
Assistant Principal
Angie Trae-Greenbarg
Assistant Principal
Contact
Anita
Pande
Teacher
Anita Pande
Teacher
Contact
Anthony
Flores Medina
Instructional Assistant
Anthony Flores Medina
Instructional Assistant
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Anthony
Lentz
Counselor
Anthony Lentz
Counselor
Contact
Antonio
Montiel
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Antonio Montiel
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Contact
April Joy
De Vera
Teacher
April Joy De Vera
Teacher
Contact
Araceli
Alvarado
Maintenance
Araceli Alvarado
Maintenance
Contact
Ari
Engelberg
Founding Board Chair and Executive Director Emeritus
Ari Engelberg
Founding Board Chair and Executive Director Emeritus
Ari Engelberg was the founding Board President when Stella Middle Charter Academy first opened its doors in 2003. In 2007, not long after Bright Star Secondary Charter Academy was opened and the name of the organization was changed to Bright Star Schools, he made a transition into the Executive Director role. For over a decade Ari played an instrumental role in shaping Bright Star Schools into a vibrant, kid-focused organization that is helping to close the achievement gap in Los Angeles. Ari holds bachelor’s degrees in political science and psychology from UC Berkeley and a juris doctor and masters of business administration from UCLA. Ari has participated on a range of nonprofit boards and advisory committees, and continues to be involved in uplifting Los Angeles as a board member of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the Girls Athletic Leadership School.
Contact
Arlene
Rivera
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Arlene Rivera
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Arlene
Torres
Lead Instructional Assistant
Arlene Torres
Lead Instructional Assistant
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Arlin
Ramirez
Instructional Assistant
Arlin Ramirez
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Arpi
Tamzarian
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Arpi Tamzarian
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Ashley
Chameides
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Ashley Chameides
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Ashley
Colburn
Director of Teacher Induction and Development
Ashley Colburn
Director of Teacher Induction and Development
Contact
Asma
Ali-Dodough
Assistant Principal of Student & Family Services
Asma Ali-Dodough
Assistant Principal of Student & Family Services
Contact
Aya
Cheung
Controller
Aya Cheung
Controller
Contact
Beatriz
Aparicio
Office Manager
Beatriz Aparicio
Office Manager
Contact
Benjamin
Katcher
Teacher
Benjamin Katcher
Teacher
Contact
Bernadette
McComish
Teacher
Bernadette McComish
Teacher
Contact
Beth
Pollak
Instructional Coach
Beth Pollak
Instructional Coach
Contact
Betsy
Diaz
Assistant Principal
Betsy Diaz
Assistant Principal
Contact
Blake
Dicicco
Teacher
Blake Dicicco
Teacher
Contact
Breana
Baskerville
Dean of Academic Support
Breana Baskerville
Dean of Academic Support
Contact
Brenda
Zavala Govea
Instructional Assistant
Brenda Zavala Govea
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Brian
Martinez
Community Schools Manager
Brian Martinez
Community Schools Manager
Contact
Brian
Ortiz
Campus Aide
Brian Ortiz
Campus Aide
Contact
Brian
Perry
Principal, Valor Academy Middle School
Brian Perry
Principal, Valor Academy Middle School
Brian Perry is the principal of Valor Academy Middle School, where he leads the school to create an environment where all students can see academic success, engage with their individual interests, and participate in experiences that will help them grow as people.
Previously, Brian served Valor Academy Middle School as the assistant principal of instruction and curriculum for five years, and helped bring new and exciting programs and initiatives to drive student learning. He joined Valor Academy Middle School as a fifth grade English language arts teacher in 2011.
Prior to joining Bright Star Schools, Brian taught in schools in Miami, FL; New Haven, CT; and Inglewood, CA. He began his career as a high school English teacher as a Teach For America corps member. As a third grader in St. Louis, MO, Brian made the commitment to become a teacher as impactful as the ones he had encountered in his early education.
Brian holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri.
Contact
Brianna
Alcocer
Teacher
Brianna Alcocer
Teacher
Contact
Briannah
Walters
Teacher
Briannah Walters
Teacher
Contact
Briceida
Gallegos
Counselor
Briceida Gallegos
Counselor
Contact
Bridget
Sibley
Speech & Language Pathologist
Bridget Sibley
Speech & Language Pathologist
Contact
Bryan
Aguillon
Campus Aide
Bryan Aguillon
Campus Aide
Contact
Bryan
Alfaro
School Data Specialist
Bryan Alfaro
School Data Specialist
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Bryan
Kaleta
Teacher
Bryan Kaleta
Teacher
Contact
Caitlin
Anzoleaga
Teacher
Caitlin Anzoleaga
Teacher
Contact
Caitlin
Han
Teacher
Caitlin Han
Teacher
Contact
Candace
Ross
School Counselor
Candace Ross
School Counselor
Contact
Carissa
Gonzalez
Teacher
Carissa Gonzalez
Teacher
Contact
Carla
Aguirre
School Psychologist
Carla Aguirre
School Psychologist
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Carla
Chavez
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Carla Chavez
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Carla
Pulido Ruiz
Assistant Dean of Restorative Practices
Carla Pulido Ruiz
Assistant Dean of Restorative Practices
Contact
Carla
Weber
Teacher
Carla Weber
Teacher
Contact
Carlos
Contreras
Teacher
Carlos Contreras
Teacher
Contact
Carlos
Cordova
Maintenance
Carlos Cordova
Maintenance
Contact
Carlos
Somoza
Gardening and Cooking Coordinator
Carlos Somoza
Gardening and Cooking Coordinator
Contact
Carmen
Garcia-Shushtari
Senior Manager, Marketing
Carmen Garcia-Shushtari
Senior Manager, Marketing
Contact
Carolina
Gomez
Instructional Assistant
Carolina Gomez
Instructional Assistant
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Carolina
Mora
Speech and Language Pathologist Assistant
Carolina Mora
Speech and Language Pathologist Assistant
Contact
Catlyn
Preffer
Teacher
Catlyn Preffer
Teacher
Contact
Cecilia
Cueva
Teacher
Cecilia Cueva
Teacher
Contact
Celia
Fang
School Counselor
Celia Fang
School Counselor
Contact
Chanel
Williams Hungerford
Teacher
Chanel Williams Hungerford
Teacher
Contact
Charlotte
Seymore
Dean of Restorative Practices
Charlotte Seymore
Dean of Restorative Practices
Contact
Charne
Tunson
Teacher
Charne Tunson
Teacher
Contact
Chelsea
Nguyen
Counselor
Chelsea Nguyen
Counselor
Contact
Chia-Hsuan
Weng
ELD Interventionist
Chia-Hsuan Weng
ELD Interventionist
Contact
China
Habte
Head of Accounting & Fiscal Services
China Habte
Head of Accounting & Fiscal Services
Contact
Chloe
Resler
Teacher
Chloe Resler
Teacher
Contact
Christian
Navarro
Campus Aide
Christian Navarro
Campus Aide
Contact
Christian
Risquez
Community Schools Manager
Christian Risquez
Community Schools Manager
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Christian
Sandoval
Teacher
Christian Sandoval
Teacher
Contact
Christie
Romero
Teacher
Christie Romero
Teacher
Contact
Christina
Siddall
Teacher
Christina Siddall
Teacher
Contact
Christopher
Flaherty
Teacher
Christopher Flaherty
Teacher
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Christopher
Simpson
Teacher
Christopher Simpson
Teacher
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Christopher
Wellbrook
Assistant Principal of Instruction
Christopher Wellbrook
Assistant Principal of Instruction
Contact
Ciro
Zavala
Maintenance
Ciro Zavala
Maintenance
Contact
Claire
Kwon
Substitute Teacher
Claire Kwon
Substitute Teacher
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Clara
Garay
Lead Instructional Mentor
Clara Garay
Lead Instructional Mentor
Contact
Claudia
Cortez
Instructional Assistant
Claudia Cortez
Instructional Assistant
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Claudia
Gardner
Office Manager
Claudia Gardner
Office Manager
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Claudia
Jerez Sneed
Claudia Jerez Sneed
Contact
Colin
Yamashita
Teacher
Colin Yamashita
Teacher
Contact
Colleen
Trejo
Assistant Principal
Colleen Trejo
Assistant Principal
Contact
Cristian
Martinez
Teacher
Cristian Martinez
Teacher
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Cristina
Valencia
Lead Instructional Assistant
Cristina Valencia
Lead Instructional Assistant
Contact
Curtis
Nash
Dean of Student & Family Services
Curtis Nash
Dean of Student & Family Services
Contact
Curtis
Spiller
Teacher
Curtis Spiller
Teacher
Contact
Cynthia
Astorga
Counselor
Cynthia Astorga
Counselor
Contact
Cynthia
Trigueros
Principal, Rise Kohyang High School
Cynthia Trigueros
Principal, Rise Kohyang High School
Cynthia Trigueros is the principal of Rise Kohyang High School, and she leads the Tritons to achieve academic excellence and grow their unique talents so they find joy and fulfillment in higher education, career, and life.
Cynthia has served Bright Star Schools for over 15 years. She previously served as a founding biology teacher, an assistant principal, and interim principal at Rise Kohyang High School before being named principal in 2021. Cynthia was also a founding science teacher at Rise Kohyang Middle School, where she taught for nearly six years.
Cynthia holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from California State University, Northridge, a master of arts in bilingual elementary education from Loyola Marymount University as well as a master and credential in educational leadership and administration from California State University, Dominguez Hills.
Contact
Daisy
Gomez
School Data Specialist
Daisy Gomez
School Data Specialist
Contact
Dalton
Arnhart
Teacher
Dalton Arnhart
Teacher
Contact
Damarrius
Thompson
Teacher
Damarrius Thompson
Teacher
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Dana
Daniels
Teacher
Dana Daniels
Teacher
Contact
Daniel
Abner
Community Schools Manager
Daniel Abner
Community Schools Manager
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Daniel
Garcia
Cluster Data Lead
Daniel Garcia
Cluster Data Lead
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Daniel
Gross
Instructional Assistant
Daniel Gross
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Daniel
Lee
Receptionist
Daniel Lee
Receptionist
Contact
Daniel
Pryor
Dean of Academic Supports
Daniel Pryor
Dean of Academic Supports
Contact
Daniela
Feria
IT Helpdesk
Daniela Feria
IT Helpdesk
Contact
Danielle
Starr
Teacher
Danielle Starr
Teacher
Contact
Danny
Oliver
Dean of Operations
Danny Oliver
Dean of Operations
Contact
Darian
White
Teacher
Darian White
Teacher
Contact
Darrell
Johnson
Paraprofessional
Darrell Johnson
Paraprofessional
Contact
Darryl
Garris
Principal, Stella High Charter Academy
Darryl Garris
Principal, Stella High Charter Academy
Darryl Garris is the principal for Stella High Charter Academy, and he leads the school to ensure all Eagles achieve academic excellence and grow their unique talents so they find joy and fulfillment in higher education, career, and life.
Previously, Darryl served Bright Star Schools as principal of Stella Middle Charter Academy (Grades 5-6) and as assistant principal of Stella Middle Charter Academy. Darryl also taught pre-algebra, algebra readiness, and Algebra 1 at Stella Middle Charter Academy and Bright Star Secondary Charter Academy.
Prior to joining Bright Star Schools, Darryl was a teacher at Dorsey High School as a Teach For America corps member.
Darryl holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and a bachelor’s degree in environmental economics from UC Berkeley’s College of Natural Resources. He also holds a master’s degree in urban education, a master’s degree in school administration, and a certificate in charter school leadership from Loyola Marymount University's School of Education.
Contact
David
Correa
Teacher
David Correa
Teacher
Contact
David
Liebhauser
Teacher
David Liebhauser
Teacher
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David
Salinas
Instructional Assistant
David Salinas
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Dawn
North
Wellness Coordinator
Dawn North
Wellness Coordinator
Contact
Dayna
Rosso
Teacher
Dayna Rosso
Teacher
Contact
Deana
Estrada Wu
Dean of Instruction
Deana Estrada Wu
Dean of Instruction
Contact
Delma
Rosales
Dean of Operations
Delma Rosales
Dean of Operations
Contact
Dennis
Paek
Teacher
Dennis Paek
Teacher
Contact
Desirae
Dickinson
Teacher
Desirae Dickinson
Teacher
Contact
Desiree
Escobar
Teacher
Desiree Escobar
Teacher
Contact
Devin
Diaz
Teacher
Devin Diaz
Teacher
Contact
Deysi
Menjivar
Instructional Assistant
Deysi Menjivar
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Diane
Pyo
Teacher
Diane Pyo
Teacher
Contact
Dominic
Redix
Teacher
Dominic Redix
Teacher
Contact
Dr. Eliza
Kimly
Head of Schools, Bright Star Schools
Dr. Eliza Kimly
Head of Schools, Bright Star Schools
Dr. Eliza KimLy is the co-Head of Schools for Bright Star Schools, and the former founding principal of Rise Kohyang Middle School. As co-Head of Schools, she leads the development and execution of a rigorous instructional program that serves all students and supports principals to achieve their schools’ goals.
Dr. KimLy joined Bright Star Schools as a science teacher in 2004. After teaching both science and English Language Arts for three years, she served Bright Star Schools as assistant principal, principal, and director of instruction.
A Los Angeles-born native who grew up in Koreatown, Dr. KimLy wanted to give back to her “kohyang” (“hometown”). She founded Rise Kohyang Middle School in 2012 to serve the educational needs of families who live in Koreatown.
Prior to joining Bright Star Schools, Dr. KimLy served as a teacher, substitute teacher, student teacher, and teacher’s assistant for the Los Angeles, Culver City, and Beverly Hills Unified School Districts.
Dr. KimLy holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism with a minor in American Studies from the University of Southern California; a teaching credential and master’s degree in education; and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Pepperdine University. Her administrative credential was completed at Loyola Marymount University’s Institute of School Leadership & Administration.
Contact
Edwin
Hernandez
Teacher
Edwin Hernandez
Teacher
Contact
Ekaterina
Mikhailova
Instructional Assistant
Ekaterina Mikhailova
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Elba
Cortez
Instructional Assistant
Elba Cortez
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Elijah
Sugay
Chief Business Officer
Elijah Sugay
Chief Business Officer
Elijah Sugay grew up in the San Fernando Valley near our Valor Academy schools and was the first employee hired at Valor Academy Middle School (VAMS). Elijah became the Founding Director of Finance and Operations for VAMS and helped the school launch and grow into the successful institution it is today.
After serving at VAMS for four years, Elijah became Senior Director of Operations for Bright Star Schools and then Vice President of Facilities and Finance for Bright Star, where he oversaw facilities and finance for all 9 Bright Star schools and helped build permanent campuses for Valor Academy Middle School, Valor Academy High School, and Stella Middle Charter Academy.
As Chief Business Officer, Elijah leads all facilities projects for Bright Star Schools, as well as Bright Star’s fiscal health. He supports school leaders to develop sustainable budgets that meet their schools’ highest needs, priorities, and visions for how they want to achieve our mission on behalf of the students we serve.
Elijah holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from UCLA.
Contact
Elizabeth
Carter
Director of Expanded Learning
Elizabeth Carter
Director of Expanded Learning
Contact
Elizabeth
Rojas
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Elizabeth Rojas
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Originally born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Elizabeth, a first-generation college graduate, went to Gertz-Ressler High School near the Pico-Union area of the city. At 18, she took the biggest leap of faith that would change her life and moved to the midwest to attend the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University in St. Joseph, Minnesota.
St. Joseph became her new home for the next 4 years. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Hispanic Studies and Communications, and also studied abroad in Guatemala where she was able to connect to her roots through food and poetry.
After graduating from college, Elizabeth served in College Possible AmeriCorps as a college coach, where she mentored and coached numerous first-generation and low-income college students. She then became a high school college counselor for the next 4 years at a private Jesuit high school in Twin Cities, Minnesota. She fulfilled a goal of 100% college acceptance rate for all students and collaborated with Georgetown University to create a retention and persistence program.
After living in Minnesota for 10 years, she returned to replant her California roots. She is thankful and grateful for the countless mentors she had along her journey. She looks to pay it forward to under-resourced and historically excluded communities to ensure they have access to information, resources, and higher education.
Contact
Elizel
Palma
Teacher
Elizel Palma
Teacher
Contact
Elsa
Flores
Teacher
Elsa Flores
Teacher
Contact
Elsy
Ordones Menjivar
Custodian
Elsy Ordones Menjivar
Custodian
Contact
Elyssa
Arroyo
Teacher
Elyssa Arroyo
Teacher
Contact
Eman
Fakhr
Science Instructional Coach
Eman Fakhr
Science Instructional Coach
Contact
Emily
Cano
Temporary Counselor
Emily Cano
Temporary Counselor
Contact
Emily
Mitchell
Teacher
Emily Mitchell
Teacher
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Emily
Robles
Paraprofessional
Emily Robles
Paraprofessional
Contact
Emma
Bideau
Instructional Interventionist
Emma Bideau
Instructional Interventionist
Contact
Emma
Stotts
Community Schools Manager
Emma Stotts
Community Schools Manager
Contact
Emory
Kim
Teacher
Emory Kim
Teacher
Contact
Emy
Sosa
Instructional Assistant
Emy Sosa
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Enrico
Cosinas
Teacher
Enrico Cosinas
Teacher
Contact
Eric
Luna
Assistant Dean of Student Support
Eric Luna
Assistant Dean of Student Support
Contact
Eric
Rodriguez
Dean of Operations
Eric Rodriguez
Dean of Operations
Contact
Eric
Tran
IT Helpdesk
Eric Tran
IT Helpdesk
Contact
Erica
Johnson
Teacher
Erica Johnson
Teacher
Contact
Erik
Andersen
Teacher
Erik Andersen
Teacher
Contact
Erika
Castillo Rico
Paraprofessional
Erika Castillo Rico
Paraprofessional
Contact
Erika
Sierra
Instructional Assistant
Erika Sierra
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Esmeralda
Reynaga
Instructional Assistant
Esmeralda Reynaga
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Evelyn
Moran
Counselor
Evelyn Moran
Counselor
Contact
Fatima
Montiel
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Fatima Montiel
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Fernando
Lupian
Teacher
Fernando Lupian
Teacher
Contact
Forrest
Sprague
Teacher
Forrest Sprague
Teacher
Contact
Francesca
Barragan
Office Manager
Francesca Barragan
Office Manager
Contact
Francisco
Cordova
Maintenance
Francisco Cordova
Maintenance
Contact
Francisco
Uriarte Salazar
Cluster Data Coordinator
Francisco Uriarte Salazar
Cluster Data Coordinator
Contact
Frank
Amezcua
Teacher
Frank Amezcua
Teacher
Contact
Frank
Pineda
Teacher
Frank Pineda
Teacher
Contact
Freddy
Zuniga
Instructional Assistant
Freddy Zuniga
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Gabriel
Gonzalez
Instructional Assistant
Gabriel Gonzalez
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Gabriela
Esparza
Dean of Operations
Gabriela Esparza
Dean of Operations
Contact
Gabriela
Monje
Dean of Operations
Gabriela Monje
Dean of Operations
Contact
Gabriela
Nunez-Carrera
Instructional Assistant
Gabriela Nunez-Carrera
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Gaspar
Gudino
Campus Aide
Gaspar Gudino
Campus Aide
Contact
Gene
Castro
Principal, Stella Elementary Charter Academy
Gene Castro
Principal, Stella Elementary Charter Academy
At Stella Elementary Charter Academy (SECA), Gene Castro leads the school to ensure all Lionesses achieve academic excellence and grow their unique talents so that they find joy and fulfillment in higher education, career, and life. His mission is that SECA students are able to build a strong foundation in literacy, mathematical practice, social-emotional competencies, and social justice education before continuing onto middle school.
Previously, Gene served Bright Star Schools as Stella Elementary’s Assistant Principal of Instruction. Under his leadership, Stella Elementary improved its English Language Development program and increased the English learner reclassification rate from 1% to 14%. The school also launched its first after-school tutoring program for students with the highest academic needs.
Prior to joining Bright Star Schools, Gene joined Teach For America and taught upper elementary on the East Coast. During this time, he received training on leadership and coaching, and eventually served as a Corps Member Advisor at the Teach For America National Philadelphia Institute. In 2015, he helped found a charter school in South Los Angeles where he served as a classroom teacher and then Dean of Culture. He holds a Bachelor's degree in international/global studies from UC Santa Barbara and a Master’s degree in elementary education from Wilmington University.
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Genesis
Peinder
Teacher
Genesis Peinder
Teacher
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Genevie
Santiago
Instructional Assistant
Genevie Santiago
Instructional Assistant
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Genoveva
Cortes
Director, Alumni Support and College Success
Genoveva Cortes
Director, Alumni Support and College Success
Supporting: All Bright Star Schools Alumni with with the graduate school application process
M.A., Harvard Graduate School of Education, Class of 2010
B.A., University of California, Los Angeles, Class of 1997
Genoveva Garibay Cortes has over two decades of experience working as an elementary and middle school teacher, K-12 and college administrator, and program coordinator. She was Bright Star Schools’ founding math teacher for Stella Middle Charter Academy in 2003, and currently serves as the Director of the Alumni Support and College Success (ASCS) Program for the organization. Geno developed and launched Bright Star’s ASCS Program to support the organization’s alumni to persist in and graduate from higher education. ASCS tracks, supports, and coaches Bright Star Schools' alumni to get to and through higher education, with a goal of 60% of Bright Star Schools alumni graduating with a bachelor's or associate's degree, vocational certificate, or from a workplace development program within six years of high school graduation. Geno is a former foster youth and the first in her family to have graduated from college. She is passionate about educational equity and reform, and social justice.
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Georgina
Perez
Campus Aide
Georgina Perez
Campus Aide
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Ginnia
Hargins
Assistant Principal of Instruction
Ginnia Hargins
Assistant Principal of Instruction
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Gisselle
Flores
Instructional Assistant
Gisselle Flores
Instructional Assistant
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Gloria
Cuevas Galeana
Teacher
Gloria Cuevas Galeana
Teacher
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Gloria
Hamilton
Crossing Guard
Gloria Hamilton
Crossing Guard
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Gurpreet
Kaur
Teacher
Gurpreet Kaur
Teacher
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Gustavo
Herrera
Teacher
Gustavo Herrera
Teacher
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Gustavo
Morales Lariosa
Teacher
Gustavo Morales Lariosa
Teacher
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Gustavo
Padilla
Teacher
Gustavo Padilla
Teacher
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Haily
Hernandez
Campus Aide
Haily Hernandez
Campus Aide
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Han Na
Park
Counselor
Han Na Park
Counselor
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Hannah
Rockey
Teacher
Hannah Rockey
Teacher
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Haruko
Hatakeda
School Psychologist
Haruko Hatakeda
School Psychologist
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Hector
Contreras
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Hector Contreras
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Heidi
Bretado
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Heidi Bretado
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Hrag
Hamalian
Founder and Executive Director, Valor Academy Middle School; Bright Star Schools Executive Director Emeritus
Hrag Hamalian
Founder and Executive Director, Valor Academy Middle School; Bright Star Schools Executive Director Emeritus
Hrag Manuel Hamalian previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of Bright Star Schools. Hrag strategically grew Bright Star Schools from four to nine schools, and created a community-based schools model that provides a transitional kindergarten to 12th grade education, plus 6 years of higher education support, for over 3,500 students across Los Angeles.
Prior to joining Bright Star, Hrag founded Valor Academy Middle School, a high performing 5th through 8th grade charter public school in Los Angeles. In 2013, Hrag helped lead the strategic merger of Valor and Bright Star, the first merger between two successful charter organizations in Los Angeles.
In 2011, Hrag was the recipient of Boston College's prestigious Gold Award, honoring him as alumnus of the decade. Hrag holds a double-major bachelor’s degree from Boston College in biology and honors English, a master’s degree in secondary education from Loyola Marymount University, and a master’s in business administration from UCLA.
Hrag is a Broad Academy Fellow, Aspen Institute Fellow, an Achievement First Accelerator Fellow, a Building Excellent Schools Fellow, and a Teach for America Corps Member. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for ExEd and Building Excellent Schools.
Contact
Huang
Li
School Psychologist
Huang Li
School Psychologist
Contact
Hwayoung
Jeon
Teacher
Hwayoung Jeon
Teacher
Contact
Hyun
Kim
Dean of Academic Supports
Hyun Kim
Dean of Academic Supports
Contact
Ibian
Cervantes
Teacher
Ibian Cervantes
Teacher
Contact
Idalia
Farias Izaguirre
Campus Aide
Idalia Farias Izaguirre
Campus Aide
Contact
Idera
Adagun
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Idera Adagun
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Supporting: VAHS & SHCA Class of 2018-2023 (Community College & CTE programs)
MPA, Evans School of Public Policy & Governance, University of Washington, Class of 2019
B.A., Barnard College, Class of 2015
Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, Idera Adagun’s passion for college access and success started at a young age. With a mother who received her master’s in special education and a father who emigrated from Nigeria with only a high school education, she grew up hearing various perspectives on how college would help overcome the societal inequalities that come with being African-American, low-income, female, and from an inner city.
These narratives followed her through various education nonprofits, leadership development programs, Downtown Magnet High School and eventually college, where in 2015 she received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Africana Studies from Barnard College of Columbia University.
In pursuit of supporting students like herself, Idera went on to complete a Master of Public Administration from the University of Washington’s Evans School of Public Policy and Governance in 2019. There, she focused her research on Social Policy, Education Policy, and Nonprofit Management. Most notably, she completed a graduate internship with the UW Academic Support Programs Office.
Idera has gone on to serve as the Assistant Director of the Summer Academy with Thrive Scholars (formerly South Central Scholars/SCS Noonan Scholars), helping high school graduates prepare for the academic and socio-emotional transition into college. Her most recent roles of College Counselor and College Success Director at C5LA also helped Idera further her passion of getting first-generation, low-income, and minoritized students to and through college.
Idera is excited to bring her years of experience, resources, and knowledge to Bright Star Schools as the Alumni Support and College Success Coordinator for VAHS & SHCA’s community college and CTE alumni. She hopes to help alumni reach their full potential, complete postsecondary programs, and enter into careers no matter the circumstances or challenges stacked against them.
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Ihab
Gabra
Teacher
Ihab Gabra
Teacher
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Ilaria
Schlitz
Teacher
Ilaria Schlitz
Teacher
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Iliana
Dorantes
Counselor
Iliana Dorantes
Counselor
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Iliana
Ortiz
Instructional Assistant/After School Program Supervisor
Iliana Ortiz
Instructional Assistant/After School Program Supervisor
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Inhee
Kim
Teacher
Inhee Kim
Teacher
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Irene
Cordova
Meal Server
Irene Cordova
Meal Server
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Iris
Hwang
Teacher
Iris Hwang
Teacher
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Isaac
Nef
Teacher
Isaac Nef
Teacher
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Isabel
Cuevas
Instructional Assistant
Isabel Cuevas
Instructional Assistant
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Ixchel
Paul
Paraprofessional
Ixchel Paul
Paraprofessional
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Jackeline
Guzman
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Jackeline Guzman
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Jacklyn
Noriega
Teacher
Jacklyn Noriega
Teacher
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Jaclyn
Mora
Cluster Data Coordinator
Jaclyn Mora
Cluster Data Coordinator
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Jacob
Drori
Teacher
Jacob Drori
Teacher
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Jacqueline
Guzman
Instructional Assistant
Jacqueline Guzman
Instructional Assistant
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Jacqueline
Martinez
Instructional Assistant
Jacqueline Martinez
Instructional Assistant
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Jacqueline
Orellana
Office Manager
Jacqueline Orellana
Office Manager
Contact
Jahvon
Hayes
Campus Aide
Jahvon Hayes
Campus Aide
Contact
Jaime
Hernandez
Vice President of Information Technology
Jaime Hernandez
Vice President of Information Technology
Contact
Jane
Han
Principal, Stella Middle Charter Academy
Jane Han
Principal, Stella Middle Charter Academy
Jane Han is the principal for Stella Middle Charter Academy, and she leads the school to ensure all Gryffons achieve academic excellence and grow their unique talents so that they find joy and fulfillment in higher education, career, and life.
Previously, Jane served Bright Star Schools as Stella Middle Charter Academy’s assistant principal of instruction, and as a math teacher, department leader, and mentor teacher where she coached teachers to elevate student achievement. As a math teacher, Jane taught courses ranging from pre-algebra through AP Calculus, in charter public schools in Los Angeles.
Jane holds a bachelor’s degree in history and sociology with a minor in mathematics from Columbia University and a master’s degree in teaching of mathematics from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Education.
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Janelle
Beck
Teacher
Janelle Beck
Teacher
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Janis
Cervantes Chavez
Campus Aide
Janis Cervantes Chavez
Campus Aide
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Jarol
Dubon Argueta
Campus Aide
Jarol Dubon Argueta
Campus Aide
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Jasmine
Mearns
Teacher
Jasmine Mearns
Teacher
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Javier
Caldera
Teacher
Javier Caldera
Teacher
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Jazbeth
Aguilar
Instructional Assistant
Jazbeth Aguilar
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Jeancarlo
Villatoro
Dean of Operations
Jeancarlo Villatoro
Dean of Operations
Contact
Jeannette
Gomez
Campus Aide
Jeannette Gomez
Campus Aide
Contact
Jeff
Hilger
Founder
Jeff Hilger
Founder
Jeff Hilger attended St. Paul the Apostle School and founded and named the first Bright Star School, Stella Academy, in honor of his K-8 school Principal, Sr. Stella Maria Enright, D.M.J. After attending Loyola High School ('88) and Georgetown University ('92), he joined Teach For America and spent several years teaching in bilingual classroom throughout Los Angeles. He later attended UCLA Law School ('98) and earned a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning before being selected for a U.S. District Court Clerkship and becoming an attorney. While working for Proskauer Rose LLP, he worked on a pro bono project to help open the Los Angeles Leadership Academy. He also visited KIPP Houston several times and, in partnership with Fr. Ken Deasy and many people from St. Agatha’s Parish Family in mid-city Los Angeles, was able to raise funds and engage community interests to found and open the Stella Middle Charter Academy in 2003 as its first Principal Teacher. In 2006, with the help of Sr. Ramona Bascom, O.P., who served as the first principal of the high school, Bright Star Secondary Charter Academy, Jeff became the first Executive Director of Bright Star Schools.
The founding of Stella Academy and Bright Star grew out of Jeff’s desire to give students in the mid-city Los Angeles community the same educational opportunities he himself had benefited from while in school. Jeff and Bright Star parted ways in 2013 after he spent a yearlong sabbatical in Tarragona, Catalunya, Spain while working on projects for the schools. He is currently the Director of Education for the New Opportunities Organization, which serves adult students – both inside county jails as well as throughout Los Angeles County at multiple community partner locations – who return to school to earn a high school diploma. He is also a practicing attorney focused, in part, on clients who are underserved by traditional legal services models.
Contact
Jennifer
Akshlomo
School Psychologist
Jennifer Akshlomo
School Psychologist
Contact
Jennifer
Anaya Sanchez
Principal, Valor Academy High School
Jennifer Anaya Sanchez
Principal, Valor Academy High School
Contact
Jennifer
Presuel
Athletic Director/Assistant Dean of Operations
Jennifer Presuel
Athletic Director/Assistant Dean of Operations
Contact
Jennifer
Shetland
Teacher
Jennifer Shetland
Teacher
Contact
Jennifer
Simmons
Vice President of Curriculum and Instruction
Jennifer Simmons
Vice President of Curriculum and Instruction
Contact
Jessica
De Luna
Dean of Instruction
Jessica De Luna
Dean of Instruction
Contact
Jessica
Fernandez
Teacher
Jessica Fernandez
Teacher
Contact
Jessica
Garcia Mercado
Assistant Principal of Student Culture
Jessica Garcia Mercado
Assistant Principal of Student Culture
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Jessica
Lozano
Instructional Assistant
Jessica Lozano
Instructional Assistant
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Jessica
Luna
Campus Aide
Jessica Luna
Campus Aide
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Jessica
Mariano
Instructional Assistant
Jessica Mariano
Instructional Assistant
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Jessica
Rios
Teacher
Jessica Rios
Teacher
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Jessica
Romero
Instructional Assistant
Jessica Romero
Instructional Assistant
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Jessica
Sorto
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Jessica Sorto
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Jessica
Sutherland
Attendance Clerk/Office Assistant
Jessica Sutherland
Attendance Clerk/Office Assistant
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Jessica
Valenciano Corona
Teacher
Jessica Valenciano Corona
Teacher
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Jessica
Zabala
Jessica Zabala
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Jesus
Flores
Dean of Restorative Practices
Jesus Flores
Dean of Restorative Practices
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Jesus
Ramirez
Assistant Principal
Jesus Ramirez
Assistant Principal
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Jesus
Regalado
IT Help Desk
Jesus Regalado
IT Help Desk
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Jill
Massinger
Staff
Jill Massinger
Staff
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Jocelyn
Angarita
Teacher
Jocelyn Angarita
Teacher
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Jocelyn
Flores
School Counselor
Jocelyn Flores
School Counselor
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Jocelyn
Fofrich
Teacher
Jocelyn Fofrich
Teacher
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Jocelynn
Velazquez
Instructional Assistant
Jocelynn Velazquez
Instructional Assistant
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Johanna
Lopez
Office Manager
Johanna Lopez
Office Manager
Contact
Johanna
Madrid-Gastelum
Dean of Culture and Restorative Practices
Johanna Madrid-Gastelum
Dean of Culture and Restorative Practices
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Johanna
Montiel
Office Assistant
Johanna Montiel
Office Assistant
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Johanna
Morales
Office Assistant
Johanna Morales
Office Assistant
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Johanna
Rodriguez
Instructional Assistant
Johanna Rodriguez
Instructional Assistant
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John
Collura
Teacher
John Collura
Teacher
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John
Nelson
Teacher
John Nelson
Teacher
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John
Saddler
Teacher
John Saddler
Teacher
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Johnny
Teran
Family Engagement Manager
Johnny Teran
Family Engagement Manager
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Jonatan
Perez
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Jonatan Perez
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Jonathan
Escobar
Vice President of Data Management
Jonathan Escobar
Vice President of Data Management
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Jonathan
Meneses
Instructional Assistant
Jonathan Meneses
Instructional Assistant
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Jonathan
Merrick
Teacher
Jonathan Merrick
Teacher
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Jonathan
Perez
IT Help Desk
Jonathan Perez
IT Help Desk
Contact
Jorge
Castillo
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Jorge Castillo
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Jorge
Gonzalez
At Promise Counselor Intern
Jorge Gonzalez
At Promise Counselor Intern
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Jose
Cabrera
Instructional Assistant
Jose Cabrera
Instructional Assistant
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Jose
Ipina
Instructional Assistant
Jose Ipina
Instructional Assistant
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Jose
Perez
Director of Facilities
Jose Perez
Director of Facilities
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Josefina
Martinez
Teacher
Josefina Martinez
Teacher
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Joseline
Lopez
Instructional Assistant
Joseline Lopez
Instructional Assistant
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Joselynee
Marquez
Campus Aide
Joselynee Marquez
Campus Aide
Contact
Joseph D.
Gonzalez
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Joseph D. Gonzalez
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Joseph
Gonzalez
Counselor
Joseph Gonzalez
Counselor
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Joseph
Sloane
Counselor
Joseph Sloane
Counselor
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Joshua
Cabrera
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Joshua Cabrera
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Joylin
Wei
Instructional Assistant
Joylin Wei
Instructional Assistant
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Juan
Orozco
Maintenance
Juan Orozco
Maintenance
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Juana
Garcia
Maintenance
Juana Garcia
Maintenance
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Julia
Davis
Teacher
Julia Davis
Teacher
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Juliana
Christakis
Instructional Assistant
Juliana Christakis
Instructional Assistant
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Julie
Shvarts
Speech & Language Pathologist
Julie Shvarts
Speech & Language Pathologist
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Julissa
Poz
Instructional Assistant
Julissa Poz
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Kaitlin
Allen
Founding Principal, Rise Kohyang Elementary School
Kaitlin Allen
Founding Principal, Rise Kohyang Elementary School
Kaitlin Allen is the founding principal of Rise Kohyang Elementary School, and she leads the school to ensure that the Dragons experience positive relationships with their teachers, a supportive and relevant curriculum, social-emotional learning, and joy.
Previously, Kaitlin served Bright Star Schools as assistant principal of instruction and as a high school English teacher for Valor Academy High School. Prior to joining Bright Star Schools, Kaitlin taught middle and high school English for four years in Memphis, TN.
Kaitlin holds a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Shepherd University, and a master’s degree in applied linguistics from Georgetown University.
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Kaitlin
Foe
Chief of Staff
Kaitlin Foe
Chief of Staff
Kaitlin Foe has served Bright Star Schools since 2016, first as Director of School Development and Strategic Initiatives and then as Vice President of Strategy. As Chief of Staff, Kaitlin oversees numerous Bright Star functions, including marketing and communications, educational compliance, fundraising, and organizational strategy.
Kaitlin started her career as an elementary school teacher for the East Baton Rouge Parish School System in Louisiana with Teach For America. After her time in the classroom, she served at both City Year, Louisiana and later as a Teach For America staff member for four years. Kaitlin was selected as both an Education Pioneers Fellow and a Broad Resident, both prestigious and selective programs that identify and support the further development of promising education leaders. Kaitlin holds a bachelor’s degree from UCSD, a master’s degree in public policy analysis from USC, and a master’s degree in educational leadership from The Broad Residency.
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Karen
Medina
Community Schools Manager
Karen Medina
Community Schools Manager
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Karisa
Torres
Instructional Assistant
Karisa Torres
Instructional Assistant
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Karissa
Shanley
Teacher
Karissa Shanley
Teacher
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Karlyn
Yngve
Enrollment Manager
Karlyn Yngve
Enrollment Manager
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Katherine
Kuwada
Teacher
Katherine Kuwada
Teacher
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Katherine
Wong
Teacher
Katherine Wong
Teacher
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Kathryne
Edwards
Teacher
Kathryne Edwards
Teacher
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Kayla
Lindstedt
Teacher
Kayla Lindstedt
Teacher
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Keben
Perez
Teacher
Keben Perez
Teacher
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Kendra
Racouillat
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
Kendra Racouillat
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
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Kestler
Mencos Alonzo
Campus Aide
Kestler Mencos Alonzo
Campus Aide
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Kevin
Huertos
Campus Aide
Kevin Huertos
Campus Aide
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Kevin
Pena Bustillo
Instructional Assistant
Kevin Pena Bustillo
Instructional Assistant
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Keyla
Huertos
Instructional Assistant
Keyla Huertos
Instructional Assistant
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Keyri
Arucha
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Keyri Arucha
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
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Kimberly
Aguilar
Instructional Assistant
Kimberly Aguilar
Instructional Assistant
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Kimberly
Anaya
Campus Aide
Kimberly Anaya
Campus Aide
Contact
Kimberly
Arteaga
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Kimberly Arteaga
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Supporting: RKHS Class of 2020-2023
B.A., UC San Diego, Class of 2014
Kimberly Arteaga received her B.A. in Human Development and minor in Chicana/o studies from UC San Diego. She was born and raised in LA and is the first one in her family to go to college and graduate. She has been supporting students in higher education, college access and retention programs for over 7 years. Part of her passion for working with students comes from her own lived experiences. Through her multiple roles she has supported and guided high school and college students in attaining higher education and beyond. She has also worked with community members and parents in supporting students' achieving their hopes and dreams.
Kimberly is excited to continue working with students in her current role as the RKHS Alumni Support and College Success Coordinator. She is here to support and guide students in achieving their maximum potential whether it is with attending higher education or entering the workforce.
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Kimberly
Martinez
Campus Aide
Kimberly Martinez
Campus Aide
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Kimberly
Sanders
Culture and Restorative Practices Specialist
Kimberly Sanders
Culture and Restorative Practices Specialist
Contact
Kiyana
Hendrix
Dean of Restorative Practices
Kiyana Hendrix
Dean of Restorative Practices
Contact
Konrad
Davis
Teacher
Konrad Davis
Teacher
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Kristin
Shaw
Teacher
Kristin Shaw
Teacher
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Kyle
Petrie
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Kyle Petrie
Coordinator, Alumni Support and College Success
Supporting: VAHS Class of 2018-2023 (4-Year Colleges & Universities)
B.A., Bowdoin College, Class of 2006
Kyle Petrie has worked in urban public education for over 12 years. He initially entered the field as a high school history teacher in the Bronx, NY, as part of Teach For America. After his time in New York, Kyle spent seven years as an AP teacher, advisor, coach, and Director of Alumni Support at Gary Comer College Prep on Chicago's south side.
As the ASCS Coordinator at Valor Academy High School, Kyle's primary responsibilities revolve around ensuring that all Valor alumni receive adequate support with the financial, academic, and social-emotional concerns that they face while pursuing higher education. Kyle is primarily motivated by the belief that higher education is the foundation that will allow our students to be successful and happy in both their careers and personal lives.
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Kyra
Dunham
Teacher
Kyra Dunham
Teacher
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Kyung
Lee
Teacher
Kyung Lee
Teacher
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Lacey
Bianco
Teacher
Lacey Bianco
Teacher
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Laura
Ahumada
Teacher
Laura Ahumada
Teacher
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Laura
Ramirez
Counselor
Laura Ramirez
Counselor
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Laura
Reed
Director of Strategy
Laura Reed
Director of Strategy
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Laura
Sandoval
Maintenance
Laura Sandoval
Maintenance
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Laurel
Hines Hogue
Teacher
Laurel Hines Hogue
Teacher
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Lauren
Albi
Teacher
Lauren Albi
Teacher
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Laurie
Singer
Office Manager
Laurie Singer
Office Manager
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Leah
De Veyra
Teacher
Leah De Veyra
Teacher
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Leeann
Yu
Chief Operations Officer
Leeann Yu
Chief Operations Officer
Leeann Yu currently serves as the Chief Operations Officer for Bright Star Schools where she leads strategic operational initiatives across the network and oversees the student data, school operations, human resources, and information technology teams.
Leeann joined Bright Star in 2011 as the School Operations Manager for Stella Middle Charter Academy and Bright Star Secondary Charter Academy and has since held a variety of operational roles as the organization has grown from two to nine schools.
Prior to joining Bright Star, Leeann was an Education Pioneers Fellow at PUC Schools, an English teacher in Taiwan, and a financial advisor for Ameriprise Financial. Leeann holds a bachelor’s degree in international development with a minor in education from UCLA and a master’s in business administration from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management.
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Leonardo
Vargas Ponce
Teacher
Leonardo Vargas Ponce
Teacher
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Leslie
Aguillon
Senior Dean of Operations
Leslie Aguillon
Senior Dean of Operations
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Leslly
Avendano
Teacher
Leslly Avendano
Teacher
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Lesly
Paredes
Campus Aide
Lesly Paredes
Campus Aide
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Leydi
Rivas
Teacher
Leydi Rivas
Teacher
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Liezl
Caluag
Liezl Caluag
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Liliana
Lopez
Teacher
Liliana Lopez
Teacher
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Lilianna
Gonzalez
Vice President of Inclusive Education
Lilianna Gonzalez
Vice President of Inclusive Education
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Linda
Cruz
Campus Aide
Linda Cruz
Campus Aide
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Lori
Cook
Campus Aide
Lori Cook
Campus Aide
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Lorna
Banuilos
Teacher
Lorna Banuilos
Teacher
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Lourena
Uribe
Counselor
Lourena Uribe
Counselor
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Lubna
Iabichella
Teacher
Lubna Iabichella
Teacher
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Luis
Bermudez
Counselor
Luis Bermudez
Counselor
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Luis
Estrada
Dean of Operations
Luis Estrada
Dean of Operations
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Luis
Garcia
Maintenance
Luis Garcia
Maintenance
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Lydia
Garcia
Manager of Compliance & Special Projects
Lydia Garcia
Manager of Compliance & Special Projects
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Magda
Solis
Paraprofessional
Magda Solis
Paraprofessional
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Maggie
Kwon
Enrollment & Outreach Coordinator
Maggie Kwon
Enrollment & Outreach Coordinator
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Maiah
Brim
Counselor
Maiah Brim
Counselor
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Maigon
Buckner
Assistant Principal of Culture
Maigon Buckner
Assistant Principal of Culture
Contact
Malay
Toston Goodman
Alumni Career Accelerator Outreach Lead Intern
Malay Toston Goodman
Alumni Career Accelerator Outreach Lead Intern
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Manuela
Hyman
School Psychologist
Manuela Hyman
School Psychologist
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Marc
Lee
Campus Aide
Marc Lee
Campus Aide
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Marc
Osadchey
School Psychologist
Marc Osadchey
School Psychologist
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Marcus
Greetis
Marcus Greetis
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Marcus
Turner
Teacher
Marcus Turner
Teacher
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Margarita
Reynoso
Instructional Assistant
Margarita Reynoso
Instructional Assistant
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Maria
Barriga
Teacher
Maria Barriga
Teacher
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Maria
Cordova
Custodian
Maria Cordova
Custodian
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Maria
Garcia
Instructional Assistant
Maria Garcia
Instructional Assistant
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Maria
Munguia De Aguirre
Maintenance
Maria Munguia De Aguirre
Maintenance
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Maria
Reyes
Maria Reyes
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Maria
Villalobos
Teacher
Maria Villalobos
Teacher
Contact
Mariana
Ulloa
Campus Aide
Mariana Ulloa
Campus Aide
Contact
Maribel
Carmona
Senior Director of Elementary Instruction
Maribel Carmona
Senior Director of Elementary Instruction
Contact
Mariloli
Barcena Martinez
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Mariloli Barcena Martinez
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Contact
Marilyn
Schwab
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Marilyn Schwab
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Contact
Marina
Sandoval
Community Schools Manager
Marina Sandoval
Community Schools Manager
Contact
Marisol
Blanco Claros
Meal Server
Marisol Blanco Claros
Meal Server
Contact
Maritza
Arambula
Cluster Data Coordinator
Maritza Arambula
Cluster Data Coordinator
Contact
Mark
Jutabha
Community Schools Manager
Mark Jutabha
Community Schools Manager
Contact
Marni
Parsons
Vice President of Student and Family Services
Marni Parsons
Vice President of Student and Family Services
Contact
Martin
Meneses Ramirez
Custodian
Martin Meneses Ramirez
Custodian
Contact
Marvin
Casasola
Campus Aide
Marvin Casasola
Campus Aide
Contact
Mary
Van Dyke
Teacher
Mary Van Dyke
Teacher
Contact
Mason
Aguilar
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Mason Aguilar
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Matt
Williams
Vice President of Inclusive Education
Matt Williams
Vice President of Inclusive Education
Contact
Matthew
Garcia
IT Systems Analyst
Matthew Garcia
IT Systems Analyst
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Matthew
Gonzalez
Teacher
Matthew Gonzalez
Teacher
Contact
Max
Sweeney
Teacher
Max Sweeney
Teacher
Contact
May
Oey
Principal, Valor Academy Elementary School
May Oey
Principal, Valor Academy Elementary School
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
Mayra
Esparza
Office Manager
Mayra Esparza
Office Manager
Contact
Mayra
Moreno de Valle
Meal Server
Mayra Moreno de Valle
Meal Server
Contact
Megan
Carpenter
Teacher
Megan Carpenter
Teacher
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Megan
Howell
Teacher
Megan Howell
Teacher
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Megan
Scott
Teacher
Megan Scott
Teacher
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Melanie
Garrett
Teacher
Melanie Garrett
Teacher
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Melanie
Hernandez
Campus Aide
Melanie Hernandez
Campus Aide
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Melissa
De Los Santos
Instructional Assistant
Melissa De Los Santos
Instructional Assistant
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Melissa
Ignacio
Counselor
Melissa Ignacio
Counselor
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Melissa
Pershing
Teacher
Melissa Pershing
Teacher
Contact
Melody
Morris
English Language Development Instructional Coach
Melody Morris
English Language Development Instructional Coach
Contact
Merissa
Diaz
Paraprofessional/Instructional Assistant
Merissa Diaz
Paraprofessional/Instructional Assistant
Contact
Mia
Gifford
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Mia Gifford
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Contact
Michael
Hoover
Director of School Culture
Michael Hoover
Director of School Culture
Contact
Michaela
Kim
Teacher
Michaela Kim
Teacher
Contact
Michelle
Arras
Teacher
Michelle Arras
Teacher
Contact
Michelle
Park
Teacher
Michelle Park
Teacher
Contact
Michelle
Romero
Teacher
Michelle Romero
Teacher
Contact
Michelle
Washington
Outreach Coordinator
Michelle Washington
Outreach Coordinator
Contact
Miguel
Espinoza
Assistant Principal
Miguel Espinoza
Assistant Principal
Contact
Miguel
Fuentes
Instructional Assistant
Miguel Fuentes
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Miguel
Gonzalez
Campus Aide
Miguel Gonzalez
Campus Aide
Contact
Mikaela
Kelley
Teacher
Mikaela Kelley
Teacher
Contact
Miriam
Hernandez
Paraprofessional
Miriam Hernandez
Paraprofessional
Contact
Mitchell
Stern
Teacher
Mitchell Stern
Teacher
Contact
Moises
Garcia
Substitute Teacher/Administrative Support
Moises Garcia
Substitute Teacher/Administrative Support
Contact
Monica
Gonzalez
Dean of Student & Family Services
Monica Gonzalez
Dean of Student & Family Services
Contact
Monique
Gaspar
Teacher
Monique Gaspar
Teacher
Contact
Morganne
Gigray
Teacher
Morganne Gigray
Teacher
Contact
Mychal
Creer
Instructional Assistant
Mychal Creer
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Nancy
Jimenez
Teacher
Nancy Jimenez
Teacher
Contact
Nancy
Rojas
Office Manager
Nancy Rojas
Office Manager
Contact
Nancy
Wagner
Teacher
Nancy Wagner
Teacher
Contact
Natalie
Martinez
Operations Support
Natalie Martinez
Operations Support
Contact
Natalie
Perez
Campus Aide
Natalie Perez
Campus Aide
Contact
Natalie
Wollaston
Office Manager
Natalie Wollaston
Office Manager
Contact
Nataly
Lopez
Campus Aide
Nataly Lopez
Campus Aide
Contact
Nathan
Kurisu
Teacher
Nathan Kurisu
Teacher
Contact
Nelly
Soto
Maintenance
Nelly Soto
Maintenance
Contact
Nicholas
Alegria
Teacher
Nicholas Alegria
Teacher
Contact
Nicholas
Capretta
Teacher
Nicholas Capretta
Teacher
Contact
Nicolas
Ramirez
Instructional Assistant
Nicolas Ramirez
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Nicole
Wellman Noble
Vice President of People Development
Nicole Wellman Noble
Vice President of People Development
Contact
Noriko
Kajimoto
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Noriko Kajimoto
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Nour
Gemayel
Teacher
Nour Gemayel
Teacher
Contact
Octavio
Vergara
Paraprofessional/Instructional Assistant
Octavio Vergara
Paraprofessional/Instructional Assistant
Contact
Olga
Ramos
Senior Director of Human Resources
Olga Ramos
Senior Director of Human Resources
Contact
Oliber
Felix Sanchez
Teacher
Oliber Felix Sanchez
Teacher
Contact
Olivia
Martinez
Head of Schools, Bright Star Schools
Olivia Martinez
Head of Schools, Bright Star Schools
Olivia Martinez is the co-Head of Schools for Bright Star Schools, and former principal of Stella Middle Charter Academy (Grades 7-8). As co-Head of Schools, she leads the development and execution of a rigorous instructional program that serves all students and supports principals to achieve their schools’ goals.
Olivia joined Bright Star Schools in 2008 as a teacher and taught physical science, life science, biology, and earth science to students in grades 7 through 11. She became assistant principal at Bright Star Secondary Charter Academy in 2011, and principal at Stella Middle Charter Academy in 2013.
Olivia began her teaching career with a student teaching position at David Starr Jordan High School in Watts through Teach For America.
Olivia holds a bachelor’s degree in psychobiology from UCLA and two master's degrees in urban education and in educational leadership from Loyola Marymount University.
Contact
Orlando
Ibanez
Teacher
Orlando Ibanez
Teacher
Contact
Oscar
Moreno
Teacher
Oscar Moreno
Teacher
Contact
Ozro
Hepworth
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Ozro Hepworth
Inclusion Specialist Teacher
Contact
Pablo
Aranda
Campus Aide
Pablo Aranda
Campus Aide
Contact
Pablo
Olivares
Vice President of Inclusive Education
Pablo Olivares
Vice President of Inclusive Education
Contact
Patricia
Chavez
Dean of Operations
Patricia Chavez
Dean of Operations
Contact
Patrick
Coleman
Substitute Teacher/Administrative Support
Patrick Coleman
Substitute Teacher/Administrative Support
Contact
Paulina
Sylvester
Senior Talent Manager
Paulina Sylvester
Senior Talent Manager
Contact
Perla
Lepore
Counselor
Perla Lepore
Counselor
Contact
Philip
McCreary
Teacher
Philip McCreary
Teacher
Contact
It's removing the entry from "https://brightstarschools.org/site/blogs/teachers-directory" page. The only way to get it back is by talking to backend team.
From Alix:
Contact
Preeyam
Roy
Teacher
Preeyam Roy
Teacher
Contact
Priscilla
Park
Counselor
Priscilla Park
Counselor
Contact
Rachel
Asher
School Psychologist
Rachel Asher
School Psychologist
Contact
Rachel
Blanton
Teacher
Rachel Blanton
Teacher
Contact
Rachel
Scutti
Teacher
Rachel Scutti
Teacher
Contact
Ranica
Hortelano
Campus Aide
Ranica Hortelano
Campus Aide
Contact
Raquel
Martinez
Human Resources Generalist
Raquel Martinez
Human Resources Generalist
Contact
Raymond
Estrada
Teacher
Raymond Estrada
Teacher
Contact
Rebecca
Cabrera
Teacher
Rebecca Cabrera
Teacher
Contact
Rebecca
Vogel Sanchez
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Rebecca Vogel Sanchez
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Contact
Reyna
Kauil Cervantes
Teacher
Reyna Kauil Cervantes
Teacher
Contact
Ricardo
Galvan
Teacher
Ricardo Galvan
Teacher
Contact
Ricardo
Gomez
Instructional Assistant
Ricardo Gomez
Instructional Assistant
Contact
Richard
Myers
Teacher
Richard Myers
Teacher
Contact
Rigo
Torres
Lead Campus Aide
Rigo Torres
Lead Campus Aide
Contact
Robert
Brown
Teacher
Robert Brown
Teacher
Contact
Robert
Jorgensen
Teacher
Robert Jorgensen
Teacher
Contact
Roberto
Franco
Associate Dean of Restorative Practices
Roberto Franco
Associate Dean of Restorative Practices
Contact
Roberto
Garcia
Maintenance
Roberto Garcia
Maintenance
Contact
Robin
Rodriguez
Assistant Principal of Instruction
Robin Rodriguez
Assistant Principal of Instruction
Contact
Rosa
Covarrubias
Campus Aide
Rosa Covarrubias
Campus Aide
Contact
Rosa
Nava
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Rosa Nava
Behavior Implementation Interventionist
Contact
Rosie
Somoundjian
Lead Instructional Assistant
Rosie Somoundjian
Lead Instructional Assistant
Contact
Roxanne
Romero
Outreach & Recruitment Manager
Roxanne Romero
Outreach & Recruitment Manager
Contact
Rudy
Romero
Full Behavior Intervention Implementation Assistant
Rudy Romero
Full Behavior Intervention Implementation Assistant
Contact
Ruth
Kim
Principal, RIse Kohyang Middle School
Ruth Kim
Principal, RIse Kohyang Middle School
Ruth Kim is the principal of Rise Kohyang Middle School, and leads the school by empowering the Phoenixes with compassion to learn and grow to give back to their own kohyang (hometown). She encourages students to achieve academic excellence and grow their unique talents so they find joy and fulfillment in higher education, career, and life.
Ruth started with RKMS in its founding year in 2012. Previously, Ruth served Rise Kohyang Middle School as Assistant Principal and an English Language Arts teacher for eight years. During that time, she was also the 6th grade-level chair and ELA department lead, and she became a National Board Certified teacher in 2018. Ruth transitioned to her principal position in 2020.
Ruth holds a bachelor’s degree in English from UC Irvine, multiple-subject and administrative credentials from Cal State Fullerton, and a master’s in educational administration from Cal State Fullerton.