Staff

Meet Our Staff

The remarkable staff at Tessellations shares a passionate dedication to teaching gifted children. Our teachers’ diversity of experience allows them to bring a deeper, richer worldview into the classroom, and their kindness, intelligence, and authenticity help set the tone for our whole community. Our teachers have diverse backgrounds and interests, hold an uncharacteristically high number of advanced degrees, and have taught all over the world. We have mathematicians, artists, practicing naturalists, a former criminal attorney, scientists, and one of the nation’s foremost experts in the social/emotional needs of the gifted. Read on for more:

Grace Stanat

he/him

Head of School, Founder

Grace has guided Tessellations since our humble beginnings, from 34 kids in a Zoom meeting to what we are today. He became our Head of School because of his belief that gifted students need a specialized environment to thrive. Grace has hired our staff, negotiated our premises, managed our finances and fundraising, and led admissions through our first three seasons. Grace takes great pride in our exceptional teachers, happy students, and the warm community he’s helped build and grow thus far. Grace graduated valedictorian from Pomona College with dual degrees in Mathematics and Fine Art, after which he attended Oxford University on a Marshall Scholarship, earning both a Masters in Computer Science and a Masters in Fine Art from the Ruskin School of Drawing (Oxford). As the former founder and CEO of several successful companies, Grace excels at leading early-stage organizations.

Luthern Williams

he/him

Acting Head of School

As someone who disliked his K-12 education experience, Luthern was surprised when he decided to pursue teaching—and he was shocked when he fell in love with teaching the first day he walked into a classroom. Teaching and learning from students was electrifying. He discovered that education is about so much more than preparing students for college and careers. Education empowers young people to liberate their unique gifts, to engage in a process of transformational growth, and to influence the world. He was hooked. He went on to teach and serve as an administrator at independent schools in New York City, Boston, and Los Angeles. Throughout his career, he has drawn on his extensive knowledge of K–12 education to align schools’ programs with their missions. This work reflects his commitment to building educational models that develop young people holistically and provide them with the tools to create communities that value the inherent dignity and worth of each individual. Luthern has also contributed to the design, redesign, and development of one of the premier professional development programs for teachers in independent schools in the nation and sat on the Board of the California Association of Independent Schools. He has done talks, interviews, presentations, and workshops about education at the local, state, national, and international levels. Most recently, he was the Head of School at New Roads School in Santa Monica, California. He holds a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and an Ed.M. in School Leadership from Harvard University. Outside of school, Luthern enjoys spending time with friends and family, and he loves learning. He also likes to solve mysteries. One mystery continues to elude him: why people find his goofy, loud laugh endearing.

Anne Beneventi

she/her

Founding Visionary

Anne is a Certified Master Practitioner of Gifted Qualitative Assessment (GQA), and is the successor to Annemarie Roeper, a pioneer and giant in the field of education who taught that the emotions of the gifted child are as important as their cognitive abilities. Anne is an Associate of the Gifted Development Center, has served as Chair of the Global Awareness Network of the National Association for Gifted Children, and received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG) in 2017 for promoting an understanding of the essence of giftedness and for her method of identification of giftedness through GQA. Tessellations is the fourth school for the gifted that she has successfully co-founded. Her greatest professional accomplishments have been creating communities where gifted families can connect, belong, and thrive, and assisting the educational journey of gifted children so they can actualize their potential, principles which continue to serve as Anne’s personal and professional mission at Tessellations.

Remy Adama

they/them

Relief & Support Educator/After-School Teacher

Remy went to San Jose State University and earned a BA in Child and Adolescent Development in 2018. Lead by their deep love for nature, they spent 7 years in outdoor education as a field instructor, specializing in environmental science, team building and social emotional learning. In August 2017, Remy had a fast and victorious battle against cancer, which resulted in having their vocal cords removed. A few weeks after surgery, they leapt back into the field, ready to teach with their new voice. Eventually, they left outdoor education in search of a more student-centered community that values exploration and experiential learning, which is exactly what they’ve found at Tessellations. They enjoy incorporating an appreciation of nature and big imagination into everything they do with students. Remy sees every moment as teachable and loves to learn new things themselves, which they funnel into hobbies like knitting, gardening, and playing TTRPGs with friends in their free time.

Aisha Amer

she/her

Primary School Teacher

Aisha is an experienced educator with a heart full of love for children and an unwavering passion for making a lasting impact on their lives. “I love spending time with miniature tornadoes,” she says. With a BA in Fine Arts from the University of Punjab in Pakistan, as well as a degree in Graphic Design, she combines her artistic and design talents to create dynamic learning experiences. Having worked as a UX designer for three years, Aisha brings a valuable perspective to her educational approach, incorporating innovative and user-friendly strategies in her teaching methods. Outside of the classroom, Aisha finds inspiration in hiking and exploring the great outdoors. As an artist, she also dedicates her free time to painting, allowing her creativity to flourish. Above all, she treasures moments spent with her family. Whether it’s sharing laughter, embarking on adventures, or simply enjoying quality time together, family is at the core of her happiness.

Rachel Bagnani

she/her

Giftedness Specialist

A Bay Area native, Rachel earned a BA in Child and Adolescent Development and an MA in Education from San Francisco State University. Drawing on her passion and knowledge of the Reggio Emilia approach to early education, Rachel was an integral part of the team that developed Google’s highly regarded Children’s Center at the Woods. Her experience and expertise with gifted children deepened when she shifted into teaching gifted kindergarteners in a private school setting in 2014. “I’m thrilled to be a part of such a kind and caring community,” says Rachel. “One of my passions is designing beautiful, engaging environments for children, and I’m excited to be able to do this at Tessellations.

Dawn Bailey

she/her

Outdoor Educator (Naturalist)

Dawn has over ten years of experience in environmental education across Kentucky, Florida, and Alaska. She says, “My favorite moments are when I can help a student appreciate and respect an animal they once feared or disliked.” After graduating from the University of Kentucky, Dawn worked as a kayak guide in the Everglades and coastal mangroves of Florida. She then transitioned to the National Park Service, where she brought environmental education into classrooms. Dawn further developed her skills working with youth outdoors as the Manager of the Kentucky Children’s Garden. She is excited to bring her expertise to Tessellations. In her free time, Dawn enjoys birding, backpacking, and trying new foods.

Sarah Baker

she/her

Kindergarten Teacher

Sarah loves cultivating environments that make learning meaningful and memorable with social emotional development at the heart of her instructional approach. She has a BS in Dance from the University of Oregon and a MA in Education from USF, where her thesis centered on kinesthetic movement in elementary education for all curricular subjects. As a teacher of movement and creativity since 2001 and a credentialed elementary educator since 2011, Sarah has taught Kindergarten and 2/3 combination classes across public, private, special, and gifted education settings. Outside of work, Sarah plays with her daughter, teaches yoga, and spends as much time as possible immersed in nature.

Shelby Barthold

she/her

Primary School Teacher

Shelby always wanted to be a teacher. “Even though I’ve been in education for a while now, I still feel so lucky that I get to do what I’m passionate about every day,” she says. “I especially enjoy teaching math and showing children how fun and exciting it can be. Math doesn’t have to be a scary thing!” Shelby began her journey in education as a math interventionist for Denver Public Schools, and then continued teaching in the classroom and in after-school programs in California, including five summers at The Nueva School. She received a BA in Psychology from Claremont McKenna College and a M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of San Diego. Shelby is also passionate about sports, especially basketball, which she played at the collegiate level. In addition to playing in adult leagues, she enjoys coaching children, to show them the multitude of life skills that can be learned through playing sports.

Nichole Bocanegra

she/her

Early Childhood Associate Teacher (TCC)

Nichole is passionate about helping children succeed! She has worked in a preschool office and in multiple classroom settings as an after-school director and an international teacher. Nichole’s teaching style focuses on making each day an adventure as children investigate the world around them through hands-on learning experiences. She believes in a nurturing environment where children feel safe to be themselves. It is her hope to create many fond memories that spark students’ excitement for learning and honor their individual creativity.

Nichole was born in San Jose, and grew up in Kauai, New Mexico and Missouri. She spent her childhood racing around barefoot on her property in Kauai, developing a love for nature by caring for animals. She later developed a passion for helping children in need while spending time at orphanages in Mexico and the Philippines, where she worked on the construction of schools and provided educational supplies. In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors with her husband, trying out new restaurants, or visiting friends and family.

Rebecca Bradley

she/her

Director of High School

Bec is committed to facilitating the opportunities and experiences that students need to reach their unique potential and be future ready. A British Educator and Leader in the UK and International Educational space for over 20 years, people are at the heart of her approach. This was clear in her most recent Head of Secondary role, where she was instrumental in a new International High School in central Switzerland. With dual Bachelors’ in Fine Art & French, her love of creativity and communication underpins her personal, academic and professional practice. Her roots in teaching French, Spanish and Art to students in Middle and High School, Bec has also headed two large Modern Languages Faculties in the UK, provided focused pedagogical consultancy and outreach to departments in need of support, and worked as Professional Mentor for Teacher training in Cheshire Schools. Bec is thrilled to be the new Director of Education, High School and play her part in the next chapter of this inspirational and dynamic learning Community.

Kanchan Bhandare

she/her

Intermediate School Science Teacher

Kanchan went to school at the University of Mumbai and earned a BS in Chemistry and an MS in Analytical Chemistry. After spending a few years in AIDS research at a major hospital in Mumbai, she “fell backward” into teaching by substituting at her kids’ school and never looked back. Since 2009 she’s taught science at the middle school level, and particularly enjoys creating fun, engaging lessons that support and challenge students. Her particular passion for environmental science made Tessellations’ Nature Campus especially appealing, but no matter the topic, Kanchan’s teaching style shows her heartfelt commitment to fostering a positive environment for students and helping them flourish. “Tessellations’ approach to teaching resonates with me,” says Kanchan. “I make connections with all my students and believe that every student needs a champion. Every voice matters.” She is the mother of two grown daughters and loves gardening, hiking, reading, and doing art projects.

Len Bloch

he/him

Middle School Science Teacher

Len’s love of teaching was ignited in 1985, one year after he earned a BS in Biology from the University of Pennsylvania. Since then, he has taught every academic subject, every age from pre-school to post-graduate, and both gifted and special education. Still, he always returns to middle school science, and he finds a special joy in working with gifted students. When he wasn’t busy teaching, he earned an MA in Education from UC Berkeley, and a PhD in Science Education from the University of Georgia. His dissertation asked how master teachers teach about climate change, and he is deeply committed to helping young people prepare to face the challenges of life on a rapidly changing planet. His two TED-Ed videos have garnered over four million views, and he received the “Outstanding Earth Science Teacher Award” for California in 2018.

Ivar Blomquist

he/him

After-School Teacher

Growing up in the Bay Area, Ivar had exposure to all types of sports from a young age. As an adult he has explored a multitude of ways to engage youth in physical activity. A variety of previous opportunities working with kids helped him realize that any and every interaction can be a meaningful moment of learning to a child. When he looks back at his own life, Ivar remembers the smallest moments being the ones that helped define his character as he grew up. He admires how Tessellations allows young people to explore many kinds of activities, fields, and interests, because he values exploration as a means to help kids shape their identity and self esteem. He is excited to play all types of games, whether they are physically or mentally challenging, with Tessellations students. Ivar holds a BA in kinesiology from Chico State University.

Danny Boyer

he/him

Middle School Science Teacher

Inside and outside the classroom, Danny’s teaching career has centered on inspiring in his students a love and respect for nature, and the confidence and motivation to have a positive impact on the world. He has taught middle school science in a classroom setting for fifteen years, and has led an outdoor adventure summer camp for twenty, taking kids surfing, kayaking, and rock climbing. Danny graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a BS in geology and an emphasis in paleontology, and first found his love for teaching working as a naturalist. He worked as a sea kayak guide in Alaska, California, and Baja California, and has traveled to or lived in over thirty countries. At Tessellations, he most enjoys getting to know all the students, collaborating with other faculty, and, most of all, sharing time with everyone outdoors surrounded by nature.

Claudia Campano

she/her

Kindergarten Teacher

Claudia co-teaches Tessellations’ kindergarteners with Rachel. She started her career by working as a preschool innovation coach, helping other teachers build curricula with engaging, hands-on lessons to capture the hearts and minds of the youngest students, and provide them a foundation for technological subjects like coding. Since then, she’s moved into classroom teaching, starting with first graders. Since 2018 she’s taught gifted kindergarteners, including designing their curriculum. “I most enjoy working with younger ones because it’s when learning is the most exciting. I’ve seen the wonder and enthusiasm the young ones have whenever we start a class and I love seeing their eagerness to apply their learning to the world around them. I love watching them come into kindergarten as one child, sometimes timid, and seeing them flourish into independent thinkers.” Claudia earned a BA in Elementary Education and Exceptional Education from the University of Miami.

Jose Caraan

he/him

Early Childhood Associate Teacher

With a BA in Psychology and a minor in Child and Adolescent Development from San Jose State University, Jose originally planned to become a clinical and research psychologist. But after realizing his joy working directly with children at the university’s Child Development center, Jose switched careers to early childhood education. He has worked with infants to preschoolers, and has an inclination towards music and the natural world. He encourages children to develop their rhythm and ear for music, as well as explore the different lifeforms found in our world. A child at heart, Jose can often be found sitting on the floor examining something alongside the children. His life goal is to help others be the best versions of themselves. He hopes to build that foundation with little ones by giving them the excitement and confidence to explore the world around them.

Lauren Castro

she/her

School Counselor

Lauren is passionate about supporting youth. She helps unlock their potential by partnering with them to overcome mental, social, and emotional struggles, and works collaboratively to cultivate an environment for success. Lauren values creating a safe space for individuals to be vulnerable and get in touch with their emotions, and is experienced in crisis management and de-escalation techniques. Her approach is eclectic, bringing flexibility to meet an individual where they are, challenge them, and work together to achieve growth. Lauren has a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Canisius University in Buffalo, NY, and is registered as an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. When she’s not working, she’s chasing down a good sunset, on a walk, traveling, or hanging out with loved ones.

Adam C'DeBaca

he/him

Middle School Humanities Teacher

Adam has diverse cultural and social background in education, having taught at the public, private and university level in Texas, Washington state, the US Virgin Islands, New York and California. He earned a double major in English Language & Literature and Spanish Language & Literature from the University of North Texas, with coursework completed in Seville, Spain. In San Mateo, he worked with grades 7-12, where he developed individualized curriculum and integrative learning for students with specific learning differences; led popular creative writing and musical production workshops for poetry, lyrical song writing, music production, art, and dance; and solicited partnerships and support from cultural organizations such as Hip Hop for Change. His teaching is based on the maieutic method of inquiry-based learning that utilizes Socratic dialogue, logic and rhetoric as its main focus and model. Students participate in daily writing, reading, dialogue and reflection to sharpen their critical thinking and apply it to the analysis of classical, modern and contemporary literature. In his spare time, he enjoys exploring and hiking the beautiful California landscape, reading esoteric history and philosophy books (and comic books), and watching Major League Baseball.

Dusten Conlon

he/him

Early Childhood Teacher

As the oldest son of teachers in a blended family, it was almost as if Dusten was fated to become one himself. Taking a keen interest in the science of learning and development, he graduated from UC San Diego with a BS in Cognitive Science. Specializing in Human Cognition, he researched how the brains of parent and child respond and synchronize to unexpected outcomes while playing games together. He has mentored undergraduates, homeschooled communities of rural students, and worked extensively with special needs populations. Beyond campus, Dusten hosts a weekly dinner and book club. He also enjoys musicals, keeping up with research findings, and being a Dungeon Master for his friends.

Victoria Cota

she/her

Primary School Teacher

After spending time working with learners in various settings, including a rare opportunity teaching in a refugee camp for a summer, Victoria earned a BA in Education from Biola University. She dedicated her time as an educator to cultivating a student-centric classroom, as well as training other educators on various best practices. For the past couple of years, Victoria took advantage of a chance to work in management at a general contracting design/build firm, but now, excited, invigorated, and equipped with new skills, she is thrilled to be returning to education. A lifelong learner herself, Victoria believes the best gift a teacher can give his/her student is not knowledge itself, but instead, a love of learning and tools for the pursuit of knowledge. “There are few communities as unique and remarkable as Tessellations,” Victoria reflects. “I’m honored to be a small part of something so incredible.”

Janelle Downey

she/her

School Program Scheduler

Janelle is excited to join the Tesselations team as the new School Program Scheduler. Janelle’s passion for the arts and education began in her adolescence, as a student of theatre. With her BA in Theatre Performance from Chapman University, she’s spent the past 15 years in the non-profit sector supporting programs focused on education and the arts. During her time as Campus Manager and Admissions Assistant at Headwaters School in Austin Texas, Janelle saw the benefits of a well-rounded education for students and believes social and emotional learning is just as important as academic achievement. At Starting Arts in San Jose, she grew as a teaching artist and administrator while working with a diverse community of students. This experience strengthened her love of performing and her belief in the benefits art can provide students on their learning journeys. In her free time, Janelle enjoys being outdoors in nature, throwing pottery and traveling the world – she has visited 19 countries to date, and looks forward to the next!

Hugo Escobedo

he/him

Custodian

Hugo has worked in maintenance for over six years, mostly at nonprofit organizations, including another school and a church, before he came to Tessellations. He also has prior experience in construction. He was attracted to Tessellations in particular for its fair employment policies, but also likes the environment, finding it to be very friendly. He feels the staff are inviting and that they listen to him. Hugo lives nearby, and when he isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his family, including his young daughter.

Michael Fariss

he/him

Director of Technology

Michael Fariss has been helping independent Bay Area school communities with technology for well over a decade. He was responsible for running IT departments at several schools, including managing staff, projects and training educators to use technology without techno-babble. His vision for technology in education is to allow technology to enhance the communication of concepts, without interfering with students’ learning process. Michael has an extremely broad knowledge base including shop-mechanics, electrical systems and many digital devices. He earned his BS in Software Engineering at San Jose State University, an MBA at Argosy University as well as some classes at various other schools including Berkeley Extension. When not wrangling digital devices, he enjoys exploring new hiking trails, mountaintops, and historic sites in the Bay Area.

Jaden Fong

he/him

Outdoor Educator (Naturalist)

Born in Sacramento, California, Jaden Fong grew up with his hands in the dirt and his feet in the water of the American River. First attending nature camps at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, he later worked as a Camp Leader for these same camps, inspiring the campers to seek knowledge through nature. Jaden received his undergraduate education at Santa Clara University, where he graduated with a double major in English and French & Francophone Studies and a minor in Creative Writing. Here, he worked as the Poetry Editor for a global literary magazine and pursued his passion for the intersection of nature and education by writing a final thesis on the developmental and educational benefits of outdoor education. He soon attended Stanford University as part of the STEP program and received his M.A. in Education; in this program, he participated in intensive specialty coursework in SEL, expressivist pedagogy, and equitable education. When he is not writing, Jaden enjoys playing volleyball, indulging his sweet tooth, and building bioactive enclosures for reptiles.

Prachi Gangwal

she/her

Innovation Teacher

Prachi has been a learner of life and always curious about how machines and technology work. As Innovation teacher at Tessellations, she is dedicated to educating and guiding children to use critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration and empathetic project-based learning. It has been a passion for her to combine art and design thinking with science and engineering at its core and she believes in providing a space for young minds where their imagination and creativity can be nourished. She holds a BS from Nagpur University and an MS from North Carolina State University, both in Civil Engineering. She felt a deep inner calling to serve others, especially children, through teaching. “Teaching them and learning from them is profound. I find magic around children.” she says. In addition to being a teacher, she is an artist, podcast host, the author of several self-published children’s books and a “life-long learner of human inner engineering.” She loves to spend time outside of school by spending time with her family, hiking in the woods, gazing at the stars, weaving words in poetic ways, creating artwork, taking photos and learning new skills.

Ana Paula Giorgi

she/her

High School Science Teacher

Born and raised in Sao Paulo, Brasil, Ana Paula has more than 20 years working as a field biologist specializing in the conservation science field. With a B.A. in Biology and a master’s degree in Applied Ecology and Environmental Education from the University of Sao Paulo, she also has a Ph.D. in Geography from UCLA.

With an extensive background in experiential education (including being one of the founding faculty of Avenues The World School Sao Paulo and Silicon Valley campuses), Ana is passionate about place-based learning and is deeply committed to designing interdisciplinary, experiential learning environments. She’s joining our High School founding faculty with great enthusiasm and positive thinking, and her ability to connect classroom learning with real-world environmental challenges will inspire Tessellations students to find meaning and relevance in their school work.

She loves spending time with her family and friends and spending hours at pools around California watching her son’s water polo competitions. Ana enjoys staying active and is always looking for different skateboard parks and great outdoor adventures, especially ones related to the ocean.

Shoshana Gleit

she/her

Visual Arts Teacher

Shoshana is an artist from Philadelphia. She is a graduate of Parsons School of Design in New York City where she studied illustration and art education. She loves art history and gets excited to learn about diverse and unique visual artists. She particularly loves 16th-century Flemish art, Japanese Ukiyo-e, and the Guerrilla Girls. Shoshana is excited to introduce a choice-based, child-centered art program to Tessellations that encourages exploration and experimentation with different materials and techniques. Outside of teaching, she is an avid traveler who loves to visit World Heritage Sites, art museums, national parks and unique kitschy landmarks. She has visited over 20 countries and has a constant plan for a new adventure. Shoshana also enjoys vegetarian cooking, hiking, camping, and spending time with her husband and kids.

Caroline Gupta

she/her

Director of Operations

Caroline is a true Renaissance woman. After earning her Bachelor Degree from the University of Ottawa, she started exploring politics and ended up assisting the Canadian Prime Minister. She then co-owned a restaurant for a few years and eventually became the chef. Next, she pivoted to the tech industry, joined a startup, and moved to California. While working for another company, she temporarily relocated to France to open new corporate offices, and loved traveling all over Europe dealing with vendors and suppliers and managing events. Later, Caroline became a stay at home mom. She served on the board of the preschool, then was PTA president and on the PTA team for many years, helping organize, fundraise and manage multiple events. She re-entered the workforce a few years ago, doing project management for Microsoft and Apple, but her love of being with children and in a school environment led her to Tessellations.

Mehrnaz Habibi

she/her

Intermediate School Science Teacher

Mehrnaz’s passion for environmental science, belief in educating the whole child, and focus on encouraging hard work and dedication led her to Tessellations. She has taught preschool through upper elementary grades with an approach centered on inquiry-based, hands-on activities where students take responsibility for their learning. Mehrnaz earned a BS in Environmental Pollution from Iran, a BS in Early Childhood Studies and an MSEd with a concentration in Mathematics and Science from Walden University. She is currently pursuing her Ed.D degree in Educational Leadership at California Coast University. Outside work, Mehrnaz frequents crafting stores, engages in crafting projects, and makes music with family and friends. She enjoys playing ukulele, percussion, and the piano.

Tooba Hamid

she/her

High School/K-8 Math Teacher

Tooba has a passion for instilling confidence and proficiency in her students’ mathematical abilities. With a background in Mathematics and Economics, she brings energy, expertise, and a commitment to excellence to her classroom. She received her Masters in Economics from University of Reading (UK), to include a dissertation that used varied mathematical and statistical modeling techniques and tools such as Eviews and SPSS. Tooba was also part of a group to empower and support women entrepreneurs throughout the United Kingdom.

Tooba fosters an interactive and supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to tackle challenging mathematical concepts. She uses many instructional methods, including hands-on activities, technology integration, and cooperative learning, to cater for diverse learning styles and ensure student engagement. Tooba is dedicated to helping her students master their mathematical skills as well as develop problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills that are essential for lifelong learning. She emphasizes the real-world applications of mathematics, connecting abstract concepts to everyday situations to make learning meaningful and relevant. Tooba is committed to fostering a collaborative partnership with parents and colleagues to ensure the academic success and well-being of all students.

Mary Hansell

she/her

Middle School Humanities Teacher

Originally from Wisconsin, Mary matriculated at the University of Dallas to take advantage of its well-established program in Rome, where she enjoyed experiencing different cultures and learning from all of them. After earning a BA in Elementary Education, Mary spent a few years teaching computer programming, reading, math and science before pursuing an MA in Humanities to combine her interests in art, history, and literature. At The Episcopal School of Dallas, she taught a world cultures course and helped her students become more informed and appreciative of multicultural viewpoints. She designed collaborative projects with students around the world, including Shenzhen, China and Sydney, Australia. Using mock trials, simulations and student-centered activities, she delighted in engaging her students to deepen their learning. She also served as Department Chair for History and was the school’s Director of Educational Technology. Mary is inspired by Tessellations’ mission, values and belief in using imagination to bring positive change in the world.

Kyle Hietala

he/him

Speech & Debate Teacher

Kyle believes that students can realize exceptional interpersonal and intellectual growth through advocacy and argument. He is excited to help students develop the critical compassion needed to illuminate truth, advance justice, and understand others in a pluralistic, technological society – and have fun competing at tournaments! Kyle began teaching with Breakthrough Collaborative and Teach For America and has taught speech and debate at schools including St. Luke’s (CT), Spence (NY), and Sidwell Friends (DC). He was a two-time speech and debate State Champion in Lincoln Douglas Debate, competed in Original Oratory, and placed as a National Semifinalist and was the North American (NorthAms) Champion in 2017 for Parliamentary Debate. Kyle holds a BA in Cognitive Science from Yale University and completed coursework at the Johns Hopkins School of Education. He lives in Menlo Park with his partner Miles and their cat, Candace. He enjoys spamming his friends with memes, hunting for new-release items at Trader Joe’s, and watching socio-political documentaries.

Kim-Ha Ho

she/her

Chief Financial Officer

The focal point of Kim’s 15-year career has been supporting educators and students from all walks of life. Kim began her accounting career with a regional accountancy firm, where she developed a deep interest in nonprofit financials and operations. She then contributed her skill set to numerous nonprofit organizations and communities in the Bay Area, including private foundations, independent schools, higher education, school districts, and government-subsidy nonprofits. Additionally, she has shared her passion for financial literacy with Bay Area youth at California Jump$tart Financial Smarts for Students, NextGen Personal Finance, Society of Young Inklings, and YMCA Project Cornerstones. Kim has a Bachelor from San Jose State University, and an MBA from Santa Clara University Leavey School of Business. Kim finds Tessellations intellectually stimulating and loves to be surrounded by talented and gifted individuals here. When not working on spreadsheets and data, Kim enjoys her bountiful garden and occasional travels with her spouse and their 3 children.

Stephanie Holson

she/her

Co-Director of Preschool / Lead Teacher

Stephanie serves as Co-Director and Lead Teacher for the Children’s Center at Tessellations. She brings a deep understanding of child development to her work: she taught at Stanford University’s Bing Nursery School for 10 years, and holds both a BA in Child Development and MA in Early Childhood Education from Mills College. She excels at creating inviting spaces and compelling curriculum that enable young learners to continue their exploration and understanding of the wondrous world all around them. “I feel so lucky to spend my time supporting young children and their families,” she says. When she’s not in the classroom, you can find Stephanie spending quality time with her husband, two great kids, and their small menagerie of pets.

Debora Hoppis

she/her

Early Childhood Teacher / Director of Extended Care

Born and raised in Brazil, Debora has worked in education for 15 years, living in California for the last 10 years. She has an AS in Early Childhood Education from Orange Coast College, a BA in Pedagogy Education from Brazil, and is finishing her MS in Early Childhood Studies (specializing in Administration, Management, and Leadership) from Walden University. Debora has a long and impressive history working as Site Director, Child Development Instructor, and Teacher Trainer in a variety of environments, including Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and play-based approaches. In addition, she led, created, and implemented a hands-on emergent curriculum for children 1-6 at the Apple Children’s Center with Bright Horizons. Also a published author, she’s currently writing a series of bilingual, self-empowering STEM books for young children. When she’s not in the classroom or writing, she enjoys spending time with her husband, being outdoors, candle making, or finding new things to learn.

Kyle Houston

he/him

Physical Education & Associate Teacher

Born and raised in San Jose, California, Kyle’s philosophy is that all children—no matter their age or circumstance—have genius within them and should be respected as such. Kyle has been instrumental in the launches of several schools. Along the way he taught multiple subjects at the middle school level, and has coached youth gymnastics and motor skill development for over a decade. This honed his abilities as a mentor, and helped hundreds of kids realize their potential physically and academically as more confident, capable movers. Kyle pursues a calling to help children develop healthy lifestyles when they’re young that lead to healthy lives as adults. He believes physical and mental health are deeply connected, and that creating a healthy, supportive environment is key to both. In his free time he enjoys reading novels, cooking, and turning his music up really loud.

Teddy Hulsker

he/him

Resident Dungeon Master / Drama Teacher

Teddy Hulsker is an Oakland-based Bay Area native and Game Master for hire, as well as resident Dungeon Master for Tessellations School. A lifetime nerd, Teddy decided to make a career of his passion when the pandemic hit in 2020. Since then Teddy has run camps and campaigns for all ages. As a DM Teddy creates a fun environment for play that rewards players for creativity and ingenuity. He loves games that feature a blend of humor, excitement, danger and collaborative problem solving. In addition to his work as a dungeon master, Teddy is an award-winning theatrical sound and projection designer. His work has been seen and heard at local venues like TheaterWorks, Marin Theater Company, San Francisco Playhouse and Aurora Theater Company. He was also the founder and artistic director of Klanghaus, an East Bay artists’ ensemble that produced monthly happenings in an eclectic range of venues between 2014 and 2019. He is immensely grateful for this opportunity to share his passion with the students of Tessellations.

Naomi Keith

she/her

Relief & Support Educator

Naomi is a dynamic educator who is excited to be a part of the Tessellations community! With a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from San Jose State University and five years of experience in the education field, Naomi is passionate about fostering a safe and creative learning environment where every student can thrive. She spent three years as an extended day teacher and teacher assistant, followed by two years as a kindergarten STEM teacher, during which her students experienced an impressive 1.5 years of growth as they transitioned into first grade. Inspired by the educators who shaped her journey, Naomi is dedicated to making a positive impact on students’ lives. Outside of the classroom, she loves to visit Disneyland, unleash her creativity on Canva, craft festive decorations, sing, and enjoy quality time with her family and her adorable corgi.

Kelly Li

she/her

Early Childhood Teacher

Kelly is passionate about providing a nurturing, supportive, and enriching learning environment for children. Her educational and professional background reflects a deep commitment to progressive and child-centered education. Along with her Master of Arts in Education from Heidelberg University (signifying a strong foundation in educational theories and practices), her Montessori credential highlights her training in a respected, widely recognized approach to early childhood education. In this spirit, she ensures the environment is carefully prepared to meet the developmental needs of each child. As a teacher, Kelly enjoys observing each individual child, tailoring the environment to nurture these unique needs. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and jogging in the woods, spending time with her cat, and helping friends by walking their dogs.

Matt Linden

he/him

Co-Director of Preschool

Matt has worked in early childhood education in the Bay Area for more than 25 years. With a B.A. from Stanford and an M.A. from U.C. Berkeley, he completed his foundational training at Stanford’s Bing Nursery School. Matt went on to work as a teacher at Bing and One Fifty Parker Avenue School in San Francisco, where he took on his first full-time administrative role. Matt later served as the Executive Director at The Little School in San Francisco, where he furthered the school’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and putting relationships at the center of social-emotional learning. After joining Avenues Silicon Valley in 2019, Matt helped to develop and lead the Avenues@Home program during the pandemic, supporting and overseeing teachers, students and families worldwide. Most recently, he helped to build, sustain, and infuse hefty doses of fun into Avenues’ Founding Class Program.

Matt lives in San Carlos with his wife Amanda, their two children Oli & Cal, their cats Stormy & Sammy, and Zelda the Shiba Inu. Matt enjoys playing music with friends, hip openers in yoga, hiking in nearby Eaton Park with Zelda, and reading the latest Stephen King novel.

Phyllis Lopez

she/her

Intermediate School Humanities Teacher

Phyllis’s love of education has taken her on a global journey teaching in Nicaragua, Taiwan, Myanmar, and now California. She holds a BA in Linguistic Education from Universidad CentroAmericana. She has a strong background in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and a passion for languages and art, which she hopes to instill in all her students. In addition, Phyllis is an active advocate for Education for All, an international initiative to raise primary education standards worldwide, and volunteered to teach English and math to low income, rural communities in developing countries. Her teaching philosophy is that an ideal student outcome is a balance between academic progress and emotional growth through meaningful experiences. She actively integrates her lessons with mindfulness practice, connection to nature and fostering the empathy of her students toward others. She was thrilled to join the Tessellations family as a lower school teacher and continue to learn alongside her students.

Cici Luo

she/her

Early Childhood Associate Teacher

Cici has a strong background in early childhood education, with an associate degree in Early Childhood Education. She has more than 5 years of experience working with young children in classroom settings. Her journey into early childhood education began with a passion for fostering creativity and exploration in young learners. Over the years, she has honed her skills in designing engaging, age-appropriate activities that support the social, emotional, and cognitive development of every child. She continuously updates her knowledge through professional development to ensure she provides the best learning opportunities for her students. Outside of teaching, Cici enjoys music, working out, and traveling with her family.

Elle Lyu

she/her

Mandarin Language Teacher

Elle is an advocate for project-based language learning. During her time at Presidio Knolls School and more recently at Avenues Silicon Valley, she designed project-based curricula that fostered meaningful real-world skills. She received her M.Ed. from SUNY Buffalo where she explored second language acquisition and pedagogies. Elle is dedicated to extending her classes way beyond language proficiency to include relevant social-emotional learning and meaningful cross-disciplinary practice. She also deeply believes that learning language encourages global citizens with intercultural understanding. The alignment between Elle’s educational philosophy and Tessellations’s mission is embodied in her commitment to blending a conversational approach to language acquisition with authentic experiences inside and beyond the classroom. In her spare time, Elle finds joy in mountain biking, camping, backpacking, exploring museums, and experimenting with various Sichuan cuisine recipes in her kitchen.

Sylvia Major

she/her

Outdoor Educator (Naturalist)

Sylvia is dedicated to sharing her love and knowledge of the natural world with others and is inspired by the diversity of perspective and experience of gifted learners. She was a nature immersion instructor at Riekes Nature Awareness and other programs, and as a homeschooling parent, she founded an outdoor program to create community for her son and other gifted learners in the Bay Area. Sylvia has a BS in Biology from Cornell and an MS in Ecology & Evolution from UCLA. Travel and living abroad have also been integral parts of her education. She hopes to pass on her love of learning and a commitment to leave things better than we found them.

Adrienne Marquette

she/her

Drama and Theater Arts Teacher

Adrienne was born and raised in the Bay Area. She began acting in first grade, and has had a passion for the performing arts ever since. She started teaching and directing her original theater curriculum at age 20 at a small private school in Campbell, CA, where she developed and ran performing arts programs and summer arts camps for TK-8 students for 16 years. In 2011 she began teaching and directing theater classes and productions all over the Bay Area for K-12 students through a non-profit arts education organization. She created a Healing Arts program for the Pediatric ICU at Kaiser Santa Clara, and created and developed Starting Arts Studios Productions, where she directed up to twelve productions each year, including musicals, comedies, murder mysteries and melodramas. Adrienne has touched thousands of students through theater and performing arts over her career and feels incredibly lucky to do what she loves every day. She is very excited to put down roots at Tessellations and create an inclusive, creative theater arts program for our students and community.

Thomas Marquette

he/him

Safety Specialist

Growing up in Willow Glen, Thomas saw the joy that the arts and working with children brought to his parents. He has worked with kids of all ages backstage in theater productions, taught drums at School of Rock, and performed in the School of Rock House Band at festivals and events throughout the Bay Area. Prior to teaching drums, Thomas played quad and snare in his high school marching band, played in the wind ensemble, and also studied drum, bass, and guitar at School of Rock for 6 years in their Performance Band program. He graduated from Willow Glen High School and Silicon Valley Career Technical Education in Metals Technology (SVCTE) in 2022. He loves bouldering, exploring, camping, working out, and fast cars!

Tais Martorano

she/her

Middle School Science Teacher

Tais is an environmental enthusiast with a passion for botany, ecology, and marine organisms. Growing up in Brazil, she developed a deep connection with nature early on, which fueled her lifelong commitment to environmental wellness. Her entire life, she has cared for a variety of plants and animals, including moon jellies (one of her favorites).

While pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution at the University of California, San Diego, Tais conducted extensive research on benthic fish and the diets of baleen whales. Her academic journey prepared her with a broad understanding of marine organisms and the intricate balance within natural ecosystems.

She unexpectedly discovered her love for teaching during what she thought would be a temporary summer job. Teaching sparked her desire to educate and inspire young minds, teaching them to love and protect the natural treasures of planet earth. Today, after six years of science teaching experience, she combines her scientific background with her passion for education, dedicating herself to shaping future generations of environmental stewards.

Tristan Matlock

he/they

Director of 4th-8th Grades

Tristan’s progressive education journey has led him through public, private, charter, and international school models as a humanities teacher, school leader, and teacher trainer, eventually inspiring him to create his own NPO. His camps and workshops for teens focused on rite of passage experiences, restorative and social justice, SEL and creative arts, community building, leadership development, vocational empowerment, and wellness. He also led service and adventure trips for teens across U.S. national parks and internationally in Mexico, Costa Rica, Italy, Hong Kong, India, and Nepal. He has a BA in English literature, an English teaching credential, is a yoga and meditation teacher, and is working toward an MA in transpersonal psychology. Tristan lived in a yoga monastery for ten years, where he learned to meditate. In his free time he enjoys hiking, free diving, hot yoga, soccer, gardening, studying philosophy and psychology, and traveling to new places.

Myla McLain

she/her

Outdoor Educator (Naturalist)

Born and raised on the Maine coast, Myla is a third-generation educator. She holds a BA in Environmental Studies from Wellesley College. She has experience conducting geochemistry research on urban farms in Boston and lagoon fluctuation trends on ranches in Chilean Patagonia. She has taught K-12 outdoor education at farms, land trusts, and Audubon sanctuaries. Her passion for outdoor environmental education stems from her unique nature-based Waldorf education and deep curiosity for the earth systems around her. In her free time, Myla enjoys running, mountain biking, skiing, camping, and spending time with her family.

Mikki McMillion

she/her

High School History and Humanities Teacher

Mikki is grateful to be a part of the founding High School Team at Tessellations. As an Educator who has volunteered and worked in the Bay Area for almost 30 years, serving as Teacher, Advisor, Administrator, Teacher Development Specialist, and Curriculum Codifier in public, independent and charter schools, she is excited to continue learning with students as they discover their authentic voices while building the community. Mikki enjoys working with all ages, and brings experience of teaching elementary, middle and high school students. She has a BA in English and a Secondary Teaching Credential from San Jose State University. Mikki is a lifelong learner who is currently working on her MA in Consciousness and Human Potential at Maharishi International University. In her free time, she loves to laugh with her children, rollerskate, and gaze at trees.

Elizabeth Miramontes

she/her

Math Specialist

Elizabeth’s mission as a teacher goes beyond delivering required knowledge; it’s about creating a non-judgmental classroom environment so the learning process becomes a smooth (although not necessarily effortless) path. In this environment, the students freely explore the subject with curiosity and beginner’s minds, strengthening their learning capacity and self-confidence. Elizabeth developed the skills to create this warm space during her masters degree studies. She has twelve years of experience facilitating learning in areas such as Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Discrete Mathematics, Financial Mathematics, Programming, Mindfulness, Yoga, and Human Development. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Human Development from the Western Institute of Technology and Higher Studies in Mexico (on the same network as Santa Clara University). She enjoys spending time with her two kids and husband, going for walks, practicing mindfulness, or just enjoying the sunset and nature.

Kris Morgan

he/him

Administrative Assistant & Substitute Coordinator

Kris’ passion for working in a school environment took shape seven years ago when he began as an assistant teacher at Westmont High School. Since then, he has taken his skills into administration, working in numerous fields across various schools. He strives to always be available to help where he can, be it with students, staff, or families. With a deep commitment to learning new skills and strategies, Kris has consistently sought innovative ways to meet the diverse needs of his workplace and contribute positively to its growth. He has a wide variety of hobbies including movies and music, but mostly enjoys spending his time with his wife, their friends and family, and their cat Lulu.

Kristine Nakada

she/her

Director of Outdoor Education

Kristine Nakada was very excited to join Tessellations as a multidisciplinary teacher, teaching an upper level math course, PE, and serving as a member of the Nature Campus core team. After spending her younger years in the East Bay, she earned her BA in Mathematics from Williams College and her MS in Education from the University of Pennsylvania. While her teaching career started in a boarding school on the East Coast, she has most recently lived in Pasadena, CA, where she taught high school math, coached numerous sports, and led a variety of outdoor ed trips. In addition to having her Wilderness First Responder certification, Kristine has held various leadership positions in the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion. She loves the energy and intentionality of new schools and is excited to think about ways to design spaces that allow all students to feel like they belong.

Alejandro Navarro

he/him

Outdoor Educator (Naturalist)

Born in Visalia, California, near Sequoia National Park, Alejandro developed a deep love for the outdoors from an early age through countless backpacking adventures with his sisters. After graduating from Cal State Long Beach, Alejandro found his calling and passion for outdoor education at the Clemmie Gill School of Science and Conservation (SCICON). He continued to hone his craft as an educator with the Santa Cruz County Outdoor Science School (SCCOSS). “I just want my students to be sure that their voices can be heard and that school is a very fun and safe place to be for all,” Alejandro says. “I’m always striving to learn as much as I can to help teach others.” When Alejandro is not inspiring young minds in the great outdoors, he can be found exploring trails, hiking to breathtaking vistas, nurturing his garden, or enjoying quality time with his cherished rescue cats, Alexa and Thundercat.

Sarah Naylor

she/her

Music Teacher

With a passion for empowering children to use their voice through creative arts, Sarah is delighted to be Tessellations’ music teacher. She studied harp performance and musical theater at the Manhattan School of Music and the Boston Conservatory, as well as philosophy at Columbia University. Sarah has performed throughout the US as a soloist, with orchestras, chamber groups, and on Broadway in Wicked and Beauty and the Beast. Also drawn towards therapeutic arts, Sarah studied sound healing and meditation in Thailand and Laos, and has worked in children’s hospitals and recovery centers, using music and sound to heal. Sarah discovered her deep love for working in education while teaching music and drama at the Ricardo School in Harlem. She went on to teach fine arts in private, independent schools and gifted programs in Boston, New York, Salt Lake City, and the Bay Area. She maintains a private studio for harp and voice. When not teaching or playing music, Sarah can be found writing, running, and hiking with her two children and dogs.

Jay Patel

he/him

Early Childhood Associate Teacher

Born in Lancashire, UK. Jay holds a BA in Graphic Design and a Foundation Degree in Art & Design. He worked at the award-winning Clitheroe Castle Museum for 10 years where he taught Arts & Craft activities to children of all ages. “I love to bring a spark to a child’s eye as they learn something new in fun, creative ways,” he says. In 2018, Jay and his family moved to the US and joined Tessellations as an After School Teacher inspiring kids in the Maker Space & Art Clubs. Now an Early Childhood Associate Teacher, he’s excited to be a part of every child’s learning journey and help design a creative curriculum. He believes in a play-based, child-centered approach and understands that children learn best through hands-on experiences. A father of 3, in his spare time Jay enjoys many things including art, photography, exploring nature, vegetarian dining, visiting museums, reading books, cinema, collecting video-games, graphic designing and organizing free craft kits & workshops for his local community in Sunnyvale.

Nikki Perez

she/her

1st Grade Teacher

Nikki is thrilled to share space with a community that is as excited as she is about teaching and learning. Nikki holds a degree in child development and psychology, and has 15 years of experience in education. For the past eight years, her recent endeavors have been in social work and mental health, specifically in foster care. Her time in foster care led her back to her passion for teaching. During this time, she provided coaching and education for families, specifically in reparative parenting techniques and trauma-informed care. She has made a full circle during her career by coming back to the classroom (a place that she never truly left).

Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and loved ones. She looks forward to creating rapport and building relationships, as a flourishing classroom is essential for every child’s overall success and well-being.

Ketki Pendse

she/her

Primary School Teacher

Since earning her Bachelor’s in Child Development from California State University, Ketki has been working with children in different capacities for over a decade, including teaching first grade for about 6 years prior to joining Tessellations. Ever since she was in elementary school, her teachers were her heroes, and as an adult, teaching is where she finds her greatest peace and rewards. “I have always loved working with children, especially the younger ones. Their innocence and zest for life is so refreshing! And the welcoming and calming environment at Tessellations makes it so wonderful to come to work every day,” she says. When she is not in the classroom, Ketki loves to hike and read books.

Nathaniel Polussa / “Coach Nate”

he/him

Associate Teacher / PE Teacher / Athletics Coach

Coach Nate taught many subjects and every grade level K-12 over his fourteen years in education. He began coaching soccer seven years ago and now has two teams with Los Altos Red Star Academy, a premier soccer club in Silicon Valley. He holds a USSF D License in soccer coaching, a NCSAA Goalkeeping Diploma, and is a licensed referee for both youth and adult players. “I believe the energy I bring to the field is reciprocated in the players I have the joy of working with,” he says. “My prime directive is to provide a positive learning environment for youth as they begin to play. Soccer is a vehicle to help us develop life skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship, communication, and, above all else, respect – respect for the game, coaches, referees and players, but most importantly, respect for oneself.” He looks forward to learning and growing from his experiences with everyone at Tessellations.

Michael Prater

he/him

Director of High School Education

Michael believes that teaching is an act of moral courage, rooted in the individual dignity of each learner. He is focused on creating an innovative high school that will honor the Tessie mission and extend students’ meaningful educational journey beyond middle school. After earning an MA from Columbia University’s Teachers College, Michael worked with Independent Schools in New York City for more than 20 years as a teacher, division director, and interim head of school; his students have gone on to study at the most prestigious universities in the United States and Europe. Through extensive accreditation work, he acquired a deep understanding of dozens of educational systems at some of the most renowned schools in the country. Michael is trilingual, a scholar of Shakespeare, and nourishes his heart and mind with big ideas from great books. He is a father of twin toddlers and enjoys cultivating his hobbies as an amateur musician, an adept potter, and an able chef.

Alyssa Puga

she/her

Primary Teacher

Alyssa is passionate about creating unique learning opportunities for middle schoolers. She started her career as a substitute and discovered her love for teaching. Later, as a middle school teacher, she was enchanted by the curiosity and open-hearted nature of the age group. Alyssa is a first generation college graduate, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science from Royal Holloway – University of London, and recently completed a Masters in Education. She is a California native who loves to travel, finds joy in sunshine, and spending time with her dogs and fiancé.

Lise Quan

she/her

Kindergarten Teacher

Originally from beautiful British Columbia, Canada, Lise recently relocated from San Diego to join the Tessellations family. She holds a BSC in Psychology, as well as Montessori and ECE teaching credentials. With over 20 years of experience in a wide variety of learning environments, she looks forward to bringing her wealth of knowledge and passion for early childhood education to Tessellations. As a lifelong educator, she is particularly passionate about early literacy and creating a nurturing, hands-on, creative learning environment where all her students feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. She’s thrilled to be part of the Tessellations family and excited to contribute to such a unique and welcoming community!

Tiffani Quick

she/her

Director of After School and Summer Programs

Tiffani finds joy and purpose supporting young people to overcome obstacles, spark curiosity, and build relationships with their peers. Even as a teen, she was determined to pursue a career in youth development. Tiffani earned a BS in Business Administration from the University of San Francisco. She has extensive experience providing high-quality, enriching, and engaging after school and summer programs to students of local independent schools and community-based programs. Tiffani is focused on meeting young people where they are and challenging them to develop the skills to become the best versions of themselves. She is a former youth athlete in soccer and basketball, and enjoyed coaching SF Bay Area youth and her two sons in both sports.

Frankie Ramirez

she/her

Early Childhood Teacher (TCC)

Frankie’s passion for education stems from her early struggles in school; ultimately she was inspired to pursue education by a particular teacher who recognized her individual needs and promoted a growth mindset. Previously, Frankie coordinated non-profit literacy programs across the South Bay Area. She has experience working in non-profit, private, and co-op preschools throughout California and Washington, DC. As a preschool teacher, she developed and implemented a mindfulness-based curriculum; she is passionate about science, mindfulness learning, and incorporating multiple intelligences into her classroom. Frankie holds a BA in Life Science, Preparation for Teaching, and an MS in Child and Adolescent Development. Outside of work, Frankie is an avid yogi who is fueled by coffee, hiking, and live music events.

Kari Van Bebber Ramirez

she/her

Gifted Specialist

Kari has a passion for the social and emotional well-being of others and always meets individuals where they are in their personal journey of growth. She started her teaching career after earning a BS in Child Development with a Psychology Minor and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at California Polytechnic University, SLO. Soon after, Kari earned a MA in Counseling at San Francisco State University, which led to nearly 10 years as an elementary school counselor and MFT in private practice. As an administrator for the Knox School of Santa Barbara, she specialized in the academic and SEL needs of the gifted population. Kari also provides coaching, consulting, and counseling to all ages across a variety of needs, including specialized support for gifted students and their families.

Saba Rizvi

she/her

Librarian / Media Specialist

Saba is a dedicated educator with over 15 years of experience, complemented by diverse professional journeys in mental health and technology. Growing up in four different countries, she is fluent in five languages, which enriches her global perspective. Saba earned her BA from Middlebury College in Vermont, focusing on premedical studies with a minor in religion and French. She later pursued a Master’s in French Education at Middlebury, specializing in Second Language Acquisition at the Sorbonne University in Paris. An avid traveler and reader, Saba finds inspiration in the beauty of diverse cultures, languages, cuisines, and experiences. As an educator, she is passionate about uncovering the unique gifts of each child and empowering them to reach their full potential. In her free time, Saba enjoys the outdoors as much as possible. Some of her favorite activities are camping, hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, dancing and playing board games and DND with her friends.

Sheena Rose

she/her

Human Resources, Bookkeeper & Payroll Administrator

Sheena’s passion for people and principles surfaces in her focus on business integrity and transparency. She spent a decade in operations management fostering teamwork and guiding talent before transitioning to more administrative roles. She earned a degree in Accounting and Business Administration from De Anza College. Sheena regularly volunteers at supportive organizations, such as the YMCA, One Step Closer Therapeutic Riding, and CASA. In her free time she enjoys cooking, roller-blading, traveling, and practicing mindfulness at every step.

Dominic Ruggio

he/him

Primary School Teacher

Dominic has always loved to teach ever since his 5th-grade teacher asked him to assist his classmates in math. While he got his Bachelor’s degree in English from San Francisco State University, he worked as an after-school teacher for Elementary School students. That experience helped him realize that he wanted to pursue teaching and inspired him to acquire his Master’s in Education at Santa Clara University. After 5 years in Public Schools, he was drawn to Tessellations because of its many offerings in the Arts and its focus on SEL. He loves to be a part of the community and build strong relationships with students and their families. Academically, he loves to create impactful, memorable, and interactive lessons, where students can solve problems and collaborate. Outside of School, he loves playing sports (including soccer, golf, and basketball), walking his two dogs, and playing video games.

David “Bear” Saulet

he/him

Middle School Humanities Teacher

A proud product of California’s Community College system, David’s love for learning was sparked by his introduction to the world of competitive speech and debate. After a strong competitive tenure of his own, David went on to direct and coach some of the nation’s most successful debate programs. Most notably, as Assistant Director of Debate, he helped lead Concordia University Irvine to a 1st place finish at the 2015 NPDA National Championship Tournament where the team faced off against more than 50 colleges and universities nationwide. David has also directed highly successful speech and debate programs at the high school level, such as Oxford Academy and Bishop O’Dowd High School, where his students consistently excelled both academically and competitively. David takes immense delight in helping students become better critical thinkers and more effective social advocates. In his free time, you can find David catching airtime on one of his favorite roller coasters, including The Voyage or Velocicoaster. And when the theme parks are closed for the offseason, David can be found movie hopping at his favorite film festivals such as the Seattle International Film Festival or making a pot of his deliciously renowned Cajun gumbo! David holds a BA in Communication Studies from Concordia Irvine as well as an MA in Communication Studies from Long Beach State University.

Hana Sanchez

she/her

4th/5th Grade Humanities Teacher

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Hana holds a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a teaching emphasis and a minor in Child and Adolescent Development. After graduating, she began her career in education, passionate about fostering a safe and nurturing learning environment. With experience teaching grades Pre-K to 4th in private schools throughout the Bay Area, she enjoys connecting with her students and learning about their unique personalities, making her classroom feel like a second home. She is a proud Disney adult who takes annual trips to the parks with her husband. In her free time, she loves spending time with her two dogs, playing board and puzzle games, reading, attending live music performances, cooking, and trying new restaurants.

Niloufar Shir

she/her

Early Childhood Teacher

Bringing in 9 wonderful and fulfilling years of experience in the field of Education, Niloufar has had the opportunity to contribute to two private, and non-profit independent schools in the Bay Area. Niloufar approaches education with the vision that every child has an innate gift inside them, and that it is with care and joy for learning that children find a sense of belonging and flourish to become confident contributors to their community. Niloufar has gained tremendous training in Responsive Classroom pedagogy, and her focus has always been “connection before correction”. She has also lived in 3 different countries with various cultures since she was a teenager; born in Iran, she has traveled and lived in France and Canada before arriving at her final destination here in the USA.

After pursuing her passion for Chemistry at Humber College, she began her new chapter of married life in Texas, where she attended UNT, as a Canadian student studying General Arts & Science. She has obtained a certificate of achievement in E.C.E, and is in the process of obtaining her Dual-Online M.S. in Learning and Development at UNT. Niloufar enjoys the company of her family along with eating delicious meals.

Lacee Spicer

she/her

Primary Teacher

Lacee grew up in Silicon Valley, where she was introduced to project-based learning as part of her school’s GATE program. She began her career in education by teaching students with special needs at a nonprofit organization. Over time, her passion for teaching and love for learning inspired her to specialize in teaching gifted kindergartners. “I look forward to facilitating the development of creativity and curiosity in a secure and supportive setting,” she says. “I am thrilled to find myself in an environment that fosters student autonomy and empowerment, while providing the necessary guidance and support to facilitate a fruitful learning journey.” As part of her passion for teaching, Lacee believes in continuous learning and professional development, and regularly attends workshops and conferences to stay up-to-date on the latest teaching techniques and research.

Sara Spiegel

she/her

Director of Systems & Logistics

Sara came to Tessellations after more than 20 years as an administrator at small- to medium-sized education-focused nonprofits. Her work has encompassed public education reform, grantmaking in support of math and science education, and providing technical assistance and curricula for public school systems. Sara helps establish systems, tools, and routines both to serve Tessellations’ immediate needs and to ensure efficient operation long into the future. She was initially drawn to the school by “the staff’s dedication to student experiences as much as their depth of knowledge and skill,” she says. “I’m inspired by this professional team that is so focused on student culture, and what they have accomplished in such a short period of time.” Sara earned her BA in Linguistics with a concentration on Education & Society from Stanford University. When she’s not working, Sara loves puzzles, even unsolvable ones. She is an avid reader of fiction and supporter of public libraries everywhere.

Susan Stanat

she/her

Director of Admissions

Susan is passionate about helping new families find their way to Tessellations, having experienced the positive impact of a strong peer community for students and their families. She is excited to be an Admissions Director again after 10 years serving the broader gifted community as PTA co-chair, board member, Admissions Director (Helios), and founding family at Tessellations. Following a first career in tech, she searched for the best path for her gifted children leading to a life-changing meeting with Anne Beneventi. Joining a school focused on serving gifted students, Susan’s children blossomed, forming strong friendships with peers with whom they clicked easily in an environment where they were respected, nurtured, and challenged. As a bonus, she and her husband also found community for themselves. Susan holds a BA in Psychology from UC Berkeley.

Juliana Steinert

she/her

1st Grade Teacher

Juliana was born in Brazil and recently moved to the United States. To be in California and be able to explore its different landscapes and biomes – from the beach to the mountains to the desert – has been a great highlight of Juliana’s transition to the US.

With a BA degree in Pedagogy and over 14 years of experience teaching, Juliana hopes to support her students in building a creative, harmonic and respectful learning environment in which each one of their unique learning paths are valued, supported and celebrated. Juliana’s big question as an educator is, “What impact can my students’ voices and ideas have in the world we live in?” To her, teaching means creating opportunities for students to find and use their voices, to explore their wonders and questions about the world, and to understand that each of their actions matter.

Juliana loves spending time outdoors, connecting with her surroundings and with herself, as well as learning new things! Her favorite activities have been practicing yoga, watercolor painting, gardening, reading and journaling. Nevertheless, for her a perfect day is a day spent near the water. It doesn’t matter if it’s a beach, a lake or a waterfall, being in the water is her favorite way to recharge!

Isaac Strong

he/him

Director of Competency-Based Education

After earning a PhD in Cellular Biology from UCSF, Isaac taught biology at St Ignatius Preparatory School and volunteered as chief program officer of Minds Matter San Francisco, an education non-profit preparing low-income, high-achieving high school students for college success. He returned to UCSF as director of graduate faculty development, but says, “I missed direct interactions with students and the opportunity to shift the way they think about science, away from memorizing facts and toward a process of asking questions, critical thinking, and making and learning from mistakes.” Tessellations’ appeal was twofold. “I wanted to be part of a community that is excited about new ways of doing things. Project-based learning is where I think science education should be moving,” he says. “And second, the commitment to outdoor education. I grew up wandering forests, climbing trees, and observing wildlife, and I love that students here get to have that as part of their education.”

Aaron Tinker

he/him

Middle School Science Teacher

A child of science educators, Aaron was encouraged from a young age to explore, study, and care for the natural world. After his early years exploring the creeks, woods, and coasts of New England, he eventually steered towards the marine sciences at McGill University in Montreal, and a graduate degree from the University of Washington. After many years supporting marine conservation biology work along the west coast, he shifted towards teaching upon the arrival of his two children. He was fortunate to teach science to many bright young learners, including his own, as the lower school science teacher at Peninsula School for a decade. Outside of work, Aaron enjoys spending time with his family and friends, playing music & tennis, and connecting with nature.

Tess Tran

she/her

High School English Teacher

Before teaching in the Bay Area, Tess taught in France, Spain, and Vietnam. Those experiences continue to influence her curriculum, which celebrates voices from around the globe and champions interdisciplinary approaches to addressing the world’s most pressing problems. She loves teaching media literacy, rhetoric, and critical theory, empowering students to critically examine the narratives that surround them. In addition, she weaves creative writing into every unit, encouraging students to craft their own narratives in service of healing themselves and others. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys going to underground pro wrestling matches, ax throwing, writing poems, and learning way more about Pokemon than she ever needed to know from her two young sons.

Robin Trujillo

she/her

Math Specialist / Special Projects

Robin’s journey to Tessellations combines a breadth of skills and experiences acquired along a “non-linear career path”. Growing up in the East Bay as a science nerd with interests in theater and mock trials eventually led her to Caltech where she earned degrees in biology and literature. While pursuing PhD research on RNA silencing at Stanford, she developed an interest in teaching at the Tech Museum and Stanford’s Educational Program for Gifted Youth. She then worked as a high school tutor and COO of a laser-cut wood toy startup before having twins and shifting to be a stay-at-home parent. When her twins started at Tessellations, Robin got involved with the community, serving as a room parent and running board game activities for students and families. Outside of work, Robin enjoys knitting and pottery, losing to Grace at board games, and volunteering at the Oakland Zoo.

Bailey Ubellacker

she/her

Intermediate School Science Teacher

Bailey aspires to support each student’s cognitive, emotional, and social development by fostering a growth mindset, encouraging engagement in a community of care, and working toward their individual academic goals. Her teaching journey began at the University of Kentucky, where she taught and supervised developmental mathematics after earning BAs in Elementary Education and Spanish with a minor in Psychology. She went on to earn a MA of Education in Teacher Leadership and a PhD in Educational Leadership Studies also from the University of Kentucky while working with elementary school communities in Kentucky and teaching multiple grade levels in Spain, Costa Rica, and New Zealand. She has served as an elementary mathematics and reading interventionist, taught graduate classes for current and aspiring K-12 teacher leaders, and was recognized with the 2022 Robert Kottkamp Outstanding Dissertation Award. Prior to Tessellations, Bailey taught 1st grade, 4th grade English, and 5th grade English at a first year school in Silicon Valley.

Shazia Usman

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Associate Art Teacher

Shazia is an artist at heart and the mother of three daughters. She was born and raised in Pakistan, where she received her Masters in English Literature and later went on to pursue art at Hunerkada College of Visual and Performing Arts. When she moved to California, she earned her early childhood teaching credentials from De Anza Community College, along with furthering her artistic education by taking classes in different art disciplines. Shazia has spent most of her professional career dedicated to teaching preschool-aged children while pursuing her passion for painting on her own time. The opportunity to bridge both interests, art and working with children, brought her to Tessellations. She is enthusiastic about interacting with students in the creative environment Tessellations provides and looks forward to helping them cultivate their artistic minds and talents.

Monica Vazquez

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Admissions Marketing and Communications Specialist

Monica has over 15 years of experience in art direction, graphic design, and marketing. She earned her BS in Graphic Design and Visual Communication from the National Autonomous University of Mexico and is passionate about crafting visual narratives through design, photography, and video. In Mexico and the U.S., she has led marketing campaigns, developed creative concepts, and managed projects across various industries, including health, fashion, and aerospace.

Joining Tessellations feels like a natural step for her, as she believes in the power of providing an enriching environment for gifted children and their families: “Tessellations’ mission to nurture gifted kids in an inclusive community really resonates with me. I’m excited to contribute to a place where creativity and communication can inspire positive change.”

When she’s not working, Monica enjoys watching movies, creating artwork for loved ones, and imagining funny stories about her neighborhood animals to make her husband laugh. These hobbies help her find peace and purpose in a hectic world.

Annie Wait

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Intermediate School Humanities Teacher

A fifth-generation educator, Annie Wait grew up enjoying the gifted programs in Pasadena’s public schools and dreaming of becoming a teacher. She earned her BA in English and Comparative Literature and an MA in Education at Occidental College, and began her career by returning to the district in which she grew up. Annie, who has taught every grade K-12, has a special passion for teaching humanities and integrating academic subject areas to create immersive, multi-dimensional learning experiences that excite students. She is certified in Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) and has led groups of students and families on multi-day field trips to Colonial Williamsburg, Sacramento, and California’s Gold Country. Throughout her career, she’s sought to bring out the best in each learner, no matter their abilities. She has lived with her husband in the Bay Area since 2017 and enjoys gardening, raising chickens, and visits from their four young-adult children.

Liz Wallach

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Director of Kindergarten - Third Grade

Liz’s love of teaching began in the third grade, when she set up a classroom in the basement, complete with an overhead projector and a cup full of Vis-A-Vis pens. Technology might have changed, but her enthusiasm for colored pencils and a well-organized classroom library hasn’t waned. As a founding faculty member, Liz has delighted in witnessing Tessellations’ journey from a small online pod to a bustling campus of uniquely talented learners. With a master’s degree from Bank Street College of Education and a bachelor’s degree from Smith College, Liz has served as a teacher, instructional coach, and administrator in both public and private schools. Although each school differed in mission and demographics, one constant was each community’s commitment to supporting the whole child. As the Director of K-3, Liz collaborates with and coaches Tessie’s amazing team of all-star teachers, supports classroom instruction, and facilitates professional development opportunities. She spends her time learning alongside students, living out our overall culture of kindness, curiosity, courage, and integrity. A New Englander by birth, Liz has established herself as a Californian, settling on the beach in Santa Cruz. On the weekends, you can find her walking the beach with her dog, enjoying live music, and searching for treasures at local thrift stores.

Andrea Willcox

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Primary School Teacher

After earning her MA in Elementary Education, Andrea has served as a classroom teacher for more than a decade in 2nd through 6th grades throughout California. She has also taught garden and yoga and has enjoyed coaching new teachers during their credentialing process. She is trained in, and is especially passionate about, early literacy. She has a strong interest in connected and restorative school communities, nature-based education, and the power of play. She is delighted to find so many shared passions with the Tessellations community. When not teaching, she loves spending time outside, hiking on land, or sailing at sea with her family which includes two sons.

Carolyn Woulfe

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Middle School Humanities Teacher

Carolyn began her teaching career in Queensland, Australia. Since moving overseas with her family in 2007, she has taught and held leadership positions at Hong Kong International School, The International School of Prague, The American School in London, and, most recently Avenues The World School in Silicon Valley, where she was an interdisciplinary project teacher. She earned her B.A. at the University of Queensland, a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching at Queensland University of Technology, and her M.A. in Creative Writing from Roehampton University in London, where she was awarded the Extended Dissertation prize. She enjoys adventure, whether it be embarking on a quest with students, exploring a new culture, getting scientific with her sourdough, or finding a book she can’t put down.

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