Facultad y personal de la Escuela Live Oak

Conoce a nuestro equipo

List of 77 members.

Edie Alejandre

Director de Operaciones
Bio
Edie Alejandre es originaria de México, pero emigró a San Francisco a los 3 años y vive aquí desde entonces. Se licenció en Ciencias Políticas por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco. Edie trabajó en la industria periodística durante 15 años y cambió de carrera para trabajar en la administración en el ámbito educativo. Antes de venir a Live Oak, trabajó durante siete años en Marin Prep/SÍ School y después en Terra Marin School en Mill Valley. Edie está casada y tiene dos hijos. Sus actividades favoritas son la lectura de libros, la pesca del cangrejo, los viajes por carretera, y es una gran fan de Disney. edie_alejandre@liveoaksf.org
Mariana Barajas Rodriguez

Extended Day Program Leader
Bio
Mari joined the Extended Day Programs team in the fall of 2025, working primarily with grades 3-5. Prior to Live Oak, Mari had served as an after school program leader with the Chico Parks and Recreation Department and spent three years in after school programs at a dual immersion school before most recently working at Emma Wilson Elementary School in Chico. During the summers Mari worked as a camp counselor and later served as a camp director with the nature camp Camp Chi-Da-Ca through the Chico Area Recreational Department. Mari attended Butte College for two years and is pursuing a Liberal Studies degree at San Francisco State with the goal of becoming an elementary teacher. Mari, who speaks Spanish, aspires to teach English as a second language in a foreign country after college. Mari approaches their work acknowledging each student as an individual, creating a safe, inclusive environment in which students can take risks and express themselves freely. Outside of school Mari enjoys a good balance of lazy days, physical exercise, and camping.
mariana_barajasrodriguez@liveoaksf.org
Keren Bein

Profesor de segundo grado
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de California en Santa Cruz; con credencial de profesora por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

Keren comenzó su carrera docente como especialista en lectura para estudiantes de K-5 en el Distrito Escolar del Sur de San Francisco. Al pasar a la enseñanza en el aula, siguió su pasión por la instrucción de la alfabetización pasando 10 años enseñando primer grado en el Distrito Escolar Unificado del Sur de San Francisco. Antes de enseñar en el aula, Keren enseñó educación ambiental a los estudiantes de K-5 en el Centro de Ciencias Ambientales en San Francisco. Keren también ha colaborado en la dirección de un programa de estudios ambientales de nivel universitario a través del Sierra Institute. Keren creció en la zona de la bahía y estudió en la Universidad de Santa Cruz con una licenciatura en Estudios Americanos con énfasis en raza y etnia. Recibió su credencial de enseñanza de múltiples materias en la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco. En su tiempo libre, Keren disfruta tocando música, pasando tiempo con su familia y explorando la ciudad. keren_bein@liveoaksf.org
Ashlley Belcher

Profesor de español de secundaria
Bio
BS, San Francisco State University

Ashlley is thrilled to rejoin the Live Oak community as a Spanish teacher, where she graduated fifteen years ago! She was born and raised in San Francisco and graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in Sociology. She most recently taught in a Spanish immersion program and looks forward to bringing her knowledge as a native Spanish speaker. When she is not in the classroom, she enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, traveling, and hiking with her dog and husband. ashlley_belcher@liveoaksf.org
Jeff Burnaugh

Profesor de Ciencias de la Escuela Secundaria
Bio
BS, Colorado State University

Jeff came to Live Oak in the fall of 2023 to teach eighth grade science. He brings with him nearly two decades of teaching and administrative experience in grades 6 through 12. Over his career he has taught in Denver, Austin, and San Francisco. Jeff has also served in a range of roles that helped parents, teachers, and students to leverage technology to enrich learning. He has taken part in a range of professional development opportunities, including workshops and trainings with the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Computer-Using Educators, International Society for Technology in Education, and Texas Teaching Fellows. Jeff's approach in the classroom is to help students learn how to think critically, collaborate effectively, and discover what learning strategies work best for them. Originally from Atlanta and raised in Knoxville, Jeff enjoys playing guitar, pool, mountain biking, and hiking. jeff_burnaugh@liveoaksf.org
Jenny Burns

Profesor de segundo grado
Bio
Licenciatura y Máster en la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco; credencial de profesor, BATTI

Jenny nació y creció en el Área de la Bahía y tiene más de una década de experiencia trabajando con niños en escuelas independientes. Jenny asistió a la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco donde obtuvo su licenciatura en Psicología. Luego pasó a obtener su maestría en Educación y credencial de enseñanza a través del programa del Instituto de Formación de Maestros del Área de la Bahía (BATTI) mientras enseñaba en la Escuela Episcopal de Día de San Mateo en San Mateo. Jenny cree en un enfoque de la enseñanza centrado en el estudiante y anima a sus alumnos a apropiarse de su aprendizaje. En su tiempo libre, Jenny disfruta de largos paseos por el Golden Gate Park y de pasar tiempo con sus amigos y su familia. jenny_burns@liveoaksf.org
Malika Carter

High School Guidance Counselor
Bio
B.A., Carleton College; Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, Mills College; M.A. Educational Leadership, University of the Pacific

Malika has worked at Live Oak since 2006. She has been a lower and middle school teacher as well as a curriculum design specialist. Currently she is the high school placement counselor. malika_carter@liveoaksf.org
Neil Cashman

Middle School Science Teacher and Middle School Dean of Student Wellness
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de Oregón; MBA por la Universidad de Phoenix

Neil tiene doce años de experiencia trabajando con estudiantes de secundaria y primaria. Ha trabajado en la Harbor MicroSchool, la New Village School y la Town School for Boys. Le apasionan especialmente las lecciones basadas en proyectos de matemáticas y ciencias y se sintió inmediatamente atraído por la alta calidad del compromiso de los estudiantes en el plan de estudios de Live Oak. neil_cashman@liveoaksf.org
Myky Chau

Extended Day Program Leader
Bio
Myky is one of the two Extended Day Program Leaders for the first-grade and second-grade combo groups. She is from San Jose and moved to San Francisco this year to pursue a Bachelor's in Animation at the Academy of Art University. Myky worked with K-8 students right out of high school as a YMCA afterschool leader and YMCA summer camp counselor. myky_chau@liveoaksf.org
Mary Ann Chin Ng

Director de Servicios de Aprendizaje
Bio
Licenciada, Universidad Estatal de San Francisco; Máster, Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

Mary Ann Chin Ng se licenció en la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco. Posteriormente, amplió sus conocimientos sobre las necesidades de aprendizaje de los niños con un máster en Educación Especial. Tiene credenciales en Educación Elemental y Especial y un certificado en Terapia Educativa por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco. Asiste regularmente a conferencias y talleres de la Asociación de Terapia Educativa y de la Asociación Internacional de Dislexia. Mary Ann también ha asistido al programa de formación de profesores "School's Attuned" de Mel Levine y participa en el programa de profesores líderes de la Bay Area Teacher Development Collaborative. Fuera de la escuela, a Mary Ann le gusta viajar, tejer, hacer abalorios y trabajar en proyectos de arte y artesanía. Mary Ann comenzó a trabajar en la escuela Live Oak en 1978 como profesora de tercer y cuarto grado. Ha sido la especialista en aprendizaje a tiempo completo de la escuela desde que se trasladó al campus de Mariposa en 2001. maryann_chinng@liveoaksf.org
Vicki Cho

Profesor de primer grado
Bio
BA, San Francisco State; MA, University of San Francisco

Vicki joined the Live Oak faculty in the fall of 2024. Her teaching career includes roles in first grade, fourth grade, and as an interventionist throughout different schools in San Francisco. Vicki has taken part in Applied Behavior Analysis training for autism. Live Oak stood out to her as a learning environment that is very student-centered, while allowing for a lot of creativity on her part with and for her students. Originally from Los Angeles, Vicki grew up in Koreatown and Glendale before moving to San Francisco for college. She earned her BA in Communications Studies from San Francisco State and her MA in Teaching from the University of San Francisco, while also earning her teaching credential at USF. Outside of school, Vicki loves crafting, camping, and cooking–but more importantly eating–and enjoys going to the park with her son. vicki_cho@liveoaksf.org
Camilo Coelho

Middle School Spanish Teacher and Middle School Dean of Student Wellness
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de Buenos Aires

Camilo Coelho nació y creció en Buenos Aires, Argentina. Se licenció en español en la Universidad de Buenos Aires y obtuvo un diploma de profesor de inglés como lengua extranjera en el Instituto Lenguas Vivas. Ha vivido en el Área de la Bahía durante los últimos 16 años, donde ha enseñado español y ha coordinado programas de intervención deportiva y académica para alumnos de escuelas primarias bilingües. Ha viajado mucho por Sudamérica y Centroamérica, el oeste de Estados Unidos, la Polinesia Francesa y España. La pasión de Camilo por el aprendizaje y la apreciación de las lenguas y culturas nativas le ha permitido hacer muchos amigos, jugar innumerables partidos de fútbol y surfear en algunos hermosos descansos. En la actualidad, Camilo entrena a un equipo de fútbol masculino sub12 de competición en el Mill Valley Soccer Club. camilo_coelho@liveoaksf.org
Josephine Corlett

Especialista en aprendizaje
Bio
Licenciada por el Wellesley College; Máster por la Universidad del Pacífico

Josephine taught second and third grade at Woodland School in Portola Valley for five years before coming to Live Oak in 2017. Prior to Woodland, she taught in the East Bay at Prospect Sierra School, Chabot Elementary School and The Berkeley School.

As of the summer of 2023, Josephine is completing a graduate program at Notre Dame de Namur University in Educational Therapy. This program focuses on teaching students who are neurodivergent. In addition, she completed the Orton-Gillingham Associate Level I Training Course in the summer of 2021, followed by the Orton-Gillingham Approach Basic Structured Literacy Training during the summer of 2022.

Josephine is a Bay Area native who grew up in Alameda. After graduating from Wellesley College with a focus in English and French, Josephine taught in after school programs and as an adult literacy teacher with AmeriCorps. This experience piqued Josephine’s interest in primary education, which was furthered by joining the Bay Area Teacher Training Initiative (BATTI) program. Alongside her classroom teaching and curriculum development work, Josephine is passionate about professional development as a lifelong learner. She loves to spend her free time reading, traveling, and cooking.
josephine_corlett@liveoaksf.org
Yoalli Correa

Profesor de segundo grado
Bio
BA, Cal State Northridge

The 2024-25 school year marks Yoalli's first at Live Oak. She served as a kindergarten teacher for the previous four years at The Mission Preparatory School. She also taught at Children’s House Montessori and Stanley Mosk Elementary. Yoalli holds a BA in Child and Adolescent Development from Cal State Northridge. yoalli_correa@liveoaksf.org
Layla Degani

Bibliotecario
Bio
BA, UC Santa Cruz

Layla joined the Live Oak staff in the fall of 2024 after working in public libraries since 2018, primarily in circulatory duties and as a bookseller for two years helping people find their next favorite book. Layla strives to encourage a safe space for individuals to journey into their interests, try things on, and discover things that make them feel seen. Born and raised in Ventura County, Layla has lived in Oakland since 2021. She earned her degree in Feminist Studies, Politics and History of Consciousness at UC Santa Cruz and is currently working towards a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science at San Jose State. Layla loves reading, playing games, and preparing and enjoying food with her loved ones. layla_degani@liveoaksf.org
Jean DeWitt

Profesor de cuarto grado
Bio
Licenciado, UC Berkeley

Jean nació en California y ha pasado la mayor parte de su vida aquí en el Área de la Bahía. Jean tiene once años de experiencia como profesora en escuelas privadas y públicas. Jean ha pasado los últimos cinco años como profesora de cuarto grado en The Academy en Berkeley. Jean obtuvo su licenciatura en la Universidad de Berkeley y realizó estudios de postgrado en educación en la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco y en el St. Jean está emocionada por formar parte de la comunidad de Live Oak y conocer a los estudiantes y las familias. Cuando no está en la escuela, Jean disfruta visitando los diversos museos de arte y las muchas oportunidades de ver teatro en vivo en el Área de la Bahía. Le encanta ir de excursión por las colinas de Berkeley y pasar tiempo con su familia. jean_dewitt@liveoaksf. org
Wilbart "Wil" Dionisio

Dean of Student Inclusion & Belonging
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

Wil Dionisio es de Daly City, California, y obtuvo su licenciatura en estudios liberales en la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco. Ha trabajado en Live Oak durante 3 años en el programa de atención prolongada. También fue profesor asistente en San Francisco Schoolhouse. En algún momento en un futuro próximo Wil espera obtener su credencial de enseñanza. En su tiempo libre, Wil disfruta alentando a todos los equipos deportivos del Área de la Bahía, asistiendo a conciertos en vivo y viajando. wil_dionisio@liveoaksf.org
Jordania Drosd

Profesor de quinto grado
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de California-Riverside; Máster por el Programa BATTI

Jordan grew up in San Francisco and counts herself lucky that she gets to share her love of San Francisco with her students everyday. Jordan joined Live Oak School in 2019 as a fourth grade teacher, and moved to the fifth grade team in 2021. She began her teaching career at St. Phillips Preschool in 2010. She then taught kindergarten, second, and fourth grade at The Hamlin School while she obtained her teaching credential and MA in Curriculum and Instruction through the BATTI program. She spent four years as a fourth grade teacher at the Spanish Infusion School (previously Marin Preparatory School).

In her free time, Jordan loves to eat interesting foods while traveling, explore her favorite city, and spend time with her very busy toddler and husband. También habla Español!
jordan_drosd@liveoaksf.org
Holly Dunn

Profesor de tercer grado
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de Carolina del Este; Máster en Educación por el Cambridge College; credencial de profesora

Holly brings a wealth of experience and a passion for teaching to her role at Live Oak. With a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, with a minor in Early Childhood and Family Relations from East Carolina University, and a Master’s in Education in Literacy from Cambridge College, Holly has been a dedicated teacher since 1997. Her teaching journey has spanned schools in Maryland and San Francisco before she became a member of the Live Oak community in 2002. Holly is not only an experienced educator but has always been committed to continuing her growth through professional development. She has led and participated in numerous workshops, covering diverse topics such as curriculum development, SEL, Differentiated Instruction, DEI, as well as focusing in on the core subjects like math, reading, writing, and science. Outside of the classroom, Holly enjoys reading, watching her son play sports, and spending quality time with family and friends. Her love for food, music, and meaningful connections enriches her approach to teaching. holly_dunn@liveoaksf.org
Annie Fleury

Profesor de cuarto grado
Bio
BA, Fairleigh Dickinson University; MA, Fairleigh Dickinson University

Annie joined the fourth grade teaching team at Live Oak in the fall of 2024 after wrapping up a three-year stint teaching second grade at Stratford School. Annie started her teaching career at the Clarendon School in New Jersey and also served as a summer camp music teacher, specializing in teaching violin. Annie's teaching aspiration is to foster an environment where each student is valued and help students recognize and embrace their unique talents and strengths, nurturing the determination necessary to navigate challenges and realize their full potential. Born and raised in New York City, she moved to the Bay Area in 2021. Annie earned a BA in Humanities and an MA in Teaching with a focus on elementary education, both from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Away from school, Annie's passions include playing and listening to music, baking, animals, reading, running, finding new adventures and places to eat, and spending time with friends and family. annie_fleury@liveoaksf.org
Sofía García Guzmán

Extended Day Program Coordinator
Bio
Sofia was born and raised in San Francisco. After graduating high school, she started babysitting and discovered that she liked working with kids. Sofia currently attends San Francisco City College, and will transfer to San Francisco State University to obtain her Bachelor’s in communication science or psychology. Her favorite season is summer when she takes advantage of the heat to swim in rivers and lakes. Sofia also loves camping with her family and scouting out new swimming holes. In her free time, she likes to binge watch Friends and go to the beach to watch the sunset no matter how hot or cold it is. sofia_garcia@liveoaksf.org
Shannon Gómez

Profesor de tercer grado
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de California-Berkeley; Máster por la Universidad de Colorado-Denver

Shannon Gómez se graduó de la Universidad de California - Berkeley en 2014 con un menor de educación y un mayor de estudios interdisciplinarios en los negocios y la psicología. Ella pasó a obtener su Maestría en Educación de la Universidad de Colorado Denver con una concentración en el currículo y la instrucción para culturalmente y lingüísticamente y diversos estudiantes. Trabajó en Colorado como educadora y defensora de la política educativa durante 4 años. Después de regresar a la Bahía en 2018, fue pionera en el programa STEAM en la escuela primaria Grattan. Shannon es una apasionada de la justicia social, el aprendizaje emocional social y la creación de aulas inclusivas. Fuera del aula, le gusta el surf, la mochila, el snowboard y la cocina. shannon_gomez@liveoaksf.org
Halen Groce

Profesor de cuarto grado
Bio
BA, Kennesaw State University; M.Ed., Kennesaw State University

Halen joined the Live Oak faculty for the 2024-25 school year. Born and raised in the Atlanta area, he has taught first grade, third grade, fifth grade, and STEM in Georgia and Tennessee. Throughout his career in education, Halen has found joy in honing his craft and establishing meaningful relationships with students, colleagues, and parents. He believes that children who are taught to view the world through a lens of empathy and open-mindedness, paired with the ability to inherently think critically and seek change, will become successful, global citizens of the future. Halen recently completed Orton-Gillingham training with Ron Yoshimoto. He earned a BS in Elementary Education from Kennesaw State University followed by his M.Ed., also from Kennesaw State. In his spare time, Halen loves to travel with his partner, exercise, read, and play with his Golden Retriever named Governor (a.k.a. Govie). halen_groce@liveoaksf.org
Janeth Gutiérrez Moreno

Receptionist
Bio
Janeth Gutierrez Moreno is a San Francisco Native of Mexican descent. She joined the front office staff at Live Oak in the spring of 2020. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, especially her 12-year-old daughter. She enjoys reading, cooking and drinking coffee amongst other things in her spare time. janeth_gutierrezmoreno@liveoaksf.org
Francisca Guzmán

Director de Promoción
Bio
Licenciada por el Wellesley College

Francisca Guzmán aporta más de diez años de experiencia en desarrollo y comunicaciones sin ánimo de lucro. Antes de unirse a Live Oak, trabajó como Directora Asociada en el Consejo Estatal de Vida Independiente de TN y Directora de Desarrollo en Disability Rights Tennessee. Francisca es una apasionada del poder de las historias para transformar organizaciones y promover la justicia social. Cuando no está trabajando, le gusta hacer yoga, hacer senderismo, leer y escribir, y explorar la zona de la bahía. francisca_guzman@liveoaksf.org
Naomi Hamburguesa

Profesor de quinto grado
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de California, Davis; máster por la Universidad de California, Davis; credencial de profesora

Naomi Hamburger ha estado enseñando en el nivel elemental desde 2004 y en Live Oak desde 2009. Tiene una licenciatura en Desarrollo Agrícola Internacional y una credencial de enseñanza de materias múltiples, ambas de UC Davis. Naomi regresó a UC Davis en 2012 para estudiar la resolución de problemas en matemáticas de primaria y recibió su maestría en educación. Otros desarrollos profesionales han incluido el Proyecto Cero de la Escuela de Graduados de Educación de Harvard, el Campamento de Matemáticas en la Universidad de Colombia, los Talleres de Matemáticas en Dana Hall, y la Neurociencia en el Aula de Aprendizaje y el Cerebro. Las actividades favoritas de Naomi relacionadas con la educación incluyen la planificación de excursiones y el trabajo por la justicia social junto a sus estudiantes. Fuera de la escuela, Naomi disfruta de la crianza de los hijos, la lectura, el yoga y la exploración de la naturaleza y la cultura en el Área de la Bahía. naomi_hamburger@liveoaksf.org
Regina Hardatt

Lower School Division Director
Bio
BS, St. John’s University; MS, St. John’s University; EdD, University of Pennsylvania

Regina joined Live Oak in the fall of 2025, stepping into the lower school division director role after serving as the assistant lower school director for inclusive teaching & learning at The Pingry School in New Jersey from 2021-24. Her leadership experience includes roles such as Lower Division DEI Coordinator and classroom teacher at Avenues: The World School in New York, as well as board service with Dancing Classrooms New York City and Hamilton-Madison Settlement House. Regina co-founded Empathy to Action in 2020 where she has served as a consultant providing special topic workshops and coaching to drive meaningful change within organizations and schools. A two-time graduate of St. John’s University with degrees in Childhood Education and Secondary Education, Regina taught across various lower school grade levels and at the New York Hall of Science. She completed her Doctorate in Educational and Organizational Leadership at the University of Pennsylvania in the summer of 2025, with a dissertation exploring the intersections of identity and leadership. Regina is passionate about fostering inclusive, equitable, and joyful learning environments. regina_hardatt@liveoaksf.org
Adam Hicks

Director de Comunicaciones
Bio
Licenciada, Saint Mary's College; Máster en Educación, Arizona State University

Adam grew up in the Seattle area and currently lives with his family in Novato. Prior to moving to the Bay Area, Adam lived in Phoenix, AZ where he started his career in education as a high school English teacher and baseball coach right after graduate school at Arizona State. He was propelled into the world of education to emulate the positive growth experiences that he enjoyed from great teachers and coaches growing up. Altogether, Adam taught high school English and Yearbook for 10 years in Marin County, Napa, Orinda, and Sonoma with a mix of experience between public and private schools. In between teaching stints, Adam served as a sports information director at the University of San Diego and the University of San Francisco for six years, feeding his passion for athletics, storytelling, and creativity. Outside of work, Adam loves exploring the outdoors with his wife and kids, Parker and Parisa, watching sports, playing and listening to music, and doing projects around the house. adam_hicks@liveoaksf.org
Marvie Hill

Extended Day Program Leader
Bio
Marvie has been a part of Live Oak’s Extended Care team since 2021. Growing up in the small town of San Juan Bautista, Marvie gained practical experience in childcare through babysitting, nannying, counseling summer camps, and helping to raise the younger children in their family. They have found a passion for childcare due to their interest in play, as well as the desire to support children in growing into the best versions of themselves. Marvie resonates deeply with Live Oak’s vision of knowing a child well, and has enjoyed getting to know the students as they develop. In their free time, Marvie enjoys crafting, playing puzzle games, cycling, and spending time with loved ones. marvie_hill@liveoaksf.org
Maurice Hill

Director de Gestión de Inscripciones y Admisiones
Bio
BA, Wesleyan University; MA, Klingenstein Center at Teachers College, Columbia University

Maurice or "Mo" began his tenure with the Live Oak admissions office in July 2023. Mo comes to Live Oak from Cranbrook Schools outside of Detroit where he was most recently the Dean of Upper School Enrollment. His career has brought him to a variety of independent schools and higher ed institutions throughout the Midwest and East Coast, including Beaver Country Day School (Chestnut Hill, MA), Walnut Hill School for the Arts (Natick, MA), Worcester Academy (Worcester, MA), and Kenyon College. In addition to a range of admissions roles over the years, Mo has served as a dorm parent and a Black Student Union Advisor, demonstrating his passion for and commitment to opening access for transformative educational experiences like the ones he experienced growing up. Mo graduated from Wesleyan University with a degree in Sociology and African American Studies before earning his Master's in Private School Leadership from the Klingenstein Center at Teachers College, Columbia University. maurice_hill@liveoaksf.org
LaMonte Horston

Lower School Physical Education Teacher
Bio
AA, Merritt College

LaMonte joined the Live Oak staff in the fall of 2025, bringing 15 years of youth leadership, coaching, and teaching experience to his role as a physical education teacher. Prior to Live Oak, LaMonte was a TK and kindergarten physical education teacher and middle school coach at Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School in Palo Alto from 2020-2025. He has also served as a middle school basketball coach. During his time teaching in Palo Alto, he participated in SPARK PE training and attended CAHPERD workshops focused on inclusive movement and curriculum development. LaMonte has an AA in Child Development and is working on completing his BA in Child Development at Cal State East Bay. He sees teaching as a journey and takes pride in helping guide each child through their growth with care, intention, and joy, centering his work around movement, confidence, and connection, always meeting kids where they are. LaMonte has been in the long and challenging process of starting his own homestead, and when he is not adventuring on his electric bike, there’s a good chance he is out fishing. lamonte_horston@liveoaksf.org
Lianna Kali

Director de Innovación Pedagógica
Bio
Licenciada por el Menlo College; Máster por la Universidad de San Francisco

Lianna Kali nació y se crió en la tierra de Ohlone, en la zona de la bahía, y actualmente vive en San Francisco. Su viaje en el mundo de la educación comenzó a una edad temprana, trabajando para el Campamento Galileo mientras estaba en la escuela secundaria. Se dio cuenta del potencial de los enfoques alegres del aprendizaje y decidió que algún día su carrera podría tomar ese camino.

Tras licenciarse en Humanidades por el Menlo College, su trabajo se ha centrado en el mundo de la educación informal. Más significativamente, ha pasado los últimos 11 años con el Exploratorium en el equipo de Tinkering Studio, desarrollando y liderando programas que combinan el arte, la ciencia, la tecnología y la comunidad a través de la fabricación de objetos y artefactos tangibles. En 2018 Lianna completó un Máster en Educación Internacional y Multicultural en la Universidad de San Francisco. El programa se centra en las pedagogías críticas y examina el papel del poder y el privilegio en los sistemas educativos. Ella está emocionada de traer este compromiso con la equidad educativa a su papel de Directora de Innovación Instruccional, con un enfoque en las intersecciones de la fabricación y la justicia social en el ChangeMaker Lab y la integración de la tecnología reflexiva a través de K-8.

Además de su pasión por la educación, a Lianna le encanta leer (sobre todo ciencia ficción afrofuturista), cocinar para grupos grandes y cuidar de sus numerosas plantas de interior. lianna_kali@liveoaksf.org
Mugdha Kulkarni

Profesor de jardín de infancia
Bio
BA, San Francisco State; M.Ed, San Francisco State

Mugdha joined the lower school faculty as a kindergarten teacher in the fall of 2025. Prior to coming to Live Oak, Mugdha taught at San Francisco Friends School, serving as an associate teacher in second grade and finishing as a kindergarten lead teacher. Mugdha began her career in early childhood education in 2016, teaching in preschools until 2020. Mugdha earned a BA in Political Science and a M. Ed in Equity and Social Justice, both from San Francisco State University. Mugdha has participated in a range of professional development experiences, including the Perception Institute’s Children’s Development of Difference and Racial-Ethnic Identity series and Liza Talusan’s The Identity-Conscious Educator workshop series. She also completed the Responsive Classroom Core Course and Foundations training through Wilson Language, along with Graham Fletcher’s Foundations of Numerical Reasoning in Grades K–2, among others. Mugdha’s teaching philosophy centers on fostering an inclusive, student-centered environment where equity, curiosity, and social-emotional growth are prioritized. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, taking walks along the beach, playing the piano, and doing pottery. mugdha_kulkarni@liveoaksf.org
Sharon Lee

Profesor de cuarto grado
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de Michigan; Máster por la Universidad Estatal de Montclair

Sharon was born in Seattle, Washington but spent most of her life on the east coast in New Jersey. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Michigan (Go Blue!) in Brain Behavior and Cognitive Sciences and her Master’s degree in Teaching Elementary Education from Montclair State University. She previously taught third and fifth grade at a public school in New Jersey. She enjoys reading, iced lattes, trying different cuisines, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She is excited to become a part of the Live Oak community and to get to know her students this year! sharon_lee@liveoaksf.org
Dionysia "Dia" Loufas

Profesor de tercer grado
Bio
Licenciado, Universidad del Norte de Arizona

Dionysia está encantada de unirse a la comunidad de Live Oak. Ha enseñado tanto en Arizona como en California y este año marca su séptimo año de enseñanza. Ella ha enseñado en la Escuela de la Epifanía durante los últimos cuatro años, en el Distrito de Excelsior. Dionysia se graduó de la Universidad del Norte de Arizona con una Licenciatura en Educación Primaria y un menor en ESL. Le apasiona la educación y todos los aspectos del aprendizaje y espera seguir ampliando sus conocimientos en esas áreas. Cuando Dionysia no está en el salón de clases se le puede encontrar viajando alrededor del mundo, yendo a ver música en vivo, descubriendo nuevas recetas para hornear y explorando la belleza de San Francisco. dionysia_loufas@liveoaksf. org
Rebecca Mallabone

Profesor de tercer grado
Bio
BA, San Francisco State; MA & Teaching Credential, San Francisco State

Rebecca joined the Live Oak faculty full-time as a third grade teacher in the fall of 2023, but had previously substituted at Live Oak while working on her Master's in 2014. Prior to Live Oak, spent five years teaching at the Stratford School following a three-year stint as a learning specialist at SF Friends School. Originally from Cambridge, England, Rebecca has recently taken part in professional development workshops around Orton-Gillingham reading instruction, Brain Frames, Racial Equity in Learning Services, Readers and Writers Workshop, and Structured Word Inquiry. Rebecca earned both her BA in Liberal Studies and MA in Elementary Education from San Francisco State and enjoys gardening, yoga, and reading. rebecca_mallabone@liveoaksf.org
Renata Martin

Changemaker Program Coordinator
Bio
Licenciada en Bellas Artes por el Instituto Tecnológico de Rochester; máster por la Universidad del Pacífico; credencial de profesora

Renata joined the Live Oak community in 2014, and though she started out her professional life as an industrial designer, she quickly fell in love with teaching by way of designing museum exhibits and being an interpretive naturalist at an aquarium (both on land and underwater!) and on a boat to the Farallon Islands. She's been part of environmental groups everywhere she's been, including Engineers for a Sustainable World in upstate NY, and green teams at West Office Exhibit Design and Park Day School, prior to starting Live Oak's Green Team. Before pivoting to the world of formal education, Renata co-founded a sustainability education program, EarthMojo, focused on "change-making and life-shaking for a more ecologically- and socially-sustainable world." Social and environmental sustainability inform both her living and her teaching, and in her free time she loves to make music, scout out hidden swimming holes, and explore this amazing coast. renata_martin@liveoaksf.org
Claudia Martinez

Director Asociado de Admisiones
Bio
Claudia Martínez se une a Live Oak como nuestra Directora Asociada de Admisiones. Claudia nació en Nicaragua y creció en San Francisco. Anteriormente trabajó como secretaria escolar para el SFUSD, asistente ejecutiva del director y presidente de la Academia DeMarillac, y como directora de Primeras Impresiones en la Academia Fusion. En su tiempo libre, puedes encontrarla cocinando para su familia comidas que encuentra en internet. También es una gran fan de los Giants. Claudia está emocionada de ser parte de la comunidad de Live Oak y ayudar a introducir a las familias potenciales a la escuela. claudia_martinez@liveoaksf.org
Dorothy Martínez

Director of Extended Day Programs
Bio
Dorothy first joined Live Oak School's Summer Oaks Camp in 2007, eventually becoming the director of Extended Day Programs in 2019-20. She has been lucky enough to work with various ages and grades at Live Oak School and has used this knowledge to expand the Extended Day Programs as the director. Growing up in San Juan Bautista, Dorothy moved to San Francisco to finish a degree in fashion design and work with various theater groups. She has worked with extended day programs in SFUSD, the Mission YMCA of SF, as program director for ExCEL ASP, and the Randall Museum Summer Camp. Recently, she presented at the NAIS People of Color Conference and the NoCa PoCIS Regional Conference, focusing on empowering afterschool professionals to transform independent school programming and culture. When not in the EDP, she is active in the Bay Area Latino Theatre Artist Network, volunteers in art-centered activities, and goes on family trips with her three children.
dorothy_martinez@liveoaksf.org
Michael Martinez

Lower School Music Teaching Assistant
Bio
BA, Academy of Art University

Michael joined Live Oak in 2023 and is currently the lower school music assistant teacher, where he supports joyful, hands-on music learning rooted in creativity and exploration. He has played drums and guitar for many years and enjoys helping students discover their own musical voices. He brings a visual and interdisciplinary perspective to the classroom, enriching students’ learning through creative expression and multiple modes of engagement. His experience working with both the elderly and children with disabilities has deepened his commitment to inclusive, compassionate education. Outside of school, Michael enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and kids and likes to spend his free time creating art and reading. He feels grateful to be part of both the dynamic Bay Area and the warm community at Live Oak. michael_martinez@liveoaksf.org
Mario Martinez-Muñoz

Middle School Art Teacher
Bio
Mario nació y creció en San Francisco. Su experiencia profesional única proviene de años de excelente facilitación en museos, el desarrollo de actividades STEAM innovadoras, y su pasión por la equidad educativa. En la búsqueda de formas de devolver a su comunidad, Mario ha sido llevado en un viaje para tomar medidas contra las desigualdades educativas que han sido tan frecuentes en este país. Su creencia es que todo el mundo necesita diseñar y facilitar espacios para los estudiantes de color, los estudiantes queer y los estudiantes de clase trabajadora, no sólo por su beneficio, sino porque también ganamos mucho conocimiento culturalmente acumulado, que la supremacía blanca ha tratado de borrar. mario_martinezmunoz@liveoaksf.org
Laura McCann

Profesor de primer grado
Bio
BA, University of Galway; M.Ed, University of Galway

Laura joined the Live Oak faculty during the 2024-25 school year, filling teaching roles in middle school science and first grade. Laura moved to San Francisco from Ireland in 2017 and worked at St. Thomas More School for six years as a second grade teacher. Before moving to the U.S. she worked in London for a year as a high school teacher. In addition, she taught first grade for two years in Ireland after graduating from university. Laura obtained both her Masters of Education and her Bachelor’s in Geography and Psychological Studies from University of Galway, Ireland. Away from school, Laura likes to go for long walks near the water, hang out with friends, play sports, and watch reality TV. laura_mccann@liveoaksf.org
Sydney McGhie

Profesor de Humanidades de Secundaria
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de Denison

Sydney McGhie creció en el condado de Marin y recibió su título universitario en Estudios de Género de la Universidad de Denison. Comenzó su viaje de enseñanza en 2018 en la Escuela Synergy, donde fue maestra de cuarto grado, directora de campamento de verano y entrenadora de múltiples equipos. Antes de unirse a Live Oak, enseñó de cuarto a sexto grado en The Renaissance School en el este de la bahía. Cuando no está enseñando le encanta ir de excursión con su perro, leer una cantidad ridícula de libros y animar a todos los equipos deportivos del Área de la Bahía! sydney_mcghie@liveoaksf.org
Alex McGregor

Lower School Spanish Teacher
Bio
BA, Bard College

Alex came to Live Oak in the fall of 2025 to teach lower school Spanish in Live Oak’s first year of expanded K-8 Spanish instruction. Prior to Live Oak, Alex taught K-4 Spanish at San Francisco Day School for two years. Prior to that he taught Spanish across grades first through eighth for 15 years at Waldorf Schools in Mountain View and in the state of Maine. In addition to teaching, Alex coached basketball and soccer and taught high school guitar. Alex earned a Bachelors in Integrated Arts from Bard College and has participated in professional development around Responsive Classroom and World Language Teacher Training at the Center for Anthroposophy, among other PD experiences. Alex brings music, art and movement to his Spanish lessons and aims to foster a joyful and inclusive classroom where all learning styles can thrive, believing that language can broaden his students’ perspective of the world and teach them new ways of communicating. Outside of school, Alex plays piano, bass and guitar, and enjoys cycling, camping, traveling and gardening. alex_mcgregor@liveoaksf.org
Amy Meyers

Middle School Music Teacher
Bio
Licenciada en Teatro, Universidad de Northwestern

Amy Meyers creció en Dallas, Texas, y se licenció en Teatro por la Universidad Northwestern de Chicago. Atraída a San Francisco en 1991 por la floreciente escena musical y tecnológica, perfeccionó sus habilidades en tecnología de la información y diseño de audio mientras seguía una carrera como músico y compositora profesional. En el año 2000, persiguiendo su pasión por la enseñanza, fundó su propio programa privado de piano, guitarra y voz y también se unió a la ahora compañera profesora de Live Oak, Jill Pierce, como instructora del renombrado programa Music For Children, fundado por Mary Ann Hall. Está encantada de formar parte de la familia de Live Oak y compartir su alegría, pasión y conocimientos con sus alumnos. Cuando no está enseñando, Amy es una actriz profesional, habiendo interpretado papeles principales en obras de teatro y musicales en muchas producciones teatrales locales del Área de la Bahía. En su tiempo libre, le gusta cocinar, viajar, hacer ejercicio y, por supuesto, ir al teatro. amy_meyers@liveoaksf.org
Lesley Miyagawa

Profesor de Humanidades de Secundaria
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de California, Los Ángeles; con credencial de profesora por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco (BATTI)

¡Lesley está muy emocionada de volver a Live Oak! Después de graduarse en UCLA con un título en estudios asiáticos americanos, enseñó preescolar durante dos años antes de regresar a San Francisco. Lesley obtuvo su credencial de enseñanza en el Bay Area Teacher Training Institute (BATTI) mientras también enseñaba como asistente en primer y tercer grado en Live Oak. Después de graduarse de BATTI, enseñó segundo grado en Manhattan Beach, CA, y también en Waianae, HI. Lesley regresó de nuevo a San Francisco, donde ha estado enseñando en North Oakland Community Charter School durante los últimos cuatro años en el jardín de infancia/primer y cuarto/quinto grado. En su tiempo libre, disfruta de la gimnasia de barra, viendo y apoyando a todos los equipos deportivos del Área de la Bahía, y acurrucándose con su perro, Remy. lesley_miyagawa@liveoaksf. org
Katie Moore

Profesor de Educación Física
Bio
BS, Cal State East Bay; MS, Cal State East Bay

Katie joined the Live Oak faculty in the fall of 2024 following a long tenure at Sea Crest School in Half Moon Bay, serving as a PE teacher across multiple grades and nearly a decade as the school’s director of athletics. Katie helped build Sea Crest's athletic department and revamp its PE curriculum. A collegiate soccer and softball student-athlete, her sports background includes a four-year stint as the head women’s soccer coach at College of Marin and four years as the girls varsity soccer coach at Half Moon Bay High School, leading the team to a league title. Katie has participated in a range of professional development, including workshops with the Institute for Social Emotional Learning, Responsive Classroom, Independent School Management, and Women's Leadership Seminar. A native of Hayward, Katie holds both a BA and MA in Kinesiology from Cal State East Bay. She got married on August 9, 2024 and in her personal time, Katie loves to cook, watch sports (go Warriors and Raiders!), go to concerts, listen to music, dance, travel, and play games. katie_moore@liveoaksf.org
James Murray

Profesor de Humanidades de Secundaria
Bio
BA, Connecticut College

James joined the Live Oak faculty in the fall of 2025 to teach middle school humanities. James taught for three years in the Resident Teacher Program at Town School for Boys where he gained experience as a third grade and sixth grade humanities teacher. Prior to Town School, James worked at The Doe Fund in New York for three and a half years supporting the organization's initiatives around career development and job placement for clients participating in the program. James earned his Bachelor of Arts in Government at Connecticut College and is currently pursuing a Master’s in English Literature at San Francisco State. He brings a wealth of professional development experience having participated in Project Based Learning and Responsive Classroom opportunities in addition to SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity). As an educator, James values a classroom that highlights student voice and choice, and gives learners opportunities for creative expression and critical thinking. In his free time, James enjoys hiking, birding, reading, watching movies, listening to music and connecting with family. james_murray@liveoaksf.org
Ruby Navarro MacDonald

Director de Recursos de Empleo
Bio
AA, City College, San Francisco

Ruby MacDonald, natural de San Francisco. Trabajó en la gestión de comercios durante más de 20 años y fue empleada como consejera estudiantil y coordinadora del centro del SFUSD en la Academia de Derechos Civiles Harvey Milk. Ella y su marido se mantienen ocupados con su familia. ruby_macdonald@liveoaksf.org
Jade Nouchi

Extended Day Program Leader & Roots & Branches Instructor
Bio
BA, San Francisco State

Jade started working with Live Oak's Extended Care team in the fall of 2022. Originally from Southern California, she was raised in Riverside and has lived in San Francisco for seven years. She earned degrees in Broadcasting & Electronic Communication Art and Studio Art from San Francisco State. Her favorite part of working at Live Oak is the joy of seeing children’s perspective on life because they have such an amazing way of viewing the world. When she's not working with Live Oak students, her hobbies include gardening, ceramics, and cycling. One day she hopes to stay in the world of education and become a ceramic professor at a university. jade_nouchi@liveoaksf.org
Kai O'Neill

Support Engineer
Bio
BS, San Diego State University

Kai started at Live Oak in the fall of 2024 after teaching math and computer science to middle and high schoolers at Fusion Academy for the 2023-24 school year. Kai led afterschool art and movement programs for preschool and elementary school students, in addition to leading creative coding and art periods for high schoolers at The Urban School. Before moving into education, Kai worked as a software engineer for several years. Live Oak's values of equity and inclusion, while instilling a passion for learning appealed to Kai. Kai was born in San Francisco but grew up in San Luis Obispo, CA, eventually earning a BS in Computer Science from San Diego State University. Outside of work, Kai likes to bike, play guitar, sew dolls, and roller skate. kai_oneill@liveoaksf.org
Ana "Anita" Ocampo

Extended Day Program Leader
Bio
Ana "Anita" Ocampo started working at Live Oak in September of 2021. A native of El Salvador, Anita has been living in San Francisco for 17 years. She earned a degree in dentistry in El Salvador before learning English so she could work with refugees here in San Francisco. She then decided to work with children because she realized that children are the future and wanted to be part of their academic development and influence them to be better people. Anita enjoys the diversity at Live Oak and seeing the kids interacting and developing. One day she would like to get a Master's degree in Spanish and become a Spanish teacher at Live Oak. Outside of Live Oak, Anita loves to dance, listen to music, read and go hiking with her husband. ana_ocampo@liveoaksf.org
Virginia Paik

Director de la escuela
Bio
Licenciada en el Pomona College; máster en el Teachers College de la Universidad de Columbia

Virginia Paik es la directora de Live Oak. Virginia lleva en Live Oak desde 2001, donde ha desempeñado los cargos de profesora de tercer curso, directora de Lower School y subdirectora de la escuela. Virginia es licenciada en Literatura Inglesa por el Pomona College y tiene un máster en Currículo y Enseñanza por el Teachers College de la Universidad de Columbia. Pasó la mayor parte de sus nueve años en el aula como profesora de jardín de infancia y preescolar. virginia_paik@liveoaksf.org
Lily Panetta

Associate Director of Annual Giving
Bio
Licenciatura, Universidad de Seattle

Lily es originaria de Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oregón, Washington y, ahora, California. Recientemente ha vivido en Seattle, donde estudió Comunicación Estratégica y Arte en la Universidad de Seattle. A Lily siempre le ha gustado trabajar con niños. Como becaria de comunicación para Eli's Park Project en Seattle, trabajó para crear un parque para niños de todas las capacidades. Antes de eso, fue profesora de arte en el Children's Healing Art Project de Portland (Oregón), donde enseñaba arte a niños hospitalizados y ambulatorios. Está impaciente por ver lo que le espera en Live Oak. En su tiempo libre, Lily juega en un equipo de fútbol, prueba nuevas recetas y va de excursión por la costa. lily_panetta@liveoaksf.org
Edward Pertcheck

Profesor de matemáticas de secundaria
Bio
Licenciada en Derecho por la Universidad de Cincinnati; licenciada en Derecho por la Universidad de Cincinnati; con credencial de profesora por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

Edward Pertcheck se graduó en la Universidad de Cincinnati en el año 2000 con una licenciatura en arquitectura y una licenciatura con altos honores en español. Después de la universidad, trabajó en una empresa de arquitectura durante siete años. En 2009, completó su credencial de profesor en la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco mientras enseñaba Álgebra I para alumnos de noveno grado en la Escuela Secundaria Mission en San Francisco. Edward es un arquitecto con licencia y durante los últimos doce años ha enseñado varias clases universitarias de arquitectura y matemáticas. En 2019, desarrolló y enseñó una clase de arquitectura para Urban High School en San Francisco. Cuando no está enseñando, le gusta pasar tiempo con su familia, haciendo de todo, desde cocinar, ir a parques infantiles y ver musicales. Edward es voluntario en la gira anual de la Alianza de Casas Victorianas en San Francisco, así como en la carrera anual Swim-A-Mile que apoya al Centro de Recursos para el Cáncer de la Mujer en Berkeley. edward_pertcheck@liveoaksf.org
Jill Pierce

Lower School Music Teacher
Bio
Licenciada en Educación Musical, Keene State College; credencial de enseñanza

Jill Pierce has been teaching music in some capacity since she was 16. She taught with Mary Ann Hall in Connecticut, and started teaching Mary Ann Hall’s Music for Children classes in the Bay area in 1997. She also taught at Mary Silveira Elementary School in San Rafael from 2011-2013. Jill recently took part in the SF Orff Jazz Course in New Orleans. When she is not teaching, she is often performing around the Bay Area with her band, Orange Sherbet, which plays tasty music for families. She also loves to go camping with her husband, Steve, and two kids, Stella and Billy, and dogs, Crawford and Jelly Bean. jill_pierce@liveoaksf.org
Esther Porcella

Tutora de Secundaria
Bio
Máster y credencial de profesor, Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

Esther Porcella tiene una credencial de profesora de varias asignaturas y un máster en discapacidades de aprendizaje leves-moderadas de la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco. Tiene un certificado de introducción a Slingerland y ha asistido regularmente a la Escuela de Verano del Método Slingerland, especializándose en alfabetización multisensorial. Esther está capacitada en el Diseño Universal para el Aprendizaje (UDL), en la metodología del Aula Culturalmente Responsable, así como en la justicia restaurativa. Esther es la orgullosa madre de dos brillantes niños disléxicos y aporta una pasión por el aprendizaje neuro-diverso a su práctica. Llega a la Escuela Live Oak desde la Escuela Diurna de San Francisco, donde era la Especialista en Aprendizaje 7/8. Esther también mantiene una práctica privada donde se especializa en el apoyo a todas las áreas de la dislexia y el TDAH. Está encantada de unirse a Live Oak para apoyar a los estudiantes de la escuela media mientras descubren su potencial. esther_porcella@liveoaksf.org
Brittany Pudlowski

Bibliotecario
Bio
BA, Webster University; MA and Teaching Credential, University of San Francisco; MLIS and Teacher Librarian Services Credential, San José State University

Brittany took over as Live Oak’s librarian in the fall of 2025. After seven years as a second and third grade teacher, Brittany decided to combine their teaching skills and passion for literacy in 2022, beginning their studies in school librarianship. Originally from Los Angeles, Brittany has a BA in Journalism from Webster University in St. Louis, Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and MA in Teaching Reading from the University of San Francisco, and Teacher Librarian Services Credential and MLIS from San José State University. They previously tutored in reading intervention and taught English in Japan. In addition, Brittany was a committee liaison for Welcoming Schools, a program that supports teachers in fostering LGBTQIA+ and gender-inclusive classrooms. Brittany believes stories teach us about ourselves, each other, and our world; understanding ourselves builds confidence, understanding each other inspires compassion, and understanding the world empowers change. Brittany enjoys reading, video games, old sitcoms, and knitting. They live in San Francisco with their husband and two cats, Lrrr (rhymes with “purr”) and Ndnd (“un-DUN-duh”), named after aliens who rule the planet Omicron Persei 8 on Futurama. brittany_pudlowski@liveoaksf.org
Leila Rashid

Profesor de jardín de infancia
Bio
BS, San Jose State

Leila Rashid joined the Live Oak faculty in the fall of 2025 as a kindergarten teacher. She brings four years of experience as a first grade teacher at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School with a strong focus on early literacy and social-emotional development. In addition, she has six years of leadership experience as a site director and lead teacher at KinderCare Education, where she managed programs and supported staff in delivering high-quality early childhood education. Leila holds a Bachelor of Science in Child Development from San Jose State University. She has attended a wide range of professional development, including workshops on early literacy, phonics, social-emotional learning, project-based learning, and more. Leila believes in creating a supportive and inclusive classroom where every child feels valued and confident, emphasizing relationship-building, curiosity, and celebrating diversity alongside academic and social-emotional growth. Outside of school, Leila enjoys working out and trying out new desserts, listening to music and podcasts, and spending quality time with family and friends. leila_rashid@liveoaksf.org
Dreas Ratteray

Profesor de Ciencias de la Escuela Secundaria
Bio
BS, Stanford University; MS, Stanford University

Dreas started teaching middle school science at Live Oak during the 2024-25 school year. With a background in environmental science and education that includes a BS and MS in Earth Systems Science from Stanford University, Dreas has led several conservation projects from coral reefs to seagrass beds, mangrove forests, chaparral woodland, and desert rivers in both the US and his native land of Bermuda. Locally, Dreas has most recently served as an afterschool counselor with the Golden Gate Park Botanical Society, while in Bermuda he continues to lead a regenerative forestry operation at Burt Island where he also teaches SCUBA diving, natural and human history, and basic to advanced waterman skills. Dreas’ teaching style centers around play, creative expression and the intersections between human society and the natural world. When not teaching, Dreas enjoys skateboarding, surfing, writing and dancing. dreas_ratteray@liveoaksf.org
Rubi Reyes

Extended Day Program Leader
Bio
Certificate of Accomplishment, San Francisco City College; Certificate of Achievement, San Francisco City College.

Rubi joined the Extended Day Programs team in the fall of 2025. Rubi has been working with children in various capacities since 2016. She earned her Certificate of Accomplishment in Early Childhood Education Associate Teacher and a Certificate of Achievement in Child Development: Infant/Toddler Care from San Francisco City College in 2024. While working on these certifications Rubi worked in the City College day care center learning about child development with children from birth to five years old. She brings an approach to her role centered around teamwork, respect, and honesty. Outside of work Rubi loves spending time with her family and friends, going hiking, and going to the movie theaters. rubi_garciareyes@liveoaksf.org
Jennifer Rosen

Drama Teaching Assistant
Bio
Jenny started at Live Oak in the fall of 2021. She has been a teaching artist in San Francisco for over 20 years, teaching at the Nueva School and many public schools in San Francisco through the non-profit StageWrite, in addition to her role at Live Oak. Jenny is a mainstage company member at BATS Improv, which celebrated its 40 year anniversary in 2025. Jenny approaches teaching by using improv as a guide, emphasizing that her students must try and must fail along the process of working together to create something. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in History from Saint Mary’s College. Outside of teaching and performing, Jenny enjoys cooking and baseball. jenny_rosen@liveoaksf.org
Joanna Sacks

Tutor
Bio
BA, Oberlin College and Conservatory; California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, San Francisco State University

Joanna spent 11 years at Daniel Webster Elementary as an in-class/small group support for students in all grades and led afterschool small group math clubs for third through fifth graders. Joanna also previously worked with a small number of Live Oak students over the course of the last three years. Outside of education, Joanna worked for over a decade in IT and project management. She has undergone training in Orton-Gillingham reading instruction and Safety Care Behavior Deescalation. A parent of a Live Oak graduate from the class of 2016, Joanna has been deeply involved in a variety of Live Oak volunteer roles over the years. A native of Washington D.C., she earned BA in Psychology from Oberlin College and Conservatory and later her teaching credential from San Francisco State. Outside of work Joanna loves to garden, hike–or just be outside in general–knit, read with her book club, and work to nurture and maintain connections with the family and friends. joanna_sacks@liveoaksf.org
Robbie Smiley

Athletic Director & Physical Education Teacher
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

Born and raised in San Francisco, Robbie Smiley has come to appreciate how lucky he is to have grown up in such a wonderful city. He graduated from San Francisco State University with a BS in Kinesiology with a concentration in Physical Education. He joined Live Oak in 2009 and gained experience in the extended care program and the Summer Oaks program before becoming a Physical Education teacher in 2012. Robbie also began coaching at Live Oak in 2012 and has been directing the middle school Athletics program since 2016. Robbie has also taught an exercise class at the Richmond Senior Center in San Francisco for two years. In his spare time, he enjoys staying active, reading, and spending time with his family.
robbie_smiley@liveoaksf.org
Audrey Soriano

Profesor de jardín de infancia
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de California, Davis; con credencial de profesora por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

Audrey Soriano began teaching in 2004 and has taught kindergarten for 17 years, 14 of those at Live Oak. Audrey holds a BS in Human Development from the University of California, Davis, and earned her teaching credential through the Bay Area Teacher Training Institute from San Francisco State. In addition to her role in the classroom, Audrey served as a faculty trustee from 2023 to 2025. She also has participated in numerous workshops and seminars to support the work in her classroom, including the People of Color Conference, Responsive Classroom, Project Zero, and SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity). Audrey has two daughters, one of whom is a Class of 2025 graduate of Live Oak, the other a Middle School student. A resident of Oakland who recently moved to Lake Merritt, Audrey is an avid Golden State Warriors basketball fan, and even danced professionally for the team many moons ago! Audrey is a certified Zumba instructor and teaches online Zumba classes in her free time. audrey_soriano@liveoaksf.org
Jun Stephens

Profesor de jardín de infancia
Bio
BS, San Jose State University

Jun joined the Live Oak faculty in the fall of 2025 as a kindergarten teacher. Prior to Live Oak, Jun served as a fourth grade teacher at Stratford School for the 2024-2025 school year. She was also a teaching fellow at San Francisco Day for three years, working in second, fifth, and fourth grades and was a tutor at Girls' Middle School in Palo Alto for two years. Jun earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from San Jose State University. She has participated in SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) since 2022, a professional development community focusing on learning about how equity issues impact students and families. She also attended regular workshops on Responsive Classroom and Universal Design for Learning. In the classroom, Jun values nurturing students' self-confidence by supporting development of independence, growth-mindset, and flexibility. Jun grew up in Pacifica and is passionate about learning and teaching about issues of social justice. In her free time, she likes to sew, read nonfiction, and visit parks, in addition to collecting vintage pyrex cookware and thrift shopping. jun_stephens@liveoaksf.org
Tanya Susoev

Associate Head of School
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad de San Diego; Máster por la Universidad de San Diego; Máster y Doctorado en Liderazgo Educativo por el Mills College

Tanya Susoev nació y creció en San Francisco. Se identifica como birracial, asiática/coreana-americana de primera generación y graduada universitaria de primera generación. Esta identidad ha guiado y fundamentado su práctica en la narración y celebración de las identidades de los estudiantes/colegas y la práctica reflexiva.

Es licenciada en Literatura Inglesa con especialización en Escritura Creativa por la Universidad de San Diego, donde también obtuvo su credencial de profesora. Volvió a la Universidad de San Diego, donde obtuvo un máster en Estudios sobre la Paz y la Justicia y un certificado en negociaciones y resolución de conflictos. Al principio de su carrera utilizó el arte como base para la curación y la reconciliación de la comunidad después de los conflictos, facilitando murales artísticos en numerosas comunidades de San Diego y del extranjero.
La carrera docente de Tanya comenzó en San Diego, dando clases durante dos años antes de regresar a la zona de la bahía y continuar en las aulas durante ocho años más. Durante ese tiempo, también se desempeñó como entrenadora de natación, moderadora del club, líder del comité DEI, directora de aprendizaje de servicio y representante sindical. Tanya obtuvo su credencial de servicios administrativos y su maestría y doctorado en liderazgo educativo en el Mills College, completando su investigación y disertación sobre la identidad blanca y la supremacía en las escuelas. Antes de incorporarse a la Escuela Live Oak, trabajó durante tres años como directora asociada de una escuela secundaria.

Tanya y su familia viven en Oakland. Le gusta recargar las pilas pasando tiempo con sus amigos y jugando al fútbol americano. tanya_susoev@liveoaksf.org
Adrian Takyi

Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Bio
BA, Haverford College; MA, Teachers College, Columbia University

Adrian has been Live Oak’s Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion since 2019. After joining the community in 2015, he held several different roles including 1st and 2nd grade teacher, faculty trustee, and Strategic Planning Committee member. Adrian also currently serves on the People of Color in Independent Schools (PoCIS) board of directors, where he works to support the achievement and well-being of students, families, and educators of color in Bay Area independent schools. Prior to Live Oak, Adrian taught and coached at San Francisco Day School and Wilmington Friends School. A native of Chatham, NY, he holds a BA in History and Education from Haverford College and a Master's in School Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University. When he’s not at school, Adrian can be found playing basketball, eating tacos, and relaxing in the East Bay. adrian_takyi@liveoaksf.org
Stephanie Templo

Profesor de teatro
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad del Sur de California, Máster por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

Stephanie Temple has led the drama program at Live Oak since 2002 and is the Education Director at the New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC). As a children's playwright, she has created over thirty original plays and adaptations for young audiences, including Out of This World, Snow White in the Wild, Wild West, The Emperor's New Posts, Silent Movie, and Wonderland. Stephanie specializes in devised theatre that allows students to be involved in the creation process. Her favorite lessons are paper bag costume-making, anything involving theatre history, puppetry, and the annual Halloween make-up sessions.

In addition to middle school, Stephanie has taught drama and dance at the high school and college levels at CSU Stanislaus, Merced College, Young Artists Conservatory, and PCPA Theatrefest.
She brings her professional expertise to Live Oak as a director/choreographer and enjoys collaborating with Bay Area Theatre Artists to enrich and expand the experiences for her students. As a professional actor, singer, and puppeteer, Stephanie has worked locally at SF Opera, NCTC, 42nd Street Moon, and Sierra Rep. When she's not rehearsing or in tech week, she enjoys visiting Napa, baking chocolate chip cookies, and working towards her goal of becoming the world's best dog photographer.
stephanie_temple@liveoaksf.org
José Trujillo

Profesor de arte de la escuela primaria
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco

José ha enseñado en la Russian Hill School y en la Alvarado School aquí en San Francisco y en la Carpenter Elementary School en Studio City. Es un grabador en activo y recientemente se ha interesado por los materiales y las imágenes que rodean las obras de construcción en la zona de la bahía. jose_trujillo@liveoaksf.org
Vivian Tse

Controlador
Bio
Vivian Tse se unió a Live Oak School en febrero de 2022 como Controladora y trae más de 16 años de conocimiento y experiencia en escuelas independientes del Área de la Bahía. Le encanta cómo la vibra de los niños, la educación y el aprendizaje progresivo la saturan. Cuando no está en el trabajo, sus actividades favoritas son mezclarse con sus hijos adolescentes, probar nuevas delicias culinarias, cocinar, hacer caminatas en el Área de la Bahía y divertirse con amigos y familiares. vivian_tse@liveoaksf.org
Leah Vanevenhoven

Profesor de matemáticas de secundaria
Bio
BS, University of Wisconsin; M.Ed., Johns Hopkins University

Leah joined the Live Oak faculty in the fall of 2024. Her vast teaching career spans both nationally and internationally, including elementary teaching positions in Baltimore, Maryland, Green Bay, Wisconsin, San Francisco, and Half Moon Bay, along with teaching roles in international schools in Beijing, China and Bogota, Colombia. Leah underwent Lucy Calkins Teachers College training for readers and writers workshops in both the K-2 and 3-5 settings, and was trained in Conscious Discipline, a social-emotional approach that empowers teachers with the skills to create a safe, connected, and problem-solving environment for the school community. She believes that teaching should be culturally relevant, accessible for all students, and provide opportunities for students to grapple with contextual, real world ideas and issues. Leah grew up in a small town near Green Bay before going on to earn her undergraduate degree in Social Work and Educational Policy from the University of Wisconsin and a Master's in Education from Johns Hopkins University. In her spare time you can find Leah mountain biking the single track trails along the coast, quite possibly training for a mountain bike race, catching a zen yoga class, surfing or trail running in Quarry Park. leah_vanevenhoven@liveoaksf.org
AJ Viola

Chief Financial Officer
Bio
BS, Stanford University; MBA, Harvard Business School

AJ began his tenure as Live Oak's Director of Finance in July 2024. He brings extensive and diverse experience in the nonprofit and for-profit finance industries over the last two decades, leading operations and finance functions at healthtech and real estate companies. Most recently, he held the position of principal/venture builder at Endurance Companies, a multifamily investment office launching mission-driven startups in healthcare and financial technology. Prior to that, AJ co-founded and spent four years as chief operating officer and chief financial officer of Kindred Uncommon, a development company based in Austin, TX aimed at building thoughtfully designed living communities for older adults that emphasize longevity and social health. A first-generation college graduate, AJ earned his degree in psychology from Stanford in 2006. AJ went on to earn his MBA from Harvard Business School in 2010. A native of New York, AJ has always felt at home in California, and enjoys sailing, surfing, reading fiction, and motorcycling outside of work. aj_viola@liveoaksf.org
Asha Weber

Middle School Division Director
Bio
BS, Johnson C. Smith University; MS, Cal State East Bay

Asha came to Live Oak in the fall of 2025 after previously serving as the community school director for the Seneca Family of Agencies in Richmond where she led faculty and staff in the implementation of the Unconditional Education Model, directed strategic planning for school culture initiatives, and coordinated mental health, behavioral support, and academic intervention student support systems, among other responsibilities. She spent six years in the classroom, teaching sixth through eighth grade math and science in various schools, most recently at The Academy School in 2023 and Prospect Sierra School from 2020-22. Weber also began serving as a Board member for the East Bay Montessori School in 2024, helping contribute her experience to strategic planning, fundraising, and school governance. A General Science & Computer Science Information Systems major at Johnson C. Smith University, Weber went on to earn her M.S. in Educational Technology & Leadership from Cal State East Bay and her multiple subject teaching credential from Cal State TEACH, Monterey. asha_weber@liveoaksf.org
Oliver Weerasinghe

In-House Substitute/Coordinator
Bio
BA, Brown University; MSEd, Bank Street College of Education

Oliver joined Live Oak during the 2024-25 school year as a substitute teacher and stepped in as the in-house substitute/coordinator in the fall of 2025. Holding an Economics degree from Brown University and a Master’s in Childhood Special and General Education from Bank Street College of Education, Oliver brings a range of experience that includes roles as an aerospace market analyst and website administrator. Oliver previously taught at the Brooklyn New School and PS321 in New York City, and served as a computer science and engineering teacher at the Browning School following a six-year tenure teaching computer science after school at the Techno Team. Oliver is a member of the Children's Book Committee through Bank Street College of Education, which has reviewed and recommended children's literature for over 100 years. Oliver seeks to be someone who listens to his students to find out what is important to them so that he can help craft a community that supports their values and needs. Away from school, Oliver enjoys biking around San Francisco, gardening, cooking and reading, playing board games and Dungeons and Dragons. oliver_weerasinghe@liveoaksf.org
Nicole Zaheed

Profesor de primer grado
Bio
Licenciada, UCLA; MS Ed, Nova Southeastern University; Credencial de Enseñanza, Programa de Prácticas del LAUSD

Nicole Zaheed se licenció en Geografía por la UCLA, obtuvo su credencial de profesora de California a través del programa de prácticas del Distrito Escolar Unificado de Los Ángeles y completó su máster en Educación, Ciencias del Cerebro, Enseñanza y Aprendizaje, en la Universidad Nova Southeastern. Nicole lleva enseñando desde 1997 en Los Ángeles, Washington DC y San Francisco. Ha participado en oportunidades de desarrollo profesional para apoyar el trabajo en su aula, algunas de las cuales incluyen la conferencia del Taller de Escritura de Lucy Calkins, el Instituto de Matemáticas Dana Hall, el Coloquio de Educación a través de la Música y la formación de Sowing Educational Equity and Diversity (SEED). Cuando no está enseñando, está ocupada disfrutando del tiempo con su marido y su hija cantando, jugando y explorando Pacifica.
nicole_zaheed@liveoaksf.org
Carlos Zerzan

Profesor de español de secundaria
Bio
Licenciada por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco; Máster por la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco; credencial de profesora

Carlos came to Live Oak in 2016 after moving back to his native Bay Area from Chicago, IL. He has over a decade of experience as a Spanish teacher in both public and independent schools. He has published a research study and has presented on language acquisition. Previously, Carlos taught Spanish at San Domenico School in Marin County. Most recently he taught Spanish at a historic progressive public school and an independent school for gifted students in Chicago, IL. When Carlos is not teaching, he enjoys playing music, traveling, snowboarding, and hiking with his wife and son. carlos_zerzan@liveoaksf.org