Our Staff
EPACS is able to attract highly qualified teachers with strong educational backgrounds. As part of inspiring their students to go on to college, each teacher flies the flag of their alma mater outside their classroom.Learn what school our staff hail from as well as why they teach at EPACS.
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Kindergarten
Nikki Hill, KindergartenMs. Hill did both her undergraduate and graduate work at Stanford University, where she earned her B.A. in Human Biology from in 2009 and her Masters in Education in 2010. Before joining the EPACS staff in 2010, Ms. Hill tutored in East Palo Alto and worked as a pre-school assistant. She loves improv and spending time with family and friends. She loves the collaboration and hard work of the entire staff. In describing EPACS, she says, "I could not imagine a more supportive place to work.
Chana Karlin-Neumann, KindergartenMs. Karlin-Neumann earned her B.A. in Psychology from Stanford University in 2009 before enrolling in the Stanford Teacher Education Program (STEP) to earn her Master's in Education and Teaching Credential in 2010. Before joining the EPACS team in 2010, Ms. Karlin-Neumann volunteered in Ecuador and was an active member of the Stanford Equestrian Team. "I love the EPACS community! I value the incredible support and collaboration. I especially love our amazing kindergarten students and their families. They inspire me every day."
Mary Morris, KindergartenMs. Morris is a product of the Aspire Teacher Residency Program, where she worked full-time in a kinder classroom at Aspire ERES Academy in Oakland while earning her teaching credential and MA in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of the Pacific. Born and raised in Oakland, Ms. Morris spent a year with Americorps working with a youth service learning program before matriculating to University of California, San Diego, shwere she earned her B.A. in Political Science and International Studies. Ms. Morris chose EPACS because of "the school's reputation, not only for helping kids excel academically, but for creating a community of thriving, motivated learners."
Jamie Pekras, Kindergarten Aide and After School Program StaffMs. Pekras attended San Diego State University, where she majored in European Studies with a Spanish emphasis. She also earned her teaching credential from San Diego State. Before joining our staff in 2011, Ms. Pekras had the opportunity to travel to several different European countries, where she fell in love with traveling. She is excited to work at EPACS because of the staff's commitment and the inspiring school culture. "The impact EPACS has on the community is astounding."
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First
Maricela Montoy-Wilson, First GradeMs. Montoy-Wilson originally hails from Fresno, CA. She grew up playing every sport with her two older brothers, and especially loves to play soccer, basketball, cards, and dominoes. She attended Stanford University, where graduated with a bachelors degree in Psychology. She first learned about EPACS the summer before her freshman year, when she met students who came as campers for Kids Camp while she was a counselor for 5-6 year olds at Stanford Sierra Camp. She then spent the next year volunteering at EPACS, and was amazed by the passionate staff and their belief in the best education possible for their students. Ms. Montoy-Wilson got her Masters at Stanford in Education in 2009, and immediately knew she belonged at EPACS. She is passionate about giving every student opportunity, and is motivated by her amazing students and colleagues! She is so thankful for the caring family and community at EPACS, and her inspiring co-workers. When she's not at school, she's probably playing in the park with her husband, Paul, dreaming up their next adventure, or cooking food fresh from the Farmer's Market! You can follow her class's exciting and informative blog at stanfordtrees.blogspot.com. Check it out!!
Mary Dhillon, First GradeMs. Dhillon is originally from Oceanside, Calfornia. She earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies with a minor in Visual and Performing Arts, and her Multiple Subject teaching credential, from California State University, San Marcos. She joined the EPACS team in 2008. Ms. Dhillon came to EPACS because she admires the dedication and enthusiasm of the EPACS staff and families. She enjoys collaborating with highly motivated professionals, and working with the families to provide these amazing students with a wonderful educational experience.
Preethi Raghu, First GradeMs. Raghu grew up in Seattle, Washington and attended University of Washington as an undergraduate, earning her B.A. in Geography. She earned her M.A. in Elementary Education from Stanford University. Before joining the EPACS staff in 2011, Ms. Raghu worked in Franklin McKinley School District (San Jose) as a first grade teacher. "I am inspired by the heartfelt dedication of teachers and staff to their students. I am excited to be a part of a school community that helps all students reach their full potential and to be in an environment where I know I will have the support I need to develop as a professional."
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Second
Jamie Kruger, Second GradeOriginally from San Diego, Ms. Kruger matriculated to University of Arizona, where she earned her B.A. and M.A. in Elementary Education. Before joining our staff in 2010, she taught in San Diego and Phoenix. She also traveled to Kenya to work for a non-profit organization at a developing school in Mathare Slum. "I love EPACS' collaborative culture and our high expectations for our students."
Hanna Melnick, Second GradeMs. Melnick joined our staff in 2011. She is a graduate of Harvard University, where she majored in Social Studies. She grew up in New Hampshire, and her hobbies include rock climbing and cycling (she has biked down "The World's Most Dangerous Road"!). She is excited to be at EPACS because she loves the students and staff!
Back to the topThird
Sarah Steinke, Third GradeMs. Steinke grew up in Long Beach, California and can remember wanting to be a teacher since she was in 5th grade. She earned her bachelor of arts degree in elementary education with a minor in dance from the University of Arizona. Before joining the EPACS community in 2008, she taught for two years in Phoenix, Arizona as part of Teach for America. Miss Steinke feels very privileged to work with the students and families in the EPACS community. She looks forward to teaching her students each and everyday.
Ivy Valant, Third GradeMrs. Valant earned her bachelor of arts degree in elementary education from the University of Michigan (Go Blue!!). Prior to coming to EPACS in 2008, she taught first grade in the South Bronx and preschool in Cambridge, MA. Mrs. Valant loves the families and the community of EPACS. She loves her students, and she is so proud to be part of the EPACS community.
Back to the topFourth
Jake Ban, Fourth GradeMr. Ban is a graduate of Swarthmore College, where he studied Sociology/Anthropology and Education Studies. He earned his M.A. in Education from Stanford University. He was drawn to EPACS because he wanted to teach in a school that was doing incredible things with a historically disadvantaged population. "I also knew that at EPACS I would be able to collaborate in a way that would benefit my students and help me grow as an educator."
Stephanie Hardinger, Fourth GradeOriginally from Minnesota, she attended Cornell University, where she earned bachelor's degrees in Sociology and Spanish Literature, with Minors in Lainto Studies, Inequality Studies, and Latin American Studies. While at Cornell, she played defense on the women's ice hockey team. Before joining our staff in 2011, Ms. Hardinger taught in a bilingual 5th grade classroom in San Jose. "I teach at EPACS because I want to be a part of a driven, passionate, and loving community. I'm excited about collaborating with my colleagues and building strong relationships with our students and their families."
Back to the topFifth
Lauren Meldonian, Fifth GradeMs. Meldonian attended Dartmouth College for undergrad, where she studied English and Geography before earning her Master's in education from Lesley University. Before joining the EPACS staff in 2011, she spent the previous two years teaching in Vermont. Before that, Ms. Meldonian worked for three years at Jumpstart, an early education non-profit, where she helped preschoolers build their language and literacy skills. She is so excited to be a part of a school with such a strong community and such an important purpose!
Brittany Stich, Fifth GradeBefore graduating with her bachelors and masters from Stanford University, Ms. Stich coordinated the Closing the Gap tutoring program at EPACS. In 2010, she came to EPACS as a corps member with Teach for America.
Back to the topSixth
Lily Diamond, Sixth GradeMs. Diamond completed her undergraduate studies at UC Berkeley. She earned her teaching credential and M.A. in Education through the Stanford University Teacher Education Program (STEP).
Tiffany Pizzimenti, Sixth GradeMs. Pizzimenti graduated from Pepperdine University.
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Seventh and Eighth Grade
Although they are technically considered EPACS students, our seventh and eighth grade students and teachers are physically located at East Palo Alto Phoenix Academy. Their teachers and their staff bios can be found on the EPAPA Staff page.Back to the top
Instructional Coaches and Intervention Specialists
Rhonda Beasley, Site-Based Literacy CoachMs. Beasley earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies from Pomona College, her M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from Azusa Pacific University, and her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from National Hispanic University. She taught fourth grade in Fontana Unified School District before working as a Reading First Coach for three years. Prior to joining the EPACS staff in 2011, Ms. Beasley worked as a Teacher on Assignment for English-Language Arts for two years, serving 29 elementary schools. "I'm excited to be a part of school that is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done in the best interests of our students."
Katie Kling Instructional Coach, Aspire Public SchoolsA long-time fourth and fifth grade teacher at EPACS, Ms. Kling transitioned into her role as instructional coach in 2010. Originally from Rochester, New York she has a BA in History from SUNY Brockport and a Teaching Credential from National University. Prior to joining the EPACS community in 2003, Katie worked in Financial Services focusing on Sales & Training. Her favorite things about EPACS is its mission to provide opportunities to a hardworking population of students. She is continually impressed with EPACS families and staff, and the level of dedication to students.
Laura Ramirez-Berman, Intervention SpecialistEPACS' principal from 2008 to 2011, Ms. Ramirez has transitioned to a new role in the 2011-12 school year. She is from Capistrano Beach, in Orange County, California. Ms. Ramirez received her undergraduate degree in Economics and History from UCLA, earned her teaching credential at San Francisco State University, and her masters in School Leadership and Administration from San Jose State University. She joined EPACS as a second grade teacher in January of 2001, and continued to teach second and third grade, until becoming the school's K-5 math instructional coach in July 2006. Ms. Ramirez stepped down as the principal to spend more time with her new daughter, Lily, but she figured out a way to stay involved as a member of our school staff. What Ms. Ramirez loves most about EPACS is the strong sense of community among the staff, students, and families. She can't imagine being anywhere else!
Back to the topElective Teachers
Stephen Ashford, Physical EducationMr. Steve, as he is affectionately known, was born in East Palo Alto, and grew up in Richmond, CA. He went to school at Contra Costa College and College of Marin, where he studied communications. He has been at EPACS since 2001 and loves working with the kids and the staff. In 2011, Mr. Steve was honored with the Dennis Richmond Community Impact Award in recognition of his tremendous contributions to his community.
Back to the topOffice and Building Administration
Ariana Arteaga, Cafeteria Manager
Frank Powell, Building Manager
Angelica Sanchez, Office AssistantBack to the top
After School Program and Support Staff
Margarita Garcia, After School Program Director and LibraryMs. Garcia has been an invaluable member of our school community for a long time. She worked as a teachers aide and long-term substitute in third grade before assuming the role of After School Program Director/Librarian in 2011. She earned her B.A. in History from San Jose State University, where she completed a major research project on Mexican American history as part of her undergraduate work. Ms. Garcia has a son named Luis who is "super charming." Ms. Garcia loves being a part of the EPACS family because "we all work together to give our students the best education possible."
Adriana Hernandez, Campus Supervisor and After School Program Staff
Malou Mading, Campus Supervisor and After School Program StaffMr. Mading is one of our home-grown all-stars. Mr. Mading attending EPACS as a student starting in 2008-09 through eighth grade (before we’d opened EPAPA). Mr. Mading has worked as a summer camp counselor and in the after school program at 49er Academy. He is currently studying at Foothill College to meet his General Ed requirements before transferring to a four-year university.
JoAnna Marcroft, Library and After School Program StaffMs. Marcroft studied political science at University of California, Santa Cruz. Traveling is her favorite thing to do. She has been to many foreign countries, including Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Guam and Mexico. She is planning a trip to Tanzania. She is excited to work at EPACS beacuse of the "results-driven, positive environment!"
Yvette Mitchell, Campus Supervisor and After School Program Staff
Liliana Rosales, Campus Supervisor and After School Program StaffBack to the topSpecial Education and Counseling
Mindy Bader, Integrated Services SpecialistMs. Bader earned her B.S. in Special Education and General Education Earth Science from The College of Brockport, State University of New York and her Ed.M. in Childhood Education with a Science Emphasis from The University of Buffalo. Before joining the EPACS staff in 2011, Ms. Bader student taught as an RTI reading specialist in 1st grade and substitute taught in special education classrooms. She says, "EPACS has amazing parental and community support. I am honored and privileged to work with other educators who hold such high standards for themselves and their students.
Karlin Bruegel, Counseling Intern
Nozipo Cayou, Para EducatorMs. Cayou was recruited to work full-time at EPACS after the adminstration witnessed her impressive work and commitment with one of our special needs students. She says, "I've been welcomed and embraced here, and I feel as though I am appreciated professionally and personally for what I bring to EPACS. Since working at EPACS, I've had the opportunity to witness an environment in which students thrive and the faculty and staff are very supportive of one another."
Marta Grau, School Psychologist
Lisa Freccero, Program Specialist
Debi Hilton, Occupational Therapist
Yoko Hirabyashi, IEP Coordinator
Kelley Kill, Adaptive PE Teacher
Fidelfa Medina, Para Educator
Maria Otadoy, Speech Therapist
Armida Torres, Para EducatorMs. Torres joined our staff in 2007. Ms. Torres attended the Universidad de Colima for her general education an is currently studying to earn her degree in the United States. Beyond her work with students with special needs in the classroom, Ms. Torres also tutors students outside of school, including students who are participate in the Junior Giants program. Ms. Torres it the mother of two wonderful kids, both of whom are scholars at EPACS. She enjoys worked at EPACS because it feels like a second home. "This is a place to believe in yourself, because EPACS believes in you!"
Cora Wood, Counseling Intern
Back to the topCollective Roots
Collective Roots is a non-profit organization founded and based in East Palo Alto that helps run the the one-acre organic garden at EPACS. Collective Roots seeks to educate and engage youth and communities in food system change through sustainable programs that impact health, education and the environment through garden-based learning and food system change. The Collective Roots staff is an integral part of the EPACS family. Read about their staff below, or visit the Collective Roots website for more information.Anne Evans has an M.S. in Nutrition and is a Registered Dietitian. She recently moved to California by way of New York where she spent the last 2 years working as the head nutritionist for an HIV/AIDS Adult Day Treatment Program. Anne has extensive experience in nutrition education, curriculum development, garden based learning, and community outreach.
Mary-Eileen Gallagher is a garden educator and AmeriCorps member from Bay Area Youth Agency Consortium. Born and raised in Santa Cruz, Mary-Eileen is happy to be back "home" in the bay area after surviving many winters and shorter growing seasons in Boston, Washington, and Minnesota. With a degree in English from Whitman College and a passion for politics, education, and growing food, Mary-Eileen strives to provide youth with meaningful and empowering learning opportunities. As a garden educator, Mary-Eileen primarily works with middle school students from EPACS and 49ers Academy.
Sarah Grandin is a Garden Educator and member of the Silicon Valley HealthCorps (an AmeriCorps program). She teaches Garden Club at EPACS and will soon be teaching gardening and cooking at Girls to Women. Born and raised in San Francisco, Sarah has been cooking in Bay Area restaurants since she was fourteen, and she took a year between high school and college to work as a line cook in Paris. Currently, Sarah is a junior at Stanford majoring in Comparative Literature and Art History, with a minor in Modern Languages. When not in the library, she can be found tutoring, working as a research assistant for the Cantor Centor for the Visual Arts, catering, and frequenting local farms and farmers’ markets.
Kris Jensen is the new executive director of Collective Roots. He joins Collective Roots with many years of experience as a successful fundraiser in local nonprofits, most recently as the director of development at Swords to Plowshares, a veterans rights organization, in San Francisco. Kris has also worked as the vice president of development at Avenidas, a senior services agency, in Palo Alto and as the director of development for the Alameda County Community Food Bank in Oakland. Prior to being a fundraiser, Kris spent several years as a geriatric case-manager and job trainer for the developmentally disabled. A Bay Area native, Kris graduated from San Jose State University and lives in the hills of Cupertino with his wife, a family of deer, several coyote, a couple of bobcats and a whole lot of wild rabbits.
Eron Sandler is the Program Director for Collective Roots. Eron worked for many years on organic farms and as a teacher and coordinator for environmental and educational non-profit organizations. Eron studied Environmental Education at both Hampshire College and earned an M.S. in Environmental Studies at Antioch New England Graduate School. Her travels and experiences learning about cultures, food, and farming in Europe, India, the Philippines, Mexico and Thailand greatly influence her views on food security, nutrition, community and education. She is inspired by growing food, establishing community relationships and getting people excited about being in the garden.
Nicole Wires is the Food System Change Coordinator for Collective Roots. A recent graduate of Stanford University, Nicole studied Earth Systems, an inter-disciplinary environmental science program, and created an emphasis on sustainable agriculture and food justice. Nicole previously worked on issues of international food security, spending time abroad in Ecuador, Tanzania, and Burkina Faso. She has more recently transitioned to work developing ecologically and culturally appropriate regional food systems here in California. Born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, she loves the west, the mountains, backpacking, climbing, biking, gardening and being outside.
Back to the top» Meet our Advisory Board
