Mrs. Joy Abuel English

cabuel@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: Tu/Th 7:00-8:30 am
Room 101

I’m a Southern California native, who grew up in nearby Costa Mesa. The day I learned to read in my kindergarten class, I came home and told my parents that I wanted to be a teacher when I grew up. Throughout my adolescence, that desire to be continuously immersed in the world of education grew stronger. After graduating high school, I attended Biola University for my BA in English, Secondary Education. I love living out my passion for learning at Samueli Academy, in my 5th year as a staff member, where I also coach Cross Country.

Mrs. Jennifer Aceves Counseling

jaceves@samueliacademy.org
Room 315

I was born and for the most part raised in Orange County. After high school, as a first generation student, I attended Santa Ana College and earned my associate degree in Liberal Arts then transferred to Argosy University where I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. After a year off, I began my journey at Azusa Pacific University where I completed my Master’s degree in Educational Counseling. I began my career in Education 2002 but began serving as a school counselor in 2011 and it has been a joyous journey since! It is an honor and a privilege to serve as a bilingual school counselor here at Samueli and look forward to forging new relationships with our youth, their families, and their teachers/coaches toward the achievement of their academic and personal goals. I have a deep passion and unwavering belief in academic success for all students and look forward to making a difference. When out of the office,l I am usually enjoying a yummy bite or out exploring new sites with my teenage son.

Mr. Ismael Aranda School Psychologist

iaranda@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: By Appointment
Room: E110

I was born and raised in Southern California where I attended a public school district primarily serving low-income Hispanic/Latinx families. Through my experiences in home, school, and community settings, I quickly realized the impact of educators and professionals who went above and beyond to support me, as well as those who unfortunately never made an effort to know the whole me. It was then where I further leveraged my passion to serve others and became determined to grow as an educator who connects with students and families beyond the classroom. This led me to complete a Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree with a concentration in serving persons with disabilities at California State University, Fullerton (Go Titans!) and an Education Specialist credential to serve students with neuro-diverse learning and behavioral needs as a special education teacher. My joy and mission in teaching underrepresented diverse learners sparked a desire to further complete a Master of Arts in Special Education degree from Loyola Marymount University and an Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology at California State University, Long Beach in support of teams, students and families meeting the needs of the whole child/youth collaboratively. It truly takes a village to equip and inspire student leaders who think globally and act locally and I am grateful to be partnering alongside the amazing village of educators, staff, and families at Samueli Academy to do just that! LET’S GO FIREWOLVES!

Mr. Devin Beliveau World History

DBeliveau@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M/W 3:30-4:00 pm, T 3:30-4:30 pm
Room: G102

I am a veteran project-based social studies teacher, having taught for a combined fifteen years both in California and my home state of Maine. This is my seventh year at Samueli Academy, and I’m thrilled to be a part of a school that embraces 21st century practices in high school education. I am excited to be teaching World Humanities to Samueli 10th graders!

Born and raised in Maine, I attended Colby College (majoring in Government), and later Stanford University (Masters in Education). I recently also earned my Masters in Educational Leadership with a focus on technology.

I am passionate about music and spending time in the great outdoors (many years ago I got to hike the entire Appalachian Trail!). I live in Irvine with my wife, daughter, and son.

Ms. Aimee Bilderback English

ABilderback@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-Th 7:30-8:30 am
Room 202

I completed my first two years of university work at University of California, Santa Barbara, initially intending to major in Microbiology and continue to dental and orthodontic schools to fit people with braces. After a couple terms, I determined that I loved the humanities and wanted to study them instead. As a junior, I transferred to University of California, Davis, where I decided to double major in English Literature and Spanish Literature. I returned to my home town and taught for 4 years at my Alma Mater, Antelope Valley High School, in Lancaster, CA, mentored along the way by my former teachers. Wanting to return to Northern California where I had graduated from university studies, I began teaching at Oakmont High School in Roseville, CA. I taught English there for 11 years, leading colleagues as Writing Coordinator. I also learned how to teach Introduction to Medicine by integrating projects with a colleague and by completing additional coursework.

Working with young minds is my passion, one for which I strive to excel. To that end, I continue looking forward to new challenges and opportunities at Samueli Academy, a school focused on preparing students for college and career readiness, the kind of school where I belong.

Mr. Billy Brinckloe IT Help Desk

bbrinckloe@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-F 7-4 pm; Lunch:12-2 pm
Room 217

I graduated from California State University Long Beach with a bachelors in history and a minor in business marketing. I am fluent in Spanish as I graduated from the Spanish Immersion program offered by the Saddleback Valley Unified School District. I worked at Target and Sprouts for the duration of my schooling and a bit afterwards. I then landed this job as the IT Helpdesk Technician for the Orangewood Foundation/Samueli Academy.

Ms. Deborah Bowers 8th Grade English

dbowers@samueliacademy.org

Personal Bio coming soon.

Ms. Tracy Boxeth Resource Specialist/Case Manager

tboxeth@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: W/Th 3:30-4:15 pm

I grew up in nearby Silverado Canyon and graduated from El Modena High School in Orange. I graduated from California Polytechnic University, Pomona with a B.A. in Hotel and Restaurant Management, with a minor in Business. When my children were younger, I took a few years away from my career and began volunteering at their school, where I fell in love with working with the children in their classrooms. I returned to college in 2015 and earned my Education Specialist credential. I am thrilled to be a part of Samueli Academy, supporting students in their success.

Mrs. Cristalle Callis Chemistry

ccallis@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M/W 3:30-4:15 pm
Room 213

I am an Orange County native and I graduated from Fullerton High School. I continued onto San Diego State University where I majored in Cell and Molecular Biology. After five years in the medical device manufacturing industry, I decided to follow my passion for teaching. I received my teaching credential from Cal State Long Beach and have been teaching chemistry for the past 10 years.

Ms. Diana Campos 7th Grade Science

dcampos@samueliacademy.org

Office Hours: Tu-Th 2:00-3:00 pm

or by appointment

Room: A203

Mr. Blake Capper 8th Grade Math

bcapper@samueliacademy.org

Personal Bio coming soon.

Mr. Eduardo Cervantes Campus Facilities Coordinator

ecervantes@samueliacademy.org

Room: Dhont Ctr

Coming Soon

Mrs. Lourdes Cervantes Food Service Assistant

lcervantes@samueliacademy.org

Coming Soon

Mr. Alex Choperena Director of Development and Capital Campaign Manager

achoperena@samueliacademy.org

Room: E109

Alex joined Orangewood Foundation and Samueli Foundation as part of the Development Team in May 2017. He was supporting fundraising events and annual donor stewardship on the Foundation side before becoming the Capital Campaign Manager in December 2019. In 2017 and 2018 he helped work with corporate partners to support the school’s work-based learning program. He is very excited to continue to support Orangewood’s mission through the continued growth of the school!

Alex received his bachelor’s degree in biology and political science from the University of Notre Dame and is a big Fighting Irish fan. He grew up in San Juan Capistrano before being in the Midwest after college, including time as an Americorps volunteer. He enjoys volunteering at the Southwest Community Center in Santa Ana on Sundays with the Notre Dame Club of Orange County. He lives in Orange with his wife.

Ms. Cynthia Cuevas 7th Grade English

ccuevas@samueliacademy.org

Office Hours: Mon. 2:30-3:15 pm and Wed. 7:45-8:15 am

Room A114

I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Santa Ana! I received my BA in English at Cal State Fullerton, my MA in Sociology at Cal State Fullerton, my teaching credential at Cal State Fullerton, and my Bilingual Authorization at Cal State Fullerton! Go Titans! Prior to coming to Samueli, I worked at OC Juvenile Hall for 6 years as an ELD instructor where my students taught me the importance of self advocacy and standing up for what you believe. Therefore, I hope to guide our middle school students to develop a better sense of self and to become empowered!

Mr. Ken Cummings Athletic Director

kcummings@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: By appointment

Room: E104

Mr. Cummings started officiating and coaching youth sports while he was in high school, and that is where he developed an interest in working with youth. He went on to study Kinesiology at San Jose State University and later earned his Single-Subject Teaching Credential in Physical Education from CSU Long Beach. For the past six years he has worked in an elementary school physical education program and through a Municipal Sports and Recreation program overseeing a Sports Center. He is looking forward to growing in his new role as the Athletic Director at Samueli Academy.

Ms. Sarah Davis Student Success Coordinator

SDavis@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: By appointment
Room: G – First Floor Counseling Office

Graduated from Cal State Long Beach with B.S in Criminal Justice, with hopes of pursuing a career in Probation or in the Juvenile halls. I began my career in human services/social services 18 years ago working in a Residential facility with neglected and abused youth ages 6-13 years old that changed my focus. I am proud to have shared much time and many resources with at-promise families, youth and young adults within the Orange County/Riverside Communities in many different programs and truly have a passion for helping others who struggle finding success. Moving over from the Orangewood Foundation in 2014, working with foster youth and the Independent Living Program, I bring my passion, knowledge, resources and experience of working with the at-promise, foster youth population and being a support to moving students forward in their academics, emotional well being and in their lives. I am currently completing my Master’s Degree in Human Services, with an emphasis on Multidisciplinary structures. I am excited to be on campus as the Student Success Coordinator for my 6th year here at Samueli Academy and look forward to supporting and motivating students to be the best they can be as well as supporting caregivers, foster parents and other supports the youth may have.

Mrs. Jess Doebler Office Manager, Grades 9-12

Though originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, my husband and I have raised our four children and made homes in Southern California, Texas, far Northern California and Wisconsin while serving churches in those areas. I’m excited to be back in Orange County and to serve the wonderful students and families at Samueli Academy! I have worked with diverse groups of students of all ages in a variety of settings both in and out of academic settings. I love using my gifts and talents to help students reach their greatest potential and to provide support to our families and community!

Ms. Wasana Ekanayake Counseling

wekanayake@samueliacademy.org
Room 115

I am grateful to be able to serve Samueli students on their high school journey! As a counselor, one of the most rewarding parts of my job is being able to work with families/caretakers and each student as they move through their academic careers, providing support (and snacks!) when needed.

I attended the University of California, Santa Barbara for my undergraduate studies, and then went on to the University of Southern California for my graduate studies.

Mrs. Michelle Estrada Capital Campaign & Program Assistant

mestrada@orangewoodfoundation.org
Room: A212

I was born and raised in Orange, Ca and started my career working in the Financial Services Industry. From retail banking to making my way to auto loan remediation, I was given the opportunity to learn and hone in on the valuable information and skills along the way. Then I was presented an amazing opportunity working with the team who has made Samueli Academy possible and continues to make it an amazing school. It opened my eyes to a whole new world filled with caring individuals who really love making a difference. I feel I have found where I would love to dedicate the rest of my career.

Outside of work I love spending my time with my husband and daughter at hockey games (GO DUCKS), Disneyland, going to concerts, being outdoors and spending time with our family.

Ms. Lydia Fisher Office Manager, Grades 7 & 8

lfisher@samueliacademy.org

Front Office

Mr. Jose Gallardo Instructional Aide

JGallardo@samueliacademy.org

Coming Soon

Mrs. Andrea Geans Administrative Assistant

AGeans@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-F 8:00-5:00 pm
Room: E103

Though born in the San Francisco Bay Area, I have lived much of my life in Michigan. It was there that I gained many invaluable experiences; primarily through my extensive years in church ministry. Joining my husband to pastor a congregation, we worked with individuals of diverse cultures and ages who were mentally, emotionally, and physically scarred due to life crises; loving and supporting them through their wins and losses.

Following our tenure as pastors, my family and I made the cross-country move to Orange County. After two years of providing Administrative support, I am still excited to join in the vision, passion, and growth of the Samueli Academy family.

Ms. Natalia Gomez Food Service Supervisor

ngomez@samueliacademy.org
Cafeteria

After six wonderful years of working with at-risk youth and staff at Orangewood Children’s Foundation, I was given the opportunity to become Samueli Academy Campus Supervisor in August 2013. I’m responsible for the day-to-day delivery of the students’ meals, managing the volunteers, monitoring the students’ behavior on campus as well as interacting with them on a daily basis. I also assist with the Front Office and have volunteered for many events that involve Samueli Academy and Orangewood Children’s Foundation. Because of this, I have strong connections with the wonderful community of Santa Ana in which I was born and raised. Every day in this new adventure brings challenges that I embrace, and I have grown to love these students and care about their well-being.

Mr. Spencer Gooch Student Development Coordinator

sgooch@samueliacademy.org
Room IH-2

Spencer Gooch has been working with young people for 20+ years. Beginning as a peer counselor at a non-profit health clinic in North County San Diego, he found reward in helping youth. As a school leader, Mr. Gooch helped create peer-helper programs, engaged in restorative practices, and developed school-systems based on need and equity. He is so excited to be part of the Samueli team!

Ms. Gina Gonzalez Virtual Enterprise

ggonzalez@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: Tu/Th 7:30-8:30 am
Room 303

I am a native Texan that decided to move to “Sunny San Diego” in 2007. I originally went to school to be an elementary school teacher, then halfway through the program decided that high school was a better fit for me. I first began teaching Graphic Design in 2009 then after receiving my business credential, I taught both design and business.

In 2012 I moved to Orange County and taught both business and design at a local school in Costa Mesa. I started teaching Virtual Enterprise about 4 years ago. Then it hit me, out of all of the classes I have ever taught during my teaching career, this was the class that I truly loved teaching because of the positive impact it has on students’ lives not only during their senior year but in their adult lives as well.

My goal for every Samueli Academy senior is to take many of the real life lessons they learn in VE and use it in some, if not all parts of their lives once they graduate and beyond.

Mr. Zach Granoff Computer Science / E-Sports

zgranoff@samueliacademy.org

Mr. Steve Green IT Systems Administrator

sgreen@samueliacademy.org

Ms. Dana Handley 7th/8th Grade PE

dhandley@samueliacademy.org

Mr. Cameron Howard 8th Grade Social Studies

choward@samueliacademy.org

Office Hours: M-Th 1:00-2:00 pm

or by appointment

Room A115

Mr. David Janisch Engineering

djanisch@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: Tu/Th 1:00-2:00 pm
Room 302

I have over 30 years of experience in aerospace, data storage, semiconductors, medical devices and venture capital. This industry background coupled with teaching experience in both math and engineering technology enables me to participate in the development of a project based learning environment for our Engineering Pathway students.

Mr. Blaine Jones Earth Science

BJones@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-Th 7:30-8:30 am
Room 201

Blaine Jones is one of the founding teachers at Samueli Academy, serving as the original science facilitator in 2013.  Since then he has taught Earth Science, Environmental Science, Digital Photography, AP classes and dual-enrollment classes with Santa Ana College.  He’s also helped to create both the boys and girls golf teams.

Mr. Jones spent the first 12 years of his professional career as a hydrologist, focussing on water supply and watershed management issues across the State of California.  He brings a deep passion for water and rainfall into the classroom, frequently focussing on local and regional water management issues as part of his projects.

Mr. Jones also has several hobbies he is passionate about.  He loves hiking and backpacking, golfing, photography, and baseball.  Go Angels!

Mrs. Shelley Juhl-O’Brien Design/Activities Director

Job@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M 7:30-8:30 am and Tu 3:30-4:30 am
Room 314

When I was a junior in high school, I decided I wanted to teach art and teach at the high school level. I grew up in Bakersfield, CA and studied at Cal State University Bakersfield. I transferred to Humboldt State University, where I completed the majority of my art courses.
I am a professional artist and enjoy painting, drawing and photography. I taught for 18 years in the Kern High School District in Bakersfield and I am very excited to be part of the team here at Samueli Academy.

For year 24 of teaching, I will oversee the activities program and teach Intro to Design (D1) to freshmen and Studio Art. Please let me know if you have any comments, questions or suggestions as we continue to learn and grow on campus.
I live in Newport Beach with my husband and two boys. I can’t wait to see all the wonderful opportunities that the school and Orangewood Foundation have in store for our students this year.

My favorite thing to say is “What’s the worst that can happen?” I think all of us need to take chances and try new things….you never know…YOU MAY FIND SOMETHING NEW!

Mr. Raymond Kalbhenn Physical Education

rkalbhenn@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-F 7:45-8:15 am
Room IH-17

Mr. Kalbhenn is going into his 14th year of teaching Physical Education and has been with Samueli Academy since they first opened its doors in 2013. Mr. Kalbhenn’s passion for health and fitness started in high school. He was on the varsity wrestling team, track team and went on to attend Cal State Long Beach where he majored in Kinesiology. While studying at Cal State Long Beach, Mr. Kalbhenn became a CPR instructor for the American Red Cross and enjoys teaching those same lifesaving skills to students at Samueli.
When he’s not running with students on campus, Mr. Kalbhenn enjoys surfing, barbecuing and spending time with his wife of 11 years and his 8 year old son.

Ms. Anna Kietzman Choir and Instrumental

annakietzman@samueliacademy.org
Room: Student Union Building

Ms. Rebecca Lee-Perez Mathematics

rperez@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-Th 1:00-2:00 pm
Room E204

Mr. Samuel Leong English

sleong@samueliacademy.org

Office Hours: M-Th 12:50-2:00 pm

Room: G103

Hi everyone! I am beyond excited to start my teaching career here at Samueli Academy as one of the high school English teachers.  I was born and raised in the cloudy city of San Francisco.   I thoroughly enjoyed highschool as I served as ASB Vice President, ran cross country, and played varsity volleyball.  After graduating, I attended Community College of San Francisco for two years before transferring to the University of California, Los Angeles.  At UCLA, I studied English and Asian American studies while also dabbling in health and medicine and served in a pre-med/pre-health club.  After finishing undergrad, I chose to further my education and pursue my masters in teaching and English credential at the University of California, Irvine.  I am currently the 10th grade English teacher and teaching the integrated “World Humanities” course.

Outside of school, I enjoy running, hiking, playing volleyball, getting coffee, and eating (I love spicy food).  I love to read and watch Netflix so if you have any recommendations, let me know!

If there is one big takeaway that I want my students to leave my class with, I want them to be understanding, empathetic, and loving human-beings.  I want to encourage them to step outside their own shoes and see life through another perspective.  Everyone comes from a different background and will have a different story to tell.  With everything that is going on in our world today, we need to listen to and love one another.  I cannot wait to get to know you all more!

Mr. Jeff Lohman Science

jlohman@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: W 3:30-4:30 pm or by appt.
Rooms 113, 202 & 14

Who has performed open-heart surgery and driven a monorail giving tours? Who has fed giraffes, drawn blood from sea lions, and cleaned-up dung from the now extinct Northern White Rhino? Who grows fungus for fun and has worked in a Swedish medical facility that was created by dynamite twenty-three meters down into solid rock? Who has been a blacksmith, a bouncer, a commercial diver, a busboy, and a karaoke host?

This guy!

Born in Santa Ana, I moved to San Diego to attend SDSU in 1985 and stayed there to work and raise a family. The last six years I have been teaching at a PBL charter school in San Diego after spending twenty-two years in Biomedical Research. I have many skills gained from a wide variety of life experiences. Project Based Learning allows me the ability to bring all that technical, artistic, and industry experience to the classroom and I enjoy it very much!

I am very excited to be here at Samueli Academy. It feels like home in so many ways.
I am looking forward to creating beautiful, vibrant, and meaningful work with our students!

Mr. Dionicio (Dio) Lopez Mathematics

dlopez@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-Th 1:00-2:00 pm
Room: E202

Ms. Laura Lopez Instructional Aide

llopez@samueliacademy.org
Front Office

I was born and raised in Santa Ana. I graduated from Cal State Fullerton in 2015, earning my BA in History. Upon graduating, I knew that I wanted to teach and be part of a school community. I worked as a swim instructor and substitute teacher for a couple of years and decided that my next step was to get my teaching credential and Masters degree. In 2019 I received my Masters and History teaching credential from UCI with the hope of becoming a Social Studies teacher in the near future and continue making a positive impact on students.

Ms. Dina Mahmood Political Studies

dmahmood@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: Tu/Th 1:00 pm
Room: G313

Attended UCLA for my B.A. and returned to UCLA for a Master’s in Education in 2009. I have taught at a PBL school since 2010. I love learning and get excited when new knowledge changes the way that I see the world.

Mr. Ben Mechler Campus Facilities Supervisor

bmechler@samueliacademy.org
Room: Dhont Ctr

I grew up in Massachusetts where I enjoyed working for my father’s home remodeling business and spent most of my time riding and showing Arabian horses for Edgewood Farms. I attended high school at Old Rochester Regional High School and after graduating I went on to attend Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI. There I attained an Associate of Science degree in Equine Science with the intention of beginning a career in therapeutic horseback riding for kids with mental and physical disabilities. I decided to continue my education at Johnson State College in VT, where I graduated with my BA in Liberal Arts with a focus in Psychology.

I moved to California a few years ago and went back into construction and home remodeling and also began my own woodworking business on the side. I was excited to be offered the position of Facilities Coordinator here at Samueli Academy because I have always wanted to work with kids and to do my best to be a positive influence in their lives. I continue to enjoy my work here, as well as the oftentimes hilarious students who like to lend a hand whenever possible.

Mrs. Olga Mendez 7th Grade Math

omendez@samueliacademy.org

Office Hours: M-F 1:30-2:00 pm

Room: A209

I was born, raised and still reside in the city of Santa Ana.  I attended Glenn Martin Elementary, Lowell Elementary, Willard Intermediate, Saddleback HS and graduated from Santa Ana High School.  I started a family right out of high school and decided with a three year old and a 5 year old to start college.  My children (3) are all raised and attended Santa Ana schools as well. I attended Santa Ana College and then transferred to California State University, Fullerton where I obtained my B.S. degree and my credential in Mathematics.  I decided teaching was my calling when I began taking math courses at Santa Ana College.  I quickly began tutoring while in school through the Boys and Girls Club of Santa, and at my daughter’s elementary school.  Soon after, while still at SAC, I got a job with the AVID program also tutoring at Spurgeon Intermediate as well as Segerstrom Fundamental. I taught at LAthrop intermediate during my credential program and soon after completing it.  I then taught in Culver City and Carson.

My primary goal in the school year is building my student’s confidence in their ability to do math.  Many come with a preconceived notion that doing math is a natural ability.  I believe that if students believe they can do it then they will do math and much more.  I encourage my parents to not make comments about their inability to do math and keep away from expressions such as “I’ve always been bad at math”, “math is not my strong subject”, “I was bad at math even in college”, “I see my kid’s math and it’s not like what I did”.  Statements like these further validate our students’ feeling of an inability to do math.  Try statements such as “well let’s look at it”, “you can do it, let’s break it down”, “please ask Mrs. Mendez, she has tutoring M-F 1:30-2:00 pm”, “let’s look at the notes/discussions you had in class”. I encourage all my families to reach out with questions or concerns at any time.

I am beyond the moon and stars with excitement to be here at Samueli Academy.  I feel I am home again.

Ms. Dawna Nguyen 7th Grade Social Studies

dnguyen@samueliacademy.org

Personal Bio coming soon.

Mr. Raul Ocegueda Instructional Aide

rocegueda@samueliacademy.org

Majoring in civil engineering I am working on completing my P.L.S. (Professional Land Surveyor)and P.E.(Professional Engineer) licensing. I was born and raised in Santa Ana I would like to give back to my community by working with youth to support their learning experience. I enjoy playing basketball and other sports during my free time. My experience consists of working with youth for the last six years. I have a passion for working with students and have worked at various schools in Santa Ana and Anaheim. I look forward to working at Samueli Academy and collaborating with faculty and students for a successful year.

Mr. Noah Palacios English

npalacios@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-Th 3:30-4:00 pm
Room 104

I am the epitome of an introvert
Flipped into the pursuit of development
Working constantly like gravity
On the betterment of my mentality

I, a constant gardener
Have seen the seeds planted
By higher ed institutions
Unravel in the light of the sun
They unfurl projects at a time
Questions at a time

An outlier with the uncanny desire
To light the fire of curiosity
I, like George, find myself walking into newness
It is through this I find joy.

I smile often and love what I do
While moving to the rhythm of life
There are tides like the seasons
Just as there are questions and reasons
Students and teachers
Parents and children
Knowing in order to question
Understanding that development is an investment.

Mrs. Crystal Pederson Mathematics

cpederson@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: Tu/W 7:30-8:30 am
Room IH-14

I began my teaching career in 2011 and have been working at Samueli Academy since 2015. Originally from Cerritos, CA, I ended up going to UC Irvine for both my undergraduate and graduate studies. I graduated with a B.S. in Mathematics with Specialization in Education and an M.A. in Elementary and Secondary Education, then went on to teach in several schools throughout L.A. and Orange County. Santa Ana was the first city I worked in, and I’m glad to be back! I am currently splitting my time at work between teaching Math and teaching the Introduction to Engineering class.

Outside of school, I love anything food related like finding new places to eat, cooking, baking, food festivals, and watching food network competitions. I’m not really built for survival in the outside world, but when I do venture out, I enjoy going hiking. I love traveling and exploring new places.

When I discovered Samueli Academy, I found that its mission, style of teaching, and community was so different from what you would find in other schools and reflected my ideals of what a school should look like. I am looking forward to working with everyone and continuing to help challenge and guide our students towards success!

Mr. Erik Pederson Social Studies

epederson@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: Mondays – Time TBD
Room: 314 (The Den)

I am grateful to be entering my 6th school year at Samueli Academy.  I have taught classes such as Government/Economics, Film Criticism, and The American Lens.  I will again be working with Seniors but now co-teaching with Noah Palacios in a course called Political Studies and a course called Economic Literacy.  The first will combine English 12 with American Government and the second will combine Economics with English 12.  I am very excited about this unique opportunity at this unique school.  Prior to working here I taught in San Diego for 8.5 years.  7.5 years at Julian High School where I also coached the boys varsity baseball team and 1 year at Torrey Pines High School where I coached the JV baseball team.

Mr. Vicente Perez Biology

vperez@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-Th 3:30-4:00 pm
Room 113

I grew up in the city of Lynwood, CA where I received my formal K-12 education. I went to Cal State University, Long Beach for my undergraduate education: Biology and Chicano/ Latino Studies, and my graduate education: Science education. I’m currently going into my 17th year of teaching, and as of lately the majority of my Biology class focuses on urban ecology: How the urban community and ecological environment interact to affect your health. Ever since I was a child I always liked science because of my knack for researching and figuring out how things worked. I am a Life-Long Learner!!

Mr. Stephen Pink Spanish

spink@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M-W 8:00-8:20 am / 12:30-1:30 pm

or by appointment at this link

Room G104

Born and raised in Orange County, I spent 7 years of higher education at Cal State Fullerton to obtain my Bachelor’s (B.A. Spanish), a Healthcare Interpreting certificate and a Teaching Credential. Additional endeavors in college included about 15 or so independent trips to central Mexico (Michoacán, Jalisco, Morelos, D.F.) in order to become fluent and informed on the language and culture. These times of travel included participation with youth and priestly retreats under the religious order, Misioneras Clarisas del Santísimo Sacramento, with convents and retreat centers located in Morelos, Michoacán and here in Santa Ana.

I began teaching in 2013 and have taught both Spanish-speakers and ‘Non-Native’ speakers in a number of districts, including Fullerton JUHSD, Placentia-Yorba Linda SD, and Green Dot Public Schools (South Los Ángeles) prior to joining the Samueli Academy family.

My hobbies include the outdoors (running, surfing, biking, hiking, backpacking, camping, etc.) throughout this great State of California. Week-to-week commitments include men’s groups with church and spending quality time with my wife, Aubrey (married in 2014) and our son, Theo (born 2018) and our daughter, Zoey (born 2021).

Now into my 6th year at Samueli Academy, I’ll be instructing Advanced Spanish, 7th Grade Spanish and AP Spanish Language & Culture. My teaching philosophy for language emphasizes a full-immersion experience with fun, interactive activities: puzzles, bingo, role plays, community circles, pair ‘speed dating’ conversations, and improvisations.  Excited to see everyone back in-person!

Mr. Anthony (Nino) Polizzi Engineering

npolizzi@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M/W 3:30 -4:30 am, M-Th 8:00-8:30 am
Room 301

I bring 30 years of experience in the aerospace industry into the classroom to create an authentic engineering experience for students. Our Engineering classroom theme is “Working At Learning” which exemplifies the approach to college and career readiness.

My industry experience includes Vice President of Engineering at Universal Space Network where I was responsible for the design, integration and test of the satellite ground station network infrastructure.

Prior to that, I served with McDonnell Douglas/Boeing, working on a wide variety of programs including International Space Station, Delta II rockets and DC-X, the first reusable, vertical landing rocket.

Because of my concern with the state of technical education in America, I founded “Rocket Science Tutors” (RST), an all-volunteer non-profit organization conducting a 24 week, after-school program to improve STEM education by generating interest by putting real-life engineers and scientists in Santa Ana classrooms since 2005.

I earned a BS Electrical Engineering from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and a BS Industrial Technology from Eastern Michigan University. I also have a Limited Service Credential for Engineering in California.

Teaching at Samueli Academy is an opportunity to expand my passion for exciting students about engineering. I look forward to combining my industrial experience with Project Based Learning and working with our team to make Samueli Academy the model of student-centered education

Ms. Angela Ramirez Spanish / ELD

aramirez@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: Tu/Th 1:00-2:00 pm

or by appointment

Room 201

I was born and raised in Orange County and moved to Missouri after high school to finish college and to be closer to my mom. While there, I attended Missouri Southern State University and Central Missouri State University where I earned a BA in Spanish and received my Spanish K-12 teaching credentials. I also attended Pittsburg State University in Kansas, where I received my credentials to teach English as a Second Language and in 2015, earned my Master of Science degree in Education. This will be my 22nd year of teaching. I am so excited to be back in California and to be part of the Samueli staff!

Ms. Danielle Rhodes Mathematics

drhodes@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: M 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Room IH-14

Coming Soon

Ms. Erica Rueda 8th Grade Science

erueda@samueliacademy.org

Personal Bio coming soon.

Ms. Isabel Saldana Campus Supervisor

isaldana@samueliacademy.org

I am excited to start my first year as a Campus Supervisor at Samueli Academy. I was born and raised in the city of Santa Ana and graduated from La Quinta High School in Westminster. I was attending Santa Ana College and working towards obtaining my degree in Criminal Justice. Unfortunately, that had to be placed on hold because I got pregnant and needed to take care of my son. He is now 10 years old and I love volunteering at his school and helping the other children that also have learning and speech disabilities. It brings me joy to see my son and his schoolmates accomplish things that seem impossible to them, which is why I will be returning to school to work on obtaining a degree in Child Development. I have a certificate in Medical Front Office, which I obtained through Coastline ROP.

I am eager to be at Samueli Academy and look forward to supporting the students and staff in any way I can.

Ms. Norah Sarsour Director of Alumni Success

nsarsour@samueliacademy.org

I knew studying education was my calling when I became a program coordinator for a UCLA based outreach project in 2006. By 2008, I functioned as a representative to the UCLA Admissions Advisory Board, all the while working within UCLA’s Law admission office. After I graduated with a B.A. in English Literature, I was launched into a career of international affairs for education based initiatives that served refugee youth and developing countries. I have since earned my MEd from Concordia in Educational Leadership.

I was once a teacher and taught high school in predominately English subject areas, history, and human geography, while also teaching adults business writing, public speaking, and English as a foreign language. As a hobby, I edit books for publishing and am myself a published author of a children’s book.

I am extremely excited to build a family of alumni Firewolves, secure their success, and strengthen their lifetime bond to Samueli Academy!

Ms. Pam Shambra Capital Campaign Director

PShambra@orangewoodfoundation.org
Room: Dhont Ctr

Coming Soon

Ms. Jerusha Shin 7th/8th Grade Art

jshin@samueliacademy.org

Ms. Sheena Somoza Mathematics

ssomoza@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: Tu 3:30-5:30 pm or by appointment
Room IH-5

I was born and raised in Inglewood, California. I attended Hawthorne High School, and I received my Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Music from the University of California, Santa Barbara. After completing my undergraduate degree, I took a year off from school and served as a tutor and mentor at John Muir Middle School, in South Los Angeles, through a nonprofit organization called City Year. I had always wanted to teach, but my passion for education grew tremendously when serving the students of LA.

Statistics show that students with low grades in Math and English, behavioral challenges, and attendance issues are at a higher risk of dropping out, but I do not accept that. I believe every student can conquer that statistic. I attended a high school that graduated less than 50% of its students, which really inspired me to become a teacher. I did not want to see any more students fall through the cracks. When working with “at-risk students” in LA, I began to realize how much one adult could impact a student’s life. When working as a tutor and mentor, I supported students in and out of the classroom, both academically and emotionally. I got to know my students on a more personal level from being with them in class, at lunch, and after school. When a student has a trusted adult in their corner, they begin to try harder, gain confidence, and believe in themselves. I wanted to support students and help them reach their full potential as a teacher rather than a tutor.

After serving a year, I got my Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction and my Single-Subject Math Credential from the University of the Pacific, through Aspire Teacher Residency. I taught 7th grade for 2 years, 8th grade and Algebra 1 for a year, and then I began working at Samueli Academy. I have been teaching Integrated Math I and II here since 2017, and I love it! Samueli has been amazing since the day I interviewed here. The students make it so easy to teach, and the staff is so great to work and collaborate with. This school truly is a family, and I am so grateful to be a part of it. I can’t wait for what’s in store in the future.

Ms. Haley Speicher Student Services Coordinator

hspeicher@samueliacademy.org

Ms. Patricia Vining Design

pvining@samueliacademy.org
Office Hours: W 7:30–8:30 am & W 3:30–5:00 pm
Room: E214

A life-long learner and native New Yorker, I was an elementary school teacher in my first life, earned an MFA in design and went on to launch an award-winning design and communications firm with four Fortune 500 companies as clients. I followed my two beautiful daughters to California in 2007. Concurrently, I have always taught design at local universities and my students have been one of the highlights of my life. I’m so excited to be part of the Samueli Academy family!