Jean Chung Kim has been an educator for more than 20 years, first as a high school history/humanities teacher, then as an educational policy analyst at a Washington DC think-tank, and then as the owner of a successful after school-tutoring center. She holds a BA in History from Yale University where she completed her teacher preparation as well.  She serves on the board of The Society for Classical Learning, a national organization dedicated to helping Classical Christian schools flourish.  Jean and her husband, Scott, have three children.

Mr. Kapusinski is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church of America (PCA) and for the past three decades has served in several leadership posts in vocational ministry ranging from churches, parachurch ministries, and Christian schools. He holds a B.A. in Speech Communications from North Park University in Chicago and a Master’s Degree in Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary. Mr. Kapusinski is excited about the mission of The Cambridge School and the opportunity to shape young lives to think well, love rightly, and live wisely in service of God and neighbor. He is married to Diane and they have three children, Joshua (18), Caleb (16), and Kate (10).

Dr. Melissa Gingrich earned her B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Arizona and her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at Emory University. After graduate school, she worked in clinical studies at the University of Virginia. Dr. Gingrich has been with Cambridge since its inception and helped build and design the science program; she has taught almost all levels of science classes here in 2^ndthrough 12^thgrades. This year Dr. Gingrich begins her 10^thyear of teaching at Cambridge in the Neuroscience Seminar and Senior Thesis classes. She enjoys spending time at the beach and on the trails with her husband Brenden and their three children, Samuel (17), Benjamin (15), and Elizabeth (12).

Jeffrey Yoder grew up in Lancaster, PA. After a year of art school at Savannah College of Art & Design he attended Simpson University in Redding, CA where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. While in college Mr. Yoder met and married his lovely wife Leslie, originally from Santa Barbara, and they moved back to Lancaster in 2000. There he joined with a financial advisory firm where he helped clients for almost 10 years. In 2010 Mr. Yoder joined Veritas Academy, a Classical Christian School in Leola, PA as the Director of Operations. There he oversaw finance, facilities, technology, marketing, admissions, and even had time to teach a yearbook class. Mr. Yoder and his family moved to San Diego in 2012 and began working at The Cambridge School as the Director of Advancement.

Amy Tollefson graduated from the University of Colorado with a BS in Business Administration/Finance emphasis. She started her career as a financial analyst and spent 6 years working in corporate finance. Soon after marrying her husband, Kevin, she completed a bookkeeping certification and started her own bookkeeping practice which she has owned and operated for the past 12 years. She lives in Rancho Penasquitos with her husband and two children. She has most enjoyed working with non-profit entities and she is thrilled to be joining the team at The Cambridge School this year.

Mrs. Bonnie Marcus graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies and Elementary Education, earning her California Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. She enjoyed teaching second grade at a local Christian School and later earned her California Professional Clear Credential. She and her husband, Ken, homeschooled their four children. She enjoys spending time with her family, teaching Sunday school, gardening, reading, and working out at the gym with her husband. She was pleased to join The Cambridge School this year, and looks forward to being the lead teacher of Junior Kindergarten next year.

Mrs. Haidee Thesing graduated from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies and a master’s degree in education from San Jose State University.  She holds a California Clear, multiple subject credential and has over 30 years of teaching experience with children in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Haidee began her teaching career in the public-school sector with the Menlo Park City School District where she was a Master Teacher. She then classically home schooled her own children and led a multi-grade home school co-op in northern California. After moving back to her native San Diego with her husband and four children, Haidee began teaching again full-time and has been professionally involved in classical education for the past 12 years.  She is delighted to be embarking on her sixth year of teaching first grade at The Cambridge school and is passionate about training up the next generation to think well, love wisely and live rightly by loving God with all their “heart, soul, mind and strength.”  When not in the classroom, Haidee enjoys traveling with her husband, spending time with her family, working in her garden, and swimming.

Mrs. Aimy Ferdyn was born and raised in San Diego, CA.  After receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, San Diego, she obtained her Master of

Education and Teaching Credential from National University.  Mrs. Ferdyn has worked as a Kindergarten Teaching Assistant at a local private school, and has taught the Junior Kindergarten

class at Cambridge for the past 3 years.  She is excited to return to The Cambridge School for her fourth year to teach Kindergarten in the fall.  Mrs. Ferdyn feels blessed to be a part of the Early Childhood Education team in setting the foundation of learning.  She looks forward to leading and guiding the Kindergarten students in their discovery of God’s creation.  Mrs. Ferdyn loves baking, reading, traveling, and spending time with her family, including 3 cats and a dog.

Mrs. Haidee Thesing is a California Clear, multiple subject credentialed teacher with a BA from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and a Master’s degree in Education from San Jose State University. She taught with the Menlo Park City School District for 5 years where she was a Master Teacher. Mrs. Thesing then home schooled her own children and led a multi-grade home school co-op. After moving back to her native San Diego several years ago, with her husband and growing family, she has been a classroom volunteer, substitute teacher and assistant teacher at a local private school.  Mrs. Thesing is thrilled to begin her fifth year teaching First Grade at The Cambridge School. Some of Mrs. Thesing’s other interests include gardening, history and literature, but she is most passionate about training the next generation to love God with all their “heart, soul, mind and strength.”

Mrs. Lisa Geffeney has a BA in English from UCI and has been teaching in a variety of settings for over 20 years including classically homeschooling her three daughters, teaching at the Juvenile Hall in Orange, Grace Classical Academy, and here at Cambridge as a first grade teacher, second grade teacher,  and Fifth grade aide. Mrs. Geffeney lives on a small ranch in Fallbrook with her husband, Tyler, and three teenage daughters and loves to spend her free time horseback riding, hiking, reading, writing, and gardening. She feels blessed and excited to begin her second year teaching First Grade at The Cambridge School this year.

Ms. Esther Berends is excited to be a part of the Cambridge community this upcoming year as a Second Grade Lead. This will be her fifth year in Second Grade, and she is excited for all the new experiences and learning that will take place in the classroom this year. Ms. Berends has a B.A in Liberal Arts and Culture from New Saint Andrews College and a M.A in Teaching from Liberty University. She is thankful to work together with parents and colleagues to shape students who desire to pursue both virtue and academic excellence.

Mrs. Hana Rodgers has a Master’s degree from the Czech Republic in English, Social Sciences, and Education. After student teaching, she taught high school (English and Composition), helped with creating grammar curriculum for summer English camps, and was a K-8th grade tutor for 6 years. She also volunteered in a 5th grade public school classroom after moving to the US and has more than 10 years of children’s ministry experience, including children’s outreach in National City. She loves sharing her love for God with her students and is thankful for the opportunity to pursue the mission, vision, and values of the school. Her excitement for the richness of Christian classical education and specifically of the 3rd grade curriculum began seven years ago and has only deepened with time.

Mrs. Rachel Hensley is new to San Diego and was born and raised in Texas. After earning her B.S. in Elementary Education from Baylor University, she taught 1st grade for two years in Waco and Kindergarten for one year in San Diego. She has worked in various children’s ministries over the past 8 years and loves sharing the gospel with children of all ages. She is thrilled to finally merge her passion for students and love for God through teaching at The Cambridge School!

Ms. Hosanna Koo grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and moved to San Diego to attend UCSD. After she received a B.A. in Human Development, she became a kindergarten aide at The Cambridge School. She returned to UCSD to earn a Teaching Credential and Master of Education degree and now loves being back at TCS for her second year as a teacher to encourage children in their love of God and shape their characters. Ms. Koo has been a part of several children’s ministries and delights in teaching children who God is and what He has done.

Mrs. Paula Jones taught fourth grade for eight years at Logos School, Moscow, Idaho, one of the early classical and Christian schools in the modern movement, as well as serving there as Director of International Students. This will be Mrs. Jones’s fifth year teaching 4th grade at The Cambridge School. Mrs. Jones graduated from the University of California, Irvine (BA, Social Science), and has lectured at the annual convention of the Association of Classical and Christian Schools. She and her husband, Doug, have five children. Their youngest son, Gabe is a rising 11th grader at The Cambridge School. She has lived in Idaho and the United Arab Emirates but is thankful to be back in beautiful San Diego where she grew up.

This year will be Josh Boyd’s third at The Cambridge School. Mr. Boyd received a B.S. in Biblical and Theological Studies from Liberty University. Prior to arriving at Cambridge, he spent ten years in vocational church ministry, serving in various roles, but primarily as a music/worship leader. Mr. Boyd finds great joy in playing his part to shape the hearts and minds of the 4th grade students at Cambridge to think well, love rightly, and live wisely. In his free time, Mr. Boyd enjoys spending time with his wife and son, reading, theological discussions with friends, and a good cup of coffee.

Ms. Ashley Hur was born and raised in Southern California. She studied at the University of California, San Diego for three years and earned a BA in Literature with an emphasis in writing. Ms. Hur is excited to return to the Cambridge School as a third year 5th grade teacher.  In her free time, she enjoys reading, exploring new coffee shops, and spending time with her friends and family. Going into her fourth year at The Cambridge School, she is looking forward to sharing her love of God and learning with her students!

Mrs. Suzanne Kataoka is a Southern California native who graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a Psychology degree. She earned her Master of Arts degree in Reading at California State University, Fullerton. She has 17 years of teaching experience in the public, private, and home schools. She taught in Orange County for 9 years prior to moving with her family to Colorado. Upon moving to the Mile High state, she stayed home to raise and homeschool her children, while teaching at a Classical Christian community group. It was there that she first experienced truth, beauty and goodness lived out in an educational community. She was invigorated to see her students flourish when learning classically with a Biblical worldview. She was most impressed with how history points to God’s greater story of redemption. She hopes to inspire her students to see God’s love in the unfolding of American history. Her favorite pastimes include traveling, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.

Mrs. McKenzie Janson obtained her B.S. in Communication Arts and Literature (Teaching) from St. Cloud State University. Upon graduation, she received her California Single Subject Teaching Credential in English. Mrs. Janson also serves as the Head Girls Varsity Volleyball Coach. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, cooking, and running. As she enters into her third year at The Cambridge School, Mrs. Janson looks forward to building genuine relationships with her students and deepening each student’s love of learning.

Mrs. Kelsie Howze is originally from San Diego, California and a graduate from the University of California, San Diego. Upon earning her degree in Linguistics, Mrs. Howze traveled to India for an internship working with a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) where she developed curriculum for underprivileged children and worked on character building and deepening faith understanding with children in an orphanage. After 5 months, she returned to San Diego where she pursued and earned her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at San Diego State University. She has always loved teaching and feels God calling her to challenge students to think critically and engage with various texts including fictional literature, classics, historical and other non-fiction texts, especially God’s word. Her goal in teaching is to encourage students to be excited about digging deep into all their studies, connecting and applying it to their lives, and being able to carry those skills into their futures. In her free time she loves reading, board games, leading Young Life, studying the Bible, traveling, hiking, swimming, and spending time with friends and family.

Ms. Cynthia Lehn earned her B.S. in Mathematics from Biola University, and her teaching credential from California State University, Fresno. She joined the team at Cambridge after homeschooling her four children for 17 years. Ms. Lehn is looking forward to her 7th year teaching math at Cambridge. One of her favorite things about teaching at Cambridge is the way she can lead students to look beyond the challenging math that they experience to see its Designer and wonder in His glory. Through math, she seeks to shepherd her students to love God more deeply and to love each other well. She strives to cultivate a classroom culture where students are encouraged to venture beyond their comfort zone and try new challenges. This culture is marked by empathy, grace, and open communication. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, singing, dancing, and fresh air and sunshine, whether walking on the beach, or hiking in the mountains.

Mr. Rick Gonzalez is passionate about improving human performance through mental and physical training. Rick believes in developing broad, inclusive fitness through physical literacy in a fun environment. Rick has a B.A. in Sport Psychology from National University and is currently pursuing his M.A. in Performance Psychology. Rick is the owner of two training facilities in North County San Diego. Rick consults local high school teams and athletes in developing mental skills and has experience developing teen conditioning programs.

Mrs. Melissa Mayne has a dual bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry and a teaching credential from Point Loma Nazarene University.  She has been teaching students from grades 3 to 12 to love and explore science in San Diego schools for fifteen years and is beginning her sixth year as faculty at The Cambridge School. She is passionate about helping students to see the wonder and delight of living things.  Mrs. Mayne enjoys long walks in the mountains and on the beach with her husband and two children.

Ms. Leah Griess graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a BA in Elementary Education/Earth Science Concentration. Through her student teaching at a classical Christian school in Spokane, Washington, she developed a love for classical education. She taught second grade at a classical Christian school in Michigan for two years before moving to San Diego. She delights in studying and exploring creation with students, wondering at the intricate, orderly, and fascinating splendor of our Father’s world. In her spare time, she likes to read, camp, hike, and run. She is excited and thankful for the opportunity at Cambridge to marvel with students at the grandeur of creation.

 

Mr. Donny McNair has taught at The Cambridge School for a year. He graduated from New Saint Andrew’s College with his BA in Liberal Arts and Culture, and currently still attends through a correspondence program, pursuing his MA in Classical Christian Studies. Mr. McNair began teaching in 2014 at St. Abraham’s Classical Christian Academy in Aptos, California where he remained for three years. He started primarily as a Latin teacher and has taught Latin from 4th grade through 10th grade. His other areas of experience include teaching Roman literature and History, Medieval literature and history, and developing his school’s first Rhetoric curriculum. Mr. McNair is happy to be sharing his knowledge and love of the Latin language with the students of Cambridge, and looks forward to learning all he can from the fellow faculty. Outside of school, Mr. McNair enjoys spending time with his wife, mountain biking, surfing, playing volleyball, and eating.

Mrs. Perumal has taught Singapore Math at The Cambridge School for five years, and homeschooled her own children with Singapore Math for ten years. She taught classes in science, math, grammar, and composition as a homeschooler. After her first two children entered respected universities, she enrolled her youngest at The Cambridge School, where he is now entering his senior year. At Cambridge she found a kindred passion for discipling young hearts, excellent classical education, and robust community. Mrs. Perumal has a B.S. in Biological Sciences from UC Irvine, where she met her husband of 30 years. She enjoys history, traveling, and cool math problems.

 

Mrs. Krista Hahn is a Licensed Educational Psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience as a school psychologist in the San Diego area. Mrs. Hahn has worked in both the private and public settings as an educational psychologist and holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage, Family, Child Therapy from Pepperdine University. Mrs. Hahn also holds a Pupil Personnel Services Credential from National University. She completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at UC Davis. She has extensive experience in psychoeducational evaluations, educational programs and interventions, counseling, social and behavior management, strategy development, individualized education plans, and crisis management. Mrs. Hahn has a passion for reading and is a Board Member of the International Dyslexia Association. Mrs. Hahn enjoys spending time with her husband and two adolescent daughters. In her free time, Mrs. Hahn loves all forms of exercise and competes in triathlons. She is an avid fan of live theater and Broadway musicals. Mrs. Hahn finds great joy in caring for animals, particularly her two pet dogs. Mrs. Hahn is ecstatic about being on The Cambridge School team and serving God by serving His children and their unique needs.

Mrs. Ruth Hong earned her Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy at Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, China. This year, she will complete the International Chinese Teacher Training Program at Beijing Language and Culture University. For nine years, Mrs. Hong taught at the lower elementary levels at a Christian school in Guangzhou, China. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, and traveling with her husband. Mrs. Hong looks forward to working with students, teachers, and parents during her first year at The Cambridge School.

Mrs. Segarra joined the Cambridge School teaching team in 2012. She earned her undergraduate degree in music from Chapman University, with an emphasis in choral conducting and voice, and an MBA from Pepperdine University and has completed training and certification in the Orff method of music education. Mrs. Segarra taught Kindergarten Prep, 3rd grade, and 4th grade at a private Christian school. Additionally, she has served for many years in church music ministry in various capacities – as director of music ministry; director for children, youth, and adult choirs; and soloist. She has been active in a number of music associations, as co-president of San Diego Choristers Guild for a number of years and currently as an active member of the San Diego American Orff Schulwerk Association. Mrs. Segarra and her husband have lived in the San Diego area for over twenty years, and they have three adult children.

Mrs. Luda Rockett was born and raised in the beautiful Southern region of Russia, where the Caucasus Mountains meet the Black Sea. She received her BA in Music Education and Masters in Choir Management and has extensive training in Orff and Kodaly methods, which are rhythm and pitch development approaches. Mrs. Rockett absolutely loves to learn and enrich her knowledge in classical pedagogy. Besides constant self-education, she attends Music Teachers conferences, workshops and trainings and is an active member of the San Diego American Orff Schulwerk Association. She is excited for another year at Cambridge, teaching music theory and appreciation to our students.

Mrs. Amy Darnell is a graduate of the University of South Carolina, where she studied Music and Business. As a certified Suzuki Method instructor, she has been teaching violin for 9 years. Amy grew up in South Carolina and began playing the violin at the age of five through the Suzuki Method. She and her sisters formed a string quartet, which opened opportunities to perform throughout the southeast in addition to accompanying southern gospel artists. Amy has been a member of the South Carolina Philharmonic, Long Bay Symphony, and is currently a member of the La Jolla Symphony. She is excited to be part of The Cambridge School, and thankful for the opportunity to teach in a setting that cultivates both excellence and living out our Christian faith. Amy and her husband, James, reside in San Diego and love the beach and the outdoors.

Estella Tai is a native of Taiwan and immigrated to the US to attend high school. She lived in the Bay Area and attended UC Berkeley to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering. Thereafter, she moved to San Diego and graduated from UCSD with a Master’s degree in Bioengineering. She taught at a private high school for a year, then worked in the biotech industry for 4 years before transitioning to be a full time mom. Being a mother of four has taught her to fully rely upon God for guidance and strength daily! She has experience teaching Mandarin both at home and at a Mandarin immersion preschool. She enjoyed working with the 3rd/4th grade Mandarin students last school year and looks forward to more growth and fun in Mandarin this coming year!

Mrs. Krista Weathers was born and raised in Midland, TX. After graduating from Texas A&M University (whoop!) where she received her BS in Economics, Krista married her husband, Adam, a United States Marine. Krista spent three years working in the professional world, then came “home” to follow her husband all over the country and raise their two daughters, Brannen (11) and Adalene (8). Mrs. Weathers and her family love to be outside in any way possible. Most often they are playing in the ocean, sailing, camping, reading and traveling. The Weathers have a family goal to see all the American National Parks by the time their girls graduate from high school! Thus far, their favorites are Joshua Tree and King’s Canyon.

Araceli has been a teacher’s aide at Cambridge for several years working in the kindergarten and 1st grade classes. Prior to working at Cambridge, she home schooled her four children where she emphasized a Classical education including the study of Latin.  Araceli has a B.S. in Engineering from UCLA. 

Teaching K-12 art since 1987, professional artist/teacher, Mrs. Robin Przybysz, came to teach at Cambridge in the 2011-2012 school year. “Coming to The Cambridge School feels like coming home to a loving family. I am surrounded by energy, encouragement, and enthusiasm for the arts.” Mrs. Przybysz exhibits throughout San Diego and other parts of the United States. She graduated from Azusa Pacific University with her MFA in July 2016.

Dr. Melissa Gingrich earned her B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Arizona and her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at Emory University. After graduate school, she worked in clinical studies at the University of Virginia. Dr. Gingrich has been with Cambridge since its inception and helped build and design the science program; she has taught almost all levels of science classes here in 2nd through 12th grades. This year Dr. Gingrich begins her 11th year of teaching at Cambridge. She enjoys spending time at the beach and on the trails with her husband Brenden and their three children, Samuel, Benjamin, and Elizabeth.

Mr. DJ Goodwiler has an M.A. in Theological Studies from Westminster Seminary California and an M.A. in Rhetoric and Writing Studies from San Diego State University, having studied biblical languages and philosophy at Concordia University in Wisconsin prior to moving to California in 2008. He is eager to return to the Cambridge community for his eighth year to teach a variety of humanities classes in the Rhetoric stage. He enjoys the opportunity to share subjects about which he is passionate to a curious and eager community of students and alongside other gifted scholar-educators.

Mr. Jim Hamilton was introduced to classical learning when he took Latin and Greek early on in his studies at UC Irvine. There he developed a fervent passion for the language and culture of the ancient Greeks and Romans. This was further cultivated at Westminster Seminary California when his love for ancient language was combined with the reading and teaching of the Gospel. He is excited to return for his fourth year this fall. He considers himself truly blessed to be working alongside like-minded educators and administrators who selflessly offer their support, encouragement, and friendship. The Cambridge School has created an environment that allows him to flourish in the teaching of subjects that he loves and enables him to instill that love of classical language and history into the hearts and minds of the students.

Mr. Brent Baber earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of California, Irvine. During his time at UC Irvine, he took some time off to study at a Bible school in Austria, a place that ignited his love for studying the Scriptures. After finishing at UC Irvine, he served as a youth pastor in the Sacramento where he was blessed to teach and preach to junior high and high school students. He then went on to complete his graduate work in Escondido where he earned a Master of Arts degree in Biblical Studies from Westminster Seminary California. While at seminary, he served as the head English teacher for Elite Educational Institute in Carmel Valley. Mr. Baber loves the mountains and all activities that take place there. If he has free time but no snow, he’ll hit the trail to hike, bike, climb and run with his wife Hannah. Most of all, he is passionate about teaching students to deeply love and know their savior Jesus Christ, who has been richly revealed to us in all of Scripture. He is excited to return for his fifth year to teach in the Logic and Rhetoric School stages.

Ms. Robin Przybysz holds an MFA from Azusa Pacific University. She is a professional artist and teacher, and has been teaching K-12 art since 1987. Ms. Przybysz is entering her 7th year of teaching at Cambridge and she reports that coming to The Cambridge School feels like coming home to a loving family, where she is surrounded by energy, encouragement, and enthusiasm for the arts.

Mrs. Segarra joined the Cambridge School teaching team in 2012. She earned her undergraduate degree in music from Chapman University, with an emphasis in choral conducting and voice, and an MBA from Pepperdine University and has completed training and certification in the Orff method of music education. Mrs. Segarra taught Kindergarten Prep, 3rd grade, and 4th grade at a private Christian school. Additionally, she has served for many years in church music ministry in various capacities – as director of music ministry; director for children, youth, and adult choirs; and soloist. She has been active in a number of music associations, as co-president of San Diego Choristers Guild for a number of years and currently as an active member of the San Diego American Orff Schulwerk Association. Mrs. Segarra and her husband have lived in the San Diego area for over twenty years, and they have three adult children.

Mr. Donny McNair has taught at The Cambridge School for two years. He graduated from New Saint Andrew’s College with his BA in Liberal Arts and Culture, and currently attend Villanova University through a correspondence program, pursuing his MA in Classical Studies. Mr. McNair began teaching in 2014 at St. Abraham’s Classical Christian Academy in Aptos, California where he remained for three years. He started primarily as a Latin teacher and has taught Latin from 4th grade through 10th grade. His other areas of experience include teaching Roman literature and History, Medieval literature and history. Mr. McNair is happy to be sharing his knowledge and love of the Latin language with the students of Cambridge, and looks forward to learning all he can from the fellow faculty. Outside of school, Mr. McNair enjoys spending time with his wife, mountain biking, surfing, and playing volleyball.

Mrs. Melissa Mayne has a dual bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry and a teaching credential from Point Loma Nazarene University.  She has been teaching students from grades 3 to 12 to love and explore science in San Diego schools for fifteen years and is beginning her sixth year as faculty at The Cambridge School. She is passionate about helping students to see the wonder and delight of living things.  Mrs. Mayne enjoys long walks in the mountains and on the beach with her husband and two children.

Mr. Brandon Hong earned his B.A. in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Pomona College and his J.D. at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. He spent seven years in public service with the U.S. Treasury Department before taking a position at a litigation consulting firm in Los Angeles for five years. Mr. Hong fell in love with teaching when he entered the mission field in China in 2012. Returning to Cambridge for his third year, Mr. Hong looks forward to teaching both the oldest and youngest students of Upper School and sharing his passions for God, ministry, and learning with all of his students.

Mr. Joshua Sansonetti is excited to return for his seventh year at Cambridge and is looking forward to teaching Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 while also helping outside of the classroom with the other Upper School math courses.  Mr. Sansonetti found his love for teaching mathematics while attending Chaffey College at age sixteen, where he was chosen to tutor college algebra students for three semesters. Since then, he has helped students from fourth grade math all the way to AP Calculus—all the while encouraging students not only to master the concepts, but also to enjoy mathematics.  Mr. Sansonetti received his Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Mathematics Secondary Education at Biola University and graduated with distinction as a member of Biola’s Torrey Honors Institute, a classical great books program based on Socratic discussion. Mr. Sansonetti looks forward to continuing to work with these amazing Cambridge students as together they explore how math can be theological, philosophical, historical, and cultural.  He also enjoys spending time with family, Star Wars, playing the piano, theater, reading, board games, and math puzzles.

Mr. Caleb Smith has an A.A. in Speech from Palomar College and a B.A. in Communication from San Diego Christian College. A lifelong San Diego resident, Mr. Smith is passionate about the art of public speech. Having thrived on his own team in college he now enjoys creating similar opportunities for his upper school students at The Cambridge School. Entering his sixth year at The Cambridge School Mr. Smith will be teaching and coaching speech and debate for grades seven and up through the 2019-2020 school year.

Mr. Jacob Mohler earned a Bachelor of Science in mathematics from Hillsdale College and continued his formal education earning a Masters of Arts in mathematics from Saint Louis University.  Jacob has taught in several different academic settings since 2000 including a K-12 classical and Christian school, a 7-12 Christian school, community college and private universities. 

In the coming school year, Jacob will be teaching calculus, AP Calculus, statistics and co-teaching Algebra 2.  He continues to look for more ways to broaden all of his students perspective about mathematics to help them see and experience math as a liberal “freeing” art and not just an academic discipline accessible to a select few.

The 2019-2020 school year will be Jacob’s second year at The Cambridge School.  He looks forward to building more relationships with his students and their families and helping House Faraday be more competitive in house games.

 When not working, Jacob enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, traveling, music and engaging in good conversations.

Ms. Amanda Sansonetti grew up with a deep love for the performing arts, but especially classical music and musical theater.  She received her B.M. in Music Performance from Biola University, where she also graduated from the Torrey Honors Institute, a great books program based on Socratic discussion.  She taught music in various educational settings for 5 years and has also worked in administrative capacities with the Pacific Symphony.

Ms. Sansonetti enjoyed her first year at The Cambridge School and is looking forward to another year of continuing to create opportunities for students to discover and to enjoy the beauty God has given us in the areas of theater and Spanish.  

Ms. Sansonetti enjoys reading, attending concerts and performances, spending time with her family, and playing the violin.

Mrs. Rachel McNair has a B.A. in Liberal Arts and Culture and a M.A. in Theology & Letters from New Saint Andrews College. During her M.A. work she was a Davenant Fellow for Wenden House, translating Latin texts from the Reformation. She is looking forward to returning for her 4th year at Cambridge to teach 7th & 8th Grade Literature and Composition and 9th Grade Medieval Literature. She is excited to continue teaching these classes and to enjoy more enlivening conversations with students about various forms of literature.

Miss Ashley Ewing graduated from the University of Arizona in 2007 receiving a B.A. in both Latin and Political Science. For nine years she taught in Tucson, Arizona for a private Christian school where she served as the head of the language department and created the high school Latin program, including Honors and AP courses. She also spent time coaching varsity swimming and served as the Assistant Varsity Coach for high school track and girls soccer. She both planned and led overseas summer trips for high school students to different countries in Europe to compliment the students’ academic studies. Before moving to San Diego in 2016 she completed her M.S. in Mental and Clinical Health Counseling and works part time as a therapist for vulnerable populations in the San Diego area. She is excited to begin her fourth year with The Cambridge School, teaching Logic School Latin and 7th Grade Bridge!

Mrs. Esther Han has a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health Natural Sciences from Johns Hopkins University and a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health. She received her credential and Master’s in Education from Stanford University. She has taught General Chemistry, Honors Chemistry, and AP Chemistry to high schoolers in San Diego for the past nine years and is excited to share her love of the natural world that God has created with the students at TCS. In her free time she enjoys reading and trying new restaurants but you’ll most likely find her at Legoland or the zoo with her husband and two children.

Mr. Rick Gonzalez is passionate about improving human performance through mental and physical training. Rick believes in developing broad, inclusive fitness through physical literacy in a fun environment. Rick has a B.A. in Sport Psychology from National University and is currently pursuing his M.A. in Performance Psychology. Rick is the owner of two training facilities in North County San Diego. Rick consults local high school teams and athletes in developing mental skills and has experience developing teen conditioning programs.

Mr. Doug Jones is the husband of TCS fourth-grade teacher, Paula Jones, whom he met at Vista High in north county San Diego. They have five children, raised largely in northern Idaho and now spread about the country (with their youngest, Gabe, at TCS). In 2017, Doug returned from teaching college courses in the United Arab Emirates, and he has completed his second year of teaching at The Cambridge School. He is a graduate of the University of California, Irvine (BA, philosophy), the University of Southern California (MA, philosophy) and the University of Idaho (MFA, creative writing). He was one of the founders of New St. Andrews College, a classical Christian college in Moscow, Idaho, and taught there for over a decade. For several years, he taught middle and high-school classes through Veritas Press Online Academy and helped develop their self-paced history courses. A native Californian, he was raised in Rialto, California and Johannesburg, South Africa, spending several key childhood summers with relatives in Athens, Greece. He is a die-hard Seattle Mariners fan, loves woodworking, and continues to work on writing screenplays and poetry.

Mrs. Becky Priest has been at Cambridge for 8 years as a parent and is in her fourth year of being the College Counseling Coordinator. She is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis where she double-majored in Sociology and Secondary Education with an emphasis in educational policy. She was employed for several years as a Financial Aid Counselor at Washington University and in the San Diego area at college admissions firms and private consulting. She has 30 years of experience in college financial aid, student counseling, and mentoring high school and college students. She and her husband have provided leadership in their church in the areas of teaching, music, youth, international student ministry and missions.

Mrs. Sharon Giles has a Bachelors of Arts in Applied Mathematics/Scientific Programming from UC San Diego as well as a Masters of Science in Applied Mathematics from San Diego State. Upon completing her graduate studies, Mrs. Giles published her thesis in Singular Perturbation Theory. Mrs. Giles is an experienced Mechanical/Structural Engineer who spent quality time working at Lockheed Advanced Development Company. She created a war time matrix that allowed all statistical and reliability data to be analyzed easily for the F-117 Stealth Fighter during Operation Desert Storm. In developing her analysis for the aircraft, Mrs. Giles made numerous trips to the top secret Nevada base known as Area-51. Before starting a family, Mrs. Giles decided to return to her first love, teaching mathematics. She has been teaching Mathematics for the past 24 years at local colleges and universities including: San Diego State University, University of Redlands, Miramar College, and Grossmont Community College. Because of her extensive experience, Mrs. Giles is able to teach a broad range of mathematics including but not limited to Algebra, Statistics and Calculus. In recent years, Mrs. Giles took the lead in successfully developing an online curriculum for mathematics courses at Grossmont Community College. Mrs. Giles is delighted to be joining the Cambridge community for her 7th year. She looks forward to sharing the joy and beauty of mathematics with her students while helping them to understand how math is crucial to the world around them. Mrs. Giles and her husband, Todd, enjoy travelling and the outdoors with their three children Cheynne, Kelsey and Hailey.

Mr. Derren Raser earned his B.A. in Theology from Point Loma Nazarene University, with a minor in Music. He draws from over 9 years of professional experience as founder of and lead photographer for The Rasers Photography, an award-winning commercial, portrait and wedding photography studio. Mr. Raser is exited to begin his second year of service at The Cambridge School and is looking forward to sharing his passion for this dynamic artistic medium with his students.

Mr. Andrew Chung graduated from the University of Kentucky with a B.A. in business administration, focusing on marketing and Spanish, and went on to receive his Master’s degree in International Cooperation concentrating on Northeast Asian security from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea. Though not the path that Mr. Chung took academically, he has always had a deep affinity for math, so throughout his college career, and before, he tutored math on the side, which even helped him pay his way through graduate school. He believes that math is the universal language that is shared by everyone.  No matter where you are in the world, even if the numbers and symbols are different, the mathematic principals are always the same. Andrew has been teaching in the San Diego area for eleven years now. Originally head of the math departments at both San Diego Elite offices, (Assistant Director at the Carmel Valley branch) he went on to co-found Summa Education in 2011 where he continued to teach students, hire and train staff, and guide students and their families through the changing landscape of education in the area. He has taught classes ranging from 5th grade math to calculus, as well as test-prep for the ACT, SAT and SAT Level 2 math exams. After taking a brief hiatus from academics, Mr. Chung was very excited about getting back into the classroom. He looks forward to returning to the Cambridge School, where he will be teaching both geometry and pre-calculus as well as SAT and Subject test classes. In his free time, Mr. Chung likes to swim, surf, travel and spend time with his wife, Janet, and their five year old son, Isaiah.

Mrs. Sandy Hutchinson, a native San Diegan, graduated from San Diego State University with a BA in Linguistics/ applied linguistics certification. She earned her Master of Divinity with an emphasis in Christian Education at Bethel Seminary, San Diego. Alongside of serving in the local church Mrs. Hutchinson homeschooled her two sons for 16 years and has been tutoring elementary school students for the last 7 years. She delights in helping students develop a love of learning. While she enjoyed her time as a 6th Grade Aide last year, she is thrilled to join the Upper School of Cambridge and continue to be a part of a such a rich, classical tradition.

Mr. John Egidio graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of California, Davis.  He later received a Master’s Degree from St. Mary’s College in Athletic Administration. John has worked in the California Community College system for the last 14 years.  Since 2006, he has served in various instructional and administrative roles in the exercise science and athletics department at San Diego Miramar College, including a seven year stint as the Associate Head Coach of the school’s Men’s Basketball team. He founded and operated Top Gun Basketball Academy in San Diego County from 2010- 2016.  Mr. Egidio’s love of sport began as child.  John was a three sport standout in his playing days at St. Patrick-St. Vincent High School in Vallejo, CA.  He’s excited to start his 2nd year at The Cambridge School and share his passion for working with youth through sport in the Christian environment at The Cambridge School.  John and his wife, Min, have two daughters: Chloe (3) and Madison (1) and reside in the Rancho Penasquitos community.

Mr. Paul Reinke graduated from Concordia University – Seward, NE with a B.S. in Business and Math Education. He received his M.A. in Education Administration from Concordia University – Irvine, CA. While at Concordia – Nebraska, he distinguished himself as an All-American in track and field. He also toured Europe with The A Cappella Choir. Mr. Reinke began his professional career in Lutheran schools. He coached, taught, and administrated at an inner-city high school in Inglewood, CA before becoming principal of an elementary school in the north county region of St. Louis. During the thirteen years preceding The Cambridge School, Mr. Reinke worked in the STEM departments of Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School and, more recently, at Pacific Ridge School in Carlsbad where he has also taught math and coached.  Mr. Reinke is thrilled to return to Christian education while embarking upon the Classical approach. When not teaching or coaching, he enjoys reading, running, biking, singing, cooking, tinkering, and spending time with family.

Ms. Renée Calvo, is a vocalist, pianist and educator currently living in San Diego, CA. Ms. Calvo graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a B.M. degree in Music and an M.M. degree in Vocal Performance from San Diego State University. As a vocalist, she has had extensive experience singing in jazz venues, recital halls, U.S. churches and universities, and cathedrals in Europe. She has won many vocal competitions including the San Diego Choral Club, National Association Teachers of Singing San Diego Chapter, H.B. Goodlin Scholarship Competition, and has also been a San Diego Musical Merit Foundation and Carmel Music Society finalist. Currently, she teaches music and is the vocal coach for jazz singers at the University of San Diego, performs regularly throughout San Diego and is Director of Music at St Luke’s Lutheran Church in La Mesa, CA. Ms. Calvo also maintains a private piano and voice studio of children, teens, and adults in La Mesa, CA. Her professional affiliations are with the National Association Teachers of Singing ,American Guild of Organists, Music Teachers Association of California, and the American Guild of Musical Artists. She is very excited to join The Cambridge School and share her love for God while serving others through the performing arts.

Mrs. Krista Weathers was born and raised in Midland, TX. After graduating from Texas A&M University (whoop!) where she received her BS in Economics, Krista married her husband, Adam, a United States Marine. Krista spent three years working in the professional world, then came “home” to follow her husband all over the country and raise their two daughters, Brannen (11) and Adalene (8). Mrs. Weathers and her family love to be outside in any way possible. Most often they are playing in the ocean, sailing, camping, reading and traveling. The Weathers have a family goal to see all the American National Parks by the time their girls graduate from high school! Thus far, their favorites are Joshua Tree and King’s Canyon.

Ms. Natalie Breeden grew up in San Diego and graduated from Vanguard University of Southern California with a BA in liberal studies and English. She then received an MA in English from Chapman University before teaching high school English classes. She moved to a small town in Illinois and taught for three years before spending a year overseas as a missionary in St. Petersburg, Russia. After moving back to the States, she taught a year in Iowa, and spent four years in Michigan teaching literature and rhetoric courses for a start-up classical Christian school. She is looking forward to returning to her hometown and continuing to impart her love of literature and writing to her students at The Cambridge School. When she isn’t reading a book or baking a pie, she enjoys being immersed in the beauty of nature and exploring God’s wonders in His creation.

Leslie Yoder is thrilled to put her passion for the Cambridge mission and vision and her prior personal and professional experience to work as our new Admissions Coordinator. She spent four years as an active parent volunteer and as a music program assistant at a flagship classical Christian school, Veritas Academy, in Lancaster, PA. While at Veritas Academy she planned field trips, provided administrative support and coordinated major events. After her move to San Diego, Leslie spent time working in the Del Mar Union School District as a para-educator for special education students. Her students were in the general education setting where Leslie provided one on one therapeutic and educational support. Most recently, Leslie has been part of the Sales and Marketing Team for an upscale retirement community, The Meridian at Lake San Marcos, coordinating admissions for new residents and their families. Leslie is married to Jeff Yoder, Director of Advancement here at Cambridge, and has two children who have been students at Cambridge since 2012. She looks forward to joining the Cambridge team in this new capacity.

Ms. Dahhee Kim graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a B.A. in Art History. She is excited to join and serve alongside the wonderful team at The Cambridge School, and to help advance the mission and vision of the school. She grew up in San Diego and enjoys traveling, watching films, reading books, and spending time with her family and friends.

​​Mr. Jack George was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. Before being drafted, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served 30 years in the Pacific Submarine Force. He earned the rank of Force Master Chief, His appetite for technology and his second love, cars, landed him a management position with Kragen Automotive Parts. He then enrolled at Grossmont College where he earned an Associate’s degree in History. The last seven years he has been involved with senior living, assisted living, and memory care facilities as assistant Activity Director, Building Engineer, and Director of Environmental services. He has a wife, Judy, 5 adult children, of which two are serving in the armed serve, and 3 grandchildren. He is very grateful and excited to be working at The Cambridge School where, however small, he’ll have a part in shaping young minds and preparing them for the future.

Mrs. Cara Francisco graduated from Whitworth University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology. She spent the past 13.5 years working for an Email Marketing company as a Quality Assurance manager, overseeing custom projects and defining testing standards. Her husband, Kepa, and their three children Isaiah, Malachi and Anaiah, have been part of the Cambridge community for the past 8 years. She is thrilled to join in supporting the school as a staff member and looks forward to serving in this new role.

Peter Blomkvist was born and raised in Sweden and moved to the States in 2008 after getting married to his wife, Jessica. He spent the past four years working at Ikea, where he proudly represented Swedish culture and design. He has two children, a daughter in third grade and a son in kindergarten. Peter looks forward to working at The Cambridge School, where he can grow his faith and contribute in God’s work.

Mrs. Karla Hays earned her BSN from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and her Master of Nursing and Public Health from the University of Washington. She spent ten years on active duty and seventeen years as a drilling reservist as a Navy Nurse Corps Officer and retired from military service in December 2016. Mrs. Hays has a variety of clinical, community health, and leadership experiences and is excited to serve with the health care team, students, parents, and staff at The Cambridge School. She teaches community health nursing with Azusa Pacific University-San Diego Regional Center and volunteers as a Parish Nurse at Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church. She enjoys traveling, reading, music, and hiking the trails. Mrs. Hays moved to Poway three years ago with her active duty spouse, Russell, who will be retiring in December 2017. They have three children ages 13, 11, and 8 and a 4-year old Shiba-Inu named Lucy.

 Michelle Thompson received her baccalaureate nursing degree from Biola University, and her Master’s in Nursing from San Diego State University. She began her career as a neonatal intensive care nurse but quickly realized she enjoyed the work and life that school nursing provided far more. Her favorite part o school nursing is the health teaching she gets to do, particularly when it comes to exercise and food choices. On the side she is a lifestyle portrait and landscape photographer and she throws in a few extra hours a week working for a camp health consulting company. Her passions are photography and travel. Michelle and her husband, Curt, are so pleased to have discovered The Cambridge School for their kindergarten daughter, Georgia.