Jean Kim has been in education for more than 30 years, first as a high school history/humanities teacher and then as an educational policy analyst at a Washington DC think-tank before founding The Cambridge School. She holds a BA in History from Yale University where she completed her teacher preparation as well.  She has served two terms 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 who have graduated from Cambridge.

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. Mrs. Gingrich helped design the science program at Cambridge starting in 2008. She has taught all levels of science classes here in 2nd through 9th grades and taught  Neuroscience Seminar for seniors. Mrs. Gingrich took on the Upper School Principal role in 2018. She is glad to serve the faculty and students of the upper school as we grow in knowledge and wisdom together. She enjoys spending time at the beach and on the trails with her husband Brenden and their three children, all of whom are K-12 Cambridge graduates!

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 worked in both the public and private sectors before pivoting to the teaching profession when he was overseas for four years. Mr. Hong joined the Cambridge faculty in 2017, and he presently teaches Economics (12th grade) in addition to being the Chief Business and Operations Officer.

Nick Swedick holds a B.A. in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from The King’s College in New York City and an M.A. in History of Education from New York University. Prior to arriving at The Cambridge School, Nick spent twelve years shaping the student experience at The King’s College in various roles, including Director of Student Life and Associate Dean of Students. Nick is also an avid sports fan and has coached collegiate and youth basketball for nearly a decade. When he’s not on campus or the basketball court, Nick can be found training for a long run, searching for an exceptional pour-over coffee with his wife, Lindsey, or perfecting his sandcastle skills with his kids, Liv and Benji.

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, Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, and CLAD certificate from National University. Mrs. Ferdyn has worked as a Kindergarten Teaching Assistant at a local private school, and taught the Junior Kindergarten class at Cambridge for 3 years. She is excited to return to The Cambridge School for her tenth year to teach Kindergarten again 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 hiking, baking, reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Mrs. Lisa Farhadi 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. Farhadi lives with her husband Jim and three of her five daughters on a small six acre ranch in Fallbrook and loves to spend her free time with family, hiking with her dogs, dancing with her husband, and tending to her garden, chickens and fruit orchard. She feels incredibly grateful and excited to begin her eighth year at The Cambridge School, and her seventh year teaching the Firsties!

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 students in kindergarten through 8th grade. Mrs. Thesing 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 homeschooled her own children and led a multi-grade homeschool co-op in northern California. After moving back to her native San Diego with her family, Mrs. Thesing began teaching again full-time and has been professionally involved in classical education for the past 19 years. She is delighted to be embarking on another 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, Mrs. Thesing enjoys traveling with her husband, spending time with her family, working in her garden, cycling, and swimming.

Mrs. Shelly Potwardowski was born and raised in sunny Southern California and earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies with a minor in English from California State University, San Bernardino, along with a CLAD credential. She’s excited to be back for her fifth year as the lead 2nd grade teacher, where she joyfully shares her love for God and learning with her students each day. The Cambridge School has been a second home for the Potwardowski family for seventeen years. With three TCS alumni and one son currently enrolled, she’s grateful for the opportunity to continue growing alongside the school community. Outside the classroom, you can find her swimming, gardening, enjoying long walks on the beach, or spending quality time with her family.

Ms. Cece Root is excited to be teaching second grade for her third year at TCS! She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from the University of Rhode Island and an M.Ed. in Elementary Education from Merrimack College. Before joining TCS, Ms. Root taught third grade for three years in her home state of Massachusetts. She moved to San Diego in 2023 and is grateful to now call it home. In addition, Ms. Root enjoys serving as the head coach of the Middle School Girls Volleyball team for a second season. Outside of school, she loves playing beach volleyball, spending time with her fiancé and friends, and staying active. Ms. Root feels deeply blessed to be part of a Christ-centered school where she can grow in faith alongside her students and colleagues.

Ms. Sarah Nelson received her B.A. in Elementary Education from Wheaton College. After graduating, she taught third grade for 6 years at Clapham School, a classical Christian School, in Wheaton, Illinois. Sarah will be moving to San Diego this summer and is excited to join the Cambridge community. She enjoys playing almost any sport, hiking, time at the beach, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

Mrs. Alyssa Lee was born and raised in San Francisco, CA and moved to San Diego to attend San Diego State University where she earned her Bachelors of Science in Child and Family Development. Mrs. Lee has always had a heart for working with children and serving her community. She has volunteered in her church’s VBS for 10 years and currently serves in the preschool and youth ministries. During her studies at SDSU, Mrs. Lee had the unique privilege of working at the preschool on campus while also observing and volunteering in classrooms around San Diego County. Mrs. Lee is delighted to return to the 3rd grade team for her eighth year at The Cambridge School! She has enjoyed cultivating lasting, meaningful relationships with the students and families and is looking forward to helping the students develop a rich understanding of what it means to think well, love rightly, and live wisely. Mrs. Lee enjoys playing volleyball with her husband, spending time with friends, reading, and going on sunset walks.

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 eleventh 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 and are excited about being first-time grandparents this year. She enjoys walking on the beach, yoga and sewing. She has lived in Idaho and the United Arab Emirates but beautiful San Diego is where she calls home.

Mrs. Katie Mohler grew up in Switzerland where she attended the French-speaking public school system. She then went on to earn a B.A. in English and French Literature, with a Minor in History, from Hillsdale College in Michigan. Mrs. Mohler’s first teaching job was on the island of Kauai where she met her husband, current Upper School Math teacher, Jacob Mohler. Mrs. Mohler has spent the majority of her teaching career imparting her love of literature, history and French in grades K-12 in Minnesota, Missouri and Hawaii. Mrs. Mohler is entering her fourth year as a fourth grade lead teacher. She delights in learning about the flora and fauna in the San Diego area, traveling, reading all types of books, spending time both at the beach and in the mountains with her family, and listening to her family play music. The Mohlers have two children, Emma and Ian.

Ms. Esther Berends is excited to be a part of the Cambridge community this upcoming year teaching fifth grade. This will be her eleventh year at Cambridge, and she is excited for all the new experiences and learning that will take place. 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 for the opportunity to work together with parents and colleagues to shape students who desire to pursue both virtue and academic excellence.

Ms. Elizabeth Siri grew up in Southern California, particularly in Orange County, but loves San Diego! She has a B.A. in English Literature from UC Irvine and an M.A. in Systematic Theology from Westminster Seminary in Escondido. She enjoys reading and teaching students about the joys of literature and thoughtfully engaging in God’s creation around us. In her spare time she likes to explore new places, to cook and to meet up with friends.

Mr. Donald Liang was born and raised in Fremont, California, and graduated from UC San Diego with a degree in Music Composition. After graduating, Mr. Liang traveled and lived in Coban, Guatemala for a year working as a missionary and teacher for an international Christian school, where he helped a start-up school develop a new music curriculum and assisted in teaching English to children seeking for more educational opportunities. After his time in Guatemala, he returned to San Diego where his new church community is and started to work at The Cambridge School as an aide. Mr. Liang loves to encourage students to think deeper and understand more of how God works in different parts of our lives. In his free time, Mr. Liang loves to write/play music, cook with friends, and stay physically active.

Mrs. Laura Smith grew up in Iowa City, Iowa and earned a BA in Elementary Ed with a specialization in science from Bethel University. Mrs. Smith taught fourth grade at Grace Academy Classical School in Boone, North Carolina for five years before she moved out to sunny San Diego to join The Cambridge School. At Cambridge, Mrs. Smith enjoyed serving as a lead fourth grade teacher for three years before her family moved away to Oregon for one short year before coming back to southern California. Mrs. Smith is currently in her fifth year as a lead sixth grade teacher while raising three children who attend the Cambridge School.  She is passionate about the great outdoors, being with others and the game of baseball. She can’t wait to learn and grow from her students while helping shape their hearts and affections towards Christ. 

Mrs. Burger 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.  Mrs. Burger has a B.S. in Engineering from UCLA. 

Ms. Tori Einstein was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona and has lived in Tucson, Arizona for the last 12 years. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Religious Studies. After graduation, Ms. Einstein did a Children’s Ministry internship at her local church before moving to Mill Valley, California to attend Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. During her time there, she earned a Masters in Educational Leadership. Following graduation, Ms. Einstein was a Children’s Ministry Director for 7 years. She then worked as an Athletic Director and a Middle School math and science teacher. Ms. Einstein is excited about continuing to serve as the House Governor and 6th grade science teacher at The Cambridge School. When Ms. Einstein is not cheering loudly at Cambridge Athletics events or buying random supplies for House events, she enjoys traveling, reading, and doing CrossFit.

Mrs. Brontë Flanagan proudly calls San Diego her home. She is a passionate proponent of art education and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art Education from San Diego State University. She firmly believes that art can reveal truth, goodness, and beauty to her students. She is dedicated to nurturing children’s ability to create, recognizing that they are made in the image of God. With her experience as the Upper School art and yearbook teacher at another esteemed classical school, as well as her role as the art curriculum coordinator children’s museum, she has developed a deep passion for teaching art through the classical approach. In her personal life, Brontë finds joy in various creative pursuits and enjoys traveling. She feels blessed to raise two wonderful children alongside her husband, Alec.

Meghan Glick grew up in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and moved to San Diego in August of 2024. Since joining Cambridge last year, she has embraced the excitement of classical education and become deeply passionate about the school’s mission. Over the past year, Ms. Glick has served in various roles, contributing enthusiastically to the school community. She is currently finishing her bachelor’s degree in Business Leadership and Education from Liberty University. With a strong interest in Physical Education and an active lifestyle, Ms. Glick is passionate about helping students develop physically, relationally, and spiritually. In addition to Physical Education, she has the privilege of helping coach boys and girls volleyball at Cambridge. In her free time, she enjoys playing Pickleball with friends, visiting coffee shops, playing volleyball, and hosting her church’s young adults for game nights.

Mrs. Krista Hahn is a Licensed Educational Psychologist with over 25 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 in School Psychology 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-emotional and behavior management, strategy development, individualized education plans, and crisis management. Mrs. Hahn has a passion for reading and is a former Board Member of the International Dyslexia Association. Mrs. Hahn enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters. In her free time, Mrs. Hahn loves all forms of exercise, particularly triathlons. She is an avid fan of the Baylor Bears, Broadway musicals, dancing, golfing and jogging. 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. Hosanna Hall 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 taught 3rd grade at TCS for 6 years. She is delighted to remain at The Cambridge School as the 4th/5th science teacher to guide students in their discovery of God’s world. Mrs. Hall enjoys family days at the beach with her dog, Rollie, and her son, Koen.

Mrs. Ruth Hong was born, raised, and educated in China. She completed the International Chinese Teacher Training Program at Beijing Language and Culture University. She taught at a Christian school for 9 years before moving to the US. At Cambridge, she desires to help students learn this beautiful language and experience the rich culture of China. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, gardening, and traveling.

Mrs. Mimi Kiang has a BS in mathematics from the University of Utah and a M.Eng. in bioengineering from UCSD. She loves both math and music as they have set rules – formulas, values, rhythms – yet they require creativity in solving problems and interpreting and expressing music. Mrs. Kiang has taught and tutored math for over 15 years, plays viola in local ensembles, and serves as an accompanist at recitals, competitions and in church. She is thrilled to be a part of Cambridge’s music and math programs and to challenge students to new levels of thinking and playing. In her free time, she enjoys reading mysteries, sight-reading music, hiking, and singing karaoke with her daughters.

Eileen Leon grew up in the tree-lined suburbs of Orange County, CA, reading books and riding her bicycle until the street lights turned on.  She eventually attended UC Berkeley where she earned her BA in Psychology.  For four years, she served as a Children’s Ministry Director in the Bay Area before attending San Diego State University to work towards her teaching credential in Special Education. Mrs. Leon taught a 4th/5th grade special day class in the Poway Unified School District for 3 years before marrying her husband and starting a family in Salt Lake City, Utah. After homeschooling her children for several years, she returned to the classroom in 2019 as a Learning Specialist and is now thrilled to be a part of the community at The Cambridge School.

Ms. Cyndi Lehn earned her B.S. in Mathematics from Biola University, and her single subject (math) teaching credential from California State University, Fresno. Ms. Lehn is looking forward to her 13th year teaching grammar school math at Cambridge. During her time at Cambridge, she has taught grades 3-6.. Within the framework of our vigorous Singapore math curriculum, she shepherds her students to love God more deeply and to love their neighbors well. She cultivates a classroom culture where students learn to venture beyond their comfort zones and explore new challenges with perseverance and grit. In an environment of empathy, grace, and open communication, everyone is given space to make mistakes and learn from them.  All are encouraged to keep pressing on towards mastery and internalization of foundational math ideas.  When she’s not teaching, she enjoys time with family and friends, doing puzzles, playing games, reading, yoga, hiking, and experiencing the wonders of nature.

Mr. Caleb Lieurance studied Philosophy and Mathematics at Westmont College, Santa Barbara. Between studies, he worked as a Peer Tutor and Teacher’s Assistant, where he discovered his love for sharing ideas. He is very excited to encounter math in new, unexpected ways with students, as they explore together how math can help us appreciate and live in God’s creation. He is also excited to teach computer science to the senior class, and consider how technology intersects with our humanity and our faith. Mr. Lieurance loves flags, ultimate frisbee, playing music, doing cartwheels, designing games, taking long walks, and eating chocolate chip cookies. His goal as a teacher is to inspire students to be curious, thoughtful, and receptive towards abstract ideas, as well as to further prepare them to live meaningful lives.

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. 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.

During the past eight years, she has taught in the classroom setting for Classical Conversations and Christian Family Schools for various ages ranging from 1st to 12th grade. Throughout her 14-year homeschooling experience, Mrs. Shlemon has discovered that humility is the key ingredient to learning and, because all truth is from God, all subjects are interrelated in beautiful harmony. Latin became a particular area of interest to her, and she became a resource to other parents who desired private Latin tutoring for their children. Now that Mrs. Shlemon’s homeschooling years are completed, she still has a passion to teach, and she’s so grateful to join Cambridge in their mission and vision. She looks forward to inviting her students to embrace valuable habits of mind and expression through learning Latin. She holds a B.S. in Physical Therapy from California State University, Long Beach and, before having kids, worked as a Physical Therapist. She enjoys time with friends and family, reading, barre classes, gardening, and cake decorating.

Mrs. Sally Williams holds a B.S. in Secondary Education and Mathematics from Wheaton College, where she discovered that math is so much more than just numbers. She’s dreamed about teaching since middle school and fell for math in college. She student-taught at an international school in Prague, and after graduating, she taught secondary math and art at a classical Christian school in the Chicagoland area. She delights in helping students see math as something bigger than themselves, especially through the mind-bending world of non-Euclidean geometry. Outside of occasionally doing calculus for fun, she enjoys long walks, spoon-whittling, dystopian novels, and pretending to be an expert cook.

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. He joined the Cambridge faculty in 2012 and helped build the upper school humanities program. He has greatly enjoyed the opportunity to share subjects about which he is passionate to a curious and eager community of wonderful students, alongside 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 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. Mr. Hamilton has taught Latin and Greek at Cambridge since 2013. He is blessed to work at an institution of like-minded educators where he can instill his passion for the Classical languages and history in his students. When not engaged in Classical studies, Jim is spending time with his wife, Perri, and their children.

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 many years and has been part of the faculty at The Cambridge School since 2014. She is passionate about helping students to cultivate wonder and delight in all the living things God has made. Mrs. Mayne has developed a love for our native coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems.  She enjoys spending time with her family including husband, Geoffrey and children (both graduates of TCS), Hudson (‘22) and Eva (‘24) on adventures at home and abroad.

Mr. Jacob Mohler earned a Bachelor of Science in mathematics from Hillsdale College and continued his formal education earning a Master 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. Jacob joined The Cambridge School in  2018.  He looks forward to each school year so that he can continue building relationships with more students and their families and create memories with House Faraday. As Mathematics Chair, Jacob continues to look for more ways to broaden all of his students’ perspectives 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. When not working, Jacob enjoys spending time with his family, cooking with friends, traveling, playing and listening to music and engaging in good conversations. He and his wife, Katie, have two children, Emma (‘23) and Ian (‘26).

Patrick Claytor earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from Bethlehem College and Seminary in 2019. Soon afterward, he got married to his wonderful wife Renata. He taught Latin and Bible at Hope Academy in Minneapolis for two years. During that time, he served in youth ministry at Bethlehem Baptist Church. He and his wife left Minnesota to attend Westminster Seminary California in 2021, where he received his Masters of Divinity degree. Mr. Claytor loves teaching the Bible to young people. He has a passion to see young people encounter Christ in his word and be transformed by his grace. He also has a passion for missions, having served in many foreign contexts for short periods of time. His hobbies include playing sports, cooking, traveling, reading, and watching his Miami Dolphins win football games (sometimes). He serves at his church, preaching occasionally and filling whatever needs that arise. He loves the local church, and desires to serve wherever the Lord would have him.

Mrs. Kelsey Bonilla first encountered classical education as an undergraduate in the Integral Liberal Arts Program at Saint Mary’s College of California, where she studied the Great Books. Her quest to be a lifelong student continued at San Diego State University where she earned her M.A. in History. After several years as an administrator in a CPA firm, she was overjoyed to join Cambridge as an Upper School History teacher in 2021. She loves working with students to inspire their historical curiosity and discuss challenging questions about our past and present culture. In her free time, Mrs. Bonilla enjoys reading, running, traveling, watching sports with her family, and serving as a youth leader in her church. She and her husband Dennis have two children, Sienna (‘27) and Mateo (‘30).

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 seventeen 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 Algebra I, geometry and pre-calculus. In his free time, Mr. Chung likes to swim, surf, practice taekwondo and archery, travel and spend time with his wife, Janet, and their son, Isaiah.

Ms. Tori Einstein was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona and has lived in Tucson, Arizona for the last 12 years. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Religious Studies. After graduation, Ms. Einstein did a Children’s Ministry internship at her local church before moving to Mill Valley, California to attend Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. During her time there, she earned a Masters in Educational Leadership. Following graduation, Ms. Einstein was a Children’s Ministry Director for 7 years. She then worked as an Athletic Director and a Middle School math and science teacher. Ms. Einstein is excited about continuing to serve as the House Governor and 6th grade science teacher at The Cambridge School. When Ms. Einstein is not cheering loudly at Cambridge Athletics events or buying random supplies for House events, she enjoys traveling, reading, and doing CrossFit.

Mrs. Brontë Flanagan proudly calls San Diego her home. She is a passionate proponent of art education and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art Education from San Diego State University. She firmly believes that art can reveal truth, goodness, and beauty to her students. She is dedicated to nurturing children’s ability to create, recognizing that they are made in the image of God. With her experience as the Upper School art and yearbook teacher at another esteemed classical school, as well as her role as the art curriculum coordinator children’s museum, she has developed a deep passion for teaching art through the classical approach. In her personal life, Brontë finds joy in various creative pursuits and enjoys traveling. She feels blessed to raise two wonderful children alongside her husband, Alec.

Meghan Glick grew up in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and moved to San Diego in August of 2024. Since joining Cambridge last year, she has embraced the excitement of classical education and become deeply passionate about the school’s mission. Over the past year, Ms. Glick has served in various roles, contributing enthusiastically to the school community. She is currently finishing her bachelor’s degree in Business Leadership and Education from Liberty University. With a strong interest in Physical Education and an active lifestyle, Ms. Glick is passionate about helping students develop physically, relationally, and spiritually. In addition to Physical Education, she has the privilege of helping coach boys and girls volleyball at Cambridge. In her free time, she enjoys playing Pickleball with friends, visiting coffee shops, playing volleyball, and hosting her church’s young adults for game nights.

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 high school science in San Diego since 2009 and has loved being able to share her excitement and love of the natural world that God has created with the students at TCS since 2018. In her free time she enjoys reading, trying new restaurants, and spending time 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 worked in both the public and private sectors before pivoting to the teaching profession when he was overseas for four years. Mr. Hong joined the Cambridge faculty in 2017, and he presently teaches Economics (12th grade) in addition to being the Business Manager.

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 enjoyed teaching in both the Grammar School and the Upper School since joining Cambridge in 2017. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Biblical and Theological Studies at Covenant Theological Seminary. 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, studying the Bible, traveling, hiking, swimming, and spending time with friends and family.

Mr. Doug Jones has been teaching at TCS since 2017. 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). A native Californian, he is an avid baseball fan and a devoted woodworker. Mr. 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 (their youngest, Gabe, graduated from TCS).

Ms. Emma Kim received her B.A. from the University of California at Berkeley, majoring in History and minoring in Rhetoric. She is proud to be part of the first graduating class at The Cambridge School and is excited to rejoin the Cambridge community. She has been teaching various humanities classes since joining in 2022. She looks forward to sharing all of her positive experiences from Cambridge and Berkeley and integrating them into the classroom. Ms. Kim enjoys going to bookstores, traveling, and visiting different beaches and coffee shops across San Diego with friends and family. 

Mr. Donald Liang was born and raised in Fremont, California, and graduated from UC San Diego with a degree in Music Composition. After graduating, Mr. Liang traveled and lived in Coban, Guatemala for a year working as a missionary and teacher for an international Christian school, where he helped a start-up school develop a new music curriculum and assisted in teaching English to children seeking for more educational opportunities. After his time in Guatemala, he returned to San Diego where his new church community is and started to work at The Cambridge School as an aide. Mr. Liang loves to encourage students to think deeper and understand more of how God works in different parts of our lives. In his free time, Mr. Liang loves to write/play music, cook with friends, and stay physically active.

Mr. Caleb Lieurance studied Philosophy and Mathematics at Westmont College, Santa Barbara. Between studies, he worked as a Peer Tutor and Teacher’s Assistant, where he discovered his love for sharing ideas. He is very excited to encounter math in new, unexpected ways with students, as they explore together how math can help us appreciate and live in God’s creation. He is also excited to teach computer science to the senior class, and consider how technology intersects with our humanity and our faith. Mr. Lieurance loves flags, ultimate frisbee, playing music, doing cartwheels, designing games, taking long walks, and eating chocolate chip cookies. His goal as a teacher is to inspire students to be curious, thoughtful, and receptive towards abstract ideas, as well as to further prepare them to live meaningful lives.

Mr. Joshua Liu earned his B.A. in Human Development at the University of California, San Diego. During his undergraduate career, he was enthusiastically involved in student ministries and international student outreach. Thereafter, he obtained a M.A. Ed. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (Alliant International University) and a Master of Divinity (The Master’s Seminary). He has served in children’s, youth, and college ministries in various local churches in the United States, Argentina, and Taiwan over the course of eight years, and briefly worked as an English teacher for a local language school before coming to The Cambridge School in 2019. He and his wife, Hannah, share a passion for evangelism, theology, and discipleship. Mr. Liu looks forward to continuing to partner with parents in the intellectual, spiritual, and relational formation of their children here at TCS.

Mr. Justin McGeary studied literature for his B.A. and then history and theology for his MDiv from Westminster Seminary California and MTh from Union School of Theology, Wales. Prior to joining The Cambridge School, he served as the program director for the Chesterton House at Cornell University and then director and assistant professor of Christian studies at a Christian liberal arts college, John Witherspoon College. As a teacher and life-long learner, he loves when students have “aha” moments, seeing the connections between their studies, their lives, and their Christian faith. With his family, he enjoys getting outdoors for biking, hiking, walking, or playing sports, especially basketball and soccer. He also likes reading stories, doing puzzles, and playing games with his kids. They enjoy being active in their church.

Mr. Donny McNair grew up in Aptos, CA where he also began his teaching career in 2014. In 2017, he moved to San Diego to teach at TCS. He has a B.A. in Liberal Arts and Culture from New Saint Andrew’s College and an M.A. in Classical Studies and Latin from Villanova University. While primarily a Latin teacher, Mr. McNair’s other areas of experience include teaching Roman literature and History. While finishing his undergrad, he developed a love and appreciation for classical literature and in particular its beauty and effectiveness when read in the original language. Mr. McNair is happy to be sharing his knowledge and love of the Latin language with the students of Cambridge. Outside of Cambridge, Mr. McNair enjoys spending time with his wife and dogs, mountain biking, and surfing.

Mrs. Carolyn McClaskey is a San Diego native. She holds a B.A. in English, and a teaching credential from the University of San Diego. Education and the arts are her two passions: having taught 6th-10th grade English/Language Arts, as well as various aspects of the performing arts to students of all ages for the past two decades. She is pursuing a Master’s in Educational Theater and the Arts from Adelphi University in New York. Her course work seamlessly intertwines into the development and implementation of theater arts into the Cambridge classroom, while also affirming the importance and success of the fine arts curriculum. She strives to see her students flourish artistically and academically while joyfully serving others to the glory of God and good of neighbor. When not championing the merits of Arts Education, Mrs. McClaskey enjoys running, singing, exploring, and, most especially, delights in time spent with her husband and two daughters.

Coach Chris Mendoza grew up in the San Diego area and completed his early education at Mira Mesa high school. He continued his schooling at Point Loma Nazarene University where he received his bachelors in education. Coach Chris found a home at Cambridge in 2018 coaching boys volleyball. Since starting as a coach, his role at TCS has slowly evolved from Coach to teacher and athletic director. During his free time, he enjoys playing volleyball, basketball and exercising. He currently resides in North Park, with his wife, Amanda, daughters, Dylan and Milaya and his two cats, Benji and Chester. He’s excited to continue to share his love of fitness and sports with the Cambridge community.

Mrs. Becky Priest came to Cambridge as a parent in 2009 and is in her twelfth year of being the College Counselor, having built the program at TCS.  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 in private consulting. She has 35 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. She has served on the Classic Learning Test’s Board of Academic Advisors and taught annual cohorts of counselors at other classical schools through the Society for Classical Learning.

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. Mr. Reinke excelled in track and field and performed with an internationally touring choir while in college. Mr. Reinke served 8 years in Lutheran education before embarking upon 13 years in nationally-ranked non-sectarian, private schools. Schools include South Bay Lutheran High School in the inner-city of Inglewood, CA, a principalship at Salem Lutheran School in St. Louis, work in the STEM department at Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School, followed by teaching at Pacific Ridge School in Carlsbad. He has taught math and science and has coached football, track, cross country, and academic teams. Mr. Reinke is thrilled to have returned to Christian education while embarking upon the Classical approach at The Cambridge School beginning in 2019. He is excited to help students discover the structure and relationships that God has to offer through his math and logic courses, through athletics, and through other school activities. When not teaching or coaching, he enjoys reading, running, biking, singing, cooking, tinkering, and spending time with family.

Ms. Amanda Sansonetti received her B.M. in Music Performance from Biola University, where she also graduated from the Torrey Honors College, a great books program based on Socratic discussion. She received her Master’s Degree in Liberal Arts degree from St. John’s College. She began teaching at The Cambridge School in 2017, and she takes great joy in helping her students discover the power of language and storytelling in the Humanities courses she teaches. When she’s not at school, Ms. Sansonetti enjoys taking care of her plants, reading several books at a time, and hanging out with her dog.

Mr. Joshua Sansonetti has been working at The Cambridge School since 2013, and he is excited to continue to teach 7th grade Algebra 1, in addition to 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 elementary to high school—all the while trying to encourage 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 Cambridge students as together they explore the world of mathematics. 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. Mr. Smith began teaching at The Cambridge School in 2016. He teaches and coaches speech and debate for grades seven and up.

Nick Swedick holds a B.A. in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from The King’s College in New York City and an M.A. in History of Education from New York University. Prior to arriving at The Cambridge School, Nick spent twelve years shaping the student experience at The King’s College in various roles, including Director of Student Life and Associate Dean of Students. Nick is also an avid sports fan and has coached collegiate and youth basketball for nearly a decade. When he’s not on campus or the basketball court, Nick can be found training for a long run, searching for an exceptional pour-over coffee with his wife, Lindsey, or perfecting his sandcastle skills with his kids, Liv and Benji.

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. She was privileged to homeschool her children a few years before teaching Mandarin and subsequently science at Cambridge. She has found teaching at Cambridge both challenging and rewarding, and what she values most is learning and discovering together with her students! She loves both life science and physical science, as they both point us towards God’s wonderful creation and amazing designs. The knowledge gained through science equips us to better understand the world around us and strengthens our faith! She is grateful for the continual opportunity to engage with both the students and their families here and look forward to another amazing year!

Emily Van Meter is a native to San Diego, growing up in Encinitas before attending Biola University. There she received her BA in Cinema and Media Arts with a Minor in Fine Arts, also graduating from the Torrey Honors College, Biola’s great books program based on Socratic discussion. Mrs. Van Meter is passionate about holistic education and is so grateful for the opportunity to guide Cambridge students to develop a love of beauty both in art and writing. She enjoys spending time outside painting or hiking, visiting new coffee shops with an old book, and capturing everyday moments in her sketchbook.

Mrs. Sally Williams holds a B.S. in Secondary Education and Mathematics from Wheaton College, where she discovered that math is so much more than just numbers. She’s dreamed about teaching since middle school and fell for math in college. She student-taught at an international school in Prague, and after graduating, she taught secondary math and art at a classical Christian school in the Chicagoland area. She delights in helping students see math as something bigger than themselves, especially through the mind-bending world of non-Euclidean geometry. Outside of occasionally doing calculus for fun, she enjoys long walks, spoon-whittling, dystopian novels, and pretending to be an expert cook.

Linda/Lin was born and raised in California and lives in Oceanside with her husband, John. They have 2 boys and Lin enjoyed being a stay at home mom for a bit, and then worked at Tri City Christian School where the boys attended grammar school and upper school. As much as Lin enjoyed working at TCCS, she fell in love with The Cambridge School and feels very blessed to be a part of this amazing community! She loves greeting and serving all those that enter the Front Office each day. In her free time Lin enjoys sleeping in and staying in her pajamas as long as possible!

Mrs. Cara Francisco graduated from Whitworth University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology. She spent 13.5 years working for an Email Marketing company as a Quality Assurance manager before working at Cambridge in 2018. Her husband, Kepa, and their three children Isaiah (graduated in 2023), Malachi (graduated in 2025), and Anaiah, have been part of the Cambridge community since 2010.

Originally from the Central Illinois area, Andrew moved to San Diego when he started high school. He is working on his M.A. in Musicology at San Diego State University (2025) and holds a B.A. in Commercial Music Composition and Production from Point Loma Nazarene University (2022). Andrew has taught audio and music production, music history, and composition courses at various music schools and universities in the San Diego area, including Point Loma Nazarene University and San Diego State University. He was also involved in media services, A/V programs, and worship arts programs at PLNU and other churches around San Diego. 

Mrs. Glenda Glick is from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She left her career as a pharmacy technician to pursue her gift of hospitality as The Cambridge School Events Coordinator. Over the years Glenda has hosted large extended family dinners, multiple church events, and even a large high school prom at her home. While her greatest calling has been serving her family including her husband, four children, and four grandchildren, the last 3 years the Cambridge community has become a special place to share her giftings. In Glenda’s spare time she enjoys cooking, baking, reading and spending time with her family.

Rodney Glick lived in Lancaster, Pennsylvania for most of his life. He has a life-time of experience in the construction trades and management and loves serving others with his skills and knowledge. He has served as a senior construction manager for a premier construction management and consulting firm in Lancaster for 14 years and is blessed to be part of the Cambridge Family the past 3 years.  He and his wife Glenda have four children and three grandchildren, their oldest living in CA for the past 13 years. His greatest joys in life are studying the Bible, spending quality time with his wife and family, quiet times of reading and long walks. He counts it a great blessing to live and serve the people of beautiful San Diego.

Jake Goodwiler graduated from California State University – San Marcos. He has worked at Cambridge since moving out to California in 2016. In that time he has worn many hats at the school but was able to find a home with the advancement team in 2018. He is now happily serving as the Director of Marketing and Communications. Outside of work, Jake loves to explore San Diego with his wife, embracing all the city has to offer.

Ms. Bridget Graney graduated from the University of San Diego in 2023 with a B.A. in Communication Studies and Political Science. During college, she held two congressional internships specializing in marketing and public relations. Her last job position was as the PR Director for the La Jolla Village Merchants Association. After two years at The Cambridge School, she is enthusiastic about continuing to promote marketing that aligns directly with the mission, values, and vision of the student body. Outside of her time at Cambridge, she enjoys fitness, travel, dance, and engaging with the arts in all their forms.

Coming soon!

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 serves as a Deacon and volunteers as a Parish Nurse at Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church and is an active member of the California School Nurse Organization. Mrs. Hays lives in Poway and enjoys traveling, reading, music, and hiking the trails with her family.

Deborah Hom earned her B.F.A in Graphic Design from CSULB and worked for several years in the design and advertising industry in San Diego. She joined the Cambridge community in the fall of 2010 when her youngest child enrolled as a kindergartener. With both of her children now flourishing as Griffin alumni, Deborah considers it an amazing privilege to continue to support the mission and vision of The Cambridge School.

Originally from the New York City area, Jessica Hwang, having earned her B.F.A in Industrial & Graphic Design from the University of Michigan, spent the first half of her career managing and executing campaigns and projects in advertising. Most recently, she decided to use her gifts in service to organizations that align with her personal mission: to love God and love others with everything she has, and to enable the next generation of believers to do the same. She most recently served as a business manager at her previous church. She is excited to join Cambridge and hopes to continue cultivating an environment that equips students to know, love, and practice that which is true, good, and beautiful. 

Mrs. Lenette Bang was born and raised in San Diego, California. She studied at San Diego State University for four years and graduated with a BA in Business Management Information Systems in 2023. This is Mrs. Bang’s third year at the Cambridge School and she is thankful for the opportunity to assist the administrative team, parents, and students. She is excited to be a part of this community to share her love of God and to do all things for the glory of God. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new cafés, baking, and watching the sunset by the beach with her husband.

Mrs. Selena Manibusan is a native of South Korea and immigrated to Seattle, WA with her family. She earned her B.A in Business Administration – Accounting and Information Systems from the University of Washington.  She enjoyed working in various business industries including medical device, financial auditing, software technology, and higher education. She looks forward to growing professionally and contributing to the operation and growth of the Cambridge School.  She has two children, Claire and Daniel and they have been a part of The Cambridge School since 2019.  In her free time, she enjoys trying out new recipes, baking, reading, outdoor activities and spending time with her family. 

Coach Chris Mendoza grew up in the San Diego area and completed his early education at Mira Mesa high school. He continued his schooling at Point Loma Nazarene University where he received his bachelors in education. Coach Chris found a home at Cambridge in 2018 coaching boys volleyball. Since starting as a coach, his role at TCS has slowly evolved from coach to teacher and athletic director. During his free time, he enjoys family time with his wife, Amanda, daughters, Dylan and Milaya and his two cats, Benji and Chester. He’s excited to continue to share his love of fitness and sports with the Cambridge community.

Maya Pirschel, a Southern California native, earned her B.A. in Theatre from Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA, where she served as Head Stage Manager and President of the Drama Club. After graduating, she returned home and gained administrative experience working with a small local business. In 2020, Maya and her husband Nick moved to San Diego, where she joined The Cambridge School community. She began her time at Cambridge in the classroom, gaining a deep appreciation for the school’s mission in action. After the birth of her son, Charlie, she transitioned to the Advancement Team. Maya is passionate about using her background in the arts and administration to build meaningful relationships within the school community and to help families feel connected and supported.

Adam Smith comes to TCS with leadership and development experience in organizational and educational settings. He has come to increasingly know and love TCS, its community, its values, and its mission since his wife, Laura, began teaching here in 2013 and as the parent of three Cambridge students. Adam has had the unique privilege of working closely with Christian institutions and leaders to build strategic networks and publications throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and elsewhere. He is a minister in the Presbyterian Church of America, holding a B.A. from Wheaton College and a Master of Divinity from Westminster Seminary California.

Mrs. Evelyn Wei was born and raised in suburban Philadelphia and moved to San Diego to attend UCSD, where she earned her B.S. in Bioengineering. After graduating, she spent four years working as a medical device engineer in the San Francisco Bay area before happily returning to sunny San Diego. She is excited to support The Cambridge School in their mission to nurture a love for both God and learning in the new generation. In her free time, she enjoys burying her nose in a good book, trying new fitness classes, and traveling abroad with her husband.

Carnie Wong holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of California, San Diego. Her passion for classical Christian education was shaped by the community, mission, and vision of The Cambridge School. Carnie is continually inspired by the richness of Classical Education as she partners with prospective parents in their search for the right education for their families. Outside of school, you’ll often find Carnie exploring local libraries, bookstores, and beaches with her two young children.

Leslie Yoder is the Director of Enrollment Management at The Cambridge School. Growing up in Southern California, Leslie always had a deep connection to the region. Though marriage took her to the East Coast, she longed to return home. During her time on the East Coast, Leslie discovered the beauty of classical Christian education, recognizing it as the ideal educational path for her own children. Her passion for classical Christian education grew, leading her to become an advocate for the growing movement in the United States. Leslie’s excitement peaked when she found The Cambridge School in sunny San Diego. For well over a decade, she and her family have been integral members of the school’s community. Leslie is proud to contribute to the mission and vision of this unique institution. Her dedication lies in helping prospective families understand classical Christian education and guiding them through the enrollment process to determine if The Cambridge School is the right fit for them.