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 (20), Caleb (18), and Kate (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. Suzanne Kataoka is passionate about helping students flourish during their formative years of grammar school. Her experience in teaching pre-K thru 6th provides her with a unique perspective of child development and the importance of laying a strong foundation in good learning habits and character formation. As a credentialed reading specialist, she is particularly interested in helping students develop their reading, writing and speaking skills. This year, she is looking forward to welcoming the Junior Kindergartners as they begin their journey through a distinctly Christian education in the classical tradition!  She also looks forward to coming alongside parents to provide support and encouragement in this important season of life! As a lifelong learner, she is excited to further her graduate studies at Baylor University. She counts it a blessing to be a part of The Cambridge School community with her husband and two daughters. Soli Deo Gloria!

Mrs. Stephanie Chung is a native of San Francisco, CA. She moved down to San Diego to attend the University of California, San Diego, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, CA clear teaching credential, and Master of Education degree. This will be her ninth year at The Cambridge School. She is excited to be a part of this community of faith and learning, and is eager to come alongside the faculty and parents of Cambridge to support her students in their development of heart, soul, and mind and to provide them with opportunities to practice loving and serving God and each other. Stephanie is married to her husband, Sam. Together, they enjoy working on their home, travelling, serving at their church, and playing with their dog, Buddy.

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 taught the Junior Kindergarten class at Cambridge for 3 years.  She is excited to return to The Cambridge School for her sixth 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 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  daughters and loves to spend her free time horseback riding, hiking, reading, writing, and gardening. She feels incredibly blessed and excited to begin her fourth 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 sixth year in Second Grade, and she is excited for all the new experiences and learning that will take place 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. Shelly Potwardowski was born and raised in Southern California, graduated from California State University, San Bernardino with a BA in liberal studies, minor in English, and CLAD teaching credential.  She taught second grade for seven years in the Ontario-Montclair school district working with GATE students.  She married the love of her life, Eric, and moved to Columbus, Georgia where she taught third grade before having her first of four children.   Along with her family, she enjoys reading, swimming, and the mountains.  This will be her family’s thirteenth year at TCS with two children who are alumni and two in 5th and 9th grades.  After working for four years as a TA in grammar school, she is excited to step into a lead teacher position, trusting in God’s provision with all things.

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 enjoyed serving in her church’s children’s ministry for over ten years. She loves sharing her love for God with her students and is deeply grateful for the opportunity to pursue the unique mission, vision, and values of the school. Her excitement for the richness of Christian classical education and specifically of the 3rd grade curriculum began nine years ago and has only deepened with time.

Mrs. Hosanna Hall grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and moved to San Diego to attend UCSD. During her time in college, Hosanna was a part of several children’s ministries and discovered her delight in teaching children who God is and what He has done. 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 is so thankful to be back at TCS for her fourth year as a 3rd grade teacher to encourage children in their love of God and to shape their characters. Hosanna married her husband, Greg in July 2020 and adopted her puppy, Rollie, in February 2021.

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 seventh year teaching 4 th 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. She enjoys walking on the beach, yoga and sewing. She has lived in Idaho and the United Arab Emirates but is thankful to be back in beautiful San Diego where she grew up.

Mr. Boyd is excited to begin his 5th year at The Cambridge School. He 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. He 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, he enjoys hikes with his wife and son, cycling, reading, theological discussions with friends, and a good cup of coffee.

Mrs. Ashley Park was born and raised in Southern California. She studied at the University of California, San Diego and earned a BA in Literature with an emphasis in writing. Mrs. Park is excited to return for her 6th year at the Cambridge School where she can continue to share her love of God and learning with her students. This year, Mrs. Park is especially eager to teach Science to the 5th graders. After having listened to wonderful science teachers every year, she is eager to foster wonder through the study of chemistry, biology, and more! In her free time, she enjoys reading, exploring new coffee shops, and spending time at the beach with her husband. 

Mrs. Katie Mohler grew up in Switzerland and attended the French-speaking public school system. In tenth grade, she moved to the United States and finished high school in Rochester, Minnesota.  She 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, Hawaii, where she met her husband, current Upper School Math teacher, Jacob Mohler.  

Mrs. Mohler has over 16 years of teaching experience and has spent the majority of her teaching career imparting her love of literature, history and French in grades K-12. Mrs. Mohler and her family lived in St. Louis, Missouri,  where she was the Outdoor Classroom Director at a K-6th Christian school.  This position allowed her to integrate literature, history, art and science with outdoor and hands-on learning experiences. 

During her first two years at The Cambridge School, Mrs. Mohler was immersed in the culture and ethos of the school as an aide and after-school enrichment coordinator. This past year she has been thrilled to be a part of the Fifth Grade team and is looking forward to delving deeper into the rich and varied curriculum that The Cambridge school provides.

The Mohlers have two children at The Cambridge School, Emma (11th grade) and Ian (8th grade).  Mrs. Mohler delights in learning about the flora and fauna in the San Diego area, reading all types of books, spending time both at the beach and in the mountains with her family and listening to her husband play the ukulele.  She also loves tea and food, especially the three essentials, chocolate, cheese, and warm crusty bread.

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. For the past four years, she has worked at Cambridge as one of the 6th Grade Lead teachers. 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.

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 to San Diego to join The Cambridge School in 2013. In her previous years at Cambridge, Mrs. Smith enjoyed serving as a lead fourth grade teacher. She has been aiding in the sixth-grade classroom over the past year and is grateful to be back teaching full time. She is eager to learn and grow from interactions with her students, while helping shape their hearts and affections towards Christ.   Laura is married to Adam and, together, they have been raising three beloved children. The Smith family enjoys outdoor adventures, the game of baseball and spending time with others.

Ms. Cyndi Lehn earned her B.S. in Mathematics from Biola University, and her single subject teaching credential from California State University, Fresno. Ms. Lehn is looking forward to her 9th year teaching grammar school math at Cambridge. 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. In an environment of empathy, grace, and open communication, everyone is given space to learn from mistakes and to keep trying until concepts are internalized. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys time with family and friends, reading, painting, hiking, swing dancing, and long walks on the beach.

Mrs. Perumal has taught Singapore Math at The Cambridge School for six years and homeschooled her own children in Singapore Math for ten years. After her first two children entered respected universities, she enrolled her youngest at The Cambridge School, from which he graduated in 2020.

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. She enjoys history, traveling, and solving cool math problems.

 

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 at Cambridge. After teaching Mandarin for four years, she now teaches 6th and 8th grade science. She is thankful for this opportunity and is excited to explore the world of science together with her students!

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. 

Mr. Donny McNair has taught at The Cambridge School for four years. He graduated from New Saint Andrew’s College with his BA in Liberal Arts and Culture, and then graduated from Villanova University with his MA in classical studies and Latin. 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 and Medieval literature and History. Mr. McNair is happy to be sharing his knowledge and love of the Latin language with the students of Cambridge. Outside of school, Mr. McNair enjoys spending time with his wife, mountain biking, and surfing.

Mrs. Ruth Hong earned her Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy at Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, China, and completed 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 fifth 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. Darnell was born and raised in Columbia, SC.  She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina, where she studied both Violin Performance and Business Administration. As a certified Suzuki Method instructor, she has been teaching violin for 14 years. Mrs. Darnell has been a member of the South Carolina Philharmonic, Long Bay Symphony and the La Jolla Symphony. She and her husband, James, have two children, ages 5 and 2. She enjoys the outdoors with her family, reading and baking.

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.

Mrs. Brontë Flanagan comes from a military family, which has taken her around the world, but she claims San Diego, CA as her home. She holds a BA in Art Education from San Diego State University and has worked for 3 years as the Art Curriculum Coordinator for the Woodlands Children’s Museum. More recently, Mrs. Flanagan worked as the Upper School Art and Yearbook teacher at Providence Classical School in Houston, TX. She is eager to transition into The Cambridge School carrying a strong love and appreciation for classical education.  Her teaching philosophy is to inspire students to think and come to a greater knowledge and understanding of the Master Creator through Art.  Mrs. Flanagan is a photographer and enjoys painting, graphic, and interior design. Together with her husband Alec, they have two children Ajax (4) and Zoe (1).

Mr. Gonzalez is passionate about improving human performance through mental and physical training. Mr. Gonzalez believes in developing broad, inclusive fitness through physical literacy in a fun environment. Mr. Gonzalez has a B.A. in Sport Psychology and M.A. in Performance Psychology from National University. He is the owner of two training facilities in North County San Diego. Mr. Gonzalez also travels the country teaching and training new fitness trainers.

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.

Elena Girling grew up in the San Diego area. She studied math and literature and earned her bachelor’s degree at Claremont McKenna College. About four years ago, Elena discovered the joy of teaching students how to read while working with students who have learning disabilities. This discovery led her to complete her Master’s in Special Education with a Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia through the University of Florida. After working with a few Cambridge students over the past few years, Elena is looking forward to her first year as an official part of The Cambridge School. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, playing games, rock climbing, and spending time with family.

Mrs. Colleen Dong has a B.A. in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing from Azusa Pacific University, and an M.A. in Rhetoric and Writing Studies from San Diego State University. She has taught Kindergarten, as well as 7th and 8th Grade Speech and Debate, and has served as the Upper School Writing Tutor. This year will mark her 11th year with The Cambridge School and Colleen will be teaching the Kindergarten classes a specialized curriculum, Feuerstein Instrumental Enrichments, and will be returning to her role of Writing Tutor for the Rhetoric students.

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 14th year of teaching at Cambridge in the Neuroscience Seminar class. She enjoys spending time at the beach and on the trails with her husband Brenden and their three children, Samuel (20), Benjamin (18), and Elizabeth (15).

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 10th 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 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. 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 two young children.

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 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. 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 eighth year at The Cambridge School.

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.

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 three years. He graduated from New Saint Andrew’s College with his BA in Liberal Arts and Culture, and then graduated from Villanova University with his MA in classical studies and Latin. 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 and Medieval literature and History. Mr. McNair is happy to be sharing his knowledge and love of the Latin language with the students of Cambridge. Outside of school, Mr. McNair enjoys spending time with his wife, mountain biking, and surfing.

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 sixteen years and is beginning her eighth 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 2012. Returning to Cambridge for his fifth year, Mr. Hong looks forward to teaching students of all ages and sharing his passions for God, ministry, and learning with all of his students.

Mr. Joshua Sansonetti is excited to return for his 9th year at The Cambridge School and is looking forward to co-teaching 7 th grade Algebra 1 again with Mr. Paul Reinke. In addition to helping outside of the classroom with the other Upper School math courses, Mr. Sansonetti is also looking forward to assisting in 6th grade math classes. 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. Mr. Smith is entering his eighth year at The Cambridge School.  He will be teaching and or coaching speech and debate for grades seven and up and teaching 7th grade Bible through the 2021-2022 school year. 

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.
In the coming school year, Jacob 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 2021-2022 school year will be Jacob’s fourth year at The Cambridge School. He looks forward to building more relationships with his students and their families and creating memories with House Faraday.
When not working, Jacob enjoys spending time with his family, cooking with friends, traveling, playing and listening to music and engaging in good conversations.

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.  This is her fourth year at The Cambridge School, and she is looking forward to enjoying great works of literature and of theater alongside her students in 7th grade Composition & Literature and in 8th Grade Historical Drama.  In addition to these classes, she is also looking forward to serving the Upper School community alongside the student leaders of the House system in her capacity as House Governor.  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.

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 and, translating Latin texts from the Reformation. She is looking forward to returning for her 7th year at Cambridge to teach 8th Grade Literature and Composition and 9th Grade Medieval Literature. She is excited to continue teaching these classes and to enjoy more refreshing conversations with students about various forms of literature. In her free time, Rachel is finishing a M.A. in Literary Linguistics from the University of Nottingham, training her oversized puppy, and trying to keep her plants alive.

Miss Ashley Ewing graduated from the University of Arizona, receiving a B.A. in both Latin and Political Science. She taught in Tucson, Arizona for nine years at a private Christian school where she 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 complement the students’ academic studies. Before moving to San Diego in 2016, she completed her M.S. in Mental and Clinical Health Counseling. Outside of Cambridge, she works part-time as a therapist, providing EMDR therapy for survivors of human trafficking. She is excited to begin her 6th year with The Cambridge School, serving as Wilberfoce Housemaster as well as teaching 8th and 9th grade Latin.

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 Chemistry and Physics to high schoolers in San Diego for the past eleven 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, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her 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 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 (their youngest, Gabe, graduated from TCS in 2021). In 2017, Doug returned from teaching college courses in the United Arab Emirates, and he has completed his fourth 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). A native Californian, he was raised in Rialto, California and Johannesburg, South Africa, and spent several summers with relatives in Athens, Greece. He is an avid baseball fan and a devoted furniture woodworker.

Mrs. Becky Priest has been at Cambridge for 12 years as a parent and is in her eighth 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 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. She is currently serving on the Classic Learning Test’s Board of Academic Advisors.

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 (20), Caleb (18), and Kate (12). 

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 excited to begin his fourth 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 thirteen 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. In his free time, Mr. Chung likes to swim, surf, travel and spend time with his wife, Janet, and their seven year old son, Isaiah.

Mrs. Colleen Dong has a B.A. in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing from Azusa Pacific University, and an M.A. in Rhetoric and Writing Studies from San Diego State University. She has taught Kindergarten, as well as 7th and 8th Grade Speech and Debate, and has served as the Upper School Writing Tutor. This year will mark her 11th year with The Cambridge School and Colleen will be teaching the Kindergarten classes a specialized curriculum, Feuerstein Instrumental Enrichments, and will be returning to her role of Writing Tutor for the Rhetoric students.

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 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 4th 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 (5) and Madison (3) 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.  Collegiately, Mr. Reinke excelled in track and field while concurrently performing with an internationally touring choir.

Professionally, 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, and academic team.
Mr. Reinke is thrilled to have returned to Christian education while embarking upon his third year of the Classical approach at The Cambridge School. He is excited to help students discover the structure and relationships that God has to offer through his math 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. 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 excited to return to The Cambridge School for her third year.

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. He is passionate about evangelism, theology, discipleship, and counseling. He looks forward to returning to his 3rd year at Cambridge to teach 10th grade Modern European History and to support the administration.

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. Having returned to her hometown, she has enjoyed teaching various Humanities courses at The Cambridge School. She looks forward to beginning her third year where she will continue to impart her love of literature and writing to her students. 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.

Reuben Settergren’s academic career (BS/MS (Math), Johns Hopkins; PhD (Operations Research), Rutgers; Asst Professor (Math/CS), College of Wooster; Postdoc (Computing), Imperial College, London) involved computational research in fields as varied as astronomy, bioinformatics, and finance. For the past 20 years, he has worked as a photogrammetric software engineer at BAE Systems in Rancho Bernardo, where he has frequent opportunities to teach software skills internally, and present research at conferences. Reuben & Tina and their 3 boys have been part of the Cambridge family since 2007, when Lucas and Callum enrolled in 3rd grade and K4. Lucas graduated with the inaugural class of 2018, and Callum and Mason are currently in 12th and 10th grades. Reuben’s Erdős Number is 3. 

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 at Cambridge. After teaching Mandarin since 2016, she transitioned to teaching 6th/8th grade science last year. It was a year of challenges and growth, and she is so thankful for this opportunity to explore the world of science together with her students!

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 and the ancient Greek language. Her quest to be a lifelong student continued at San Diego State University where she earned her M.A. in History in 2008. After several years as an administrator in a CPA firm, she is overjoyed to be joining Cambridge as an Upper School History teacher! Mrs. Bonilla enjoys reading, running, and serving her church alongside her husband Dennis and children, Sienna (13) and Mateo (10).

Coach Christopher Mendoza received his BA in Education from Point Loma Nazarene University. Upon graduating, he was asked to coach the boy’s Volleyball team and has not looked back. He has been a part of the Cambridge community coaching and aiding in the 3rd and 4th grade classes. He also has a daughter, who is entering her 3rd year at Cambridge. As assistant athletic director, he looks forward to impacting the lives of all students by creating an environment for Griffins to excel in all aspects of life and not just sports.

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.

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.

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.

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 has been serving as the Marketing and Communications Coordinator since.  In his free time, Jake likes to travel to track meets around the nation in support of his fiancé who competes for Canada in the Long Jump.

Carnie Wong earned her BA in Communications from UCSD in 2017. She discovered The Cambridge School through church friends who are teachers and families who attend the school. She loves the mission and serves joyfully as event coordinator, for the glory of God. 

Amy Burger earned her undergraduate degree from UCLA and her master’s degree in education with a Pupil Personnel Services credential from Azusa Pacific University. Mrs. Burger spent 15 years in public education, the last 12 of which were as a high school guidance counselor, before staying at home with her children for the past few years. She is excited to join the staff of The Cambridge School in the fall.