
Geovanni Arellano
Assistant Principal
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| I’m a first-generation college graduate who began my career as a Mathematics teacher. I lead with a social justice lens, striving to create equitable learning environments for all students. Outside of education, I’m a big sports fan who believes in the power of teamwork and community. | |
| Credential(s): | |
| Administrative Service Credential Single Subject Teaching Credential: Mathematics (CTC) EGI Certified USSF Licensed Adult and Child CPR/First Aid | |
| Education: | |
| Master’s in Education, Principal Leadership Institute UCLA, Master’s in Math and Science Education, LAUTR CSULA, B.S. Applied Mathematics, UCLA, A.S., Mathematics ELAC | |

Jessica Amezquita
Special Education Teacher / Coordinator
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
My name is Jessica Amezquita (pronounced Amez-keet-a), and I have been a special education teacher for the past 5 years. I have experience working in a variety of settings and with all grade levels, ranging from elementary to high school. It is my passion to support all students, and I am an advocate for inclusion for all. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Education Specialist Credential |
|
| Education: | |
|
I received my Special Education undergraduate degree and credential at California State University Los Angeles (CSULA) and will be earning my Master’s Degree in Special Education from CSULA as well. |
|

Jessica Argueta
Accounts Payable
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |
|
Associate of Arts, Early Childhood Education (in progress) |
|

Richard Bin
Spanish Language Arts Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
Hola, soy el Sr. Bin, maestro de español. Nací en Los Ángeles y soy de padres cubanos. Hace más de 25 años que soy maestro. Tengo una hija y un hijo. Me gusta ser muy activo. Me gusta ir de caminatas, jugar deportes, jugar con mis perros y montar motocicleta. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Clear Single Subject Teaching Credential, Foreign Language: Spanish Youth Mental Health First Aid USA Adult and Child CPR/First Aid |
|
| Education: | |
|
Master of Arts, School Leadership Program Single Subject (Secondary Education) Clear Credential Program |
|

Karl Castellon
Student Services Aide
Send email
| About me: | |
|---|---|
| I have 4 years working at LAAAE, I attended LAAAE from 6th to 12th Grades. I am currently working towards my Master’s in Public Administration at Cal State LA. | |
| Credential(s): | |
|
Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross Substitute Permit |
|
| Education: | |
|
BA in Political Science, Master’s Public Administration (In Progress)
|
|

Kate Chambers
English Language Arts Teacher
Send email
| About me: | |
|---|---|
| Hi! I’m Ms. Chambers. I’m a lifelong Californian with a passion for building community and empowering youth through equitable education. I’m committed to creating a classroom that welcomes all students and gives them a place to grow and learn while feeling seen and supported. When I’m not corralling a gaggle of teens in the classroom, I spend my time napping, cooking, and exploring California’s natural treasures. | |
| Credential(s): | |
|
Preliminary Single Subject Credential: English California Commission on Teacher Credentialing Adult and Child CPR/First Aid Becoming Aces Aware in California Youth Mental Health First Aid USA |
|
| Education: | |
|
Bachelor of Arts, History with a minor in Human Sexuality
University of California, Davis
Single Subject Credential Program, English Education
California State University Long Beach
|
|

Mercedes Cordova
Food Services Manager
Send email
| About me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
|
California Food Handler Certificate Adult and Child CPR/First Aid |
|
| Education: | |

Manuel Cordova
Student Services Specialist
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Youth Mental Health First Aid USA Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |

Manuel Cordova
Campus Aide
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Youth Mental Health First Aid USA Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |

Diego Diaz
Para Professional
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
I was born in Guatemala, and I immigrated to the U.S. at the age of three. I am the first in my family to have a bachelor’s degree. I am currently in my 7th year working here at LAAAE. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |
|
BA Psychology at Cal State LA |
|

Brent Eldridge
English Language Development Teacher / Coordinator
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |

Moctesuma Esparza
Board of Directors Chair
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Education: | |
|
Master of Fine Arts, Theater, Film and Television Bachelor of Arts, Theater, Film and Television |
|

Moniel Flores
Para Professional
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |
| Bachelor of Science, Computer Engineering California State University, Fullerton |
|

Rafael Flores
Van Driver / Campus Support Staff
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |

Timothy Flores
Math Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
I have travelled to at least four different states to play in National Yu-gi-oh tournaments. I am really interested in anime, League of Legends, and playing basketball. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |
|
Bachelor of Arts, Mathematics, Clear Teaching Credential, Mathematics California State University of Fullerton |
|

Sergio German
Digital Media Arts Teacher / Station Manager
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| For the last 10 years, I have been a professional touring musician as well as a recording engineer. I’m also an avid FC Barcelona fan. | |
| Credential(s): | |
|
Clear Career Technical Education Teaching Credential, Arts, Media, and Entertainment Youth Mental Health First Aid USA National Council for Behavioral Health Adult and Child CPR/First Aid |
|
| Education: | |
|
Master of Music, Music Production (in progress)
Berklee College of Music
Bachelor of Arts, Digital Media Arts – Audio Engineering
California State University, Dominguez Hills Associate of Arts, Commercial Music
Cerritos College Career Technical Education Clear Credential Program
University of San Diego |
|

Nanzi Gonzales
Academic Advisor
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |
| Associate of Science, Early Childhood Education (in progress) Los Angeles City College |
|

Ernesto Gonzalez
History Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| I enjoy geography/history and there’s nothing better than getting to know places than on a bicycle! I’ve traveled extensively in North America on bike and actively recruit family and friends to join me. | |
| Credential(s): | |
|
Clear Single Subject Teaching Credential: Social Science Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |
| Bachelor of Science, Social Science, Minor, Spanish California Polytechnic State University, Pomona |
|

Amanda Goodwin
Mathematics Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
Hi! I’m heading into my 10th year of teaching, and I’m convinced that real learning starts with real connections. Beyond academics, I’m always here to offer guidance, encouragement, or just a listening ear. When the school day’s over, you’ll probably find me doom scrolling on social media, bingeing my favorite shows, or hunting down the next item for my ever-growing Powerpuff Girls collection. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
| Clear Single Subject Teaching Credential, Mathematics Specific Supplementary Authorization, Psychology, California Commission on Teacher Credentialing | |
| Education: | |
| Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum & Instruction Concordia University Single Subject Credential Program, Mathematics Education California State University, Long Beach Bachelor of Arts, Psychology California State University, Long Beach | |

Ana Grajeda
Parent Coordinator
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
Ana Grajeda, Parent Coordinator committed to our community for over 20 years. I founded the recruitment team for the school, and have been a part of organizing the administrator work. I have collaborated with the school administrative team and organized events in the community, engaging with other community partners to promote the school. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Basic Food Safety Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross Blood Pathogens, Epinephrine Auto-Injections, Health Emergencies , Medication Administration Basics, Mandated Reporter, Cert Certified (Community Emergency Response Team) |
|
| Education: | |
|
Career Technical Education Clear Credential Program (in progress) |
|

Trenton Hart
History Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
Hello Everyone! I’m Mr. Hart, and I am an avid reader and overall nerd. I believe that history is the answer to any question about our world. I strive to bring this questioning and critical thinking into my classroom. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Single Subject Teaching Credential: History |
|
| Education: | |
|
BA History – Cal State LA, MA History – CSULA |
|

Darren Hayakawa
Physical Education
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Adult and Child CPR/First Aid |
|
| Education: | |

Rosa Jimenez
Meal Services
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
|
California Food Handler Certificate Adult and Child CPR/First Aid |
|
| Education: | |

Vanessa Lopez
Para Professional
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Adult and Child CPR/First Aid |
|
| Education: | |

Julia Lathin
Art Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
I am originally from Michigan and have been living in California for the past ten years. When I’m not at school, you can typically find me at my ceramics studio or spending time with my friends. I am definitely a homebody. I love to stay in with my cats, Bert and Ernie, and read a good book. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Clear California Teaching Credentials in Art and Latin |
|
| Education: | |
|
BA: Classical Studies at Michigan State University, MA: Education at University of Michigan, Ed.D.: Educational Leadership in progress at CSU Long Beach |
|

Lori Lopez
Assistant Principal
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| I am a first generation college student and the first in my family to obtain a Master’s Degree. I was a College Counselor for 4 years and an Academic Counselor (high school) for 8 years. I am committed to leading with a student-centered approach and fostering positive learning environments where students feel valued and empowered. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my two children, listening to music, and being outdoors. I love hiking, running, and weight training. | |
| Credential(s): | |
|
Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential, Preliminary Administrative Credential |
|
| Education: | |
|
Bachelor of Arts, Ethnic Studies University of California, Riverside Master of Education, School Counseling University of Southern California Master of Education, Principal Leadership Institute University of California, Los Angeles |
|

Timothy Lynch
English Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| I am a published author who grew up in Whittier, California, and currently resides in Los Angeles. I am passionate about reading, writing, and learning. Education runs in my family. My grandmother was a middle school English teacher, and my mother was a librarian. In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, exploring nature, and rock climbing. | |
| Credential(s): | |
|
Single Subject Teaching Credential, English |
|
| Education: | |
|
Bachelor’s of Arts, English California State University, Fullerton |
|

Alejandro Macias
Principal
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
|
|
|
| Education: | |
|
Master of Arts, Educational Leadership Master of Science, Counseling Bachelor of Arts, Psychology |
|

Eileen Quinones
Office Manager
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |
| Associate of Arts, Childhood Development (in progress) Los Angeles City College |
|

Samuel Restrepo
Science Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Dog lover, Avid traveler focusing on America’s National Park, Avid Environmentalist, Visual Artist, Health and Fitness Enthusiast. Life too short to lament the small things, protect this planet because its our only one! | |
| Credential(s): | |
| Clear Single Subject Teaching Credential, Science: Chemistry Clear Single Subject Teaching Credential, Science: Geosciences General Education Limited Assignment Permit, Science: Biological Sciences California Commission on Teacher Credentialing |
|
| Education: | |
| Master of Arts in Education, Secondary Teacher Education University of Phoenix Bachelor of Science, Geology |
|

Adely Rosales
Para Professional
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |

Zuleyma Salguero
Van Driver / Campus Support Staff
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |

Giselle Sierra
Para Professional
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |

Burke (Trey) Smith
Para Professional
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
I love movies, playing music, board games, soccer and working with the most amazing students in the world at LAAAE. Going into my second year here as a paraprofessional, I’m proud to say I’m always learning. To all the students, I can’t wait to learn together. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |
| Bachelor of Arts, Cinema and Television Art/Screenwriting California State University, Northridge |
|

Jeffrey Valdez
Science Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Name’s Jeffrey Valdez, lover of literature and fun scientific facts that may cause eyerolls! I love encouraging students to have positive mindsets and to think and push themselves. I hope to have another great year | |
| Credential(s): | |
| General Science: Physics California Commission on Teacher Credentialing |
|
| Education: | |
|
Bachelor of Science, Physics |
|

Kimberly Wakefield
Business Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Before becoming a teacher, I worked in information technology for an investment management company, followed by a decade of owning and operating a youth sports company. I love showing students how business skills can open doors in many different fields. Outside of school, you’ll often find me gaming on my computer, reading a good book, or enjoying a soccer match. | |
| Credential(s): | |
| Preliminary CTE Credential, LACOE / University of San Diego | |
| Education: | |
|
BA, Loyola Marymount University; MBA, Quantic School of Business and Technology |
|

John Wong
Mathematics Teacher
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
|
My favorite quote is to work hard, be kind, and stay humble. |
|
| Credential(s): | |
|
Clear Single Subject Teaching Credential in Mathematics. |
|
| Education: | |
|
B.S. Mathematics |
|

Monica Daniels
Director of Development
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Adult and Child CPR/First Aid American Red Cross |
|
| Education: | |

David Calvo
Board of Directors Member
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Committed to equitable public education, I am a student-centered educator with 25+ years of predominantly serving minority student populations. Like most of the students I have served, I am was a first-generation college graduate. Entering public education as a teacher’s assistant, I have since led and worked with multiple schools across the United States. | |
| Credential(s): | |
|
Clear Administrative Services Credential Certified Chief Business Official Youth Mental Health First Aid USA National Council for Behavioral Health |
|
| Education: | |
|
Global Executive Doctor of Education Certificate, School Business Management Master of Science, Educational Leadership Bachelor of Public Administration |
|

Tonantzin Esparza
Board of Directors Member
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Education: | |
|
Master of Arts, Business, Entrepreneurship and Media Bachelor of Arts, Theater |
|

Norma Orcí
Board of Directors Member
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Education: | |

Otto Padrón
Board of Directors Member
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Education: | |
|
Master of Strategic Studies Master of Business Administration Intermediate Level Education Bachelor of Science in Communications, Broadcast Journalism Associate of Arts |
|

Hector Orcí
Board of Directors Vice-Chair
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Education: | |
|
Master of Arts, Economics Bachelor of Arts, International Relations |
|

Julio Vallejo
Board of Directors Secretary/Treasurer
Send email
| About Me: | |
|---|---|
| Credential(s): | |
| Education: | |
|
Certificate, Business and Management of Entertainment Bachelor of Arts, Economics |
|



