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TEACHING TEAM

Meet the educators who guide learning, build relationships, and support children’s growth.

GREEN HILLS

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Tiffany
Center Director

Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Adolescent Development with a concentration in School Age Child and Family, and a minor in Mathematics from San Francisco State University, Tiffany's educational foundation is both rich and diverse. She began her journey in education at Kumon, facilitating students in mathematics. Later, she played an instrumental role at Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youths, leading and organizing activities while also assisting with the Physics of Engineering class. Her passion for math led her to teach at San Francisco Math Circle during her college years, where she presented mathematical concepts through engaging games. Tiffany's skill set includes a deep understanding of child development, proficiency in lesson planning, and certifications in first aid and CPR. Beyond her professional realm, Tiffany relishes watching movies, designing stickers, and journeying to new places. She believes in nurturing creativity and critical thinking in her students, guiding them towards achieving their best potential.

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Keziah
Teacher

Coming Soon! --

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Alex
Teacher

Alexandra, a student at Skyline College, has a background in coaching soccer for young children and teaching swimming at La Petite Baleen. Her diverse experiences also include serving as a barista at Caffee Roma. Outside of work, she relishes beach trips, playing soccer, and snowboarding.

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Loraine
Teacher

Loraine has over 15 years of customer service experience, sharpening her communication skills throughout her career. Having dedicated 13 years as a full-time mother, she brings a wealth of hands-on experience in child-rearing to the team. Loraine's downtime often involves crafty adventures or live shows with her beloved daughter.

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Janet
Teacher

Janet earned her Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Skyline College and her Bachelor of Arts in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing from San Francisco State University. She is also TEFL (Teacher of English to Foreign Learners) certified through Oxford Seminars. Janet has worked as a Preschool, School-Age, and Junior High English Teacher, where she designed engaging lesson plans to introduce English in fun and accessible ways for students ages 5–16. She has also worked as a Preschool Teacher in an outdoor program centered on exploration and building trusting, meaningful relationships in nature. Most recently, she worked in a family-run daycare setting, where she facilitated daily projects and fostered a safe, nurturing environment for young children. Janet’s strengths include Montessori teaching philosophy, lesson planning, parent-teacher communication, and early childhood development. She is First Aid certified and proficient in Google Suite, allowing her to stay organized and connected with families. Outside of work, Janet loves being a mom of two and enjoys riding bicycles and bike-packing with her family. She has practiced Polynesian dance for over 16 years and enjoys gardening, especially learning about and applying the benefits of plants and herbs as medicine.

MJ
MJ
Teacher

MJ is a School-Age Teacher at our Green Hills location. He brings a unique blend of experience to his role, having previously provided child care and supervision at At Home Senior Support Care. Prior to that, he worked as an Associate Banker at Chase Bank, where he developed personal and financial skills. In his free time, he enjoys working out, playing video games, spending time with friends and family, and taking his dog on walks.

Jay
Jay
Teacher

Jay is currently studying for a Bachelor of Arts in History at San Francisco State University. She has volunteered at various schools, working closely with children. At Buchser Middle School, Jay assisted special needs children with classwork and homework, and prior to that, he served as a camp counselor at Saint Simon's School, working with school-age children. In his free time, Jay enjoys reading novels and writing short stories.

renee
Renee
Teacher

Renee is currently studying to earn her associate's degree. Before joining Happy Hall, she worked as a sandwich artist at Subway. In her free time, Renee enjoys playing soccer and volunteering to work with pets.

LOMITA PARK

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Conner
Center Director

With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Sonoma State University and currently pursuing a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide, Conner brings a rich blend of academic knowledge and practical experience. He began his journey with school-aged children in 2017 and further expanded his skills in a residential treatment center, addressing the needs of children facing emotional and behavioral challenges. Now, as Intervention Specialist, Conner assists across Happy Hall sites, offering his expertise in behavioral intervention, parent-teacher communication, and more. In his downtime, Conner enjoys disc golfing, hiking, rock climbing, and is an avid fan of hockey, particularly the SJ Sharks. He firmly believes, "Students don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." -John C. Maxwell.

emely
Emely
Teacher

Emely is preparing to start nursing school next year to pursue her LVN, with the goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. She previously worked as a nurse assistant at Cadence, where she helped patients with their daily routines and activities. Before that, she gained experience at a long-term care facility, starting as a Healthcare Provider (HCP) and earning her nurse assistant license, accompanying patients to their medical appointments. In her free time, Emely enjoys painting, walking on the beach, and visiting the aquarium and zoo with her family.

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Karenna
Teacher

Coming Soon! --

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Valeria
Teacher

Valeria is a dedicated and compassionate School-Age Teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with an Emphasis in Elementary Education from San Francisco State University. She is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, also at SFSU, and is expected to graduate in December 2025. Her academic background reflects a deep commitment to understanding how children learn and thrive. Valeria has hands-on experience supporting young learners in both classroom and home settings. As a classroom volunteer, she collaborated with a bilingual second-grade teacher to support hands-on science and social-emotional learning lessons, guided small group activities, and encouraged positive peer interaction and bilingual language development. In her experience as a babysitter and caregiver, she has provided nurturing, individualized care for children ages 2–12, planning creative and engaging activities that foster curiosity, growth, and confidence. Outside of work, Valeria enjoys reading, baking new recipes, and playing Fortnite with friends. She also loves running and hiking in her free time. She believes that children learn best when they feel seen, supported, and free to explore who they are.

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Brianna
Lead Teacher

Brianna is currently earning her B.A. in Child & Adolescent Development with a concentration in Community, Health, & Social Services. She has experience in child development and family engagement across both early childhood and school-age programs. As a Family Engagement Coordinator at BACR, she built strong connections between families and after-school programs through communication, events, and resources. Previously, as a Program Leader, she led after-school classes, managed behavior, and supported students academically. She has also worked as a Teacher Assistant in preschool and summer programs, helping create positive learning environments. Brianna is passionate about fostering supportive spaces where children thrive and families feel connected. In her free time, she enjoys going for walks and hikes, exploring new food and coffee spots, and spending quality time with loved ones. Her favorite quote is: "Be the person your younger self needed."

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Gabi
Teacher

Gabi previously worked at KE Camps, specifically at the Green Hills Country Club location. Her daily routine included taking attendance, organizing group ice breakers, and preparing children for the day's activities. She also assisted the camp director in planning games and activities that were fun and engaging for all age groups. In her free time, Gabi enjoys going to the beach, embarking on long hikes, and doing fun activities with friends. Her guiding principle is, "Your belief in your students makes them believe in themselves."

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Meghan
Teacher

Meghan is currently working toward her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She brings a diverse background in childcare and customer service, having worked as a Swimaid teacher, as well as a babysitter and nanny for children of various ages. Her experience working with children from early childhood through the teen years has helped her build strong classroom management skills and create a supportive, structured environment where students can feel confident and successful. Beyond teaching, Meghan has skills in cooking, baking, and computer programming, which allow her to bring creativity and problem-solving into her work. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, baking, cooking, studying car mechanics, playing with her pets, and shopping. She lives by the motto: “If you want something done right, do it yourself.”

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Allison
Teacher

Allison enjoys creating a fun and supportive environment for children. She has gained valuable experience working with youth through her role as a camp counselor over the past two summers. During her time there, she guided children through a variety of activities, ensuring their safety while helping them make lasting memories. Before that, Allison worked as a sales associate, where she developed strong communication and organizational skills while assisting customers and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. Her friendly and patient nature shines through in all her work with children. Outside of the classroom, Allison enjoys spending time at the beach or lake, swimming, journaling, scrapbooking, and making friendship bracelets. She also loves babysitting her nieces and sharing creative activities with them. Allison is inspired by the belief that “Your mind will always believe what you tell it… tell it positive, happy, and optimistic things!”

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Jackie
Teacher

Jackie is currently studying Child Development at the College of San Mateo. She brings warmth, patience, and strong communication skills to her work with children and families. Jackie has hands-on experience supporting students through volunteer and childcare roles. She served as a group leader for sixth graders at an outdoor education program, where she planned engaging activities and encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones. She also worked as a sitter, providing daily care, support, and companionship for children after school. These experiences helped her develop key strengths in classroom management and parent-teacher communication. Outside of work, Jackie enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, going out with friends, and keeping her space clean and organized. She lives by the simple but powerful motto: “Be patient.”

Nuku
Nuku
Teacher

Nuku is a School-Age Teacher at our Lomita Park location. He brings a diverse background of experience, having worked as a swim coach, football coach, and fire extinguisher technician. In his free time, Vaenuku enjoys Olympic weightlifting and playing video games.

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Ahtziri
Teacher

Ahtziri enjoys building positive relationships with children and helping them grow in a supportive environment. She has experience working with young learners through volunteer programs and group activities, where she guided children ages 5–7 and helped foster teamwork, curiosity, and kindness. In addition to her work with children, Ahtziri has also developed strong communication and organizational skills through customer service experience, where she learned the importance of patience, collaboration, and attention to detail. She brings these same qualities into her classroom each day. Outside of teaching, Ahtziri enjoys expressing her creativity through drawing and baking homemade treats. She believes in treating every child with genuine respect, embracing her philosophy that children are simply smaller humans deserving of the same care and understanding as adults.

Janetzy
Janetzy
Teacher

Janetzy is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology at San Francisco State University. She has dedicated her time to various organizations, including the Mid-Peninsula Boys & Girls Club, where she worked at different sites like Lomita Park and Taylor Middle School. She has also worked with Elevo, focusing on the San Bruno School District at John Muir and Belle Air Elementary. At both, Janetzy was responsible for creating curriculum and fostering a healthy, interactive environment for students to grow. In her free time, Janetzy enjoys drawing and using her art to express her love for her Latino community. She also loves hiking, attending concerts, and exploring new coffee shops. Her motto is, "Échale ganas!"

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Soemi
Teacher

Soemi is currently attending Skyline College and brings with her a wealth of experience. She formerly served as an After-School Teacher for CAM Educational Services, aiding K-5 students with homework and designing fun art activities. When she's not focusing on classroom management and nurturing a positive learning environment, Soemi enjoys spending quality time at the gym and with her loved ones.

MEADOWS

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Marina
Center Director

Marina started with Happy Hall Schools over 20 years ago, working as a teacher at our preschool. In 1999, Marina joined our Happy Hall Meadows Before & After School program, where she is now the director. Children are the center of Marina’s work, and she works hard to create an inclusive and caring environment that support social and emotional growth. This is Marina’s fourth year as Camp Director. Marina works with the Rachel Heck, Program Director to develop curriculum and ensure that the program is safe and appropriate for all of the ages that we serve. Marina attended Skyline college where she received her education in Early Childhood Education. Marina developed both an archery outreach program and Judo programs for children. Marina has a passion for the outdoors and cooking. When Marina is not at work, it’s safe to say you’ll find her running on the Pacific coast or baking something delicious. Marina and her husband have two grown children. Her philosophy: "Kind Minds, Kind Words, Kind Hearts."

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Ambrose
Teacher

A lifelong member of the Happy Hall family, Ambrose graduated with an AA in History. From being a student at Happy Hall to volunteering during his teenage years, he officially joined the team in 2021. With strengths in classroom management, parent-teacher communication, and early child development, Ambrose is also CPR certified. Off duty, he delves into hiking, indulges in metal music, and enjoys DnD, history, basketball, and drawing.

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Leah
Teacher

Leah is pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in English from San Francisco State University and has previously worked as a substitute assistant teacher and nanny. She brings a wealth of experience in classroom management and child care to Happy Hall. In her free time, Leah enjoys reading, cooking, baking, and spending time with her girlfriend.

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Emma
Lead Teacher

Emma holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Oregon and is currently working towards her teaching credential in the Pathway to Teaching Program. She has a rich history of working with children through community service and at Girl Scout camp. Organized, creative, and passionate, Emma loves to spend her free time outdoors with her dogs and boyfriend.

Chris
Chris
Teacher

Chris is a dedicated Teacher with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from the University of California Santa Barbara. With experience at several different programs, he specializes in teaching STEM subjects such as robotics, programming, and game design. Passionate about fostering a nurturing environment, he prioritizes effective classroom management and clear communication with parents. In his free time, he indulges in hobbies like building Legos, reading, and enjoying music, often accompanied by walks with his beloved dog.

Samantha
Samantha
Teacher

Samantha attended the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a Minor in Gender and Women’s Studies. She also completed her Associate Degree for Transfer in Political Science at Norco College. Previously, Samantha worked as a Kodely Leader, where she facilitated hands-on STEAM and coding workshops for K–6 students, promoting creativity and problem-solving skills. She adapted lesson plans to meet students’ needs and developed strong classroom management skills to ensure a positive and engaging learning environment. Before that, she worked at the Gender Equity Resource Center at UC Berkeley, where she coordinated logistics for educational events focused on gender equity, wellness, and social justice. She also collaborated with student organizations and campus partners to support LGBTQIA+, feminist, and anti-violence programming on campus. In her free time, Samantha enjoys spending time with friends and family, thrifting and experimenting with fashion, and attending live music events.

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Ali
Teacher

Ali holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from San Francisco State University. With a strong background in youth development, Ali has worked with children and teens across a range of programs, including community centers and youth organizations. Their experience includes roles at the Daly City Youth Health Center, the Islamic Center of San Francisco, and the Center for Social Dynamics. In these positions, he oversaw daily programming, provided mentorship, and created supportive environments that encouraged growth, responsibility, and connection among students from elementary through high school. Through this work, Ali has helped countless young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, and strengthen their sense of community and resilience. Outside of work, he enjoys watching the Food Network, experimenting with new recipes, and staying active through exercise and outdoor adventures, whether walking or biking around the city. At home, they love spending time with their two cats and their family.

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Hayley
Teacher

Hayley is currently pursuing a B.S. in Psychology at San Francisco State University. Before joining Happy Hall, she worked as a server and served as the president of a nonprofit called 4-H, where she guided children aged 5-18 through hands-on projects with the goal to "learn by doing." Hayley loves spending time outdoors, camping, hiking, and playing sports. She also enjoys trying new restaurants. She is inspired by the words of Whitney Houston: “The children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way.”

Stephanie
Stephanie
Teacher

Stephanie has a strong foundation in psychology and child development. After graduating from Lowell High School in 2019, she attended San Francisco State University, where she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Her experience includes working as a Registered Behavior Technician, providing direct behavioral therapy to children with autism. In that role, she collaborated closely with families and BCBAs to ensure the success of individualized plans. Stephanie has also worked as a youth coach, where she promoted sportsmanship, perseverance, and skill development in a positive, goal-oriented environment. Outside of the classroom, Stephanie enjoys listening to music, playing video games, and discovering new Netflix shows. She also prioritizes staying active, finds peace in watching sunsets, and values activities that help her relax and recharge.

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Allan
Teacher

Allan joined our team with a diverse background, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Drama from San Francisco State University and associates in Theatre and Communication. Before transitioning to education, Allan honed his skills in client interactions and problem-solving as the Graphics Lead for Automated Building Control Solutions and in retail customer service, where he expertly navigated challenging situations. Outside of the classroom, he's passionate about video games, sports, fantasy literature, and acting.

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Lauren
Teacher

Lauren studied Business Administration at Cuesta College and earned her BBA from the College of Notre Dame. She currently works as a behavior specialist and certified special education paraprofessional at Meadows Elementary. Prior to this role, Lauren served as a board member for the Portola Valley Schools Foundation and worked in corporate client services at Shearson Lehman before becoming a mother of three sons. Passionate about supporting children, she believes that “Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world,” and emphasizes, “Children are great imitators. So give them something great to imitate.” In her free time, Lauren enjoys hiking local trails, golfing, cooking, discovering new restaurants, and traveling, with the Amalfi Coast and Budapest being her favorite destinations.

ORTEGA

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Nichole
Center Director

Nichole began her career in early childhood education in 2006 as an aide, a role that sparked her passion for working with children and inspired her to continue her growth in the field. Over the years, she has gained experience as both a teacher and an assistant director, developing strong skills in leadership, curriculum support, and family communication. After a brief hiatus, Nichole returned to the field in 2022 with TTT, and in 2024 she proudly joined Happy Hall Schools, where she continues to make a positive impact on young learners. She is CPR/First Aid certified and values creating a safe, caring, and engaging environment for every child. Nichole is passionate about supporting children’s development and loves being a part of their learning journey. Outside of work, Nichole enjoys spending time with her family, visiting Disneyland, and caring for her horse, activities that reflect her adventurous and nurturing spirit.

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JT
Teacher

JT is currently attending Skyline College while continuing to build experience in education and youth programs. Previously, he has worked as an Assistant Lead, as well as gaining experience in a variety of customer service and animal care roles that strengthened his ability to multitask, adapt, and connect with people. In his free time, JT enjoys skateboarding, surfing, mountain biking, dirt biking, and playing the guitar. Always seeking personal growth, he also enjoys reading self-help books and lives by the philosophy: “Expect nothing, appreciate everything.”

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Bennet
Teacher

Bennet is currently pursuing an AA in Music Performance at Skyline Community College. He has experience as both a Youth Development Professional and a Program Coordinator, where he supported students through classroom conflict resolution, managed curriculum and daily schedules, planned engaging activities, and built strong communication with families. Outside of work, Bennet is passionate about music and the arts. He is a member of the Mandarins Drum and Bugle Corps, a professional marching band that tours nationally during the summer, and has also performed with other ensembles across California. Beyond music, Bennet enjoys drawing his own comics and creating original characters as a creative outlet.

Melissa
Melissa
Teacher

Melissa attended City College of San Francisco and is now entering her second year at Ortega. She brings with her a background in retail and theatre, and has enjoyed growing her experience working with children. In her free time, Melissa is an avid gamer, with a special love for Nintendo Switch games—though the Wii will always hold a nostalgic place in her heart. She also enjoys dancing, bringing her fun, energetic spirit into everything she does.

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James
Teacher

James is a School-Age Teacher with over a decade of experience working in afterschool programs and youth development. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism from San Francisco State University. Throughout his career, James has served in a variety of roles, including Assistant Site Director at a youth organization, where he helped oversee daily operations and program management. He has also worked as a Recreation Specialist, designing activities and enrichment opportunities for children of all ages. In addition, James has coached youth basketball for more than ten years, including time with the Golden State Warriors’ youth program, where he emphasized teamwork, discipline, and skill development. Outside of teaching, James enjoys playing basketball, spending time with friends and family, and exploring nature with walks on the beach or through Golden Gate Park. He is also an avid sports card collector and enjoys sharing his collection with students, sparking conversations and connections. James is guided by the belief that “Success is a journey, not a destination.” – Bill Russell

JOanie
Joanie
Teacher

Joanie holds an Associate of Arts degree from Lone Star College in Houston, TX. She has extensive experience as a personal caregiver, providing care for family members through injury, illness, and end-of-life, which often included childcare responsibilities. In her free time, Joanie enjoys writing, cooking, birdwatching, and traveling.

SPRING VALLEY

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Charisma
Center Director

Charisma, with a background in Child Development from Skyline College, has experience teaching at Building Kids Preschool and assisting at Temporary Tot Tending. Specializing in early childhood development, she has a flair for creating curriculum and leading interactive sessions. Outside of work, Charisma loves dining out, pilates, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Eating Watermelon
Gissell
Teacher

Gissell holds a high school diploma and a business certification. She previously worked at Chuck E. Cheese, where she took on various roles, including cashier, party host, and Kid Check, ensuring children were safely leaving with the correct families. Through these experiences, Gissell developed skills in customer service, event planning, and safety management. In her free time, she enjoys painting, doing nails, and exploring new foods and places. She is inspired by the quote from The Alchemist, “Life will be a party for you, a grand festival, because life is the moment we’re living right now.”

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Raymart
Teacher

Equipped with a B.S. in Cognitive Science from UC San Diego and Associate degrees in Computer and Information Science and Mathematics, Raymart has a diverse educational background. He has previously led technology workshops for children, focusing on coding, robotics, and game development. In addition, he's played a crucial role as a Resident Advisor at UCSD, ensuring the safety and community development of his residents. In his free time, Raymart relishes backpacking, martial arts, music festivals, reading, and playing video games.

Rika
Rika
Lead Teacher

Rika earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication and brings years of experience working with children and teens. She previously worked as a camp counselor for eight years, where she supported campers in building confidence, teamwork, and social skills in a fun and structured environment. Rika has also worked as a soccer coach in San Francisco for children ages 4–17. She observed her players during games and implemented targeted trainings based on performance and areas for growth, helping them strengthen both their athletic skills and teamwork. Through these experiences, she has developed strong leadership, communication, and classroom management skills. In her free time, Rika enjoys playing soccer, exploring new coffee and matcha shops, thrifting, and listening to music. She loves collecting CDs and records and is always excited to discover new artists.

Lauren
Lauren
Teacher

Lauren is a passionate School-Age Teacher who enjoys creating active, engaging learning experiences for children. She is currently enrolled at Skyline College, furthering her education while bringing hands-on experience to her teaching role. Lauren’s background includes working as a summer camp instructor, where she guided children through a variety of outdoor activities such as biking, rock climbing, stand-up paddleboarding, and mountain biking. She has also held a leadership role as a camp director, where she designed curriculum, led small groups, and supported children in developing both athletic and teamwork skills. These experiences shaped her ability to prioritize safety, foster growth, and inspire confidence in children through active exploration and play. Outside of teaching, Lauren loves spending time outdoors—hiking, backpacking, and staying active at the gym. She also enjoys traveling, discovering new restaurants, and watching or playing sports. Her energy and enthusiasm extend beyond the classroom, making her a positive role model for the students she supports.

Bella
Bella
Teacher

Bella is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology at Skyline Community College. She brings a warm and positive energy to her classroom, helping students feel supported and encouraged to grow both academically and personally. Before entering the education field, Bella worked as a checker, where she developed strong communication and interpersonal skills by engaging with a wide range of people. She now applies those skills to her teaching, fostering meaningful connections with students and families. Bella is also experienced in using Google Classroom, 1 Core, and is skilled in classroom management, lesson planning, and supplies tracking, ensuring an organized and engaging environment for her students. Outside of work, Bella enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and dogs. She loves playing soccer and attending football games to cheer on her brother. She is inspired by the quote, “No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.”

Madison
Madison
Teacher

Pursuing her Bachelor's in Child & Adolescent Development at San Francisco State University, Ava previously interned as an Assistant Teacher at Northmont Elementary School, aiding in lesson plans and parent-teacher communication. She possesses adept skills in classroom management and lesson planning. In her downtime, Ava cherishes outdoor activities and reading.

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Gabriella
Teacher

Gabriella holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and brings her passion for working with children into her role at Happy Hall. She previously worked as a Lunch Care, After School Care, and PE Teacher at an elementary school, where she led arts and crafts, games, and outdoor activities. In her after school program, Gabriella created lesson plans that introduced students to sports skills such as serving in volleyball and shooting a basketball. Outside of work, Gabriella enjoys listening to music, watching movies, reading, going to the gym, and exploring new food spots. She also loves both playing and watching basketball—her favorite team to cheer for is the Golden State Warriors. Inspired by her favorite quote from Kobe Bryant, she believes, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.”

Mary Lou
Mary Lou
Teacher

Mary Lou previously worked as a daycare teacher assistant at Building Kidz Pacifica, where she developed a passion for early childhood education. There, she gained experience directing curriculum for 2-3-year-olds, engaging with parents, and ensuring a safe learning environment. In her free time, Mary Lou enjoys painting and cooking, with pasta being her favorite dish to make. She is guided by the philosophy, “I will water your seeds until you become the most beautiful flower this world has ever seen.”

SUNSET RIDGE

Laura
Laura
Center Director

Laura's career in child development and education spans over two decades, beginning in the special education department of the Jefferson School District. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to enriching the lives of children with diverse needs. Laura's dedication to fostering growth and development in young learners led her to transition to the Physical Education Department, where she worked with kindergarten through 6th graders, further showcasing her versatility and passion for education. In 1998, Laura joined TTT at the Fairmont location, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in her career. Her dedication and hard work within the organization were evident, leading to her later transfer to the Sunset Ridge site. These roles have allowed Laura to make a lasting impact on countless young lives, guiding them with expertise and compassion. In 2024, Laura embraced a new opportunity as she joined Happy Hall Schools. This position allowed her to apply her extensive experience and insights into a broader leadership capacity, continuing her mission to nurture and inspire the next generation. Outside of her professional life, Laura cherishes the time spent with her family. Married with two grown children, she finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as cooking, enjoying family gatherings, and supporting her niece at softball games. Laura's life outside work is as enriching as her career, filled with moments that reflect her nurturing spirit. Laura is also CPR and First Aid Certified, ensuring she is prepared to provide a safe and supportive environment for all children under her care. Her journey is a testament to her enduring commitment to education and her role as a positive influence in the lives of both her family and the children she serves.

alicia
Alicia
Lead Teacher

Alicia's journey into the world of early childhood education began at the tender age of 7, rooted in the nurturing environment of her mother's home daycare. This early exposure to childcare sparked a lifelong passion, shaping her aspiration to contribute positively to the child care field. Her role as a teacher is deeply influenced by her belief that education is a two-way street, where she finds herself learning new things from her students every day, a testament to her open-minded and adaptable approach to teaching. In 2024, Alicia brought her wealth of experience and enthusiasm to Happy Hall Schools, taking on the role of a teacher. Her commitment to fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment reflects her understanding of the importance of keeping young minds stimulated and eager to explore the world around them. Outside the classroom, Alicia embraces the great outdoors, finding joy and relaxation in activities such as visiting the beach and immersing herself in the beauty of nature. Her love for music further enriches her life, offering her a source of inspiration and a way to connect with others on a universal level. Dedicated to her professional growth and the well-being of her students, Alicia is currently furthering her education through Early Childhood Education (ECE) courses. Her CPR and First Aid certification underscore her commitment to ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for all her students. Alicia's journey from a young helper in her mother's daycare to a cherished teacher at Happy Hall Schools highlights her lifelong dedication to child care and education, driven by a genuine love for learning and teaching.

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Makayla
Teacher

Makayla earned her Associate degrees in Studio Arts from Chabot College and City College of San Francisco. Her background in the arts allows her to bring creativity, self-expression, and imaginative thinking into her work with students. Previously, Makayla worked in food service and retail, where she developed strong communication, teamwork, and customer service skills. These experiences helped her build patience, adaptability, and the ability to work effectively in fast-paced environments. In her free time, Makayla enjoys reading, painting and drawing, dancing, playing the guitar, and playing games. She loves exploring different forms of creativity and sharing her artistic interests with other PXL_20240830_222456331.PORTRAIT.jpg Alicia Lead Teacher Read more

Robert
Robert
Teacher

Robert embarked on his journey with TTT in 2015, bringing with him a unique blend of skills and life experiences. As a semi-retired automotive tech/mechanic, his transition into the educational sector was inspired by his wife, a fellow TTT colleague, who encouraged him to apply his mentoring abilities and passion for community to the world of early childhood education. Robert quickly discovered that his favorite aspect of working with children was the opportunity to guide them towards becoming good citizens, a testament to his belief in the importance of positive role models in young lives. In 2024, Robert took a significant step forward in his educational career by joining Happy Hall Schools as a teacher. This new role allowed him to further his impact on young learners, continuing to mentor them with the same dedication and commitment that marked his time at TTT. Outside of the classroom, Robert's passions lie in the world of automotive pursuits. He enjoys drag racing and car restoration, hobbies that not only speak to his technical and mechanical expertise but also offer a creative outlet and a sense of thrill and accomplishment. Committed to lifelong learning and professional development, Robert is currently enrolled in Early Childhood Education (ECE) classes, striving to enhance his skills and understanding of child development. Additionally, his CPR and First Aid Certification ensures he is prepared to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for his students. Robert's journey from an automotive technician to a beloved teacher exemplifies the diverse pathways to making a difference in the lives of children, highlighting the value of unique experiences and perspectives in the educational field.

TAYLOR MIDDLE

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Ariel
Center Director

Ariel, a Skyline College associate and a graduate in Education from California State University, previously contributed to the ASES program for Creative Brain in Los Angeles. With strong expertise in classroom management and parent-teacher communication, she now leads as the Director at Taylor Middle School, where she brings her years of experience working with school age and teen children into her leadership role. Beyond her professional dedication, Ariel enriches the school community by sharing her passions for crocheting, hiking, and Tahitian dancing, creating a vibrant and well-rounded environment for students and staff alike

Meg Grahm - TM.jpeg
Meg
Lead Teacher

Meg previously worked at a Camp, where she focused on maintaining a safe and engaging learning environment while adapting lesson plans to meet the unique needs of students. With a passion for creating supportive spaces that foster growth, Meg brings both dedication and creativity to the classroom. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, camping, reading, and learning to play guitar, hobbies that inspire curiosity and balance in everyday life.

DISCOVER

Strata Learning After School brings together homework support, enrichment, and real-world skills development into one consistent experience.

Visit a program, explore how our approach comes to life, and see how children build the skills they actually use every day.

Boy Playing Outside
WHAT FAMILIES ARE SAYING

Both of my kids are at [Strata Learning] at Green Hills. This is the fourth year for my older kid. They are very attentive with the kids. My kids love Ms. Tiffany, the director. The kids always come home and tell us about how much fun and what they do there. [Strata Learning] helps with homework. I have had them help drop off things at the front office and they have never said no. We love [Strata Learning] and know the kids are safe there.

Carol K.

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Strata Learning After School is a program of Strata Learning Collective, which operates as a DBA of Happy Hall Schools, Inc.

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