TEP Current Students

Lanie Allen (She/her) is pursuing her M.Ed and multi-subject teaching credential at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She graduated from UC Santa Barbara in June of 2026, where she received a B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Education. She has dedicated her life to working with children, working as both an assistant teacher at a private Montessori school and a long-term nanny. Lanie is extremely passionate about education and prioritizes creating an inclusive, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment rooted in student voice, empathy, and criticality. In her free time, Lanie enjoys baking, spending time outside, reading novels, crafting, and caring for her extensive plant collection. Lanie can be reached at lallen@ucsb.edu

Ana Aguilar is a teacher candidate pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential with a Bilingual Authorization and M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. As a member of the Mixtec community rooted in Oaxaca, Mexico, she is driven to empower her students through culturally responsive pedagogy. Ana was born and raised in Oxnard, CA, and her commitment to education is rooted in her upbringing surrounded by agricultural fields, where she witnessed the challenges and the strengths of migrant families and the immense resilience they carried through their experiences. She holds a B.A. in Sociology with minors in Educational Studies and Spanish, which she received from UC, Santa Barbara. Her experiences in tutoring, working as an ASP after school leader, and observing various classrooms in Santa Barbara schools fueled her mission in creating inclusive school environments where students are valued, and families feel included in their children’s education. She looks forward to serving the youth in the Santa Barbara and Ventura areas, where she hopes her skills and experiences will serve as a tool to empower her students. During her free time, she loves spending time with her family, sipping on iced coffee, and listening to music as she enjoys nature. Ana can be reached at anaaguilar@ucsb.edu.

Pocholo Anton Purugganan (he/him) is a current teacher candidate pursuing his Single Subject ELA credential and Master's in Education at UC Santa Barbara’s TEP. Pocholo Anton, or Po as he’s often known, was born in the Philippines and raised in Los Angeles, California. He’s returning to UCSB after graduating with high honors, double majoring in English and Anthropology with a minor in Educational Studies. During his Undergraduate time at UCSB, Po worked closely with the Growing Access to Math Engagement (GAME) Project with Professor Rachel Lambert, where he learned the value of making education accessible and, most importantly, fun. School has always been a space marked by self-discovery for Po, and he has adopted an attitude of a lifelong learner—something he intends to instill in his own students.
In his free time, he loves to watch movies, read, and play board games with his friends. Po also has a background in writing the fantastical. As someone who avidly engages in tabletop roleplaying games, such as Dungeons & Dragons, he hopes to channel the power of fantasy to foster creative communities in the classroom. He’s excited to take every part of himself into this career, and create an inclusive space where joy is found in growth. You can reach Po at pocholoanton@ucsb.edu.

Lindsey Arellano (she/her) is a teacher candidate pursuing a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and a Masters in Education. She grew up in Morgan Hill, CA, where her journey towards education started, as her elementary school teachers left a lasting impact on her life. Lindsey graduated from UCSB in 2025 with a Bachelor’s in Sociology. She then spent a year in Gilroy, CA, working as a substitute teacher and as an after school program leader. Working with children during her gap year further confirmed that it brought her the happiness she needed. Ultimately, her goal is to teach at her elementary school back in Morgan Hill, CA. In her free time, Lindsey enjoys cooking, hanging out with her family, and going on fun spontaneous side quests. You can reach Lindsey at Larellano@ucsb.edu. 

Patricia Atmoko (she/her) is an M.Ed candidate pursuing her Multiple Subject in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. Patricia graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a B.S. in Psychological and Brain Sciences, with a minor in Science and Math Education for Elementary Teaching. During her undergraduate years, she dedicated much of her time to the University Children’s Center, working in Toddler classrooms as a Teacher’s Aide. Volunteering with UCSB’s science education outreach program (SciTrek), she learned the importance the hands-on experiences science provides and the ways they extend beyond the classroom. Following her graduation, Patricia applied these practices in the classroom—working as a teacher’s aide, afterschool program instructor, and Science Olympiad coach for an elementary school. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys crocheting, watching movies, and playing games with friends. Patricia can be reached at patmoko@ucsb.edu

Makayla Barkhousen (she/her) is a graduate student pursuing her Single Subject Teaching Credential in Mathematics and M.Ed at UCSB’s Teacher Education Program. She earned a B.S. in Applied Mathematics with a double minor in Education and Statistical Sciences from UCSB in June of 2026. Her passion for mathematics and her drive to help others led her to pursue teaching. From a young age, Makayla has always been excited to help her peers and siblings with their homework, but it wasn’t until her first experience as a classroom volunteer that she realized teaching was her passion. She volunteered in a summer school math classroom where she was able to work directly with one of the students, seeing her growth throughout the summer. Ultimately, Makayla wants to help students see the beauty and creativity of math, while helping them see the purpose it has in their lives by relating it to their passions and future careers. Outside of school, Makayla enjoys being in nature, baking, reading, and spending time with her family and friends. Makayla can be reached at m_barkhousen@ucsb.edu.

Viridiana Barrera, also known as Viri (she/ella) is currently a teacher candidate in the Teacher Education Program at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education. She graduated UCSB in 2021 with a B.A. in Sociology. For nearly the past decade she has worked in educational settings, working for programs that focus on supporting students' needs, both academically and emotionally. She is also an alum of the local school district where she attended SBJH and SBHS. Through her jobs she was able to reconnect with old teachers and meet new educators where she formed relationships impactful enough to feel like she had the support needed to pursue a teaching career. Her goal as a teacher is to give back to the very community that helped her achieve her dreams of higher education as well as show students that school can be, and should be, more than just academics. Through the use of teaching and forming relationships with students, she hopes they can gain a sense of self value and safety in order for them to navigate their educational journey more confidently. She would also like to show students that math isn’t that scary once you get to know it. When she’s not busy with school she likes to listen to music, watch movies and engage in creative hobbies.
Viri can be reached at vbarrera@ucsb.edu
 

Anthony Daniel Bermúdez-Rivas is currently pursuing a Single Subject ELA credential with a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish, and a Masters in Education. He received a Bachelor’s of Arts in English from the University of the Pacific, where he co-taught creative writing classes for high schoolers during the summers, and served as the co-editor-in-chief of the campus’ literary & arts magazine, Calliope. Anthony was born & raised in Los Angeles, which he returned to after earning his bachelor’s degree. There, he spent a year working with elementary students whose primary language was Spanish. Connecting with these students & their perspectives reinvigorated Anthony’s desire to connect with his Salvadoran heritage, and gave direction to his teaching journey: uplifting the underserved Latino students of his community through teaching. This drive to support his community manifests itself in his writing, where Anthony’s Salvadoran-American identity permeates each and every story. Whether he’s trying to get a new story published, reading a book, or doing something teaching-related, Anthony’s listening to music. Headphones, stereo, or car radio—music is always playing around Anthony. Except for when he’s birding, because then he wouldn’t be able to hear the birds. Ask him about any of these things at abermudez-rivas@ucsb.edu

Alexa Blasnek is a candidate in the Teacher Education Program at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master’s Degree in Education. Originally from the Bay Area, she graduated from Saint Mary’s College of California in 2019 with a degree in French. She then spent five years teaching English abroad: one year in France, followed by four years in Japan. Her years as a student in an all-girls school and her experiences as a foreign worker immersed in unfamiliar educational systems have founded her desire to become a teacher who makes school a welcoming environment for every child and adult walking into the classroom. Outside of school, she enjoys baking, reading, trying new coffee shops, and exploring Santa Barbara’s beaches. Alexa can be reached at alexa.blasnek@gmail.com.

Mia Branchal (She/Her) is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and M.Ed. in the Teacher Education Program at UCSB. Mia grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she graduated from NNMC with a B.A. in Early Childhood Education. Mia served in her community as a paraeducator and substitute in Santa Fe Public Schools for five years, before moving to Santa Barbara. After moving to Santa Barbara, she began teaching preschool at UCSB’s Orfalea Children’s Center, where she taught for a year and a half, before beginning the TEP program. She is dedicated to fostering a learning environment where every student feels safe, respected, and empowered. She wants every child to feel capable, included, and valued. Outside of the classroom, Mia enjoys spending time outdoors, whether she is at the beach, camping, gardening, or going on a hike.

Chris Burke (she/her) had a non-traditional educational journey. She grew up in Seattle, Washington as a homeschooler along with her 9 siblings. While this experience gave her many useful life skills, formal education was something she had always desired. By 22 years old, she stepped onto a school campus, for the very first time, as a student at Bellevue College. It was here she discovered Sociology which would ignite a passion for the field. She attained an A.A. with high distinction, but her love for learning drove her to search for more opportunities. Eventually, she made her way to UCSB where she’d participate in the Sociology Honors Program, conducting a mixed-methods research study exploring how family size shapes access to education. In 2023, she graduated with a Bachelors in Sociology, Summa Cum Laude, received the Education Achievement Award, and was selected as the student commencement speaker for the Social Sciences II Ceremony. One year after graduating, her curiosity for education led her to becoming a paraeducator at an elementary school in Montecito; experiencing this level of schooling for the first time at 30 years old. As she supported students across k-6th grade levels, she’d discovered a passion for teaching. Growing up in a large family and learning in informal settings has contributed to her ability to communicate flexibly and creatively with children. She sees formal education as a foundation for long-term agency and participation, particularly at the elementary level where core skills and learning dispositions are first established. She’s committed to creating learning environments where students can engage seriously with academic content, develop confidence in their abilities, participate actively in their own learning, and feel connected to their school community. Outside the classroom, she enjoys connecting with her siblings or snuggling with her cat, cooking up healthy meals, pilates, dancing, and sunset walks on the beach. Chris can be reached at s_c_b@ucsb.edu.

[Kari]na Carachure Angel (she/her) earned her bachelor’s degree in English at UC Berkeley and is now an M.Ed. candidate  pursuing her Single Subject Teaching Credential in English Literature. Karina spent part of her childhood in Guerrero, Mexico and ultimately moved to the U.S. along with her family in the pursuit of better opportunities.Having faced barriers as a first generation student and as an English learner, Karina now hopes to provide students with tools and resources that allow them to find their own voices. After not only mastering the English language, but finding a way to make it her own, Karina discovered her passion for storytelling, and poetry. She previously served as a volunteer in schools and held a long term position as a ParaEducator in SBJH, where she found purpose alongside her students, by showing up each day, and wanting the best for them as she continues to live the reality of a dream she had as a young girl. 

Jennifer Celio-Aburto (she/her/ella) is a graduate student pursuing her M.Ed and Single Subject Teaching Credential, as well as a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish. She graduated from Cal Poly Humboldt with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and International Studies. Jennifer, whose first language is Spanish, is from Eureka, California. While not born in her parents’ motherland, she has strong roots in Michoacán, Mexico. Her inspiration for becoming a teacher stems from the many impactful teachers and mentors who have significantly influenced her life. She aspires to provide the same level of empathy, encouragement, and understanding to her future students. Jennifer’s interest in Spanish language education is driven by the opportunity to share her culture, knowledge, and language with others. She believes this role will allow her to be the representation she once needed, demonstrating to Latino students that their identity and language also have a place in academic spaces. While her commitment extends to all students, she aspires to create the greatest impact specifically among first-generation and Latino students. She is excited to be at UCSB and looks forward to finding a teaching position at a high-need school in the future. Jennifer can be reached at jcc858@ucsb.edu.

Xianjun Chen is a teacher candidate pursuing his Single Subject Teaching Credential in Math and M.Ed. degree at UCSB. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics from the University of California, Davis in 2026. Before coming to UC Davis, he spent two years studying in Minnesota. As an undergraduate, he endeavored to develop skills in math and statistics, and he is interested in applying statistical methods and quantitative reasoning to solve natural and social problems. His academic journey profoundly shaped his career. He was an assistant teacher in local middle and high schools in Davis, practicing his math teaching skills. As a proud Gaucho, he is eager to serve the local school community in Santa Barbara, California, with students from multicultural and multilingual backgrounds.
Born in Mainland China, he is a language master in both Mandarin and English. He has experience working with students who speak Mandarin, in both China and the local school district in Davis, California. He hopes to meet and support more students with language needs in his future teaching career.
Outside of study and work, he likes to travel around the world. He has been to Hokkaido, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, Germany, Canada, Puerto Rico, and many states across the US, including Illinois, Florida, New York, Texas, North Carolina, Nevada, and California. If you are looking for a travel partner, feel free to contact him.
Feel free to stop him and talk with him if you see him on campus or reach out to him at xianjun@ucsb.edu.

Anna Clark (she/her) is an MST candidate with a Bachelor's degree in English from UCSB. She is originally from Washington state, but after finding her footing as a Curriculum Specialist at Harding Elementary following graduation, she decided to stick around! Working with small, targeted reading groups sparked her passion for teaching. After developing her skills and comfort in the classroom over 5 years, she was motivated to make the next step in her educational career. She looks forward to instilling her students with the same love for reading and writing that she has!

Minami Cramer (she/her) is a M.Ed candidate in the UCSB Teacher Education Program pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. She earned her undergraduate degree in Sociology along with a minor in Science and Mathematics Education from UCSB in 2025. Minami was born on the tiny island of Saipan and raised on nearby Guam. Growing up in an island community nurtured her love of working with children and her adoration and appreciation for the outdoors. Her experience leading children’s surf camps and providing after-school tutoring deepened her commitment to a career that supports and enriches children’s growth and development. Since moving to Santa Barbara in 2021, Minami has fostered a connection to the community through her work in education as a substitute teacher, outdoor educator, and classroom volunteer. Minami is dedicated to cultivating a supportive learning environment where students’ curiosity remains paramount and individual growth is valued and nurtured. In her free time, Minami finds joy in simple everyday moments, including spending time with friends, surfing, and appreciating the unfiltered magnificence of the outdoors! Minami can be reached at mwc@ucsb.edu.

Casondra Cunningham (she/her) is a teacher candidate pursuing a Single Subject Life Science credential and a Master's in Education in UCSB’s Teacher Education Program. She graduated with honors, earning two Bachelor's degrees at UCSB in Studio Art with an emphasis in Book Arts and Biology in the College of Creative Studies. While in school, Casondra was also very involved in UCSB’s Adventure Programs, which introduced her to work in the outdoor industry. Since graduating in 2019, she has spent her time working in outdoor education and on Santa Cruz Island as a kayak and snorkel guide. This path eventually led to work as an academic specialist, teaching gardening in multiple schools in Ventura County. Extremely passionate about the natural world and our place in it, Casondra hopes to bring her hands-on experience working outdoors to her students and inspire the next generation of scientists, environmentalists, and nature lovers! Casondra can be reached at casondra@ucsb.edu.

Kayley Donnell (she/her) is a candidate in the Teacher Education Program at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, where she is pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and a Master's degree in Education. Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Kayley is grateful for the opportunity to return to her hometown and serve the community that helped shape her. Kayley graduated from San Diego State University in 2026 with a bachelor's degree in Child and Family Development. She is excited to be back home, where she is completing her student teaching and preparing for a career in elementary education. Coming from a family of teachers, Kayley has always been passionate about working with children. She has experience supporting students across a wide range of ages and backgrounds and is committed to creating engaging, inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive. Outside the classroom, Kayley enjoys spending time outdoors, being with family and friends, watching movies, and listening to a wide variety of music. Kayley can be reached at kayleydonnell@ucsb.edu.

Desiree Espinoza (she/her) is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and M.Ed. from the UCSB Teacher Education Program. Desiree grew up in Los Angeles and graduated from UC Santa Barbara in 2025 with a B.S. in Psychological & Brain Sciences and a minor in Applied Psychology. During the past school year, she served as a long term substitute teacher at Goleta Unified School District, where she taught a sixth grade class for the entire school year. She also worked as a Behavioral Technician, supporting children with diverse learning and behavioral needs. These experiences strengthened her passion for working with children in an educational setting and affirmed her decision to pursue a career in teaching. Desiree hopes to create a classroom that centers student identity in her lessons, all while making them feel valued, celebrated, and excited to learn, while building confidence in themselves. During her free time she enjoys spending time at the beach, hiking, traveling, and staying active at the gym. Desiree can be reached at @desireeespinoza@ucsb.edu

Hannah Ezell (she/her) is a graduate student pursuing a Single Subject English Language Arts (ELA) credential and Masters in Education at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education. She earned two B.A. degrees at UC Santa Barbara where she studied English and Dance and graduated with Honors. Hannah is originally from Santa Ynez, California and has danced in Santa Barbara from a young age, so she is eager to give back to the community that has provided her with so much. Each of Hannah’s parents were educators and have instilled in her a passion for education, but also a strong commitment to create a joyful and engaging classroom environment. Hannah also has a background in Montessori education that she hopes to implement strategically at the secondary level. She finds that fostering community and independence will contribute to creating equitable, student-centered learning environments. From a young age, Hannah has been passionate about literature and creative writing. She hopes to share that passion with her students while making reading and writing more engaging, meaningful, and accessible to all learners. Hannah is excited to bring creativity and empathy into her classroom, and is especially eager to connect with students and colleagues to further break down barriers.

Samantha Hokulani Flores is currently pursuing her Master’s in Education and Multiple Subject Credential in the Teacher Education Program at UCSB, as well as her Bilingual Authorization in Spanish. Samantha was born and raised in Oxnard, California. It was there that she graduated from Oxnard College with her Associate’s Degree. After transferring to California State University Channel Islands for her undergraduate degree, she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies with the highest level of honors. Growing up with two aunts who were teachers, Samantha essentially spent her whole life in a classroom. Watching them grow into exceptional teachers and positively impact the lives of their students inspired her to pursue a career in education. Samantha strives to give back to her community and students, just as she has seen her aunts do. During her free time she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, traveling, and trying new food.

Hannah Florez (she/her) is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master’s in Education at UCSB’s Teacher Education Program. She grew up in Lancaster, California, and started her college journey at her local community college (a route which she encourages many students to take). She then transferred to UCLA where she received her B.A. in Education and Social Transformation. After graduating, Hannah decided to move back home to Lancaster to save up money for graduate school and gain more experience with kids. She worked as a substitute teacher at her local school district and as an after school program support for the Boys and Girls Club. Both jobs provided her with a lot of insight and skills that she will implement into her future classroom. Each student who Hannah has had the joy and pleasure of educating and working with has provided her with the reassurance that she was meant to be a teacher. Her main passion is to promote diversity and inclusion within her classroom, and foster a comfortable environment that encourages curiosity. In a world that continues to lead with hate, Hannah wants to teach students to lead with compassion. Outside of education, she loves taking walks on a sunny day with her dog Shiloh, going on hikes, sewing, shopping, listening to music, and reading. Hannah can be reached at hannahflorez@ucsb.edu

Ashley Fong is pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and M.Ed. through the UCSB Teacher Education Program. A San Bruno, California native, Ashley discovered her passion for working with children early in life—a calling that grew even stronger through her summers as a camp counselor. She went on to earn her B.A. in Communication, with a minor in Education, from UC Santa Barbara in 2026. Throughout her undergraduate studies, Ashley built a diverse foundation in child development and community service: caring for infants at the Orfalea Family Children's Center, volunteering in a 5th-grade classroom at Isla Vista Elementary, and supporting local families through a family literacy program and a program serving unhoused children. Her background in Communication instilled a deep commitment to clear, inclusive dialogue, a skill she carries into every interaction with students and families alike. In the classroom, Ashley is dedicated to building equitable learning communities where every student is held to high expectations and supported in their academic and personal growth. Outside of teaching, she recharges through tennis, pottery, and time spent along the Goleta beaches. Ashley can be reached at ashcfong@gmail.com.

Tania Fuentes is a teacher candidate pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master of Education (M.Ed.) through UC Santa Barbara's Teacher Education Program (TEP). A first-generation college graduate from Chico, California, she earned her bachelor's degree in Sociology from UC Santa Barbara in 2025 with double minors in Applied Psychology and Education. Go Gauchos! Following graduation, Tania remained in Santa Barbara and joined the Santa Barbara Unified School District as a bilingual paraeducator and curriculum specialist at Harding University Partnership School. There, she developed a strong foundation in Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) while collaborating with educators to support students with diverse learning needs. Through this experience, she discovered a passion for small-group instruction and working alongside multilingual learners as they developed their English language skills. She also served as an after-school group leader for fifth- and sixth-grade students at El Camino Dual Immersion Elementary School in the Goleta Union School District. Although Tania has dreamed of becoming a teacher since she was six years old, she also hopes to one day pursue a career in school administration to help create positive, equitable learning environments on a broader scale. She is committed to fostering an inclusive classroom where every student feels valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed. Tania believes each child brings unique strengths and perspectives to the classroom and strives to cultivate a learning community that celebrates diversity, curiosity, and belonging. Outside of the classroom, Tania enjoys swimming, crafting, and exploring new places near and far. She can be reached at haniafuentes@ucsb.edu.

LuLu Gaitan is a teacher candidate in the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Teacher Education Program, where she is pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and a Master of Education (M.Ed.). Born and raised in Santa Barbara, California, LuLu has dreamed of becoming a teacher since kindergarten. As a K–12 student, she watched UCSB Teacher Education Program candidates complete their student teaching in her own classrooms, inspiring her to one day join the program herself. Her passion for education has continued to grow over the years, fueled by a love of working with children and helping others. Coming from a family with many educators, LuLu has long been inspired by the impact teachers have on their students and communities. LuLu earned her bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Elementary Education from San Diego State University. After graduating, she spent two years teaching in a Reggio Emilia–inspired preschool, working with children in the four- and five-year-old classroom. This experience strengthened her commitment to creating engaging, child-centered learning environments that foster curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. Following the completion of her credential and master's degree, LuLu hopes to remain in the Santa Barbara area and fulfill her dream of teaching at her former elementary school, Peabody Charter School. In her free time, she enjoys going to the beach, reading, baking, watching the sunset, and spending time with family and friends. 

Jasmine Gilbert (she/her) is a teacher candidate pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and M.Ed. She earned her B.A. in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Education and Child Development at Antioch University Santa Barbara, and she is thrilled to begin her journey at UCSB in the Teacher Education Program. Although originally from Oregon, Jasmine has spent most of her life in Carpinteria, CA, and enjoys spending her free time in nature and with loved ones. Her interest in teaching began when she started coaching in the girls basketball program at Carpinteria High School, and was fostered during her time as an instructional assistant in a local kindergarten classroom. As a teacher, Jasmine hopes to foster an environment where every student feels valued and capable, and leaves her classroom as inspired thinkers who are ready to make positive impacts on the world.

Vivienne Giroux (she/her) is a teacher candidate who is currently pursuing a Single Subject Social Science credential and a M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. Vivienne recently graduated UCSB with a B.A. in History after transferring from Cuesta Community College. As a Central Coast native, Vivienne hopes to stay in the area after completing TEP as a middle school history teacher. Vivienne’s goal as a teacher is to create a safe and inclusive space where everyone’s histories are shared. Outside of the classroom, you may find Vivienne tending to her collection of house plants or swimming in the ocean. Feel free to contact her at Vivienne_Giroux@ucsb.edu.

Lizbeth Gomez (she/her) earned her bachelor's degree from UCLA, majoring in Education and Social Transformation with a minor in Disability Studies. She is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive learning environments where every student feels valued and capable of succeeding. Her experiences working with students with disabilities inspired her to pursue a career in special education and advocate for equitable access to education. Outside of teaching, Lizbeth enjoys doing eyelash extensions, exploring new coffee shops, and spending time with her family.

Tessa Gonsalves (she/her/hers) is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. Tessa graduated from UCSB in 2024 with a B.A. in Sociology and a minor in Educational Studies and is thrilled to be back in Santa Barbara pursuing her teaching career. As an undergraduate at UCSB she worked at Orfalea Family Children’s Center (OFCC) where she worked with infants and toddlers—an experience that ultimately led her towards teaching. Tessa also volunteered in two local Santa Barbara elementary schools while pursuing her minor in Educational Studies as well as at the elementary school in her rural hometown of Portola, California. Across these settings, she has volunteered in kindergarten, 2nd grade, 3rd grade, and 5th grade classrooms which have confirmed her desire to become a teacher. Tessa believes in the power of education as a tool for making the world a better place one child at a time. She focuses on creating meaningful connections and a true sense of belonging, guiding children as they discover their potential to change the world. Outside of teaching, Tessa enjoys being in nature whenever possible, going on long walks, crafting, and spending time with friends and family. She would describe herself as a lover of the world around her, always learning and growing through life’s changing tides. You can reach Tessa at tgonsalves@ucsb.edu.

Marylee Guerrero (She/Her) worked as an Adaptive Living Skills Aide during her under graduate studies at California State University of Northridge. In later years, she became a registered behavior technician (RBT) and para educator, all the while her passion for the work continued to grow. During her time as a para educator, Marylee learned about the TEP program and decided to pursue a new role in her career as an educator. Marylee is an artist and considers herself a student of life. She chose teaching because when you teach, you never stop learning.

Sophie Heimerdinger is a M.Ed. Candidate at the Gervitz Graduate School of Education pursuing a Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential. Originally from the Bay Area, Sophie developed an early love for the natural world, and went on to receive her B.S. in Environmental Management and Protection from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 2022. Following graduation, she served two years with Americorps, both focused in food systems and environmental education, which inspired her current career path. She first served with GrizzlyCorps through UC Berkeley, and was hosted by Pie Ranch in Pescadero, California, and then with SEI as a Garden and Environmental Educator at Garden Village Elementary School just outside of San Francisco. Most recently, Sophie worked as a Paraeducator II in the Goleta Union School District. Through her teaching practice, she hopes to facilitate core connections to creativity, personhood, and imagination for her students, to provide an enriching childhood experience that promotes wonder and joy. You are welcome to contact Sophie at sophieheimerdinger@ucsb.edu.

Keerthana (Key-er-thuh-na) Jagannath (she/her/hers) is a current graduate student at GGSE pursuing a Single Subject Credential in Mathematics and Masters in Education. She graduated recently from the University of Washington - Seattle with a double degree in Mathematics and Education Studies and a minor in Data Science. Keerthana grew up in the heart of Silicon Valley, attending California public schools for most of her life. Her experiences as a student and a TA in high school motivated her to look at more education opportunities. As a summer camp counselor, then tutor, then teaching fellow, Keerthana fell in love with teaching and showing students that math was a fun subject. Her goal is to provide students with the care and resources they need to thrive and be engaged in her future math classes. Making math fun, through the incorporation of art, interaction, and real-world applications is something she is looking forward to using in her practice. Outside of the classroom, Keerthana loves to read by the beach, fold intricate origami, and try new foods! Feel free to reach her at keerthana@ucsb.edu.

Leslie Janeth Hoffman (she/her/ella) is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master’s in Education at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She is from San Diego, where she graduated summa cum laude from San Diego State University in May 2026 with a B.S. in Child and Family Development and a minor in Chicano/a Studies. As a proud first-generation and formerly undocumented student, Leslie’s experiences have deepened her passion for teaching children. She wishes to dedicate her classroom to her students and create a safe space where children are seen and heard. She hopes to foster inclusivity, spread kindness, and empowerment. In her free time, she likes to read, attend concerts, and spend time with her family. Leslie can be reached at leslie_j_hoffman@ucsb.edu .

Yamileth is a bilingual and bicultural teacher candidate from Veracruz, Mexico. She is pursuing her Single Subject Credential in Spanish and a master’s degree in education with a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English Language from Universidad Veracruzana in Mexico.

Her teaching journey has been shaped by her experiences working with diverse learners in both Mexico and California. During her undergraduate studies, she taught Spanish to students from different countries and cultural backgrounds, which strengthened her passion for sharing the richness of the Spanish language. Since moving to California, Yamileth has continued working in education as a paraprofessional and Spanish tutor at the Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project (MICOP), supporting students with diverse learning needs, immigrant families, and adult learners.

As a native Spanish speaker, Yamileth hopes to promote the Spanish language throughout Santa Barbara County. She believes that Spanish is not only a language but also a connection to family, culture, identity, and community. She considers teaching a sacred profession because educators are entrusted with guiding, supporting, and inspiring future generations. Through her teaching, she hopes to help students feel proud of their heritage language and confident in their identities.
yamileth@ucsb.edu

Jaden Jones (she/her) graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a bachelor’s degree in earth system science and education. She grew up in Pasadena, California where she had the privilege to attend private schools, which were predominantly white institutions. Navigating identity, belonging, and cultural pride felt taboo as there was no one who looked like her, came from similar backgrounds, or saw representation in the classroom. Aside from one class in high school, university education classes opened a new world of discussions about belonging, multicultural education, the importance of representation, cultivating identity, and finding self-pride in the classroom. The experience of one education class and an internal calling towards teaching inspired her to pursue a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master’s in Education. She wants to create a classroom that celebrates her students’ identities as well as instills belief in their capabilities, the stamina to persevere and feel like they have the support to do so. Jaden enjoys crafting, dancing, exploring, hiking, and spending time outdoors. With her background in environmental science, Jaden wants to integrate her love for environmental science by teaching students about the respect, appreciation, and abundant resources and delight that nature provides. Jaden can be reached at jadenjones@ucsb.edu.

Jeremy Judin (he/him) is pursuing his Masters in Education and Single Subject Teaching Credential in History and Social Sciences in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. He graduated from UC Santa Barbara in 2025 with his B.A. in Economics, with a minor in History. Originally from the Bay Area, he discovered his love for teaching while working as a long term substitute and math tutor at Oakland Military Institute. As a lifelong lover of history, Jeremy hopes to become an encouraging educator creating a space where students can feel comfortable to express themselves, think critically about patterns of change, and take ownership of their futures. He believes in the necessity of empowering students, and hopes to help his students learn from lessons from the past to build a better future and become advocates for what is important to them. When not consuming historical media, Jeremy can be found playing music, rock climbing, camping, or reading fantasy novels. He loves all things outdoors, and was involved in the Excursion Club at UCSB during his time in undergrad, a venue where he was able to explore the value of hands-on learning experiences. He is grateful for the opportunity to come back to UCSB to pursue his Master’s Degree. Jeremy can be reached at jjudin@ucsb.edu.

Adele Kelley (she/her) is an M.Ed. candidate pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in Mathematics. Originally from Glendale, CA, Adele graduated from University of Richmond in 2026 with a B.S. in Computer Science and a B.A. in Cognitive Science along with a minor in Music. She discovered her passion for teaching when she worked for two summers as a teaching assistant at a local K-8 school. She hopes to empower students in the STEM discipline and show them that math and computer science are not as intimidating as they seem, and that they can even be fun. A lifelong classical musician, she also hopes to add music to her teaching credential in the future. In her free time, you will find her reading science fiction and fantasy, playing the piano, and baking. Adele can be reached at adelekelley@ucsb.edu.

Marvella Lopez Jimenez is a M. Ed Candidate at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, where she is pursuing her Multiple Subject Credential with Bilingual Authorization. She attended SBCC, Cuesta College and Cal Poly Humboldt for her undergraduate degree but is happy to return to the Central Coast, a place she is glad to call home, for her student teaching. Her time working as a Bilingual Instructional Aide for elementary schools in Santa Maria, CA showed her the realities of what happens within the classroom and how all students require different learning and emotional needs for their developmental and educational success. She was fortunate enough to work alongside two mentors teachers with bilingual authorization and noticed the difference it made in bridging two languages together. She hopes to become a bilingual elementary educator in the near future at the very elementary schools she once attended.

Luz M. Ramirez (She/Her/Ella) is a proud Oaxaqueña and first-generation college graduate pursuing a Master's in Education, a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential with a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish. Luz was born in Oaxaca, Mexico, and raised in Santa Maria, California. She graduated from UC Davis with a double major in Communication and Spanish.

Working as a tutor and community health educator, Luz has always known she wanted to be an educator. Whether it was tutoring her siblings, aunts, extended family, volunteering as a teacher, or working as an ASES tutor, Luz has always enjoyed working with younger children. Luz hopes to be the teacher she never had and create inclusive spaces where students can appreciate their backgrounds, differences, and cultures.

Luz is passionate about dual immersion education and creating safe spaces. When not in school, Luz enjoys exploring, traveling, outdoor activities, and going to the gym. Luz can be reached at l_m_g@ucsb.edu

Sophia Manning (she/her) is a graduate student pursuing her Single Subject Teaching Credential in Science and M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. She was raised in Ventura, California and studied Environmental Management and Protection and Biology at California Polytechnic State University - SLO. After graduating in 2022, she moved to New Zealand where she worked in the Biosecurity sector for a year. She later returned to Santa Barbara to join a local consulting firm as a Staff Biologist. Her most recent role as a substitute teacher in the Santa Barbara Unified School District confirmed her choice to pursue teaching. Sophia has enjoyed her experiences working with students and hopes to contribute and expand environmental education programs in her future as an educator. While she isn’t working, you can find her thrifting, lounging at the beach with a book, running, sailing, snowboarding, or various other outdoor activities. You can reach Sophia at sophianmanning@ucsb.edu. 

Natalia Meza (she/her) is a first generation college graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential with a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish and M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. She was born and raised in Santa Barbara and has recently graduated from California State University Channel Islands with a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Studies. She also attended Santa Barbara City College prior to CSUCI, transferring over with Associate Degrees in Economics and Business in addition to Early Childhood Education. Within the last few years, Natalia was a student teacher for around 2.5 years. Two full years in Preschool classroom and half a year in an Infant/Toddler classroom. She worked in centers that were in partnership with SBCC, CSUCI and UCSB. She also volunteered for 6 months in a Dual Immersion Kindergarten classroom. For the last 4 years, Natalia has worked as a Mentor/Tutor for students for SBUSD in the Junior and High schools, especially with 3 of those years being at San Marco High School. She looks to be an Elementary school teacher.
Natalia is passionate about creating a safe and inclusive environment that supports all students. She wants to create a nurturing, engaging and anti-bias learning environment that encourages students to explore and collaborate with each other. She also wants to provide the space to help families and students while working alongside them to create a supportive learning environment that celebrates all diverse families and students.
Natalia likes to spend time with her friends and family in the local area. She spends time with her pet tortoise, Chomps, outside in the sun. She also likes to attend concerts and be in her community.
Natalia can be reached at natalia_s_meza@ucsb.edu

Paige Mobley (she/her) is a current teacher candidate pursuing her Single Subject History and Social Science Credential and a Masters in Education. As a Goleta native, it was her goal to come back and serve the community that helped her grow as a student and leader. Paige is a recent graduate of Sonoma State University, where she earned her B.A. in History. She has worked in afterschool care with both elementary and middle school students, where she found a love for teaching. Her favorite activities included blending historical elements into engaging activities, allowing students to have fun while learning about the past. Furthermore, it helped her teach her students about empathy and community, two things she cares deeply about. It is her intention to continue to teach both through the study of history. In her free time, Paige enjoys listening to music, reading, and spending time with friends and family. She hopes to become a vital member of the community, and a mentor to those who need her. Paige can be reached at pmobley@ucsb.edu.

Anahi Monique Rosas (she/they/ella/elle) is a proud queer brown Chicana from Salinas, California, who comes from a family of Mexican immigrants from La Esperanza, Ameca, Jalisco. She is pursuing a Single Subject History & Social Science credential with a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish, as well as a Master's in Education. A recent 2026 graduate from UCSB, they earned a B.A. in Mathematics and Chicana/o/e Studies with a minor in Education. Being placed in classes at Goleta Valley Junior High, Harding Elementary, and the Quetzal Program, as well as working within the A-OK Program at Washington Elementary, fueled their desire to implement a decolonial pedagogy into their future classroom. Additionally, Anahi's participation in La Familia de Colores, the A-CAUSE program, El Congreso, and the ÉXITO program throughout their junior and senior years led to their understanding that bridging community, family, justice, and the classroom is outstanding. Although their journey began with the goal of becoming a mathematics teacher, they currently want to focus on social science to bring ethnic studies to all students. Aside from this, Anahi loves going to the gym, being in nature, making art, and constantly evolving their taste in music. Anahi can be reached at a_rosas358@ucsb.edu.

Austin Montoya (He/Him) is a M.Ed. Candidate looking to earn his single subject teaching credential in mathematics. Austin is from Whittier California and is a first generation graduate student. After high school, he attended UCSB where he graduated with a B.A. in Mathematics and a minor in Educational Studies. At UCSB he found a home away from home and has since stayed working at the local schools La Cumbre Junior High as a math curriculum specialist and as a site coordinator for A-OK at Santa Barbara Community Academy. Through his time at both schools, he has accumulated experience working with TK-8th but hopes to teach either middle school or high school in the local area. When outside the classroom, Austin enjoys spending time with friends doing various activities in Santa Barbara or Los Angeles and enjoys being a homebody. Mr. Montoya recognizes the dread some students have towards math classes, and hopes to create a classroom environment that makes students want to be in his class despite initially being wary of math.

Isa Morabia (she/her) is an M.Ed. candidate at the Gervitz Graduate School of Education at UC Santa Barbara, where she is pursuing an Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Support Needs, and a Multiple Subject Credential. She graduated from San Diego State University with a B.A in Liberal Studies, Elementary Education. Isa has worked and volunteered at elementary schools in both general and special education settings. These experiences have reinforced her belief that every child deserves an equitable and accessible education that supports academic and socio-emotional growth. Isa is dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments that celebrates student’s unique strengths and provide every learner with opportunities to succeed.

Benjamin Morales is a 31-year-old who earned a BA in Psychology from California State University Channel Islands. He hails from right here in Goleta, California and loves being a local to the area. He was called to teaching through multiple avenues, but mostly from his time working as a paraeducator at local special education programs through the district and county and also was inspired by his late grandfather, Theodore Best, who was a teacher with the Santa Barbara Unified School District for 39 years. In his spare time, Ben enjoys playing bass guitar, hanging out with his pug Ralphie, going disc golfing, and watching Los Angeles Dodger games.

Abigail Larnyo is a graduate student pursuing Masters in Education and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at the UC-Santa Barbara Teacher Education Program. She was born in Accra, Ghana where she had her elementary, high school and college education. Here in the United States, Abigail has supported special needs children in general education classrooms across various levels in elementary school and also at the junior high. She is a member of the California School Employee Association. While in the classroom as a para, Abigail knew being an educator is something she would love to pursue as a lifetime profession. Abigail values friends and family and likes to spend quality time with them. For pleasure she likes to go to the beach, movies, listen to podcasts and go for walks. Abigail is excited to be in TEP and believes she would be a great educator. Feel free to contact Abigail at abigaillarnyo@ucsb.edu.

Sophia Nicklas (she/her) is a candidate in the Teacher Education Program at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, where she is pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in English Language Arts, a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish, and a Master’s degree in Education. Sophia graduated from UC Santa Cruz in 2024, where she received her B.A. in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Conservation Science and Policy and a minor in Spanish Studies. Following graduation, she worked as an outdoor educator in her hometown of Los Angeles, designing and leading environmental education and habitat restoration programs in the Baldwin Hills Parklands for local students and volunteers. There, she worked with high school students at the Baldwin Hills Greenhouse Program, of which she is also an alumna, and witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of community-based learning. These experiences strengthened her commitment to education while deepening her interests in Language Arts and supporting bilingual learners. As an educator, she aims to create engaging and equitable classroom spaces that empower students to draw on their identities, languages, and lived experiences as part of their academic learning. Sophia is excited to bring her interdisciplinary background in outdoor education, language immersion, and community engagement into her future classroom. Outside of school, she enjoys reading memoirs, going on walks, collecting trinkets, and birding. Sophia can be reached at sophianicklas@ucsb.edu. 

Alondra is a student pursuing her dream of becoming a Spanish teacher. She was born in California, but was raised in Ciudad Insurgentes, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Alondra was in her sophomore year of high school when she decided to come back to learn English. She ended up staying as she realized the opportunities here wouldn't be offered back home. After graduating from high school in 2020, she attended Santa Barbara City College for two years before transferring to Westmont College. Alondra graduated with a B.A. in Spanish.
In her free time she enjoys reading, playing chess and going on walks.

Sarah Noell (she/her) is a teacher candidate pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in History and Social Science as well as a M.Ed from the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education. She graduated with her B.A. in History with a minor in Art History from the University of California Santa Cruz in 2017. In her future classroom, she hopes to help students see themselves in the history they are learning, feel empowered to be agents of change, and to learn about the world through art and creativity. She grew up just down the coast in Ventura and is looking forward to serving the Central Coast community she loves so much. When not at UCSB, Sarah enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, and cuddling with her cat. Sarah can be contacted at snoell@ucsb.edu.

Cara Orndahl (she/her) is a graduate student pursuing her Single Subject Teaching Credential in Science, Bilingual Authorization in Spanish, and Masters in Education at UCSB’s Teacher Education Program. Originally from Illinois, Cara moved to California to attend UCSB, where she graduated with honors in 2024 with a B.S. in Ecology and Evolution and a minor in Spanish. During her time as an undergraduate, Cara discovered her passion for the natural world. Through fascinating coursework and hands-on internships, she developed an appreciation for local ecosystems and a desire to protect the environment. While working as an environmental educator for Explore Ecology, Cara brought these passions into the classroom by helping students connect with and better understand their local ecosystem. Cara was inspired to become a teacher by her former high school teachers. They created a challenging yet supportive classroom environment, something that Cara seeks to accomplish in her own classroom. She strives to empower her students to discover their passions and be their best selves. In her free time, Cara enjoys reading, hiking, playing video games, and crocheting. To connect, email her at corndahl@ucsb.edu.

Elizabeth Padfield graduated in 2025 from Western Washington University with a Bachelor's degree in English Literature with a Teaching Endorsement and a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies. She is a teacher candidate pursuing a Single Subject ELA credential and a Master's in Education at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education. Elizabeth grew up not far from Santa Barbara, in the Santa Ynez Valley, and looks forward to giving back to her community. Her passion for education was fostered from a young age by her teacher mom, but her most transformative experience occurred later in undergrad. She had the opportunity to work at a Middle School in an Academic Support Classroom for Math and English. She truly adored the opportunity to foster relationships with students while creating an environment where they could push themselves to develop strong literacy practices. Later on, she had the opportunity to serve as a long-term substitute English teacher at a high school, and her desire to become a teacher only solidified. Elizabeth looks forward to creating an environment where students can see themselves in their education through a wide variety of texts and assignments that center student experience. Her passion for the arts and mixed narrative media will serve as the basis from which she creates an interactive and reflective approach to education. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys watching TV, reading, playing music, and going on walks. Elizabeth can be reached at epadfield@ucsb.edu.

"Hugo Parrilla is a proud M.Ed. candidate at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he is pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in History and Social Science. Hugo graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara, with two bachelor's degrees in Sociology and Chicano Studies. Prior to transferring to UCSB, Hugo attended community college in the Los Angeles County area, where he attained a deep understanding of society through various social lenses, earning A.A. degrees in Sociology, Psychology, and Philosophy. Hugo's passion for understanding the social world is rooted in his lived experiences of living in Compton as an undocumented Dreamer. His experiences and intersections have allowed him to deeply understand the socioeconomic circumstances affecting students of color, and it is this understanding that has propelled Hugo to be a resource for this student community, aiming to empower and uplift the voices of those who have been marginalized. Hugo worked toward this goal during his undergraduate studies at UCSB, where he served as a dual language intern, ELD mentor, and research assistant. Post-graduation, Hugo worked as a paraeducator and after-school leader. Across all of these experiences, one commitment has remained constant: empowering marginalized students through education. As he continues his journey as an educator, Hugo hopes to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student feels valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed. He is excited to continue growing alongside his peers and learning from the diverse perspectives within the program.

"

"Adelynn Piper (She/Her) is a graduate student in UCSB’s Teacher Education Program pursuing a single subject credential in life sciences and M.Ed. She graduated from Cal State Channel Islands in 2026, earning a B.S. in Health Science with minors in Political Science and Education. Originally from the East Bay, she fell in love with Southern California during her undergraduate studies in Ventura County and is thrilled to now call Santa Barbara home. Adelynn’s passion for teaching in STEM fields began by spending her childhood in her mother’s secondary-level math classrooms, where she was inspired by her mom’s ability to make a traditionally challenging subject accessible to students from all walks of life. She later went on to spend seven years managing her own classrooms as a volunteer and employee in the recreation division of her hometown. Adelynn found science to be challenging throughout her K-12 studies and understands the perspective of the student who believes science just “isn’t for them.” She later found how exciting and interesting the subject can be when students are presented with opportunities for inquiry- and project-based learning, thanks to Dr. Lorna Profant’s Human Anatomy and Physiology course at CSUCI. She aims to provide her students with a supportive and engaging learning environment that gets them excited about science! Adelynn can be reached at apiper@ucsb.edu
"

"Samantha is a candidate in TEP pursuing her Education Specialist Credential in Mild-Moderate Support Needs and a Master’s of Education. She graduated from CSU Channel Islands with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with highest honors. Her passion for Special Education stemmed from the 3 years she worked as a paraprofessional at Buena High School in Ventura. Working with students with disabilities inspired her to further her education in order to become an advocate and resource for students who are historically underserved. 
"

Juliana Ramirez Sarmiento, also known as Julie Ramirez, is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. After receiving her B.A. in Liberal Studies from California State University of Northridge in 2025, she continued to serve her San Fernando Valley community, working as a paraeducator in local elementary schools. Her experience working with children has inspired her to cultivate an inclusive and culturally affirming classroom where all students feel safe, respected, and valued. Julie really values teaching empathy as well as recognizing that all students are a source of learning, regardless of their background. Outside of the classroom, one can catch Julie by the beach tanning or jumping with the waves, staying active, cooking healthy meals, grounding herself in nature, or spending time with family and friends. Julie can not wait to leave an impact on her students and become a part of the new generation of educators.

Milo Ribaudo (he/him) is a candidate in the Teacher Education Program at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, pursuing a single-subject teaching credential in History and Social Science alongside an M.Ed. Originally from Riverside, California, Milo was attracted to UC Santa Barbara for its location on the Central Coast and its collaborative campus community. He earned his B.A. in History from UCSB in 2026, remaining at the university to pursue graduate studies in the Teacher Education Program. Although he began his undergraduate studies as a Biology major, Milo discovered a passion for history through his university courses, inspiring him to change his field of study. That passion, combined with his preprofessional observations in local Santa Barbara classrooms, ultimately led him to pursue a career in education. Milo is particularly interested in integrating historical storytelling into classroom instruction. He believes that encountering history through narrative provides students with accessible entry points into historical analysis by helping them situate themselves in the context of what is being studied. Through this approach, he hopes to cultivate students’ critical thinking skills and historical literacy, tools that will continue to serve them long after they leave his classroom. Outside of teaching, Milo enjoys spending time with friends and family, going to the beach, and watching Formula 1. Milo can be reached at miloribaudo@ucsb.edu.

Daisy Romero (she/her/ella) is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Credential with a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish and M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. As a first-generation Latina woman, she recently graduated from UCSB with a B.A. in Sociology and a minor in Educational Studies. Daisy is from Riverside, CA and takes pride in her Hispanic heritage. Daisy has past experiences volunteering in Spanish-dominant elementary classrooms during her undergraduate education and felt compelled to pursue her Bilingual Authorization because of these experiences. She recognizes the importance of having bilingual educators in the classroom and hopes to connect with her students and their families through their linguistic background. Daisy is excited to create inclusive learning spaces for all students to flourish and aims to make learning fun! Daisy can be reached at Daisyromero@ucsb.edu. 

Lizbeth Santiago (she/her/ella) is a teacher candidate pursuing her Single Subject Mathematics Credential and master’s in education. Growing up in Santa Barbara, Liz was exposed to UCSB’s Teacher Education Program as a high school student, where she was taught by multiple previous teacher candidates. With this program in mind, she pursued her bachelor’s in history at UCSB, where she developed a passion for learning the stories of her local community, especially historically marginalized Latino and Indigenous communities. Throughout her research, she highlighted the stories of Latino families living in Isla Vista and Chumash environmental and spiritual activism. She also worked as a mentor and tutor at a high school and middle school. Originally starting as a writing tutor, she soon recognized that the students who came to her needed a math tutor. To fill that gap, she began relearning math and discovered a new passion for teaching it. Combining her humanities and mathematical background, Liz hopes to be a teacher who guides her students to value diverse forms of knowledge. She looks forward to continuing this tradition of storytelling in her classroom and throughout her local community of Santa Barbara. 

Julia Satterfield (she/her) is a graduate student in the UC Santa Barbara Teacher Education Program, where she is pursuing an Education Specialist Credential with an emphasis in Extensive Support Needs and a Master of Education (M.Ed.). She earned her B.A. in Feminist Studies with a minor in Education from UC Santa Barbara in 2025. After graduating, Julia worked as an Instructional Aide in an autism-focused TK/Kindergarten classroom in her hometown of Whittier, California. Through this experience, she fell in love with the field of special education and developed a passion for helping students with autism reach their highest potential. In her early childhood, Julia volunteered in her grandmother’s Mild/Moderate RSP classroom, where she admired her teaching and was inspired by each student’s unique strengths and experiences. As an educator, she hopes to build meaningful relationships with students and their families while creating a welcoming classroom for learners of all abilities. She looks forward to helping shape her students’ paths to fulfilling lives, just as they have shaped her own. Outside the classroom, Julia is an independent singer-songwriter whose music explores themes of love, spirituality, political issues, and children’s journeys toward self-love and belonging. She is grateful to UCSB for the opportunities she’s been given to learn and grow, and to her mother for always encouraging her to pursue her purpose. Julia can be reached at juliasatterfield@ucsb.edu

Ronak Shetty (he/him) is a teacher candidate in the Teacher Education Program at UC Santa Barbara's Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, where he is pursuing his M.Ed. and Single Subject Teaching Credential in World Languages. Ronak graduated from Stanford University with a B.A. in Iberian and Latin American Cultures with a concentration in Spanish and Portuguese language and literature. He is passionate about decolonizing language education, intercultural learning, and educational equity. He is committed to creating anti-racist, culturally responsive classrooms where students of color, multilingual learners, LGBTQ+ students, and other historically marginalized youth feel seen, supported, and empowered. Through his nonprofit, Aprendalo.org, and his work mentoring students at Stanford University and the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, Ronak has helped students develop confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills while engaging with global perspectives. As a world languages teacher, he hopes to create an engaging, inclusive classroom where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to become a lifelong language learner. Outside the classroom, Ronak enjoys working out, learning new languages, traveling, and exploring various cultures. Ronak can be reached at ronakshetty@ucsb.edu.

"Single Subject Teaching- Science Credential & M.Ed Candidate
Kahlan Showen is a first-generation college graduate originally from Sacramento, California. She is a UCSB alumni who earned her B.S. in Biological Sciences in 2022. She is currently a graduate student in UCSB’s Teacher Education Program, pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in Science and a Master of Education. After completing her undergraduate degree from UCSB, Kahlan worked as a Lead Teacher at Saint Mark Preschool in Santa Barbara, where she educated and cared for the school’s youngest learners. Through this experience, she developed a strong belief in the importance of empathy, honoring individuality and diverse perspectives, and supporting the whole child.
Having spent the past eight years living, studying, and working in the Santa Barbara area, Kahlan feels a strong connection to the local community and hopes to give back as a science educator. She is passionate about creating supportive learning environments where students feel valued, capable, and encouraged to connect science to their lives and the world around them. Kahlan hopes to teach sciences in middle or high schools and is particularly interested in exploring biology, environmental science, chemistry and ecology, specifically with hands-on learning activities and real world applications. Kahlan Showen can be reached at Kahlan_showen@ucsb.edu.
"

Danyelle Silberman (she/her) is a graduate student from Orange County, California, pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in science and a Masters of Education from the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education at UC Santa Barbara. Danyelle previously attended UCLA and graduated in 2026 after receiving a Bachelors of Science in Biology. Throughout her time at UCLA, Danyelle worked with young children as a tour guide in the UCLA Cub Tours program. She led, managed, and oversaw Cub Tours as the Coordinator during her fourth and final year at UCLA. Outside of school, Danyelle gives swim lessons to infants, children, and adolescents. She enjoys reading, photography, and being outdoors in her free time. Danyelle is excited for this chapter of her life, as she hopes to inspire the next generation as a science teacher. She can be reached at dsilberman@ucsb.edu 

Hello! My name is Josh Tarica my pronouns are He/Him/His. I have a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and a Bachelors of Art in Music from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. One fun fact about me is that my family has hosted 20 foreign exchange students over my lifetime from Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Russia, China, and Hong Kong. I was called to teaching from my time being a piano teacher and I wanted to bridge psychology and teaching so I decided to go into special education.

Madison Templeman is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. With her innovative, creative, and nurturing mindset, she has always been passionate about working with children. She grew up in Lake Forest, California, where she first gained experience with elementary school students. Her experience includes working at summer camps, teaching art, and instructing chess. She graduated from UCLA in June 2025 with a B.A. in Education and Social Transformation. During her time at UCLA, Madison participated in a student research program with CRESST and worked as a substitute teacher. After graduating, she spent the past year as an assistant teacher in a Montessori kindergarten classroom. Each of these opportunities has strengthened Madison's passion for teaching and reinforced her commitment to creating a classroom where every student feels valued. She is excited to keep an open mind and embrace new opportunities to learn while at UCSB. When she isn’t in the classroom, she enjoys exploring new coffee shops, thrift stores, and spending time with family and friends. Madison is grateful to be part of the supportive TEP community and is excited to grow as an educator.

Casie Trotter (she/her) is a graduate student pursuing her Master’s in Education and Education Specialist credential with an emphasis in Extensive Support Needs. She graduated with Honors from UCSB in 2021 with a B.S in Psychological and Brain Sciences and a minor in Applied Psychology. After graduation, Casie worked for PathPoint, a local nonprofit who supports adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. As the Program Coordinator for Day Services at PathPoint, she discovered her passion for working with people with disabilities and helping them flourish and live meaningful lives. She hopes to implement fun, inclusivity, and person-centeredness in her future practice as a teacher. Outside of school, Casie likes to enjoy nature, be active, and hang out with her dog, Yoshi. She can be reached at casie@ucsb.edu.

David Truman is a graduate student earning his English Teaching Credential and M.Ed. in UCSB’s Teacher Education Program. David fell in love with teaching while volunteering as a book club facilitator––also where he met his wife––and he has never looked back from either endeavor. David sees language as foundational in uncovering truth and meaning within the human experience, and he delights in teaching his students the joy of articulating their own voices. He has previously taught as a long-term substitute teacher for ninth-grade English, tenth-grade English, sixth-grade elementary, and fifth-grade elementary classrooms. In his marriage, his community, or with his students, David’s greatest joy is equipping others to flourish. He can be reached at dttruman@ucsb.edu

"Gabi Tulk (she/her) is an M.Ed. candidate at the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, where she is pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. She graduated from Vassar College in 2022 with a bachelor's degree in Economics before returning to Southern California. Although she has worked in a variety of fields, including healthcare marketing and overnight childcare, every path seemed to lead back to education. Helping her 8-year-old brother with homework was the turning point that showed her the joy of watching children build confidence as they learned. Encouraged by the incredible teachers and mentors in her life, Gabi began substitute teaching and quickly realized she had found her calling in the classroom. She hopes to create a classroom environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and is empowered to be curious, take risks, and grow. Outside of teaching, Gabi enjoys hiking with her dog, Ghost, exploring local coffee shops, and discovering new music.
Please send any questions, hellos, or song recommendations to gtulk@ucsb.edu
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Melanie Voss (she/her) is a candidate in UCSB’s Teacher Education Program in the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master of Education (M.Ed.). She graduated from the University of California, Berkeley in May 2025 with a B.A. in Psychology and Minor in Philosophy. After graduating, she spent a year teaching as an English language assistant in a bilingual primary school in Madrid, Spain. Melanie’s passion for teaching dates back to her elementary years, where her own teachers inspired her lifelong love for learning. She credits her teachers with nurturing the curiosity and creativity that continue to shape her identity as a reader, writer, and scholar. Melanie has worked with children in various childcare and educational settings over the last 8 years. She is passionate about fostering inclusive classrooms where children feel confident being their fullest selves while experiencing the transformative joy of learning. In her free time, Melanie enjoys going to the beach, reading, making art, getting outside on a hike or camping, and running. Melanie can be reached at melanievoss@ucsb.edu. 

Hailey Walpole is a graduate student in the Teacher Education Program here at UCSB. She is pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in Science and a Master's in Education. She recently received her Bachelors degree in Sociology with a minor in Education also from UCSB. Hailey grew up near San Francisco, California where she was a horse back riding coach and a volunteer for equine therapy assisting children of all ages. In her free time, Hailey loves to hang out with friends and family, do a beach clean up, grab a coffee, or plan a trip! She is passionate, supportive, kind, and always looking to better herself in any way possible. She is very excited to start her teaching career hopefully here in Santa Barbara in the nearby future. You can reach her at hwalpole@ucsb.edu. 

Beatrice Walton earned her B.S. in Marine Science with a minor in Statistics from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, in 2026. Through her work as an educator at the Central Coast Aquarium, she discovered a passion for making science engaging, accessible, and meaningful for students of all ages. Designing hands-on lessons and connecting students with the natural world inspired her to pursue a career in science education.
As a graduate student in the Single Subject Science Credential and M.Ed. program at UC Santa Barbara, Beatrice is passionate about creating inclusive learning environments where curiosity, critical thinking, and student voice are encouraged. She is especially interested in experiential learning, environmental education, and helping students build confidence through inquiry-based science.
Originally from Eugene, Oregon, she enjoys spending time outdoors, including hiking, backpacking, scuba diving, and exploring tide pools. She also loves traveling and believes that experiencing different cultures and environments has shaped both her perspective and her approach to teaching."

Yuritzi Argueta (They/She) is an M.Ed Candidate pursing their multi subject credential. Inspired by the values they grew up with and their mother who is also an educator, after completing their undergrad at UC Santa Cruz (Go Banana Slugs!) they decided to pursue their dream of teaching in their community of East Los Angeles by attending UCSB’s TEP program.They are excited for what their time here will bring. Because of Yuritzi’s activist background they are passionate about justice oriented education and hope to cultivate a welcoming and warm classroom environment. Yuritzi hopes to  encourage their future students to think critically about who they are and what they want to be.They believe that the years covered by an MST credential are crucial developmental years and they are honored to be part of the next generation of holistic teachers. In their off time, you can find Yuritzi baking, dancing, reading or out in nature. 

Hannah Zuckerbraun (she/her) is a graduate student pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and M.Ed. in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. She recently earned a B.A. in Education and Social Transformation from UCLA, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Working with elementary students as a tutor, camp counselor, and classroom aide during her time at UCLA solidified her decision to pursue a career in education. These experiences, along with the teachers who supported her along her K-12 journey, have affirmed her passion for teaching. Hannah, a central coast native, is excited to be back in Santa Barbara County where she was born and raised. She hopes to continue working in this vibrant community as an elementary school teacher. Outside the classroom, Hannah enjoys being around her family and friends, reading, going to concerts, and spending time in nature.  She is eager to begin connecting with students, sparking their curiosity, and nurturing a love of learning. Hannah looks forward to growing as an educator and making a lasting impact in the lives of her future students. You can reach her at hannahzuckerbraun@ucsb.edu

Emily Rokas is a current candidate in the UCSB teacher education program, pursuing a multiple subjects teaching credential and masters degree in education. She received her bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in Spanish from UCSB in 2022, and could not be more grateful to once again be surrounded by eucalyptus groves, the Pacific ocean, and the Santa Ynez mountains. After receiving her undergraduate degree, Emily worked for various outdoor education non-profits, guiding students on hiking and backpacking adventures in Marin county, British Columbia and Yosemite National Park. While she could never grow tired of the magic of connecting students with nature, she yearned for an opportunity to connect with students over the course of a whole year, and is excited to transition to working in a classroom. She hopes to continue to inspire her students through the wonders of the outdoors, and spend as much of her time outside as possible. In her free time you will likely find Emily in the kitchen, creating a colorful meal or baked good to share; running, hiking or biking somewhere beautiful; practicing yoga; in a body of water; or on the couch with a mug of tea and a good book. Emily can be reached at emilyrokas@ucsb.edu

Maribel Rubalcava is a first-generation Mexican-American graduate student at UC Santa Barbara, pursuing a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, a Master’s in Education, and a Bilingual Authorization in Spanish. Her academic journey began at Cal State Northridge, where she earned a B.A. in Spanish Language and Culture. After graduation, she gained valuable fieldwork experience as a substitute teacher in the Ventura Unified School District, where she fostered connections with diverse student populations. Maribel embraces a balanced lifestyle, finding joy in listening to podcasts, reading, working on her fitness, exploring new experiences through topgolf, piano lessons, escape rooms, strolls at farmers' markets, creating delicious breakfasts, road trips, travel, and cherishing quality time with her family. Maribel's driving passion is to empower the next generation by encouraging them to follow their hearts, just as her own teachers inspired her. She is committed to creating a classroom environment where each student feels seen, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. 

Amira is an MED candidate pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in the UCSB Teacher Education Program. She graduated from San Jose State University in 2024 with a B.A in. Child and Adolescent Development with a Preparation of Teaching. Ever since she was little, Amira knew she wanted to be a teacher. Growing up, she would spend a lot of time volunteering in elementary schools, whether it was helping her mom in her classroom, or being a teacher assistant during her undergrad years. After earning her Bachelors and before starting the TEP Program, Amira had a semester off where she worked as an assistant guide at Guidepost Montessori in Palo Alto for 4 months and had an internship for 2 months in France where she helped teach English in the École Montessori Évolutive Palaiseau. Coming from a multi cultural background, Amira strives to work in a bilingual school setting. Her goal is to create a positive and safe environment in which all students feel excited to come to school! When she is not in the classroom, you can find Amira at the beach, spending time with friends and family, walking her dog, painting, dancing, and doing some yoga! Feel free to reach out to Amira at: amirasalama@ucsb.edu
 

Sergio Saucedo (he/him) is a first-generation, graduate student pursuing his Master’s in Education and Multiple Subjects Credential with Bilingual Authorization in Spanish. He was born and raised in Santa Paula, California and received a B.S. in Biological Sciences from UCSB in 2023. After graduation, he spent time working as a Special Education instructional assistant where he quickly realized that teaching at the elementary level was his calling. He credits the students and staff at Adelante Charter School for inspiring him to apply to UCSB TEP and is honored to have the opportunity to work with students in a dual immersion program some time soon. He hopes that his background working with students with disabilities and emergent multilingual learners allows him to develop the equitable learning environment that all of his students deserve and that he can advocate for those students that cannot advocate for themselves. In his free time he loves to spend time with his friends and family, gardening, and making pizzas. You can reach him at sergsaucedo2@gmail.com

Originally hailing from Hollister, CA, Edward Schmidt (He/Him) is currently a candidate in the Teacher Education Program of the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education. Coming from a family of educators, Edward followed in their footsteps by working as a peer tutor during High School. After this, Edward attended UC Santa Barbara as an undergraduate, studying history and minoring in Religious Studies. Throughout his time as an undergraduate, Edward worked as a student assistant at the Davidson Library here on campus, ensuring that books and other research materials were properly sorted and accessible to students and community members alike. Edward was also very involved in student activism, fighting to make the UCSB campus and community more equitable, inclusive and an overall better place to live, work, and study. After graduating in 2025, and thrilled to be accepted into our Teacher Education Program, Edward decided to continue his studies at UCSB. Pursuing a Single Subject Social Science credential, Edward is excited to inspire the next generation to be the best that they can be, and to teach his students that they are living, breathing parts of history rather than just its observers. Outside of the classroom, Edward enjoys reading, writing, baking, and spending time with family and friends. He can be reached at edwardschmidt@ucsb.edu

Cate Schmoller (she/her) is a graduate student in UC Santa Barbara’s Teacher Education Program pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master's in Education. She recently graduated from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Human Development. Cate had always had a passion for teaching since she was young. During her undergraduate studies, she observed and volunteered in many elementary classrooms, both in general ed and special ed, and in summer school classes. During her junior year of college, she worked at a behavioral therapy center in ABA therapy. This work taught her valuable lessons about supporting children with diverse abilities and needs and pushed her skills of patience, adaptability, and communication. The lessons and skills from her past experiences are all resources she hopes to bring into her future classroom. Her goal as an elementary school teacher is to develop a classroom environment where students feel seen, heard, and understood, and that allows students to grow and learn to their fullest potential. Cate is excited to see what her year in TEP holds and explore all of the wonderful things Santa Barbara has to offer. Cate can be reached at cschmoller@ucsb.edu.

Lily Sherwood (she/her) is a current teacher candidate pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree with UCSB’s Teacher Education Program. Born and raised in San Francisco, she attended public schools there from kindergarten through 12th grade. It was the experiences she had with quality educators in those schools that sparked her interest in pursuing a career in teaching, giving back to the public school system that raised her. This drive brought her to UCSB for her undergraduate coursework, where she graduated this past June with a B.S. in Psychological and Brain Sciences and a minor in Applied Psychology. Not ready to say goodbye to the Santa Barbara community where she found herself as a college student, she is excited to be returning for one more year to join the 2025-26 TEP cohort. When not in the classroom, you can find Lily on long walks along the bluffs with friends, reading one of the books from her never-ending collection, or perfecting her matcha latte recipe. You can contact her at lilycsherwood@ucsb.edu. 

Elizabeth Sim (she/her) earned her Bachelor’s degree in 2025 from the University of California, Riverside, where she double majored in Education and Liberal Studies with a concentration in Education for Social Justice. She graduated Cum Laude and is currently pursuing her Master of Education and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at the University of California, Santa Barbara. During her undergraduate studies, Elizabeth was inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success and was recognized on the Dean’s List by both UC Riverside and the American Campus Communities. A trilingual speaker of English, Spanish, and Korean, she began studying Spanish in elementary school and received the California State Seal of Biliteracy upon graduating from Cupertino High School. Her multilingual background has fueled a deep commitment to culturally and linguistically responsive teaching practices. She is dedicated to continuously expanding her linguistic and pedagogical knowledge to effectively serve diverse student populations. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Elizabeth enjoys swimming with sharks, creating ceramic art, and strolling with a matcha in hand. She can be reached at esim@ucsb.edu. 

Christopher Soriano De Jesus (He/Him) is a graduate student pursuing a Single Subject Credential in Mathematics and a Master’s of Education in UC Santa Barbara’s Teacher Education Program. He recently graduated from the University of California, Davis with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a minor in Education. His passion for mathematics and his instinct to help others drove him to teach, hoping to create an environment where students feel safe to share their ideas and to question the many rules and theories within mathematics. Additionally, he hopes to build connections with his students to gain gifts and sweet treats from them, not really, but he hopes these connections will last a lifetime. Outside the classroom and mathematics, you can find Christopher or Chris –he doesn’t mind either– glued to his computer playing games, watching videos/shows/movies, talking to his friends on Discord, or you might find him bothering his adorable Siamese cat Bino. He was born in Toluca, Mexico, and immigrated to the U.S. to the small town of Ventura, a short drive from Santa Barbara. He’s the youngest child in his family of four; his older brother, Jonathan, is a big inspiration to him as he’s accomplished so much and is currently in a Ph.D. program at UCLA for Astrophysics. Ventura has always been home to him, but he wouldn’t mind going anywhere in California to teach. 

Pat Troy (they/them) is a teacher candidate pursuing a Single Subject Teaching Credential in English Language Arts and an M.Ed from the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, they received their Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. As they’ve worked up from camp counselor, to youth mentor, to paraeducator, and finally to Intervention Specialist, their determination to make a positive impact on students’ lives has become a life-long passion. Pat is a storyteller. They believe that empowering students means empowering them to tell their own stories. Pat is committed to creating a classroom culture that centers justice and joy. 

Claire Walsh (she/her) is a current candidate in the Teacher Education Program where she is pursuing her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and her Master’s Degree in Education. She graduated from UC San Diego in June of 2025 earning a B.S. in Education Sciences. During her time in San Diego, she had the opportunity to volunteer in TK and Kindergarten classrooms in the San Diego Unified School District which solidified her long standing passion for education and her calling as a teacher. Claire has always felt most comfortable when surrounded by community and this is something that she hopes to foster in her classroom. Outside of work and school, Claire enjoys reading, gardening, game nights with friends, and all kinds of creative hobbies like photography, crochet, and other crafts!

Olivia Weber (she/her) is pursuing a Single Subject (Science) Credential and Masters of Education. She would like to be a middle school science teacher. She is from Santa Barbara County and would like to stay here forever. She received her Bachelors of Science from UCSB in 2020. She obtained an Earth Science degree with a geohydrology emphasis. Her time at Santa Barbara City College helped her find her love for geology. Her appreciation for science started when she was a child. It was her favorite class in school, and on the weekends she would go outside and run mini experiments to help understand the world. Many of her jobs have been working with kids, and when she started subbing she realized a career in the classroom could make her happy. 
 

Leia Zorba (she/her) is an M.Ed candidate with the Gevirtz Graduate School, and is pursuing single subject teaching credentials in English and Dance. Having received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Bachelor of Arts in Feminist Studies, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from UCSB in 2024, Leia is delighted to return to her alma mater this year! As a member of UCSB’s Senior Dance Company, Leia had the opportunity to perform in Norway, Poland, Latvia, Italy, and the Czech Republic. Her experiences dancing across the world have reaffirmed the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and finding common ground within creative spheres- principles that she hopes to carry into her own classroom. Leia’s goal as an educator is to create a space of collaboration and innovation where students feel safe to make mistakes and grow from them. Her ambition is to inspire and empower students, creating equitable learning opportunities that prepare them to be leaders of tomorrow. Leia can be reached at lzorba@ucsb.edu