Jean Chung Kim has been an educator for more than 25 years, first as a high school history/humanities teacher and then as an educational policy analyst at a Washington DC think-tank. She holds a BA in History from Yale University where she completed her teacher preparation as well.  She has served two terms on the board of The Society for Classical Learning, a national organization dedicated to helping Classical Christian schools flourish.  Jean and her husband, Scott, have three children who have graduated from Cambridge.

Mrs. Jenni Helj is looking forward to her thirteenth year at Cambridge, where she has the privilege of working with students, teachers and parents to further the mission of the school in the lives of the Grammar School students.Mrs. Helj graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a BA in Liberal Studies/Speech Communication and has a MA in Educational Administration from Concordia University, Irvine. Mrs. Helj has over 20 years of experience both as a Grammar School teacher and administrator. She also spent over a decade on the mission field in Romania, where she met and married her husband, Adi. They have two adult children, one of whom was in the second graduating class from The Cambridge School, and an amazing empty-nester dog named Rayner.

Mr. Brandon Hong earned his B.A. in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Pomona College and his J.D. at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. He worked in both the public and private sectors before pivoting to the teaching profession when he was overseas for four years. Mr. Hong joined the Cambridge faculty in 2017, and he presently teaches Economics (12th grade) in addition to being the Chief Business and Operations Officer.

Jeffrey Yoder grew up in Lancaster, PA. After a year of art school at Savannah College of Art & Design he attended Simpson University in Redding, CA where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. While in college Mr. Yoder met and married his lovely wife Leslie, originally from Santa Barbara, and they moved back to Lancaster in 2000. There he joined with a financial advisory firm where he helped clients for almost 10 years. In 2010 Mr. Yoder joined Veritas Academy, a Classical Christian School in Leola, PA as the Director of Operations. There he oversaw finance, facilities, technology, marketing, admissions, and even had time to teach a yearbook class. Mr. Yoder and his family moved to San Diego in 2012 and began working at The Cambridge School as the Director of Advancement.

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

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

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

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

Mrs. Aimy Ferdyn was born and raised in San Diego, CA. After receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, San Diego, she obtained her Master of Education, Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, and CLAD certificate from National University. Mrs. Ferdyn has worked as a Kindergarten Teaching Assistant at a local private school, and taught the Junior Kindergarten class at Cambridge for 3 years. She is excited to return to The Cambridge School for her ninth year to teach Kindergarten again in the fall. Mrs. Ferdyn feels blessed to be a part of the Early Childhood Education team in setting the foundation of learning. She looks forward to leading and guiding the Kindergarten students in their discovery of God’s creation. Mrs. Ferdyn loves hiking, baking, reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Ms. Lisa Geffeney has a BA in English from UCI and has been teaching in a variety of settings for over 20 years including classically homeschooling her three daughters, teaching at the Juvenile Hall in Orange, Grace Classical Academy, and here at Cambridge as a first grade teacher, second grade teacher, and Fifth grade aide. Ms. Geffeney lives on a small ranch in Fallbrook  and loves to spend her free time horseback riding, hiking, reading, writing and gardening. She feels incredibly blessed and excited to begin her seventh year teaching First Grade at The Cambridge School this year.

Mrs. Haidee Thesing graduated from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies and a master’s degree in education from San Jose State University. She holds a California Clear, multiple subject credential and has over 30 years of teaching experience with students in kindergarten through 8th grade. Mrs. Thesing began her teaching career in the public-school sector with the Menlo Park City School District where she was a Master Teacher. She then classically homeschooled her own children and led a multi-grade homeschool co-op in northern California. After moving back to her native San Diego with her family, Mrs. Thesing began teaching again full-time and has been professionally involved in classical education for the past 18 years. She is delighted to be embarking on her eleventh year of teaching first grade at The Cambridge school and is passionate about training up the next generation to think well, love wisely and live rightly by loving God with all their “heart, soul, mind and strength.” When not in the classroom, Mrs. Thesing enjoys traveling with her husband, spending time with her family, working in her garden, cycling, and swimming.

Shelly Potwarodwski was born and raised here in Southern California, graduated from California State University, San Bernardino with a BA in liberal studies, a minor in English, and CLAD credential. She is thrilled to return for her fourth year as lead 2nd grade teacher to continue to share her love of God and learning for another eventful Cambridge year! As a family this will be their sixteenth year at TCS with two TCS alumni, with an 8th grader and senior here at TCS. In her free time she enjoys swimming, gardening, long beach walks, and spending time with family.

Ms. Cecilia Root is thrilled to be entering her second year at The Cambridge School, where she teaches second grade. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from the University of Rhode Island and an M.Ed. in Elementary Education from Merrimack College. Prior to joining The Cambridge School, Cecilia taught third grade for three years in her home state of Massachusetts before relocating to San Diego last summer. Outside of the classroom, Cecilia enjoys spending time at the beach, playing volleyball, and watching the sunset with friends. She feels fortunate to be part of a Christ-centered community at The Cambridge School, where she continues to deepen her understanding of God’s character alongside her students.

Mrs. Katherine Huffman received her B.S. in Human Development from Virginia Tech. Upon graduation, she participated in a Fellow’s program at McLean Presbyterian Church in Virginia, taking seminary classes, serving in the children’s ministry, and volunteering at a Christian private school in Washington, D.C. Working with children spurred her desire to pursue a career in education. She completed her Masters of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education degree from Liberty University while working as an aide and substitute teacher at The Cambridge School. She is excited to teach and share her passion for child development, learning, and Scripture with her students. Born and raised in Virginia, Katherine moved to San Diego in 2021 with her husband, Nick, a Navy helicopter pilot. They welcomed their son, Samuel, in 2023.

Mrs. Hana Rodgers grew up in the Czech Republic where she earned a Master’s degree in English, Social Sciences, and Education. After student teaching, she taught high school (English and Composition), helped with creating grammar curriculum for summer English camps, and was a K-8th grade tutor for 6 years. She also volunteered in a 5th grade public school classroom after moving to the US and has enjoyed serving in her church’s children’s ministry for many years. She loves sharing her love for God with her students and is deeply grateful for the opportunity to pursue the unique mission, vision, and values of the school. Her excitement for the richness of Christian classical education and specifically of the 3rd grade curriculum began twelve years ago and has only deepened with time.

Mrs. Paula Jones taught fourth grade for eight years at Logos School, Moscow, Idaho, one of the early classical and Christian schools in the modern movement, as well as serving there as Director of International Students. This will be Mrs. Jones’s tenth year teaching 4th grade at The Cambridge School. Mrs. Jones graduated from the University of California, Irvine (BA, Social Science), and has lectured at the annual convention of the Association of Classical and Christian Schools. She and her husband, Doug, have five children. She enjoys walking on the beach, yoga and sewing. She has lived in Idaho and the United Arab Emirates but is thankful to be back in beautiful San Diego where she grew up.

Mrs. Katie Mohler grew up in Switzerland where she attended the French-speaking public school system. In 10th grade, she moved to the United States and finished high school in Rochester, Minnesota. She then went on to earn a B.A. in English and French Literature, with a Minor in History, from Hillsdale College in Michigan. Mrs. Mohler’s first teaching job was on the island of Kauai where she met her husband, current Upper School Math teacher, Jacob Mohler. Mrs. Mohler has spent the majority of her teaching career imparting her love of literature, history and French in grades K-12 in Minnesota, Missouri and Hawaii. Mrs. Mohler is entering her third year as a 4th grade lead teacher. The Mohlers have two children, Emma and Ian. She delights in learning about the flora and fauna in the San Diego area, traveling, reading all types of books, spending time both at the beach and in the mountains with her family, and listening to her husband and son play music.

Ms. Esther Berends is excited to be a part of the Cambridge community this upcoming year teaching fifth grade. This will be her tenth year at Cambridge, and she is excited for all the new experiences and learning that will take place. Ms. Berends has a B.A in Liberal Arts and Culture from New Saint Andrews College and a M.A in Teaching from Liberty University. She is thankful for the opportunity to work together with parents and colleagues to shape students who desire to pursue both virtue and academic excellence.

Ms. Elizabeth Siri grew up in Southern California, particularly in Orange County, but loves San Diego! She has a B.A. in English Literature from UC Irvine and an M.A. in Systematic Theology from Westminster Seminary in Escondido. She enjoys reading and teaching students about the joys of literature and thoughtfully engaging in God’s creation around us. In her spare time she likes to explore new places, to cook and to meet up with friends. She is excited to start her second year with the 5th graders!

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

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

Mrs. Burger has been a teacher’s aide at Cambridge for several years working in the kindergarten and 1st grade classes. Prior to working at Cambridge, she home schooled her four children where she emphasized a Classical education including the study of Latin.  Mrs. Burger has a B.S. in Engineering from UCLA. 

Ms. Tori Einstein was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona and has lived in Tucson, Arizona for the last 12 years. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Religious Studies. After graduation, Ms. Einstein did a Children’s Ministry internship at her local church before moving to Mill Valley, California to attend Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. During her time there, she earned a Masters in Educational Leadership. Following graduation, Ms. Einstein was a Children’s Ministry Director for 7 years. She then worked as an Athletic Director and a Middle School math and science teacher. In this new season, Ms. Einstein is excited about joining the faculty at The Cambridge School and investing in students as the House Governor and 6th grade science teacher. Ms. Einstein enjoys traveling, reading, and doing CrossFit.

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

Mrs. Krista Hahn is a Licensed Educational Psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a school psychologist in the San Diego area. Mrs. Hahn has worked in both the private and public settings as an educational psychologist and holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage, Family, Child Therapy from Pepperdine University. Mrs. Hahn also holds a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Psychology from National University. She completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at UC Davis. She has extensive experience in psychoeducational evaluations, educational programs and interventions, counseling, social-emotional and behavior management, strategy development, individualized education plans, and crisis management. Mrs. Hahn has a passion for reading and is a former Board Member of the International Dyslexia Association. Mrs. Hahn enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters. In her free time, Mrs. Hahn loves all forms of exercise and competes in triathlons. She is an avid fan of the Baylor Bears, Broadway musicals, viticulture, and pontoon boating. Mrs. Hahn finds great joy in caring for animals, particularly her two pet dogs. Mrs. Hahn is ecstatic about being on The Cambridge School team and serving God by serving His children and their unique needs.

Mrs. Hosanna Hall grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and moved to San Diego to attend UCSD. After she received a B.A. in Human Development, she became a kindergarten aide at The Cambridge School. She returned to UCSD to earn a Teaching Credential and Master of Education degree and taught 3rd grade at TCS for 6 years. She is delighted to remain at The Cambridge School as the 4th/5th science teacher to guide students in their discovery of God’s world. Mrs. Hall enjoys family days at the beach with her dog, Rollie, and her son, Koen.

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

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

Ms. Cyndi Lehn earned her B.S. in Mathematics from Biola University, and her single subject teaching credential from California State University, Fresno. Ms. Lehn is looking forward to her 12th year teaching grammar school math at Cambridge. During her time at Cambridge, she taught grades 3-6 in various years. Within the framework of our vigorous Singapore math curriculum, she shepherds her students to love God more deeply and to love their neighbors well. She cultivates a classroom culture where students learn to venture beyond their comfort zones and explore new challenges with perseverance and grit. In an environment of empathy, grace, and open communication, everyone is given space to make mistakes and learn from them and encouraged to keep pressing on until concepts are internalized. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys time with family and friends, doing puzzles, reading, yoga, hiking, and exploring the outdoors.

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

Mr. Caleb Lieurance studied Philosophy and Mathematics at Westmont College, Santa Barbara. While in school, he worked as a Peer Tutor and Teacher’s Assistant, where he discovered his love for sharing ideas. He finds math to be compelling and infinitely intriguing, and he is very excited to encounter math in new, unexpected ways with students. Mr. Lieurance also loves flags, ultimate frisbee, theology, playing/writing music, doing cartwheels, designing games, and eating chocolate chip cookies. His goal as a teacher is to inspire students to be curious, thoughtful, and receptive towards math, as well as to further prepare them to live meaningful lives.

Mrs. Carolyn McClaskey is a San Diego native. She holds a B.A. in English, and a teaching credential from the University of San Diego. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Theater and the Arts from Adelphi University. Education and theater are her two passions: having taught 6th-10th grade English/Language Arts, as well as various aspects of the performing arts to students of all ages. She strives to see her students flourish academically while joyfully serving others for the glory of God and good of neighbor. Mrs. McClaskey delights in time spent with her husband and two daughters.

Mr. Jared A. McNeil-Smith (Coach J.A.M.S.) has a B.S. in Psychology and Christian
Counseling from Liberty University, and an M.A. in Christian Apologetics. Having instructed children and teenagers in fitness, swordsmanship, and the martial arts since 2010, he is excited to step into a leadership role as Instructor of K-8 Physical Education here at the Cambridge School. In this, his goal is to lead a dynamic and informative PE program that balances fun, athleticism, and discipline, setting kids up for habits of success in health: mind and body. You will also see him supervising After-School Study Hall for Logic Schoolers. Outside of school, Mr. McNeil-Smith is currently continuing his education in apologetics, teaching philosophy to his private students, writing novels, and enjoying life serving the Lord with his wonderful wife.

Mrs. Luda Rockett was born and raised in the beautiful Southern region of Russia, where the Caucasus Mountains meet the Black Sea. She received her BA in Music Education and Masters in Choir Management and has extensive training in Orff and Kodaly methods, which are rhythm and pitch development approaches. Mrs. Rockett absolutely loves to learn and enrich her knowledge in classical pedagogy. Besides constant self-education, she attends Music Teachers conferences, workshops and trainings and is an active member of the San Diego American Orff Schulwerk Association. She is excited for another year at Cambridge, teaching music theory and appreciation to our students.

Mrs. Segarra joined the Cambridge School teaching team in 2012. She earned her undergraduate degree in music from Chapman University, with an emphasis in choral conducting and voice, and an MBA from Pepperdine University and has completed training and certification in the Orff method of music education. Mrs. Segarra taught Kindergarten Prep, 3rd grade, and 4th grade at a private Christian school. Additionally, she has served for many years in church music ministry in various capacities – as director of music ministry; director for children, youth, and adult choirs; and soloist. She has been active in a number of music associations, as co-president of San Diego Choristers Guild for a number of years and currently as an active member of the San Diego American Orff Schulwerk Association. Mrs. Segarra and her husband have lived in the San Diego area for over twenty years, and they have three adult children.

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

Melissa Gingrich earned her B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Arizona and her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at Emory University. After graduate school, she worked in clinical studies at the University of Virginia. Mrs. Gingrich helped design the science program starting in 2008. She has taught all levels of science classes at Cambridge in 2nd through 9th grades since then and currently teaches Neuroscience Seminar for seniors. Mrs. Gingrich took on the Upper School Principal role in 2018. She enjoys spending time at the beach and on the trails with her husband Brenden and their three children, all of whom are now Cambridge graduates!

Mr. DJ Goodwiler has an M.A. in Theological Studies from Westminster Seminary California and an M.A. in Rhetoric and Writing Studies from San Diego State University, having studied biblical languages and philosophy at Concordia University. He joined the Cambridge faculty in 2012 and has greatly enjoyed the opportunity to share subjects about which he is passionate to a curious and eager community of students, alongside gifted scholar-educators.

Mr. Jim Hamilton was introduced to Classical learning when he took Latin and Greek early on in his studies at UC Irvine. There he developed a passion for the language and culture of the ancient Greeks and Romans. This was further cultivated at Westminster Seminary California when his love for ancient language was combined with the reading and teaching of the Gospel. Mr. Hamilton has taught Latin and Greek at Cambridge since 2013. He is blessed to work at an institution of like-minded educators where he can instill his passion for the Classical languages and history in his students. When not engaged in Classical studies, Jim is spending time with his wife, Perri, and their children.

Mr. Doug Jones has been teaching at TCS since 2017 and chairs Literature and Performing Arts departments. He is a graduate of the University of California, Irvine (BA, philosophy), the University of Southern California (MA, philosophy) and the University of Idaho (MFA, creative writing). A native Californian, he is an avid baseball fan and a devoted guitar/ukulele maker. Mr. Jones is the husband of TCS fourth-grade teacher, Paula Jones, whom he met at Vista High in north county San Diego. They have five children, raised largely in northern Idaho and now spread about the country (their youngest, Gabe, graduated from TCS).

Mrs. Melissa Mayne has a dual bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry and a teaching credential from Point Loma Nazarene University. She has been teaching students from grades 3 to 12 to love and explore science in San Diego schools for many years and has been part of the faculty at The Cambridge School since 2014. She is passionate about helping students to cultivate wonder and delight in all the living things God has made. Mrs. Mayne enjoys long walks in the mountains and on the beach. Being in wild spaces brings life to her soul!

Mr. Jacob Mohler earned a Bachelor of Science in mathematics from Hillsdale College and continued his formal education earning a Master of Arts in mathematics from Saint Louis University. Jacob has taught in several different academic settings since 2000 including a K-12 classical and Christian school, a 7-12 Christian school, community college and private universities. Jacob joined The Cambridge School in  2018.  He looks forward to each school year so that he can continue building relationships with more students and their families and create memories with House Faraday. As Mathematics Chair, Jacob continues to look for more ways to broaden all of his students’ perspectives about mathematics to help them see and experience math as a liberal “freeing” art and not just an academic discipline accessible to a select few. When not working, Jacob enjoys spending time with his family, cooking with friends, traveling, playing and listening to music and engaging in good conversations. He and his wife, Katie, have two children, Emma (‘23) and Ian (‘26).

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

Ms. Calvo has been a part of the Cambridge faculty since 2019. Since then she has served as a music and drama teacher for both the Grammar and Upper School. Ms. Calvo’s musical training has included  study at the University of Miami where she concentrated on Studio Music and Vocal Jazz as well as spending a summer residency as a guest artist at the Lyric Opera in Weimar, Germany. Ms. Calvo holds a B.A. in Classical Piano/Vocal Studies from Point Loma University and an M.M. in Vocal Performance from San Diego State University. Currently, Ms. Calvo is working on her Master of Arts Education degree in Curriculum and Teaching with an emphasis in Theatre Pedagogy through Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Ms. Calvo has served as a director of music, organist, pianist, and choral director for churches  and schools in Miami, Florida as well as San Diego, CA. She has also served on the theater  faculty at the Belvoir Performing Arts Summer Program in Lenox, Massachusetts and as well as the San Diego Junior Theatre. Ms. Calvo has been on the music faculty at the University of San Diego since 2010 teaching private and class voice as well as coaching vocalists in the Jazz Ensemble. Ms. Calvo’s professional career has included performances with La Jolla Symphony and Chorus, San Diego Symphony, San Diego Opera, Mainly Mozart and San Diego Master Chorale. She is excited and honored to share her passion  and love for music and theater with the students and community at The Cambridge School.

Mr. Andrew Chung graduated from the University of Kentucky with a B.A. in business administration, focusing on marketing and Spanish, and went on to receive his Master’s degree in International Cooperation concentrating on Northeast Asian security from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea. Though not the path that Mr. Chung took academically, he has always had a deep affinity for math, so throughout his college career, and before, he tutored math on the side, which even helped him pay his way through graduate school. He believes that math is the universal language that is shared by everyone.  No matter where you are in the world, even if the numbers and symbols are different, the mathematic principals are always the same. Andrew has been teaching in the San Diego area for thirteen years now. Originally head of the math departments at both San Diego Elite offices, (Assistant Director at the Carmel Valley branch) he went on to co-found Summa Education in 2011 where he continued to teach students, hire and train staff, and guide students and their families through the changing landscape of education in the area. He has taught classes ranging from 5th grade math to calculus, as well as test-prep for the ACT, SAT and SAT Level 2 math exams. After taking a brief hiatus from academics, Mr. Chung was very excited about getting back into the classroom. He looks forward to returning to the Cambridge School, where he will be teaching both geometry and pre-calculus. In his free time, Mr. Chung likes to swim, surf, travel and spend time with his wife, Janet, and their son, Isaiah.

Patrick Claytor will begin teaching at The Cambridge School in the Fall of 2024. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from Bethlehem College and Seminary in 2019. Soon afterward, he got married to his wonderful wife Renata. He taught Latin and Bible at Hope Academy in Minneapolis for two years. During that time, he served in youth ministry at Bethlehem Baptist Church. He and his wife left Minnesota to attend Westminster Seminary California in 2021, where he received his Masters of Divinity degree. Mr. Claytor loves teaching the Bible to young people. He has a passion to see young people encounter Christ in his word and be transformed by his grace. He also has a passion for missions, having served in many foreign contexts for short periods of time. His hobbies include playing sports, cooking, traveling, reading, and watching his Miami Dolphins win football games (sometimes). He serves at his church, preaching occasionally and filling whatever needs that arise. He loves the local church, and desires to serve wherever the Lord would have him.

Ms. Tori Einstein graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Religious Studies. After graduation, Ms. Einstein was a Children’s Ministry Intern at her local church before moving to Mill Valley, California to attend Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. During her time there, she earned a Masters in Educational Leadership. Following graduation, Ms. Einstein was a Children’s Ministry Director for 7 years before becoming an Athletic Director and Middle School math and science teacher. In this new season of life, Ms. Einstein is excited to be returning as the House Governor and 6th grade science teacher at The Cambridge School. In her free time, Ms. Einstein enjoys traveling, reading, and doing CrossFit.

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

Mrs. Esther Han has a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health Natural Sciences from Johns Hopkins University and a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health. She received her credential and Master’s in Education from Stanford University. She has taught high school science in San Diego since 2009 and has loved being able to share her excitement and love of the natural world that God has created with the students at TCS since 2018. In her free time she enjoys reading, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her husband and two children.

Mr. Brandon Hong earned his B.A. in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Pomona College and his J.D. at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. He worked in both the public and private sectors before pivoting to the teaching profession when he was overseas for four years. Mr. Hong joined the Cambridge faculty in 2017, and he presently teaches Economics (12th grade) in addition to being the Business Manager.

Mrs. Kelsie Howze is originally from San Diego, California and a graduate from the University of California, San Diego. Upon earning her degree in Linguistics, Mrs. Howze traveled to India for an internship working with a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) where she developed curriculum for underprivileged children and worked on character building and deepening faith understanding with children in an orphanage. After 5 months, she returned to San Diego where she pursued and earned her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at San Diego State University. For the past seven years, she has worked at Cambridge as one of the 6th Grade Lead teachers. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Biblical and Theological Studies at Covenant Theological Seminary. She has always loved teaching and feels God calling her to challenge students to think critically and engage with various texts including fictional literature, classics, historical and other non-fiction texts, especially God’s word. Her goal in teaching is to encourage students to be excited about digging deep into all their studies, connecting and applying it to their lives, and being able to carry those skills into their futures. In her free time she loves reading, board games, studying the Bible, traveling, hiking, swimming, and spending time with friends and family.

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

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

Mr. Donny McNair has taught at Cambridge since 2017. He has a B.A. in Liberal Arts and Culture from New Saint Andrew’s College and an M.A. in Classical Studies and Latin from Villanova University. While primarily a Latin teacher, Mr. McNair’s other areas of experience include teaching Roman and Medieval literature and History. Mr. McNair is happy to be sharing his knowledge and love of the Latin language with the students of Cambridge. Outside of school, Mr. McNair enjoys spending time with his wife and dogs, mountain biking, and surfing.

Mr. Jared A. McNeil-Smith (Coach J.A.M.S.) has a B.S. in Psychology and Christian
Counseling from Liberty University, and an M.A. in Christian Apologetics. Having instructed children and teenagers in fitness, swordsmanship, and the martial arts since 2010, he is excited to step into a leadership role as Instructor of K-8 Physical Education here at the Cambridge School. In this, his goal is to lead a dynamic and informative PE program that balances fun, athleticism, and discipline, setting kids up for habits of success in health: mind and body. You will also see him supervising After-School Study Hall for Logic Schoolers. Outside of school, Mr. McNeil-Smith is currently continuing his education in apologetics, teaching philosophy to his private students, writing novels, and enjoying life serving the Lord with his wonderful wife.

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

Mrs. Becky Priest came to Cambridge as a parent in 2009 and is in her twelfth year of being the College Counselor, having built the program at TCS.  She is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis where she double-majored in Sociology and Secondary Education with an emphasis in educational policy. She was employed for several years as a Financial Aid Counselor at Washington University and in the San Diego area at college admissions firms and in private consulting. She has 35 years of experience in college financial aid, student counseling, and mentoring high school and college students. She and her husband have provided leadership in their church in the areas of teaching, music, youth, international student ministry, and missions. She has served on the Classic Learning Test’s Board of Academic Advisors and taught annual cohorts of counselors at other classical schools through the Society for Classical Learning.

Cherie earned her B.A. in history from San Diego State University, followed by multiple subjects and specialist teaching credentials. She earned her M. Ed from the University of San Diego. In 1994 she moved with her family to St. Andrews in Scotland, where she taught for 2 years. For the next 25 years, Cherie taught middle and high school in San Diego. She is excited to join The Cambridge School and looks forward to introducing students to the human story while celebrating the agency of the Creator, and exploring the moral issues faced by past generations. Cherie and her husband David, with their children and grandchildren, enjoy hiking, missions work, and studying God’s Word.

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

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

Mr. Joshua Sansonetti has been working at The Cambridge School since 2013, and he is excited to continue to teach 7th grade Algebra 1, in addition to helping outside of the classroom with the other Upper School math courses. Mr. Sansonetti found his love for teaching mathematics while attending Chaffey College at age sixteen, where he was chosen to tutor college algebra students for three semesters. Since then, he has helped students from elementary to high school—all the while trying to encourage students not only to master the concepts, but also to enjoy mathematics. Mr. Sansonetti received his Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Mathematics Secondary Education at Biola University and graduated with distinction as a member of Biola’s Torrey Honors Institute, a classical great books program based on Socratic discussion. Mr. Sansonetti looks forward to continuing to work with Cambridge students as together they explore the world of mathematics. He also enjoys spending time with family, Star Wars, playing the piano, theater, reading, board games, and math puzzles.

Reuben Settergren’s academic career (BS/MS (Math), Johns Hopkins; PhD (Operations Research), Rutgers; Asst Professor (Math/CS), College of Wooster; Postdoc (Computing), Imperial College, London) involved computational research in fields as varied as astronomy, bioinformatics, and finance. For the past 20 years, he has worked as a photogrammetric software engineer at BAE Systems in Rancho Bernardo, where he has frequent opportunities to teach software skills internally, and present research at conferences. Reuben & Tina and their 3 boys have been part of the Cambridge family since 2007, when Lucas and Callum enrolled in 3rd grade and K4. Lucas graduated with the inaugural class of 2018, Callum graduated with the inaugural class of 2022, and Mason graduated with the inaugural class of 2024. Reuben’s Erdős Number is 3. 

Mr. Caleb Smith has an A.A. in Speech from Palomar College and a B.A. in Communication from San Diego Christian College. A lifelong San Diego resident, Mr. Smith is passionate about the art of public speech. Having thrived on his own team in college he now enjoys creating similar opportunities for his upper school students at The Cambridge School. Mr. Smith began teaching at The Cambridge School in 2016. He teaches and coaches speech and debate for grades seven and up.

Estella Tai is a native of Taiwan and immigrated to the US to attend high school. She lived in the Bay Area and attended UC Berkeley to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering. Thereafter, she moved to San Diego and graduated from UCSD with a Master’s degree in Bioengineering. She taught at a private high school for a year, then worked in the biotech industry for 4 years before transitioning to be a full time mom. She was privileged to homeschool her children a few years before teaching Mandarin and subsequently science at Cambridge. She has found teaching at Cambridge both challenging and rewarding, and what she values most is learning and discovering together with her students! She loves both life science and physical science, as they both point us towards God’s wonderful creation and amazing designs. The knowledge gained through science equips us to better understand the world around us and strengthens our faith!

Emily Van Meter is a native to San Diego, growing up in Encinitas before moving to LA for university. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Cinema and Media Arts and a Minor in Fine Arts from Biola University. At Biola she was also a member of the Torrey Honors College, Biola’s classical Great Books program. She is passionate about holistic education and enjoys guiding Cambridge students to recognize and develop a love of beauty both in art and writing. Mrs. Van Meter enjoys spending time outside hiking or painting, visiting new coffee shops, and capturing moments in her sketchbook.

Hiroko, a native of Japan, has spent most of her life in San Diego, where she earned a Bachelor of Music from SDSU and a Master’s of Music from San Francisco Conservatory of Music. She has earned many awards and recognitions including a Presidential award. She sings in 10 languages and performs in opera companies and churches. She has taught piano and voice to students who have gone on to win competitions in England, New York, and California. She has directed a children’s choir in Escondido. She is excited to bring her expertise and to lead a new upper division choir at Cambridge, where she lives just 2 miles away!

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

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

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

Rodney Glick has lived in Lancaster, Pennsylvania for most of his life.  He has a life-time of experience in the construction trades and management and loves serving others with his skills and knowledge. He has served as a senior construction manager for a premier construction management and consulting firm in Lancaster for 14 years and is blessed to be part of the Cambridge Family the past 2 years.  He and his wife Glenda have four children and three grandchildren, their oldest living in CA for the past 10 years. His greatest joys in life are studying the Bible, spending quality time with his wife and family, quiet times of reading and long walks. He counts it a great blessing to live and serve the people of beautiful San Diego.

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

Coming soon!

Mrs. Karla Hays earned her BSN from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and her Master of Nursing and Public Health from the University of Washington. She spent ten years on active duty and seventeen years as a drilling reservist as a Navy Nurse Corps Officer and retired from military service in December 2016. Mrs. Hays has a variety of clinical, community health, and leadership experiences and is excited to serve with the health care team, students, parents, and staff at The Cambridge School. She serves as a Deacon and volunteers as a Parish Nurse at Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church and is an active member of the California School Nurse Organization. Mrs. Hays lives in Poway and enjoys traveling, reading, music, and hiking the trails with her family.

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

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

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

Maya Pirschel, born and mostly raised in Southern California, earned her B.A. in Theatre from Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA. During her time there, she served as the Theatre Department’s head Stage Manager and President of the Drama Club. After graduating and returning home, Maya gained experience as an Administrative Assistant for a small local business. In 2020, Maya married her husband Nick and they moved to San Diego, where she began her journey with The Cambridge School. Starting in the classroom, Maya witnessed firsthand the school’s mission in action. Following the birth of her son, Charlie, she transitioned to the Advancement Team. She is eager to use her skills and background to further the school’s mission and serve the community.

Carnie Wong earned her BA in Communications from UC San Diego. She found The Cambridge School through friends who are teachers and families who attend the school. She loves the mission of the school and will talk the whole day about it. You can find Carnie with her husband and daughter exploring San Diego’s beaches, libraries, and bookstores in her free time.

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