Mirman School

faculty

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Faculty

Mirman employs a dedicated team of lead, associate, and assistant teachers, all with specialized knowledge and teaching experience. We also have a dedicated team of specialists in several subject areas, as well as a slate of coaches accomplished as both athletes and teachers. Our breadth of faculty ensures that all students receive the individual attention they need to grow and thrive in all subject areas. Navigate the directory below to learn more about our faculty or to get their contact information.

Lower School

List of 22 members.

Katy Carroll

Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Ms. Carroll arrived at Mirman in 2018 after spending the last eight years as a lead first grade teacher at Rye Country Day School in Rye, New York. Prior to moving to Rye Country Day, she taught at Hunter College Elementary School in New York, where she also received her master’s of science in childhood education for first through sixth grade. Ms. Carroll also holds a B.A. in liberal studies from California State University, Los Angeles, and her New York State permanent certificate in first through sixth grade. She is trained in mindfulness, Responsive Classroom, and Columbia University’s Readers Workshop.
Lorraine Cleary Dale

Lower School Art Teacher

Bio
Lorraine has an MFA in Painting and Installation from Claremont Graduate University as well as a BFA in Drawing and Painting/Intermedia Art from California State University, Long Beach. She has over 25 years of experience as an educator and artist. Most recently, Lorraine served as the Visual Arts Specialist/Artist in Resident at the California Creative Learning Academy. Before that, she was the Lead Fine Arts Specialist for the Pasadena Unified School District, where she developed and taught K-5th grade art curriculum at Sierra Madre Elementary School.
Debra Davis

Lower School Learning Specialist

Bio
Debbie Davis is an educational therapist/professional and has been working as a learning specialist for students at the elementary, middle, and adult education levels since 2003. Most recently, she was a learning and curriculum specialist at the John Thomas Dye School, and prior to that, a reading specialist and Third Grade classroom lead at Curtis School. She holds a Masters in Education from Loyola Marymount University, where she went on to serve as an adjunct professor from 2003 to 2016, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Education from Western Illinois University. Debbie also has a private practice where she supports students by building individualized learning plans and serving as a liaison between students, families, and teachers.
Cristian De Leon

Lower School Math Teacher

Bio
Mr. De Leon serves as Mirman’s Lower School Math Teacher and received his B.A. in Pure Mathematics with a minor in CalTeach Math and Science Education from the University of California, Berkeley. Prior to joining Mirman, Cristian founded a youth empowerment center, a private math tutoring center, served as the founding teacher for a newly established course at UC Berkeley, and served as a math teacher at various schools across the Los Angeles area including Girls Athletic Leadership Schools, and Math and Science College Preparatory School.
Ara Elliott

Lower School Spanish Teacher

Bio
Prior to joining us at Mirman, Ms. Elliott taught in a dual language immersion program at a fourth grade level at Dixie Sun Elementary in St. George, Utah; she also taught first and fourth-grade learners at Riverside Elementary in South Jordan, Utah. Ms. Elliott is a graduate of Brigham Young University, where she earned a B.S. in elementary education. She holds credentials in dual language immersion as well as teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL).
Jared Hubbard

First Grade Teacher

Bio
Jared Hubbard (First Grade A) comes to Mirman after six years of teaching Kindergarten and First Grade in the Constantine, Michigan public school system, where he was instrumental in not only his classroom but his school’s math curriculum design and implementation. Mr. Hubbard brings both a B.A. in elementary education from Western Michigan University and an M.A. in school principalship from Central Michigan University.
Gabriella Kianmahd

First Grade Teacher

Bio
Gabby came to Mirman as an Assistant Teacher in the Lower School in 2020. She then became an Associate teacher and ultimate long-term substitute as the lead teacher in second grade in 2022-2023. Gabby received her M.A. from Teachers College, Columbia University in Curriculum and Teaching. Prior to coming to Mirman, Gabby had served as an early childhood educator at Sinai Akiba Academy here in Los Angeles.
Julie Leavitt

Fourth Grade Teacher

Bio
Ms. Leavitt joined Mirman in 2015 from Downtown Miami Charter School in Miami, Florida where she taught K-6 Gifted Reading and Fourth Grade. From 2015 to 2019, she served as the lead teacher for Third Grade (previously Room 4) before transitioning to Fourth Grade (previously Room 5) lead teacher in 2019. Before Mirman, she taught elementary school in Bangkok, Thailand, and worked with adult continuing education learners in Boston, Massachusetts. Ms. Leavitt holds a B.A. in Women's Studies from the University of Wyoming, an M.S. in International and Intercultural Education from Florida International University, and a certificate in Differentiated Curriculum for Gifted and Talented Students from the University of Southern California. She chairs the Thematic Studies/History Department at Mirman.
Jocelyn Lopez

Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Jocelyn came to Mirman as an Assistant Teacher in 2020. In 2023, Jocelyn became a lead Kindergarten Teacher in KC. She holds a bachelor's degree in Child Development and a Master's Degree in Education with a focus on Equity, Education, and Social Justice. Jocelyn is trained in Responsive Classroom, Bridges Mathematics, and Columbia University's Writer's and Reader's Workshop. Passionate about fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments, Jocelyn is dedicated to supporting each student's growth and development.
Kevin Lynch

Second Grade Teacher

Bio
Kevin Lynch has over twenty years of child care experience in various roles including recreational camps, after school programs, and teaching at public and independent schools. He started at Mirman as an Assistant Teacher in 2017. He became an Associate Teacher the following year and a Lead Teacher in 2022. He has worked in First Grade, Fourth Grade, and Second Grade in his time at Mirman. He received his B.A. from California State University Northridge in Multimedia Production and attended the Credentialing Program through CalStateTeach.
Marlene Ortega

Third Grade Teacher

Bio
Marlene Ortega comes to Mirman from the Arcadia School District, where she was an instructional assistant and 1:1 aide for special education and general education in Middle School grades. Before her experience in Arcadia, she was a developmental interventionist and teacher's assistant for the SmartStart Developmental Center in Santa Monica, CA. She has specialized knowledge and experience in early childhood development and Elementary and Middle school grades. At Mirman, she was an Associate and Lead teacher in First Grade before becoming a Third Grade lead. She holds a bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration minor in Education.
Robin Raval

Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Ms. Raval has been a part of the Mirman School community since August 2017. She has worked in a variety of roles at Mirman over the years, including Library Media Specialist, First and Second Grade Lead Teacher, and a term as a long-term substitute Third Grade Lead Teacher. Prior to coming to Mirman, she worked as an elementary educator at Brentwood School and The John Thomas Dye School in Los Angeles, as well as ACS Hillingdon International School in London. Ms. Raval holds a B.A. in Economics from UC, Santa Cruz, a M.B.A. from Pepperdine University, and a multiple subject elementary education teaching credential from CSU, Northridge.
Eilish Reynolds

First Grade Teacher

Bio
Eilish has her BA in Elementary Education and Liberal Studies from Emmanuel College in Boston, MA, and her Master of Education in Early Child and Special Education from Boston University. Prior to her arrival at Mirman, Eilish taught first grade in the D.C. Public Schools as well as serving as a First Grade ELA Teacher at the Achievement Prep Charter School, in Washington, D.C.. Her career began as both a Kindergarten and First Grade Teacher in Boston, MA, as well as teaching elementary school in both London, United Kingdom and Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Jasmine Rice

Third Grade Teacher

Bio
Ms. Rice has been a dedicated Third Grade teacher at Mirman School since 2020. Originally from the Central Valley, she attended the University of California, Merced where she double-majored in economics and sociology. She then graduated from UC Merced's teacher credential program. After completing her education, she relocated to Los Angeles to join the Mirman community and has been passionate about nurturing highly gifted young minds ever since.
Monica Sone

Fourth Grade Teacher

Bio
Monica Sone was born and raised in Manila, Philippines where she received her B.S. in Early Childhood Education from De La Salle University. In 2008, she took a leap of faith and moved to the United States by herself to pursue teaching here. She began teaching at Santa Monica Montessori School, received her Montessori Teaching Certificate, and was a head Kindergarten teacher for five years. Ms. Sone has also taught at Canyon Elementary School, and subbed in various grade levels at Crossroads Elementary School and Brentwood School. She was most recently a head teacher at Turning Point, where she taught Third and Fifth Grade. She holds a master's degree in educational leadership and policies at California State University – Northridge. She is working towards completing a certificate in diversity and inclusion through eCornell University in September 2020. Ms. Sone has more than 13 years of classroom experience, and is the Lower School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator at Mirman.
Jake Tiner

Fourth Grade Teacher

Bio
Jake comes to Mirman from New York City, where he most recently taught third grade and first grade at the Speyer Legacy School, an Independent School in New York City for gifted children. Jake has also taught elementary through middle school in both the independent and public schools of NYC. Jake holds a BS in Biology from Fordham University and his MST in Adolescent Education from Pace University.
Alyssa Wray

Director of Lower School Math

Bio
Ms. Wray serves as the Director of the Lower School Mathematics program and the Instructional Data Coordinator. She has a B.A. in Education with a minor in Mathematics from DePaul University in Chicago. She played Division I soccer during her time at DePaul University. She also has a M.Ed. in STEAM Curriculum and Instruction from the University of San Diego. At Mirman, she was Upper School Math Teacher and Upper School Advisor for 5 years and taught an 8th grade STEAM course called Future Impact. Prior to Mirman School, she taught math at the middle school and high school level and served as the Mathematics Department Chair at Saint Clement School located in Chicago.
Shiqing Yin

Lower School Mandarin Teacher

Bio
Shiqing Yin holds a B.A. from the Nanjing University of the Arts in China. She is currently pursuing a master's degree with a focus on education at Loyola Marymount in Los Angeles.

Prior to joining Mirman as the Lower School Mandarin teacher, she worked as a substitute at Broadway and Braddock Elementary Schools here in Los Angeles, and currently teraches group courses at the First United Methodist Church School in Santa Monica.
Catherine Yoon

Second Grade Teacher

Bio
Catherine Yoon joined Mirman from Chadwick School in Palos Verdes, where she was an Associate Teacher in First Grade. In conjunction with her work at Chadwick, Ms. Yoon served as an Academic Coach for Educational Therapy Services, where she assisted students across core subject areas, including conducting assessments. She holds a B.A. cum laude in health and human sciences as well as an M.A. in elementary inclusive education from Teachers College at Columbia University.
Anne Youngs

Second Grade Teacher

Bio
Anne most recently served as the Founding Kindergarten and First Grade Teacher for the Citizens of the World East Valley Charter School and also taught Kindergarten for six years in the public schools of Indianapolis. Anne has her BS in Fine Arts from Ball State University and her MA in Elementary Education: K-6 from Marion University, both in Indiana.
Lisa Wong

Library Media Specialist

Bio
Lisa Wong came to Mirman as a Third Grade Associate Teacher before taking on the role of Library Media Specialist. Currently earning a Library Technology Certificate, Lisa also has a B.A. in American Studies and minors in Asian American Studies and African American Studies from California State Polytechnic University. Her background in K-12 education includes work as a lead teacher, reading/math tutor, and special education paraprofessional. Born in L.A., Ms. Wong draws on her experience living in SoCal, Hawaii, and San Francisco and hopes the Library will be a place of joy and discovery for the Mirman community!
Ryan Zary

Lower School Science Teacher

Bio
Lower School Science Teacher began his Mirman career as Assistant Lower School Science Teacher in 2019, moving to co-lead and eventually lead teacher in 2024. He is a Ventura County native who grew up playing basketball at Thousand Oaks High School, his love for the game leading to coaching stints at both Moorpark and Newbury Park High Schools. He holds a B.S. in biology from California State University-Channel Islands as well as a master’s in Science Education from California State University-Northridge. He is passionate about science and sports — mostly golf!

Upper School

List of 14 members.

Sandra Cortez

Upper School Learning Specialist

Bio
Ms. Cortez has had a distinguished career as a classroom teacher, math specialist, and language arts coordinator. She was first a Third Grade lead teacher at Mirman from 2018-2021, then serving as the Instructional Coach and K-2 Math Coordinator from 2021-2022. Before returning to Mirman as the Upper School Learning Specialist in 2024, she was the Director of Teaching and Learning at St. Luke's Episcopal School in San Antonio, Texas. She has taught all elementary grades in different international schools, taught third and fourth grade at the University of Chicago Lab School in Chicago from 2002-2016, and served as the K-4 Math Specialist at the John Thomas Dye School here in Los Angeles. She has her B.A. in child development and education from Miriam College in the Philippines and her M.A. in curriculum and language literacy from Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts.
Simon Darcy

Upper School English Teacher

Bio
Simon Darcy graduated with honors from the University of Wales with a B.A. in English and History. He gained his Post Graduate Teaching Certificate from Strathclyde University in Glasgow, Scotland. Mr. Darcy has extensive high school experience teaching English, history, and French in the London boroughs of Westminster, Islington, and Kensington & Chelsea. In the U.K., where faculty and administration roles are combined, Mr. Darcy served as the Head of English and Languages Departments for many years and most recently Mr. Darcy was Assistant Principal at Capital City Academy in north London. Mr. Darcy is a life-long learner, and in 2015 he graduated with distinction from King’s College, London with a Masters in English and Education. He also received a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy with honors from HMI College in Los Angeles in 2021. Mr. Darcy chairs the English department at Mirman.
Stephanie Ho

Upper School Science Teacher

Bio
Stephanie Ho teaches Sixth and Eighth Grade science classes. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Earth and Environmental Science from UC Irvine and a Master’s degree in Biology from USC, where she received extensive training in marine biology. With over a decade of experience, Ms. Ho has spent the last ten years teaching K-5 science at Chandler School while also leading middle school science programs during the summers. Her background includes several years of education outreach at the Aquarium of the Pacific, where she gained hands-on experience in marine biology and husbandry, including working with Magellanic penguins. Ms. Ho is passionate about fostering curiosity and critical thinking through interactive, inquiry-based learning. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Oscar, and their one-year-old son, Gio. She looks forward to exploring exciting science topics with her students and making each year a memorable journey of discovery.
Aileen Level

Upper School History Teacher

Bio
Aileen M. Level has been an educator in the Los Angeles independent school community since 2003, when she first began substituting for Chadwick School in Palos Verdes. Since her career began, she has taught at La Monte Academy (now New Vista School), Brentwood School, Peninsula Academy, Yavneh Academy, and most recently at Sinai Akiba Academy (Lainer School). While her recent experience has primarily been as a middle school social studies teacher, she also has developed curriculum in both social studies and English at some of her previous schools. She holds an interdisciplinary M.A. from NYU, where she studied in a bilingual French/English program incorporating history, sociology, and political science. She also holds both a master's and bachelor's degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
Kun Li

Upper School Mandarin Teacher

Bio
Ms. Li received her B.A. in English at East China Normal University in Shanghai with a four-year scholarship and her M.A. in second language acquisition at the University of Pennsylvania with a scholarship. She passed the Standard Mandarin oral test in China with an A. She has taught Mandarin level 1 - AP at Harvard-Westlake School from 7th - 12th grade for 10 years. During the time period, the application of Gallal Walker's theories of learning Mandarin with performed culture was particularly well received by middle school Mandarin learners. She also received a Harvard Westlake faculty scholarship and traveled to Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Sichuan, China with a group of colleagues where she gained a particular perspective on understanding the Chinese culture. She was trained in learning and brain, and the most recent in-depth learning by the Stanford Challenge success team. She loves swimming with her family and watching daily shows.
Kara Luna

Upper School Math Teacher

Bio
Kara Luna graduated from St. John’s College, specifically focusing her studies on the History of Math and Science and Philosophy while double majoring in Classics and Comparative Literature. She began her teaching career as a middle school math teacher in Houston, Texas, and moved on to independent and public school teaching in both New York City and Washington D.C. She has served as Math Department Chair at the Cesar Chavez Public High School for Public Policy in Washington D.C., where she coached math teachers and developed a math learning enrichment program. Ms. Luna chairs the Math department at Mirman.
Andres Merlos

Upper School Math Teacher

Bio
Andres comes to us from the Palisades Charter High School in the Pacific Palisades, where he served as a mathematics teacher. During his time at Palisades Charter, Andres taught complex mathematical concepts effectively using technology, collaboration, culturally responsive pedagogy, and inter-personal outreach. He has a Bachelors of Sciences in Mathematics from Indiana University as well as a Secondary Education Mathematics Credential from Humboldt University.
Gian Molero

Upper School Spanish Teacher

Bio
Mrs. Gian Molero is originally from Venezuela. She earned her B.A. in Elementary Education from the Loyola University in Caracas, where she spent five years as a student representative and graduated magna cum laude.

In 2007, she obtained a master's degree in General Education from Loyola Marymount University. She graduated with a GPA of 4.0 and was chosen to be the “Student of the Year.” Mrs. Molero was the sole student from her graduating class recommended to take a Doctoral Program class, in which she earned an A+. Additionally, she was invited to be part of the Honorary Society of Education, Kappa Delta Pi.

She received training designed at Harvard University for coaching social leaders, and served as an instructor for those subjects at a University-level honorary class, as well as in some rural Venezuelan towns. She took a two-year training course on Alternative Methods of Conflict Resolution, and today is the Pedagogical Consultant for the International Dispute Resolution Research Network of the University of St. Thomas.

In her home country, Mrs. Molero served as the General Coordinator of a Civic Education workshop in five inner city public schools, and she supervised a Mayor’s Office project for returning dropouts to schools in Caracas, Venezuela. She was Curriculum Designer of the high school program of Social Participation at the most prestigious private school in her country as well as an Elementary teacher.

In recent years, Mrs. Molero became a certified Montessori teacher. At Exploring Minds Montessori Preschool in Los Angeles, she worked as a room teacher and taught Spanish as a Second Language. During this five-year period, she developed a joyful, engaging, and challenging methodology that allowed her students to love the language and the learning of it.

Ms. Molero has earned the USC Gifted Education Certification and she currently presents annually to both the California World Language Teacher Association Conference and the California Association for the Gifted Conference.

Outside of school, listening to music and experiencing all kinds of natural sites are among her favorite pastimes, which she loves to share with her children.

Ms. Molero chairs the World Languages department at Mirman.
Karyn Raz

Upper School Art Teacher

Bio
Karyn Raz joined Mirman after more than a decade teaching visual art to middle and high school students at New Roads School in Santa Monica. She has taught as a visual arts specialist serving students from early childhood to high school at several area schools including Bais Chaya Mushka, Gan Israel Preschool, Art-Works Studio, and Windward School. She holds multiple honors from the Society of Illustrators, the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, and has exhibited as a juried artist in galleries in Los Angeles as well as for corporations, non-profits, and publications. She holds a B.A. in art-semiotics from Brown University and a B.F.A. with honors in illustration from the Art Center College of Design.
Jung Rhee

Upper School Math Teacher

Bio
Jungseub holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UCLA and is credentialed from the state of Massachusetts to teach math for grades 8 - 12. Jungseub Rhee recently returned to the United States after teaching test practices in Korea. Prior to moving to Korea, Jungseub served as a math instructor for a number of years at a local tutoring company in Los Angeles.
John Schmitt

Upper School History Teacher

Bio
John Schmitt is History Teacher to Fifth Grade and Upper School 3, now in his second year. Prior to joining Mirman, John has served as a High School History Teacher, Social Studies Department Chair, and Academic Team Lead at Brooklyn Collaborative Studies in Brooklyn, New York.

John was a recipient of the prestigious Fund For Teachers Education Grant, in which he studied and documented the decolonization efforts of American Indians in the Dakotas through fieldwork, interviews, and document research. He has presented on novel approaches to assessment, curriculum, and argument writing at the EL Education National Conference (Master Class), the New York City Writer's Project, the Performance Assessment Consortium Conference, and at Columbia University Teachers College (Teaching in Trying Times Conference).

John is also a working songwriter and self-taught musician, with over 7.8 million streams on Spotify of his songs, and has performed with artists such as Ingrid Michaelson, Damien Rice, John Oates, Matt Simons, and more. He has written music for movies and advertising, including campaigns for Cracker Barrel, Jeep, and others. John received his B.A. in Psychology from S.U.N.Y. College in Fredonia and his M.S. in Adolescent Social Studies Education from Columbia University in New York City. He is a proud native of Buffalo, NY.
Dr. Adam Tabeling

Upper School Latin Teacher

Bio
In 2011, Adam Tabeling earned his bachelor’s degree cum laude in classics and anthropology from the University of Colorado, after which he moved to Maryland to undertake a Ph.D. in classics at Johns Hopkins. In 2016, he received a Fulbright grant to study classical art and archaeology in Berlin. Prior to arriving to Mirman for the 2020-2021 academic year, Adam taught Latin at the Gilman School in Baltimore for three years and classical studies at Johns Hopkins for five years. Adam is passionate about the ancient Roman world, especially its language and material culture. He has studied at the American Academy in Rome and has been excavating in Rome since 2015. He plans to incorporate archaeology and material culture into his Latin curriculum at Mirman and make much use of the ancient collection housed in the Getty Villa here in Los Angeles. Having been born and raised in the mountains of Colorado, Adam enjoys the great outdoors. He looks forward to exploring the mountains of California by hike and the city of Los Angeles by bike, scouting for taco trucks.
Serenah Truong

Upper School Science Teacher

Bio
Serenah Truong joined Mirman School in 2021 as a Fifth and Seventh Grade science teacher. Before coming to Mirman, she worked with various environmental education programs, where she developed and taught sustainability-focused curricula. Serenah holds a B.S. in Environmental Science with a concentration in Geospatial Information Science from the University of San Francisco. She is passionate about fostering an inquiry-based learning environment that nurtures students' critical thinking and scientific understanding of the world around them. In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors, hiking, gardening, and cooking.
Dr. Kirsten Wasson

Upper School English Teacher

Bio
Dr. Kirsten Wasson holds a PhD in American Literature from the University of Wisconsin-Madison as well as an MFA and MA from SUNY-Binghamton, and a BA from Wesleyan University. She has had her work published in dozens of literary and non-literary journals as well as in the LA Times. She most recently taught Creative Writing/Storytelling/Life Skills at the MUSE School in Calabasas.

Specialists

List of 10 members.

Peter Brady

Upper School History Teacher

Bio
Long-time Mirman History Teacher, Peter Brady, has returned to Mirman’s Upper School in a part-time capacity. Peter joins the Upper School Faculty to teach both Electives and L.E.A.P. courses, as well as support the administration and faculty in a variety of supervisory capacities.
Sandra Cortez

Upper School Learning Specialist

Bio
Ms. Cortez has had a distinguished career as a classroom teacher, math specialist, and language arts coordinator. She was first a Third Grade lead teacher at Mirman from 2018-2021, then serving as the Instructional Coach and K-2 Math Coordinator from 2021-2022. Before returning to Mirman as the Upper School Learning Specialist in 2024, she was the Director of Teaching and Learning at St. Luke's Episcopal School in San Antonio, Texas. She has taught all elementary grades in different international schools, taught third and fourth grade at the University of Chicago Lab School in Chicago from 2002-2016, and served as the K-4 Math Specialist at the John Thomas Dye School here in Los Angeles. She has her B.A. in child development and education from Miriam College in the Philippines and her M.A. in curriculum and language literacy from Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts.
Debra Davis

Lower School Learning Specialist

Bio
Debbie Davis is an educational therapist/professional and has been working as a learning specialist for students at the elementary, middle, and adult education levels since 2003. Most recently, she was a learning and curriculum specialist at the John Thomas Dye School, and prior to that, a reading specialist and Third Grade classroom lead at Curtis School. She holds a Masters in Education from Loyola Marymount University, where she went on to serve as an adjunct professor from 2003 to 2016, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Education from Western Illinois University. Debbie also has a private practice where she supports students by building individualized learning plans and serving as a liaison between students, families, and teachers.
Dr. Charlotte Gjedsted

Interim Director of Innovation and Technology

Bio
Dr. Charlotte Gjedsted has her B.A. in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, her M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of the Pacific Bay Area Teacher Training Institute and her Doctorate in Educational Leadership, with a concentration in Educational Psychology. Dr. Gjedsted comes to Mirman from the Westmark School in Los Angeles, where she most recently served as Educational Technology Coordinator. Prior to Westmark, she served as the Director of Technology at Hamlin Robinson School in Seattle, WA.
Nicolás Kello

Director of Music

Bio
Prior to joining Mirman in 2017-2018 school year, For the past five years, Mr. Kello was the Music Demonstration Teacher at the UCLA Lab School. He has more than 17 years of experience designing and teaching music curriculum for students of all ages. Mr. Kello earned his B.A. in English and philosophy from Boston College and his B.F.A. from the California Institute of the Arts, Herb Alpert School of Music.
Sean Lueder

Upper School Technology Integrationist

Bio
Sean Lueder joined Mirman in the fall of 2014 as the Assistant Teacher for Karin Durup in Art. In the fall of 2015, he accepted the position as the Technology Intergrationist. Mr. Lueder received his B.A. from San Francisco State University in studio art focusing on the conceptual information arts and sculpture. He is an avid tinkerer, and spends most of his time building computers, drones, 3D printers, and robots.
Jeff Maynard

Director of Theatre

Bio
Jeff Maynard has taught at Mirman School since 1999. Mr. Maynard earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles’ (UCLA) School of Theatre, Film, and Television.
He teaches Lower School Creative Dramatics classes for Second through Fourth Grade, and Theatre Arts for Upper School. Mr. Maynard directs the Seventh Grade play, the Eighth Grade musical, and the Fourth Grade plays. He is the chair of Performing Arts at Mirman.

Additionally, he serves on the Curriculum and Global Awareness Committees. An active member of the California State Thespian Society, he directs performances for their new works festival.
Professionally, Mr. Maynard has directed shows at The Powerhouse, Stella Adler and La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts. He taught and directed for 20 years at French Woods Summer Theatre Festival in upstate New York.

As an actor, he appeared on stage in the first national tour of “Lost In Yonkers,” “Biloxi Blues,” and “Brighton Beach Memoirs” in Los Angeles; “Taking Stock” and “Enter Laughing” at The Gindhi Auditoirum at the American Jewish University; and is a founding member of Buffalo Nights Theatre Company where he has acted, directed, or produced over 17 shows.

Film and television work includes Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Diagnosis Murder, UHF, and the series Ferris Bueller. Mr. Maynard has studied under Larry Moss and The Atlantic Theatre Company, and David Mamet and Bill Macy.

Mr. Maynard teaches private acting classes and is married with three children.
Dr. Lauralie Pow

Director of Music

Bio
Dr. Pow serves as Mirman’s Choral Director and received her B.A. in Music Theory from the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music, her Master of Music from McGill University’s Schulich School of Music, and her Doctorate in Music Arts from the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. Lauralie is an accomplished music director and accompanist, having directed and performed in several shows, performances, and celebrations both nationally and internationally. As an instructor, Lauralie has taught vocal and instrumental curricula at both the collegiate and high school levels and most recently served as a faculty member at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy here in Los Angeles.
Andrew Yllescas

Upper School Debate Coach

Bio
Andrew most recently taught public speaking as a Summer Course Teacher at Harvard Westlake. He holds an MA and BA in Communication Studies from California State University, Northridge.
Helena Zhang

Innovation and Technology Teacher

Bio
Helena Zhang holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Publishing from Nanjing University, China. She also earned a Master’s degree in Publishing from Pace University, NY, and a Master’s degree in Data Science from the Illinois Institute of Technology. Before joining Mirman School, Helena Zhang worked as a Product Manager at a technology company and co-founded a startup. With a background that bridges engineering, data science, and education, she brings a dynamic, interdisciplinary approach to teaching. As the Lower School Innovation Teacher, she is passionate about fostering creativity, problem-solving, and computational thinking in young learners.

Associate and Assistant Teachers

List of 19 members.

Kiosie Abraham

Third Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Kiosie comes to us from Tallahassee, Florida, where she was a history teacher at Fairview Middle School. Most recently, She was a Program Assistant at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth Program, which was held here at Mirman this past summer. She has a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and Teaching with a concentration in Political Science from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University.
Amel Berg

Theatre Associate Teacher

Bio
Amel Berg comes to Mirman with experience as a theatre director, costume dresser, English teacher, and, most recently, a theatre teacher for Drama Kid International. She received her B.A. in theatre arts from Adrian College.
Olivia Castro

First Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Ms. Castro comes to us after spending the last year as the Lead Infant and Toddler Teacher at the Bright Horizons Disney Center in Glendale, California. Prior to that, she worked at the YMCA Child Development Center as a Master Teacher. Ms. Castro earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, California. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys camping and skating, as well as working on her photography and calligraphy. Ms. Castro is excited to share with us her experience as she continues to advance career as an elementary school educator.
Sean Collins

Upper School Math and Science Associate Teacher

Bio
Sean Collins brings 23 years of experience in independent schools across Los Angeles, specializing in K-6 math and science education. He has taught at Curtis School, Seven Arrows Elementary, and Hollywood Schoolhouse, and is now in his third year at Mirman School. Trained in Responsive Classroom, Developmental Designs for Middle School, and the UCLA Science Project, he is dedicated to fostering dynamic and supportive learning environments. Mr. Collins holds a B.A. in Economics from the University of Colorado and an M.A. Ed. with a focus on experiential education from Antioch University Seattle. Beyond the classroom, he is an avid cyclist with a passion for mechanics, including wheel building. Currently, he is expanding his skills through an apprenticeship with a custom frame builder on Orcas Island, Washington.
Jessica Gonzalez

Second Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Jessica Gonzalez joined Mirman School in the 2023-2024 school year. Ms. Gonzalez comes to Mirman from Kenter Canyon Elementary where she was a first grade lead teacher. Prior to that, she was a student teacher at various elementary schools throughout the Valley. Ms. Gonzalez holds a B.A. in Communications from UCSD as well as an M.A. in Education from Loyola Marymount.
Justin Granados

Innovation and Technology Associate Teacher

Bio
Justin Granados is an Associate Teacher at Mirman School, where they contribute to the Innovation and Design Lab and co-advise the yearbook. They hold an A.A. in Film, Television, and Media, and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Design and Media Theory from San Francisco State University. With over a decade of experience in education, including four years at Mirman and previous roles as a Program Leader for after-school art and athletics programs, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to their teaching. Outside of school, they enjoy gardening and printmaking, which complement their innovative approach to education. Justin is excited to continue inspiring students and supporting their creative growth at Mirman.
Michelle Guzman

Second Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Michelle Guzman has experience in both education and service fields, most recently serving as a tour guide at The Broad. She holds both an A.A. in international relations from Marymount and a B.A. in political science from Mount Saint Mary's.
John Haas

Upper School Associate Teacher

Bio
Mr. Haas joined Mirman as the Lower School Associate Music Teacher. As the son of a retired middle school Language Arts teacher, John always knew he would follow in the footsteps of his mother. Now, as a music teacher, John aims to employ music and performance as a vehicle for the journey of self-discovery for his students. John graduated Cum Laude from Florida State University where he received his B.A. in Music Education. Prior to Mirman, John served as a student-teacher at West Orange High School in Wintergarden, FL. John looks forward to ushering in the next generation of young minds toward the future of artistic expression.
Imani Jackson

Kindergarten Associate Teacher

Bio
Imani Jackson is a passionate educator with more than a decade of experience. A Cleveland native, she has served as the Director of Dance at the Cleveland School of the Arts and worked as a teaching artist for the Disney Musicals in Schools program. Ms. Jackson holds a B.F.A. in Dance Education from Kent State University and a differentiated curriculum gifted program certificate from the USC Rossier School of Education. Currently at Mirman, she teaches Kindergarten and leads the lower school affinity group for Black students, Black Joy at Mirman. Additionally, she is Mirman's resident choreographer, bringing creativity and inclusivity to her work.
Claire Marchon

Kindergarten Associate Teacher

Bio
Claire most recently served as an Associate Teacher at the Piper Preschool in Santa Monica. Claire holds a BA in Art History with a minor in History from UCLA. Of note, is that Claire has also served as Course Creator and Facilitator for the UCLA Department of Communications and a Marketing Coordinator for Indigenous Media in Culver City.
Brenden McKiernan

Second Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Mr. McKiernan serves as Mirman’s Associate First Grade Teacher and received both a B.A. in Sociology and Anthropology an M.A. in Education Learning and Teaching (MALT) from the University of Redlands. Prior to Mirman, Brenden graduated from Flintridge Preparatory School, an independent school located in La Cañada Flintridge, CA, and returned there to serve as the Assistant Varsity Baseball Coach.
Irma Morales

Lower School Spanish Assistant Teacher / Annex Support

Bio
Irma Morales started her career as a residential advisor at USC Upward Bound, where she discovered a love for education and psychology. While earning her A.A. in Psychology at Pasadena City College, Ms. Morales worked as a caregiver, working with adults with special needs. Ms. Morales also earned a B.A. in Psychology from California State University Long Beach. While earning her B.A., Ms. Morales worked in special education as a Behavioral Technician in public schools. She is fluent in Spanish.
Lucy Patrikian

Fourth Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Lucy most recently served as the Center Director at the Sylvan Learning Center in Sherman Oaks, where she assessed students in math and English, created tailored learning plans, and ensured students engaged with curricula and programs tailored to their needs. She holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology from Capella University and is fluent in Armenian.
Marianella Perez

Fourth Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Ms. Perez arrives at Mirman from Brentwood Art Center where she assisted with lessons in fine arts. Her love of children began when her mother ran a home daycare, inspiring her to pursue a career in education. Ms.Perez also holds a B.A. in liberal arts with an emphasis on Political Science, Sociology and Spanish from Whittier College where she worked as a Diversity Ambassador in the Office of Equity and Inclusion.
Macy Rizzolino

First Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Prior to teaching at Mirman, Ms. Rizzolino began her teaching career teaching in an K-4 Emotional Support Classroom in her hometown of Nazareth, Pennsylvania. She joined Mirman as a Second Grade teacher in 2023 before moving to First Grade. She has her Bachelor's degree in Sport Management from DeSales University and is currently working on her Master’s Degree in Early Elementary Education at Eastern University. Macy is thankful for the family-like community that is present at Mirman among the staff and is dedicated to supporting each student's growth and development.
Marissa Rohan

Kindergarten Associate Teacher

Bio
Marissa graduated Summa Cum Laude from Cal State University Northridge with a B.A. in Deaf Studies and a concentration in American Sign Language (ASL) and ASL Literature. She joined the Mirman community as an Art Assistant Teacher in February of 2021 and now is a part of the Kindergarten team in KC. Additionally, she currently works for the Los Angeles Dodgers as a Ball Girl. Prior to Mirman, Marissa served as a gymnastics coach with Golden State Gymnastics.
Olivia Villaseñor

Third Grade Teacher

Bio
Olivia Villaseñor has spent the last nine years wearing various hats within the field of education. From driver to lead teacher, she has supported students of many backgrounds and abilities. The majority of her career has been dedicated to teaching students in Special Education, giving her a plethora of tools in linguistic coaching, behavioral support, social/emotional management, and differentiation. A CSUN alumna with a degree in English Literature, she plans on resuming her path toward completion of her graduate degree in Education. When off-campus, you can find Ms. V. at karaoke spots throughout L.A.
Matt Weinberger

Third Grade Associate Teacher

Bio
Matt served as a long-term substitute here at Mirman before joining as a full-time lower school associate teacher. He has a BS in Economics and Business from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
Hui Zhao

Lower School Mandarin Assistant Teacher / Annex Support

Bio
Hui Zhao comes to Mirman School from Westside Chinese School in Culver City, where she was a Chinese teacher for nearly ten years. She has also served as a teaching assistant at Warner Avenue Elementary School and an English teacher at No. 49 Middle School in Beijing, China. She holds a B.S. in accounting from Regis University as well as an A.A. in English language and literature from Hengshui Normal College.

Athletic and PE Coaches

List of 9 members.

Angela K Brown

Director of Athletics

(818) 940-4977

Bio
Coach Brown took over as Athletics Director in 2015. A NCAA Long Jump Champion and 8 time All-American and PAN-AM Games-Silver Medalist, she has transferred her experience as an outstanding athlete to the areas of administration and education.

Coach Brown has served most recently as Athletics Director at the ICEF Public Schools, where she forged community partnerships, developed new teams, and advanced athletic opportunities for both boys and girls. Coach Brown has her B.S. in Exercise Science from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. She holds a Double-Goal Coach: Coaching for Winning and Life Lessons certification through the Positive Coaching Alliance
Tyler Cassidy

Athletics Coach

Bio
Tyler Cassidy joined Mirman in February of 2021. He is from San Luis Obispo County, where he played 4 years of high school and 6 years of AAU basketball. Tyler has an associates degree in Criminal Justice and also, Social and Behavioral Sciences. He is pursuing a bachelor's in Kinesiology at California State University, Northridge. He is certified as a Double-Goal Coach: Coaching for Winning and Life Lessons through the Positive Coaching Alliance. He is a gold licensed coach for USA Basketball and has a certification for Volleyball through the National Federation of State High School Associations. He looks forward to coaching Flag Football, Basketball, and Volleyball in the 2022-2023 school year.
Raekwon Hall

Physical Education Specialist

Bio
Coach Hall obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications with a minor in TV/Video & Multimedia from Methodist University, where he played college basketball. He was a member of both the Vance Granville Community College Men’s Basketball team from 2014 to 2016 and the Methodist University College Men’s Basketball team from 2016 to 2018. During his time at Vance Granville Community College, Coach Hall received the Most Outstanding Player Award for the 2015-2016 basketball season. Additionally, during the 2016-2017 basketball season at Methodist University, he was part of the team that won the USA South Conference Regular Season Championship and earned a spot on the USA South All-Tournament Team. After completing his studies at Methodist University, Coach Hall worked as an Assistant Men’s Varsity Basketball Coach during the 2018-2019 season. He also served as the Head Men’s JV Basketball Coach during the same period. More recently, Coach Hall received the Mirman School Coach of the Year award for the 2022-2023 season. He is a Certified Double-Goal Coach through the Positive Coaching Alliance, Basketball and Volleyball, and a licensed USA Basketball 2022-2023 Gold Coach.
Kim Cade-Henry

Athletics Coach

Bio
Coach Kim began her coaching career at Mirman in 2017. Coach Kim has coached Co-Ed Flag Football, Boys’ Basketball, and Track & Field. Coach Kim has used many of the coaching techniques she has learned and applied them to expand her coaching range. Coach Kim has played full tackle women's semi-pro football for the past 10 seasons/years. She has received a motivational player award and a coach’s award during her years of playing. Coach Kim is certified as a Double-Goal Coach: Coaching for Winning and Life Lessons through the Positive Coaching Alliance.
Leonardo Matos

Physical Education Specialist

Bio
Leonardo Matos is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. During his career as a semi-pro soccer player, he played for CEFET/RJ (Futsal), Clube de Regatas do Flamengo and Botafogo Futebol e Regatas (Beach Soccer). He stopped his career to attend Senac Rio University, where he graduated with a degree in environmental sciences and management in 2014.

While in college, he remained connected to soccer a casual player as well as a trainer. He has a US ‘’E’’ License, graduated as Soccer Manager from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Academy Brazil as well as coached on numerous occasions in Brazil and in Los Angeles for PSG Academy. He is also the Soccer Director of Coach Derek Inc., where he is responsible for the development and training of the soccer program.
For Coach Leo, Soccer is more than just a sport: it's the love between the child and the ball. That means it's important to feel the game. He believes soccer reaches its full potential when it goes beyond the tactical and the creativity that exists in each one of us is ignited. Coach Leo believes that the key to ignite this creativity is with patience and encouragement. Each individual develops in their own time. His mission is to create a positive environment, help your child to explore this creativity in the sport through fun, discipline, respect for others and teaching all aspects of the game.

Coach Leo is certified as a Double-Goal Coach: Coaching for Winning and Life Lessons through the Positive Coaching Alliance.
Michael McAllister

Physical Education Specialist / Assistant Director of Athletics

Bio
Born in Los Angeles, CA, Michael is a military veteran who served for six years in the USAF while playing for the base's men's teams and was an assistant coach for the women's team. Michael is also pursuing a degree in digital media at Santa Monica Community College. He is eager to be coaching football and basketball for the 2021-2022 season.
Liliana Morrisey

Athletics Coach

Bio
Coach Morrisey has been coaching since 2016. She previously served as an assistant coach for the PDX Volleyball Club in Portland, Oregon. Before that she served as an assistant head coach at St. Ignatius School in Portland.
Andres Perez

Athletics Coach

Bio
Before joining Mirman's coaching staff, Coach Andres previously worked as a Camp Mirman instructor. He has extensive experience in engaging students in sports and fitness activities, including working with children on the spectrum. Andres is committed to creating inclusive and safe learning environments that promote lifelong health and well-being. He has a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and holds certifications in CPR and AED.
Eric Pringle

Physical Education Specialist

Bio
Coach EP holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California State University Dominguez Hills and Southern University and A&M College. Before coming to Mirman, Coach EP was the Head Varsity Baseball Coach for Leuzinger High School. Prior to that he was an infield coordinator and junior varsity head coach for Culver City High School.

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16180 Mulholland Drive Los Angeles, CA 90049 | info@mirman.org | Tel: (310) 476-2868 | Fax: (310) 471-1532

Non-discrimination Policy

Mirman School is committed to building and sustaining a community
that is free from discrimination of any kind. Mirman School does not
discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender
expression, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin in its admission
process or in the administration of any school program or policy.

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faculty

Faculty

Lower School

List of 22 members.

Katy Carroll

Lorraine Cleary Dale

Debra Davis

Cristian De Leon

Ara Elliott

Jared Hubbard

Gabriella Kianmahd

Julie Leavitt

Jocelyn Lopez

Kevin Lynch

Marlene Ortega

Robin Raval

Eilish Reynolds

Jasmine Rice

Monica Sone

Jake Tiner

Alyssa Wray

Shiqing Yin

Catherine Yoon

Anne Youngs

Lisa Wong

Ryan Zary

Upper School

List of 14 members.

Sandra Cortez

Simon Darcy

Stephanie Ho

Aileen Level

Kun Li

Kara Luna

Andres Merlos

Gian Molero

Karyn Raz

Jung Rhee

John Schmitt

Dr. Adam Tabeling

Serenah Truong

Dr. Kirsten Wasson

Specialists

List of 10 members.

Peter Brady

Sandra Cortez

Debra Davis

Dr. Charlotte Gjedsted

Nicolás Kello

Sean Lueder

Jeff Maynard

Dr. Lauralie Pow

Andrew Yllescas

Helena Zhang

Associate and Assistant Teachers

List of 19 members.

Kiosie Abraham

Amel Berg

Olivia Castro

Sean Collins

Jessica Gonzalez

Justin Granados

Michelle Guzman

John Haas

Imani Jackson

Claire Marchon

Brenden McKiernan

Irma Morales

Lucy Patrikian

Marianella Perez

Macy Rizzolino

Marissa Rohan

Olivia Villaseñor

Matt Weinberger

Hui Zhao

Athletic and PE Coaches

List of 9 members.

Angela K Brown

Tyler Cassidy

Raekwon Hall