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San Francisco School Staff & Faculty
ADMINISTRATION
Steve Morris, Head of School
BA, The College of Wooster, English
MA, Stanford University, Education Administration
The faculty and staff inspire me on a daily basis. Their commitment to their profession is undying—they are consistently working to become better teachers. They strive to keep their curriculum fresh by investigating the latest educational trends and spending time in various professional development workshops. Their dedication to serving a broad spectrum of students truly makes them master teachers. I was attracted to SFS because I felt “safe” from the moment I stepped on to the SFS campus. I immediately knew that this School was a place that allowed individuals to “bring their whole self” to the community. smorris@sfschool.org
Julie Galles, Assistant Head of School, Middle School
BS, Stanford, Biology
MA, Stanford, Education
CA Credential, Life Sciences
I love middle school students and I love working with middle school teachers. There are wonderful dichotomies at the middle level: innocence and sophistication, earnestness and goofiness, aloofness and the ability to become totally absorbed. I was drawn to SFS’s educational philosophy: academics and creative excellence in the progressive tradition with an emphasis on not just the whole child, but the whole family and whole community. jgalles@sfschool.org
Maggie Weis, Assistant Head of School, Lower School
BS, Adelphi University, Physical Education
After working in business for a few years, I felt a calling to work in a community filled with social interaction and committed goals. The School’s values truly matched 19 years ago, and they continue to match my personal and professional values today. What sustain me are the questions that arise in the community and how sincerely The School seeks to find answers that both serve and fulfill the mission statement. mweis@sfschool.org
Charlie Meade, Director of Development
BA, University of San Francisco, Psychology & Religion
Master in Nonprofit Administration, University of San Francisco
It is an honor to both work and be a parent at The San Francisco School. This is a community of students, parents and educators who have created a safe and vibrant place for children to learn. In 1999, when I started working at The School, I remember very clearly how impressed I was with how SFS “walked the talk” in its commitment to being an economically diverse community. cmeade@sfschool.org
Miriam Phillips, Business Manager
BA, University of Colorado, Political Science
MA, Boston University, Urban Studies
When my children attended pre-school (in the 80’s), I was attracted to the outdoor yards, dirt, sand, grass and trees, since we have no yard at home. I was also lured in by the warm and welcoming community which has kept me associated with the SFS for 25 years. I have worked at The School since 1997 and the extraordinary child-centered dedication and commitment of the faculty and staff and the social, cultural and economic diversity of the SFS community keep me so committed to The School. mphillips@sfschool.org
Nina Wang, Director of Admissions
BA University of California, Berkeley, Mass Communications
Teaching Credential, San Francisco State University
What inspires me most is The San Francisco School’s genuine commitment to diversity. This commitment is not only seen, but also felt through the culture of the school. All children are deserving of a good education. Being the product of immigrants, my personal mission is to make this type of education accessible to all types of families. nwang@sfschool.org
TEACHING FACULTY
Josefina Bolton, Middle School Spanish Teacher
BA, University of Puerto Rico, Elementary Education
I am inspired by the wonderful sense of community, work ethic, diversity and social justice that is seen throughout The School. jbolton@sfschool.org
Laura Burges, 3rd Grade Teacher
BA, San Francisco State, Speech and Drama
Teaching Credential, San Francisco State
I love The San Francisco School’s diverse student and teacher population and the feeling that it is a lively, creative place for children to learn and grow together. lburges@sfschool.org
Deborah Cohen, Elementary and Middle School Spanish Teacher
BA, University of Maryland
MA, San Francisco State University
Having been raised in a simultaneous bilingual environment, and having raised my own children bilingually, I deeply value The School’s commitment to multiculturalism. That I can share this love of languages and cultures with so many students fills this passion. dcohen@sfschool.org
Madeleine Day, 2nd Grade Teacher
BA, University of Iowa, Spanish and Global Studies
MA, Indiana University, Language Education
MA, Indiana University, Elementary Curriculum
The San Francisco School really allows me to be present with the kids I teach - which is great. There is something different here; a trust and a culture that makes me want to be here in this community. mday@sfschool.org
Solveig Dimon, Librarian/Garden Staff
UC Berkeley: Undergraduate Degree in Botany
San Francisco State University: California Teaching Credential
San Jose State University: Masters in Library Science
The aspect of SFS’s culture that inspires me every day is the community. We encourage each faculty member and child to develop according to his or her passions and strengths. We treasure our human diversity.What attracted me to the SFS and has kept me here for twenty years is the feeling that the values of the school are the actual core and heart of the place. As teachers we strive to figure out how human beings learn. The school is a lively, fun place to be: art work and student projects color the walls, music and the smells of lunch cooking fill the halls and the kids and teachers are perfectly at home, here. sdimon@sfschool.org
Melissa Doezema, 6th Grade Math and Science Teacher
BS, Michigan State University, Mechanical Engineering
I am motivated by seeing kids light up when they figure out the solution to a problem they have grappled with. It is great to inspire kids to love learning and be in a school community that is so accepting of the diversity of students, families and staff. mdoezema@sfschool.org
Brian Donovan, 7th & 8th Grade Science Teacher
BA, Colorado College, Biology
Currently enrolled, MA, University of San Francisco, Teaching
The School encourages us to teach for understanding – create situations that allow students to apply their knowledge in novel circumstances. I love creating learning situations to assess understanding. I work in education to change the status quo and to help kids find their passions. bdonovan@sfschool.org
Dolores Elkin, North Class Preschool Head Teacher
BS, SUNY, Art Education
MS, Bank Street, Early Childhood Education
Montessori Teacher Education Center, San Leandro
I am most passionate about loving to work with children. I think SFS allows me as an educator to guide children forward with the whole child being respected and educated; the mind, the body and the spirit. I find that everyone I work with at SFS truly cares about education and every child here. delkin@sfschool.org
Harald Frohlich, Preschool and Extended Care Teacher, Summer Camp Coordinator
Certified Kindergarten Teacher, Academy for Social Pedagogy, Nuremberg Germany
Currently enrolled, Montessori Teacher Education Center
What I most treasure about The San Francisco School is the strong sense of community and mutual respect toward one another. It is great to have a place where we celebrate the humanitarian promise of each student and guide the students towards respectful and peaceful resolutions to conflicts. hfrohlich@sfschool.org
Dallas Glenn, 7th Grade Humanities Teacher
BA, Wesleyan University, Economics
The School has an incredible commitment to professional development. Another thing that attracted me to SFS was the committed staff who ‘walk the talk’ regarding social justice and being an inclusive community. dglenn@sfschool.org
Doug Goodkin, Preschool, Elementary and Middle School Music Teacher
BA, Antioch College
Orff Schulwerk Certification, University of California, Santa Cruz
I hope to help children play, sing and dance their way into understanding and community celebration—a song for every occasion, every occasion worthy of a song. I have loved being in a place where the teachers have been free to define and create their own vision, both individually and collectively. We have had the opportunity to “be the change we want to see in this world.” (Gandhi). dgoodkin@sfschool.org
Karen Goodkin, Elementary Art Teacher
BFA, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Masters in Education, Leslie University
I love that I can teach material that is current and exciting and I have the freedom to change my curriculum. SFS is unclassifiable and unique with creative thinking going on among the children and adults. kgoodkin@sfschool.org
Talia Goodkin ‘97, Teaching Intern
BA, Tufts University, History and Child Development
Bay Area Teacher Training Institute, San Francisco State University
The most significant aspect of the school is that the kids are curious and inspired to learn! And we are creating socially conscious citizens. Being an alum, the school feels like home to me. tgoodkin@sfschool.org
Jana Hattersley, 4th Grade Teacher
BA, University of California, San Diego, Communication
Multiple Subject Credential, Bay Area Teacher Training Institute
I am inspired by my students’ curiosity, desire to explore and ability to ask questions. I love learning with my students and always find myself learning from them as well. Also, I am inspired by The School’s strong dedication to the arts and the importance of song, dance and performances for all students and adults in the community. jhattersley@sfschool.org
Paloma Herman, Admissions Coordinator/Middle School Spanish
BA, Brown University, Education Studies
I was surprised to discover how true the information I read about The San Francisco School was compared to the reality of daily life here -- teachers really do create, shape, re-shape, and collaborate regularly and students really do ask great questions, make connections, and appreciate learning through doing. The school provides explicit opportunities to grow as a teacher, and I knew that as an aspiring teacher, I would be lucky to be surrounded by so much experience and passion. I was lucky enough to go to small schools for my entire childhood, so I was able to see the value of getting to know teachers well. They always gave me the impression that they cared for me and wanted me to succeed both in their class and in the future. I want to send the same message to students at SFS, that along with their family, the faculty and staff here want to support them and teach them how to be good, informed people pherman@sfschool.org
Francisco Hernandez, 5th Grade Teacher
BS, University of California, Davis, Environmental Biology and Management
Teaching Credential, San Francisco State University
There is a culture of adventurous learning which students catch on to quickly. It allows me to tell my students, “get a clipboard and magnifying lens, then follow me.” I am encouraged and supported to bring my passion into the classroom. By teaching in my strengths, I can engage and inspire students to bring their own passion into learning. fhernandez@sfschool.org
Glenn Kenyon, 7th & 8th Grade Math
BA, University of California, Santa Cruz, Latin American Studies and Environmental Studies
MA, Math Education, San Francisco State University
Middle School Math Credential, San Francisco State University
Bilingual & Multicultural Credential, University of California Santa Cruz
I was attracted to SFS by the promise of creating a Middle School math program from the ground-up and teaching what is essential rather than what is mandated. I have always felt I am teaching today’s generation to be prepared for the future they will create tomorrow. gkenyon@sfschool.org
Susie Korn, Learning Specialist
AMI Montessori Certified, Montessori Teacher Training Center of Northern California
Education Therapy Certified, UC Berkeley
There is no child who can’t learn. It is my job to find out how that child learned and provide them with what they need. Working in education is exciting, rewarding and socially responsible. skorn@sfschool.org
Helen Mae Lee, Preschool/Kindergarten Teacher
BA, San Francisco State University, Physical Education
Teaching Credential and Child Development Program Permit, San Francisco State University
The school is a warm and loving environment for children to learn. It challenges and encourages children to grow as creative individuals as well and it promotes diversity in the community. I work in education because I have always loved teaching and working with young children. It’s wonderful to be a part of their education. Their curiosity to learn and to explore is endless. They’re our future hopefuls and leaders! hlee@sfschool.org
Rosemary Malone, Permanent Substitute and Substitute Coordinator
BA, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Education
Med, Temple University, Psycho-Educational Processes
I delight in working at the school because of the innovative and inspirational work of the teachers, as well as the supportive and flexible administrative staff, all of whom are devoted to making the school the best learning environment for each student. My spirits are lifted each day by the quality work of the students in each classroom, the displays of their artwork, and the sound of their voices and music which permeates the entire school. rmalone@sfschool.org
Erika Liedtke, 6th Grade Humanities Teacher
BA, San Francisco State University, Liberal Studies
Reading Specialist Credential, San Francisco State University
As a teacher, I love shaping writers – working with students to express themselves through writing in any given situation. What led me to be a teacher were my own parents who were both teachers and I started teaching my friends when I was in 2nd grade using leftover ditto sheets. eliedtke@sfschool.org
Sofia Lopez-Ibor Alino, Music Teacher
Music Pedagogy, Royal Conservatory of Music, Madrid
Music & Dance Education, Orff Institute, Salzburg
Music is the heart of The San Francisco School community. All children participate in the program, sing, dance and play. I work in music education because I am more interested in the process of making music than in being a performer only working on the final product. I became a teacher because while growing up in Spain, I was a student at a school that had an Orff program and every day after school, I went home thinking I wanted to be a music teacher. slopezibor@sfschool.org
Linda Louie, North Class Preschool Teacher
BA, San Francisco State University
Montessori Certificate, Montessori Teacher Educational Center – San Francisco
I feel the families and staff are working toward the same goal and that is inspiring. Also, I feel supported in my learning at The School. llouie@sfschool.org
Nancy McCallister, Learning Specialist
BS, University of Oregon, Political Science
MIM, American Graduate School of International Management
MA, San Francisco State University, Special Education
I believe that all children deserve the right to learn in an environment that promotes self-esteem and self-advocacy, as well as independent, creative and critical thinking. After 20 years as a high technology marketing professional, I was looking for a career change that provided me an opportunity to contribute to my community in a more meaningful way. It was serendipitous that at the same time, my son was identified with learning differences. His challenges and successes inspired me to pursue a career as a learning specialist. nmcallister@sfschool.org
Mia Morrill, Kindergarten & 1st Grade Art Teacher
BA, Antioch College, Psychology
Aegean School of Fine Arts, Paros, Cyclades, Greece
Art is one of the main languages of young children. I love language, and I love the power of imagination and the wonders of the world. I love the eagerness and delight in children as they use their creative thinking skills and solve problems. I am absolutely passionate about offering a variety of mediums and allowing each child to engage with the art project and discover what they can; to experiment and to stretch. I seek to challenge each artist child as they work on a project, tweaking it by amplifying or simplifying, so that it will challenge without overly frustrating. I want for the students to be inspired and to inspire. I try to set an example by my own attitude and actions. Mostly, I hope to nurture joyful, curious and active young artists. mmorrill@sfschool.org
Pamela Myers, 1st Grade Teacher
BA, Seattle University, English
Masters in Education, Xavier University
Montessori Training
I have always been inspired by the caring and creative learning atmosphere that pervades The San Francisco School. The sense of ownership that comes from the autonomy given to the teachers is one of the great strengths of The School. I want to provide learning experiences that: develop the children’s thinking/ problem solving skills; develop the creative use of and expression of ideas; and develop their sense of caring for their friends, their community and the world. pmyers@sfschool.org
Diana Nishimuta, 1st Grade Teaching Intern
BS, Berry College, Early Childhood Education
I love the atmosphere at SFS where students are encouraged to learn through discovery and inquiry, and where creativity and diversity are celebrated. As a teacher, I hope to play a small role in having a positive impact on the world by having a positive impact on the lives of children and families I work with. dnishimuta@sfschool.org
Erin Pensinger, MFT, School Counselor
BA, UCLA, English
MA, Antioch University, Clinical Psychology
MFT, licensed by BBS
As a therapist, I am passionate about helping people create balance and peace in their lives. I especially love to help kids recognize their strengths and cultivate emotional awareness and maturity. Within our school culture- kids, parents and teachers alike- we can value health and wellness as our main priority. SFS is a warm, nurturing and nourishing environment that gives meaning to the word “community.” Our school walks the talk by remaining true to its fundamental values of social awareness, personal responsibility, creative thinking and compassionate action. I love being part of a community whose values mirror my own. epensinger@sfschool.org
Vahlee Peters, North Class Preschool Head Teacher
BA, Social Pedagogy, University of Berlin
MA, Educational Administration, San Francisco State University
Montessori Certificate, Pacific Montessori Teacher Training Institute, Berkeley
Multiple Subject Credential, San Francisco State University
I am drawn to The School’s diversity and willingness to engage in courageous conversations. Also, I am passionate about the team teaching, the constant striving to improve curriculum and the student learning experience. vpeters@sfschool.org
Michelle Peterson, 8th Grade Humanities Teacher
BA, Santa Clara, Classical Studies
MA, University of San Francisco, Teaching
Teaching Credential, University of San Francisco, English
I work in education because it is living creatively, and I was inspired to become a teacher because of my grandmother’s appreciation for teachers and school. mpeterson@sfschool.org
Elana Romero, South Class Preschool Head Teacher
AA, CCSF, Early Childhood Education
BA, UC Berkeley, Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration on Child Development
I am currently pursuing my American Montessori Society Early Childhood Credential. I love learning and am committed to lifelong learning. I am a passionate educator and can’t imagine a more personally challenging or fulfilling profession. Teaching is a reciprocal relationship between “teacher” and “student” in which the roles are interchangeable. All I’ll ever need to know, I’ll learn from teaching Kindergarten! The most significant aspect of The San Francisco School’s culture is that we are a community. We are a community of people: teachers, parents, and children committed to one another. In this sometimes crazy world, The San Francisco School has provided many with a renewed sense of hope and promise for all humankind. eromero@sfschool.org
Andy Schine, 5th Grade Language Arts
BA, University of Vermont, Literature
Teaching Credential, San Francisco State University
There’s magic beyond the gate at SFS. The tangible and intangible elements of this magical community astound me every day. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to work in a field where I can help children determine how they will move through the world. In doing so, I learn how to move through the world as well. aschine@sfschool.org
Elyse Wolland, Learning Specialist
BA, Dartmouth College, Religion
Teaching Credential, Dartmouth College
MA, San Francisco State University, Special Education
Resource Specialist and Educational Therapy Certificate, San Francisco State University
I am most passionate about connecting with, learning from, and teaching young people, especially when it comes to exploring learning differences and self-advocacy issues. SFS is an incredible place to create, learn, and grow as a child and as an adult. This vibrant community is filled with life-long learners and dedicated parents and teachers, of which I'm excited to be a part. ewolland@sfschool.org
Lynne Woodford, South Class Preschool Head Teacher
BA, San Francisco State University, French
Montessori World Institute
Both the strong history and community are inspiring. Working with young children to help them be aware of and understand themselves and the world around them keeps me passionate about teaching at SFS. lwoodford@sfschool.org
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Patty Corwin, Food Service Manager
I had a few years of my own baking business making French pastries and selling to restaurants before taking over the kitchen at The San Francisco School in the 1980’s. The people, staff, kids and the whole kitchen atmosphere attracted me to the school. pcorwin@sfschool.org
Emily Garlock, Director of Special Events & Alumni Relations
What I first remember about walking on campus was the energy and activity of the students. It was so vibrant and interactive among students, staff and parents. And I realized this would be a great place to continue the work I enjoy, which is organizing events. egarlock@sfschool.org
Sharon Jong, Receptionist
I like the strong sense of community and the commitment to the students and their families. Also, it is great to work at a place where the staff works well together. sjong@sfschool.org
Jane Loeser, Cook
Our school is a community. This sounds hokey and overused, but it’s true. Everyone needs another family – and SFS plays that role. What first attracted me to the school was when I first saw SFS when babysitting my niece, Yakira, who was in 1st grade with Pamela, studying the dinosaur unit. I fell in love. That was 20 years ago! jloeser@sfschool.org
Corrine Olague, Assistant to the Head of School
What attracted me to The School was the passion of the staff. The teachers show our students dedication and commitment that is beyond just doing a job. After 15+ years of working here, I can truly say I enjoy coming to 300 Gaven Street every day. I am inspired by knowing that our graduates, including my two daughters, leave with knowledge ranging from critical thinking skills to the importance of caring for each other to acting on their beliefs. colague@sfschool.org
Andrea Reed, Receptionist
I have been associated with The San Francisco School for over 20 years. As the parent of three alumni, I have benefited from the opportunity to volunteer in various capacities every year. I have three adult children living in different parts of the city. They all continue their commitment to The School through work, volunteerism, and strong community ties. areed@sfschool.org
Steve Rubin, Technology Director
I love that people at SFS are always open to trying new things. This has given me great freedom to bring new technologies to The School. Both staff and parents are so positive, I love The School and the sense of community. srubin@sfschool.org
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