Faculty & Staff

Mrs. Alcocer was practically a lifer at Santa Catalina, starting in the first grade and graduating in 1975. After a career in retail and a stint with the Junior League of Monterey County, she returned to Catalina to run the Bookstore in 2012. She holds a B.S. in business administration from the University of Southern California. She enjoys gardening, decorating, and college football.

I enjoy the Bookstore and bringing in fun Catalina gear. Watching the students come in and get excited about the new products makes my day!

Mrs. Altamirano joined Catalina in 2018 after teaching in the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. The Michigan native has also worked as a wilderness youth counselor, and was certified as a wilderness first responder and swiftwater rescue technician—skills she enjoys keeping fresh for camping and other outdoor adventures. Indoors, she loves crafting and cooking. She holds a B.A. from Michigan State University as well as multiple subject and education specialist credentials and a CLAD certificate.

My favorite thing about teaching first grade is witnessing how much each student grows throughout the school year. Watching them develop into readers, writers, and mathematicians is simply amazing!

Ms. Atkinson joined Catalina in 2019 as the director of Summer at Santa Catalina. She has spent more than a decade empowering girls in a summer camp setting, including as founding director of Camp Lantern Creek, an all-girls sleepaway camp in her home state of Texas. She is a former facilitator and trainer for the Embody Love Movement, which empowered girls and women to celebrate their inner beauty through experiential learning around body image and self-love. Ms. Atkinson is also a registered yoga teacher and Reiki practitioner. She holds a B.A. in anthropology from Trinity University. She loves hiking, exploring national parks, and doing anything beach-related. She is a member of the resident faculty.

I love guiding girls to learn to fail well, access their internal self-worth, and feel confident and empowered in their bodies.

Mrs. Avila joined Santa Catalina’s development office in 2023. Previously, she was the director for corporate and foundation relations at CSU Monterey Bay, supporting the university through collaborative philanthropic efforts. She holds a B.S. in business from San Diego State University. A native Californian and Spanish speaker, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family.

I'm inspired by the generosity, compassion, and kindness of our Santa Catalina School community, enabling us to do more than we could ever do as individuals.

Mrs. Bangham joined Santa Catalina in 2014 and has taught a variety of subjects in Grades 3-8. She currently teaches math in Grades 5-8 and is a Grade 6 advisor. She holds a B.A. in mathematics and an M.A. in education from UC Santa Cruz, as well as a single subject teaching credential in secondary mathematics. Mrs. Bangham was born in the Philippines and came to America at the age of 2, and has spent most of her life in the Monterey Bay area. She enjoys long runs, reading inspiring books, experimenting with new recipes, and learning new hobbies (usually crafty, but it changes every season).

I have always known that I wanted to teach since I was a little girl. I was fortunate to find Santa Catalina as my second home and couldn't feel more blessed to be part of a wonderful community.

Sister Claire—leader, teacher, and dog lover—retired after 44 years at Santa Catalina School. A native San Franciscan, she graduated from Saint Rose Academy and received her bachelor of arts in theology from the University of San Francisco. During her tenure at Santa Catalina, she taught religious studies and math; served as a class advisor; and held the positions of registrar, assistant head of Upper School, head of Upper School, and assistant head of school. She became head of school in 2002 and served in that position until she retired in June 2016. She led the renovation and development of the Lower and Middle School campus and the establishment of the Upper School mathematics and science center. She has overseen the professional development of faculty and has encouraged the growth of character and academic excellence in students. She is a wise and loyal supporter of alumni, parents, and friends.

Dr. Brenot has served in multiple leadership roles at Santa Catalina School, including as head of Upper School. She has taught at the Universidad Femenina del Sagrado Corazón in Lima, Peru, and was a Rotary International Graduate Ambassadorial Scholar in Paris, France. Dr. Brenot was an Action Research Fellow ’22 with the Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG), and is currently conducting research on developing global competencies as a Global Action Research Collaborative Fellow with the International Coalition of Girls Schools (ICGS). She was the 2022-23 GEBG Global Educator-in-Residence. She holds a B.A. in Hispanic studies from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey (MIIS), an M.A. in Hispanic studies with translation from MIIS, a Diplôme d’Etudes Approfondies (D.E.A.) from Université de Paris, Sorbonne, and a Ph.D. in Iberian Studies with highest honors from Université de Paris, Sorbonne.

I see in our alumnae the incredible women that our current students will become in the future.

Mrs. Browne has led the admission team at Santa Catalina School since 2009. Prior to Catalina, she was a business planning analyst for Levi Strauss. Later, she became a certified nutrition health educator, consulting for nonprofit organizations and executive coaching. She is a graduate of the Lower and Middle School and the Upper School, where she boarded in her junior and senior years. Mrs. Browne holds a B.A. in English from UC Santa Barbara. She enjoys getting outdoors—paddle boarding, skiing, hiking—and loves to sing and dance.

At Catalina, the girls are given permission to be themselves and pursue their dreams unencumbered. They are incredible human beings who develop into really capable leaders.

Mrs. Burke returned to Catalina in 2011 as an engaged alumna, having served in many volunteer positions. She attended the Lower and Middle School and the Upper School, where she was a day and boarding student. Before returning to Catalina to work in alumnae relations and development, Mrs. Burke spent 25 years working in the art world. Following graduate school in Italy, she worked for her university restoring a frescoed room from Pompeii. She also worked for Christie’s Old Master Painting Department in New York City and the National Trust for Historic Preservation at the Philip Johnson Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut. She holds a B.A. from Trinity College and an M.A. in art conservation and art criticism from Universita Internazionale Dell'Arte. Mrs. Burke has a long history of advocating for children with disabilities, especially intellectual disabilities, so that they are fully included and appropriately supported in their local communities and neighborhood schools. Her sons are graduates of the Lower and Middle School.

Mrs. Burke came to Santa Catalina in 2018 as the middle school athletic director. Hailing from the Bay Area, she previously taught at a K-8 charter school in Los Altos. She holds a B.A. in psychology from UC Davis and P.E. and multiple subject teaching credentials from Notre Dame de Namur University. She enjoys swimming, running, camping, playing water polo, watching Food Network, and shopping at farmers markets.

I’m passionate about teaching young students about physical education—how to move our bodies, how to keep our bodies healthy, and how to be fit for life.

Ms. Burton rejoined the Catalina community in 2023, having previously taught math in the Middle and Upper Schools for 12 years. Her daughter and son are also Santa Catalina graduates. Ms. Burton holds a B.S. in applied mathematics from the University of Colorado. A military kid, she grew up in Colorado Springs, Monterey, and Cambridge, Massachusetts. She enjoys paddle boarding, hiking, traveling, gardening, reading, watching soccer, and cheering on the Golden State Warriors.

I enjoy helping students make connections and watching their confidence grow.

Mrs. Busch has been with Catalina since 2014. She previously worked in Campus Ministry at Santa Clara University, where she earned a B.A. in religious studies and political science with a minor in ancient studies and an M.A. in pastoral ministries. She also completed coursework with American University of Beirut, Syracuse University, and Loyola University Chicago. She enjoys cooking, gardening, travel, classic films, and trying to increase her repertoire of pickling skills. She lives on campus with her family.

I am inspired by the students and the opportunity for new experiences every day.

Mrs. Canteli has been a part of the Santa Catalina community since 2006. Before taking on the role of Head of Lower and Middle School, she served as a Spanish teacher and Director of Middle School. A native of Madrid, she holds a B.A. and M.A. from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She loves the camaraderie among the Lower and Middle School teachers and enjoys that small class sizes give them an opportunity to really get to know the students and support them in their learning.

Mrs. Chavez joined Santa Catalina in 2022 after working for several years at Mann Packing. She holds a B.S. in business administration from CSU Monterey Bay. The Salinas native enjoys spending time with her family and traveling to Mexico every year.

My favorite part of the job is building relationships.

Mr. Christensen joined Santa Catalina’s math department in 2020. He previously taught for six years at Palma School in Salinas, where the graduating Class of 2019 presented him with the special Facere et Docere Award, given each year by seniors to a specific teacher. Mr. Christensen had a 30-year career as an Army officer, earning a Silver De Fleury Medal for his contributions to Army engineering. He holds a B.S. in civil engineering from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, an M.S. in applied math from the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS), and an M.A. in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College. He has also taught at West Point and NPS. Born in Fargo, North Dakota, but raised in Sacramento, California, he has lived in 15 states—and been to all 50. He plays guitar and banjo, and is an avid walker, hiker, and runner.

I want to ensure each student is a good consumer of information, and has the mathematical mindset and skillset necessary to thrive in today's complex world.

Ms. Clarkson came to Santa Catalina in 2014. She holds a B.S. in biology from the University of Nevada, Reno. A Nevada native and mother of two, she enjoys tennis, playing the guitar, and driving her husband crazy. What inspires her most about teaching at Catalina is that she gets to see the world through different lenses.

My favorite thing about science is that it’s everywhere, all the time.

Mrs. Cofresi is a Monterey Peninsula native who started teaching at Santa Catalina in 2015. She holds a B.S. in dance from Northwestern University and an M.A. in contemporary dance performance from the London Contemporary Dance School at the University of Kent. Mrs. Cofresi has taught workshops and performed throughout the country and internationally. At Catalina, she teaches a wide variety of dance styles to PreK, Kindergarten, and Grades 6–12, also incorporating strength and conditioning and yoga. Mrs. Cofresi performs with several local theater companies, which contributes to her other work at school as choreographer for the Upper School musicals. She loves showing students how dance helps build character and skills that apply to many other areas of life. She also has a love of baking, board games, languages, and travel. Mrs. Cofresi lives on campus with her family.

I am inspired every day by the intelligence and confidence of the students. To know that I can share something I love with these amazing future leaders makes me love what I do.

Mrs. Cook joined the Upper School art department in 2023 after five years of teaching in the Lower and Middle School. She holds a B.A. from Colgate University and an M.A. from Santa Clara University. A Monterey Peninsula native, she enjoys cooking, baking, and going on adventures, and is always working on an art project.

I love our students! They are creative, hard-working, and very talented.

Mrs. Covington came to Catalina in 2010. She grew up and taught in Chengdu, China, and one of her favorite things to do as a teacher is to cook authentic Chinese food with her students. She holds a bachelor’s degree in foreign language education from Sichuan International Studies University.

Mrs. Devlin started teaching at Santa Catalina in 2012. In addition to teaching drama classes, she directs the school’s theatre productions—a passion she extends into the community by performing and directing for many local theatres. She has been an advisor at every grade level and is a recipient of Santa Catalina’s Sister Carlotta Distinguished Service Award. She holds a B.F.A. from The New School and an M.S. from the Pratt Institute.

The greatest character you will ever develop is your own.

Mr. Dillon came to Catalina in 2017. He holds a B.A. in social sciences and an MAT in secondary teaching from Bennington College. Born and raised in San Francisco, he went to Colorado for high school and has taught in Nevada, Connecticut, and Singapore. Through travel and internships, he has taken trips to Southeast Asia and Japan, Europe, and Central America, and worked with the United Religions Initiative, The Department of the Interior, and the San Francisco Zen Center.

World History allows students to engage critically with important questions, and to connect empathetically with humanity.

Mrs. Doherty joined the second grade classroom in 2024. She has taught first and second grade, served as a curriculum coordinator, and as a principal. She holds a B.S. in liberal studies from CSU Sacramento, a multiple subject teaching credential from UC San Diego, and an M.A. in educational leadership from Santa Clara University. She likes to work out when she has time and loves to read.

Ms. Dubiel came to Santa Catalina in 2017 from Antioch University Santa Barbara. She holds a B.S. in microbiology from UC Santa Barbara and a master of acupuncture and oriental medicine from Santa Barbara College of Oriental Medicine. Originally from Simi Valley, she enjoys camping, hiking, traveling, cooking, and traditional archery.

I'm inspired by the fact that I have an opportunity to be a role model for young girls and can be a positive support as they navigate high school and transition to their future endeavors.

Mrs. Edson, a graduate of Santa Catalina, returned to her alma mater in 2018. Previously, she spent 20 years at Presentation High School in San Jose, where she taught social studies, served as the academic scheduling coordinator, and held the position of vice principal of academics. In addition to teaching high school, Mrs. Edson has taught college students as an adjunct instructor at Central Coast community colleges and as an associate professor at Santa Clara University. She holds a B.A. in history from the University of Colorado, an M.A. in history from the University of San Diego, and a certificate in Catholic school leadership from Santa Clara University.

I work to ensure that every student is part of an empowering, supportive community where she feels known, cared for, and inspired to discover who she is meant to be.

Mrs. Escalante joined Santa Catalina’s Business Office in 2024 after working at a local accounting firm. She holds an A.A. in accounting from Heald College and a B.A. in accounting from Brandman University. Born and raised in North Dakota, she enjoys baking and spending time with her family.

Ms. Evers came to Catalina in 2016 after working for more than a decade at the Monterey Herald in a variety of editor positions. She holds a B.S. in journalism from the University of Oregon and a certificate in publishing from the University of Denver Publishing Institute. Originally from Colorado, she enjoys reading, hiking, British TV shows, and playing D&D.

Mr. Fabry joined Santa Catalina's physical education team in 2024. He spent the previous 19 years as athletic director and P.E. teacher at the International School of Monterey. He has also served as a lead surf instructor at the Wahine Project and taught many classes at Summer at Santa Catalina. He holds a B.A. in liberal studies with a minor in adapted physical education from CSU Monterey Bay. Mr. Fabry is an ocean photographer in his spare time and says the ocean is his sanctuary. 

Mrs. Fernandez joined the PreK classroom in 2022. She previously taught reading intervention at the elementary school level in her hometown of San Diego, and has taught first and second grade. She holds a B.S. in criminal justice from San Diego State University and an M.Ed. and K-6 teaching credential from National University. She enjoys going to the beach, reading, taking walks with her dogs, and spending time with her family. Mrs. Fernandez hopes to instill in her students the desire to create a better community. 

It is such an honor to be able to help kids not only learn academics, but also help them become good citizens.

Ms. Floyd joined Santa Catalina’s science department in 2023. She has taught at three different universities, including CSU Monterey Bay. She holds a B.A. in art conservation from Scripps College, an M.S. in chemistry from The George Washington University, and an M.Sc. in museum studies from the University of Glasgow. The Oregon native is also an artist and is a curator at the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas. She enjoys hiking in her free time.

I love chemistry because it is foundational to everything we see, feel, hear, touch, taste, discuss, and think about.

Mr. Frazier joined Santa Catalina in 2025. He previously served in the U.S. Navy, for which he received the Joint Service Commendation medal. In a constantly evolving technological world, Mr. Frazier enjoys staying ahead of the curve, learning about new tools and implementing solutions that improve efficiency and security. In his free time, the Arizona native likes hiking, going to the beach, working out, and spending time with his family.

Catalina’s setting fosters reflection, exploration, and meaningful connections between learning and the world around us.

Miss Gaggini came to Catalina in 2015. Previously, she taught at the Tongass School of Arts and Sciences in Ketchikan, Alaska. She holds a bachelor of music from Youngstown State University and an M.A. in music education from San Jose State University. She loves being outside and stays active through swimming, hiking, and rock climbing, but also enjoys a good day inside playing cards, baking, and knitting. Originally from a very small town in Western Pennsylvania called East Brady, Miss Gaggini remains a diehard fan of Pittsburgh sports teams, especially the Penguins.

Music has always been a solid foundation in my life. It's been a constant go-to through good times and bad. I love being able to offer students that same outlet.

Mrs. Guenther joined the Grade 3 classroom in 2021. She holds a B.S. in family and consumer science from the University of Georgia and an M.A.T. in elementary education from Mercer University. She discovered her love of teaching as an undergraduate at Georgia, where she received the Zena Costa Brown International Study Award to study abroad as a Grade 1 teacher in London. Since then she has taught at the kindergarten, second, and fourth grade levels. She also worked as a teacher at The Bunny Hive, a social studio for parents and their children (aged 2 weeks to 4 years), where she taught classes that focused on cognitive/motor development. Mrs. Guenther is an avid marathon runner who also enjoys hiking, finding new coffee shops, and exploring California.

I am incredibly inspired by the joyful and committed spirits of our students here at Catalina. Not only are they dedicated and eager to give their best in all that they do, but they truly see the need to give to those around them.

Ms. Harmon joined the communications team in 2022. She serves as the school’s videographer and social media manager. She holds a B.A. in journalism from the University of Nevada, Reno and an M.A. in digital media from National University of Ireland, Galway. A native of Reno, she enjoys reading, hiking, gardening, listening to music, and going to the beach.

Being able to share my knowledge of videography and visual storytelling is the best part of my job.

Ms. Harris returned to her alma mater in 2024 to serve as the school’s alumnae/i and parent liaison. She holds a B.F.A. from the NYU Tisch School of the Arts, and spent two decades in New York City and Los Angeles working in the independent film industry and other odd jobs. Some of her favorite projects never made it to the screen—like the TV show she developed with Lena Dunham and Karyn Kusama—but the feature film she wrote and produced, Other People’s Children, made the festival circuit in 2015, winning awards at Columbia Gorge and Venice Beach. Her all-time favorite project has been being mom to three sons, two of whom attend Santa Catalina Lower and Middle School.

I am excited to give back to the school that helped shape me, working with the large and vibrant Catalina community.

Ms. Harty joined Santa Catalina’s Head of School office in 2023. She previously was the executive assistant at Interim Inc., a local nonprofit that provides support services and housing for adults with mental illness. She holds a B.A. in liberal studies and computer science technology and an M.S. in instructional science technology from CSU Monterey Bay. The Colorado native enjoys running half marathons and throwing pottery.

Being in an educational environment that is so focused on supporting the development of each individual student has drawn me in since day one.

Mrs. Haupt first started at Santa Catalina in 1978 as a grade 5 teacher. Over the next five years, she also taught math, English, and study skills. After taking a hiatus to raise a family, she returned to Catalina in 2001 as a religion teacher. She holds a B.A. from Santa Clara University. She is the recipient of Catalina’s Sister Carlotta Distinguished Service Award, and was named a Junior League of Monterey County Volunteer of the Year. Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and raised in San Mateo, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

It is awesome to be able to talk with young people about big questions—who am I and what’s my purpose? Students ask great questions and are always ready to challenge assumptions. I love it!

Mrs. Henrard joined the fourth grade team in 2024 after volunteering for many years. She holds a B.S. in agribusiness from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. A lover of horseback riding, Mrs. Henrard previously worked at the Pebble Beach Equestrian Center and has volunteered at Hope, Horses & Kids and the SPCA for Monterey County. Now in the classroom, she is passionate about providing the same supportive environment to students that her own children received when they were in the Lower and Middle School. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening and dabbling in art, including drawing, watercolor, and oil painting.

Mrs. Hinterman joined Santa Catalina in 2020. Previously, she worked for NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center. She holds a B.S. in marine biology from Humboldt State University, an M.Ed. from CSU Monterey Bay, and a Master of Library and Information Science from San Jose State University. Her love of biology has led her to maintain three small greenhouses for growing orchids and carnivorous plants, and a variety of fish, frogs, and reptiles. She also enjoys scuba diving, reading, baking, and running. Mrs. Hinterman received the Rising Star in the Library Sciences Award from the California School Library Association.

I love seeing students seeking information on their own for fun or discussing a good book and making recommendations to each other.

Ms. Jones joined Santa Catalina’s English department in 2018 with 25 years of teaching experience at the high school and university level. She is the recipient of several fellowships for her graduate and postgraduate studies, including the Adele and Louis Osherson Fellowship for a professional development course in counseling at Fielding Graduate University, and a full fellowship from the Ann Peppers Foundation for her current Ph.D. coursework at Claremont Graduate University, where she’s writing her dissertation on one of her favorite authors, George Eliot. She holds a B.A. in English from Biola University, an M.Div. in cross-cultural studies from Fuller Theological Seminary, a Th.M. in theology and culture from Fuller, and an M.A. in English from Claremont Graduate University. The Los Angeles native enjoys taking road trips across California and listening to jazz and world music.

I’m inspired by the natural and spiritual beauty of the campus, the generosity and kindness of colleagues, and the curiosity and positive energy of the students.

Mr. Kellermann joined Santa Catalina’s business office in 2018. He holds a B.S. in biological sciences from Stony Brook University and an M.S. in management from the Naval Postgraduate School. Originally from Long Island, New York, he is a retired naval officer and a certified public accountant who enjoys birdwatching and hiking.

I love the atmosphere of Santa Catalina—it's a special feeling just driving onto campus.

Ms. Kiefer is in her second round of teaching at Santa Catalina, first in 2006 and again starting in 2015. In between, she taught at Ross Elementary School in Marin County, where she was named the 2011 Teacher of the Year. She also received the 2005 Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary education award, and has helped Catalina establish itself as an Ocean Guardian School. She holds a B.S. in biology from the University of Oregon and a teaching certificate from UC Irvine. Originally from Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin, she enjoys scuba diving, mountain biking, and running. Her daughter is a graduate of the Lower and Middle School.

I’m inspired by the look in students’ eyes when they learn something new and when they build something that works.

Mrs. Kim joined Santa Catalina as a teacher in 2018 after serving as a volunteer and substitute. She also previously taught middle school science in Los Angeles and Salinas. She holds a B.A. in human biology from Stanford University and an M.Ed. in education and single subject teaching credential in science from UCLA. Mrs. Kim has always loved kids, often volunteering at church and helping with youth programs. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and exploring the outdoors with her family. 

Catalina is a place where children can discover, grow, and become their best selves.

Coach Klein joined the Cougars in 2022. She previously served as assistant athletic director and head water polo coach at the all-girls Louisville High School in Woodland Hills, California. She has spent much of her career coaching water polo and swimming at the college level, leading teams to championships at University of the Pacific and Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC). As director of the women’s water polo program at Pride Water Polo Academy, she qualified four youth teams for the 2016 Junior Olympics. She also has served as an aquatics director, physical education instructor, and Red Cross lifeguard instructor; has organized numerous camps, clinics, and tournaments; and was the team manager for the 2013 USA Women’s Junior National Water Polo Team. As a college athlete, she was an All-American in swimming and water polo at SRJC and an NCAA DI All-American water polo player at CSU Northridge, where she competed on a full-ride scholarship. She holds an A.A. in general education from SRJC, a B.A. in political science from CSU Northridge, and an M.A. in health exercise and sports science from University of the Pacific.

What I find to be unique and special about working in athletics at an all-girls school is that female athletes are always the top priority.

Mrs. Krabacher joined Santa Catalina in 2017. She holds a B.S. in child development and psychology from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and a multiple subject teaching credential from CSU Los Angeles. In her free time, she enjoys exploring the beautiful Monterey Peninsula with her family.

The service learning integrated into Catalina's curriculum recognizes the importance of teaching others how to love and take care of one another.

Ms. Lara joined Santa Catalina in 2024. She previously taught at Cabrillo College in Santa Cruz, Monterey Peninsula College, and Pacific Grove High School. She also has taught art at Summer at Santa Catalina. She holds a B.A. in biology and art from the University of Vermont and an MFA in photography from the San Francisco Art Institute. Her photography has been exhibited throughout the San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas.

Ms. Lara joined Santa Catalina in 2022. She spent the previous 10 years with Monterey Peninsula Unified School District, where she was a bilingual community liaison and school office supervisor. She enjoys going to the beach, cycling class, gardening, decorating, baking, traveling, and spending time with her close-knit family.

Dr. Lin joined the Lower and Middle School in 2020, having previously taught at The Overlake School near Seattle. She holds a B.A. in international economics from UCLA, a master's in special education from Cal Poly Pomona, and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Washington. A lifelong learner, she is learning violin, watercolor painting, and gardening. She and her husband enjoy traveling, hiking, and volunteering in animal rescue, especially with bunnies.

Being a learning specialist means I get to work closely with students to help them meet their learning goals. I appreciate the opportunity to cultivate these relationships.

Ms. Littlepage joined Santa Catalina as a voice teacher in 2002. She holds a B.A. in theatre arts from San Francisco State University and is certified as a Distinguished Voice Professional by the New York Singing Teachers Association. Ms. Littlepage, who grew up in Pacific Grove, has performed one-woman musical shows around the country and Europe, and is the author of four novels.

Music is a universal language. The singing voice is an expression of the soul.

Mrs. Long joined Santa Catalina in 2024. The Monterey County native previously worked for her family’s vineyard management company. She holds a B.S. in kinesiology from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. She enjoys baking, hiking with her family, and reading when she finds the time.

Everyone is genuinely happy and passionate about what they do at Catalina.

Janet has worn many hats at Santa Catalina Lower and Middle School: parent volunteer, teacher, and director of PreK–8 admission and PreK–12 financial aid. Her son and daughter went all the way through the Lower and Middle School, from PreK–Grade 8, and her daughter went on to graduate from the Upper School. Janet loves to travel, snow ski, and spend time with family. She enjoys making the admission process as smooth as possible for visiting families and seeing their reactions as they discover what’s beyond the front gate.

Working to provide a Santa Catalina education for students who are motivated to learn, curious in nature, and compassionate citizens brings me great joy.

Mrs. Mansour is a woman of the world, born in Alexandria, Egypt, raised in Melbourne, Australia, and a resident of the United States since 1979. She started at Santa Catalina in 2007, the same year she became a U.S. citizen. She holds a B.A. from CSU Fullerton. Prior to Catalina, she taught in Southern California and worked for the Walt Disney Company. She loves singing and performs frequently in local and regional theater. All three of her children are Catalina lifers.

I love making a difference in a child’s life, both in the development of their characters and in their growth as academic learners. I’m thrilled and blessed to have the opportunity to work for a school that values both equally

Dr. Marrack taught at Santa Catalina from 1998–2001 and returned in 2014. In between, she worked for the National Park Service in her home state of Hawaii, as a USGS contractor focused on coral reefs, and as a UC Berkeley graduate researcher. One of her favorite aspects of teaching is that she can bring this scientific background to her classroom. She holds a B.A. (magna cum laude) from Williams College, an M.A. from Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, and a Ph.D. in environmental science policy and management from UC Berkeley.

Dr. Marrack loves that she and her colleagues have the freedom to take a hands-on approach to teaching—whether surveying the rocky intertidal zone of Monterey Bay, designing projects in the garden, or experimenting in the chemistry, physics, and biology labs. She continues to be involved in coastal ecology and conservation work, and takes time to play in nature through trail running and various ocean activities. She is a member of the resident faculty.

Monterey Bay and the natural world inspire me every day. My ultimate goal as a teacher is to guide my students in discoveries of the living and non-living world around them and to be aware of their place in it.

Mrs. Martinus came to Santa Catalina in 2023 with over 25 years of experience in education, including schools, after-school programs, and summer camps. She holds a B.S. in business from CSU Chico. The California native enjoys swimming, reading, and spending time with her family.

I love making wonderful experiences and memories for children to treasure.

Mrs. Maximoff joined Catalina’s theatre department in 2017 having previously worked for local theatre and performing arts venues. At Catalina, Mrs. Maximoff works on the theatrical performances, concerts, and other events that take place in the Performing Arts Center throughout the year. She especially likes engaging with students who choose to take part in the backstage work for plays and musicals. She holds associate degrees in acting, directing, and technical theatre from Monterey Peninsula College. She likes to cuddle with her dogs, read scripts and nonfiction, and spend time with her husband and four children.

Since I was a small child, I have always felt there was magic in live performance, whether it was music, theatre, or dance. I feel very lucky to be in a theatre every day!

Ms. McGovern joined Santa Catalina in 2023, starting in the first grade classroom before moving to kindergarten. She holds a B.S. in elementary education and iSTEM from The College of New Jersey and teaching certificates in New Jersey and California. She enjoys spin classes, hiking, beaches, cooking, and exploring Monterey.

I love helping students feel a sense of belonging in the classroom and making it a positive learning environment.

Mrs. McKim joined Santa Catalina in 2024. She is the founder and artistic director of RockStar Dance Studio in Pacific Grove. She holds a B.A. in history from CSU Los Angeles and an M.S. in criminology from Arizona State University. Besides dancing, she loves to travel to Savannah, Georgia, and read books; her favorite holiday is Halloween.

Ms. Milani gets to work with all students who are joining the Santa Catalina community. Born in France of Italian parents, she attended a bilingual school until third grade, when her family moved to the U.S. After living in Michigan and San Diego, they settled in Monterey, and Ala began her relationship with Catalina, starting in eighth grade and graduating in 1987. She returned to work at her alma mater in 2008, having previously worked in Seattle and at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Not surprisingly, she loves being outdoors as much as possible. She holds a B.A. in communications, visual arts, and graphic arts from CSU Chico.

I love watching the girls grow into these amazing, balanced, well-adjusted, confident, happy young women who are self-aware and ready to make a difference in the world—whatever that may be. It makes me proud as if they were all my daughters.

Mrs. Mulgrew started teaching at Santa Catalina in 2016, but her ties to the school began as a boarding student from Livermore, CA. “I am still inspired by the teachers I had here," she says. "They showed me that I could do anything, and that support carried me through much of the rest of my education.” After graduating in 2002, she earned a B.A. in applied mathematics from UC Berkeley and an M.S. in applied mathematics from CSU Long Beach, where she also taught math. She enjoys crafts, swimming, and playing with her three children. Her husband is a pediatrician, and the family lives on campus. She is the Freshman Class Dean.

In computer science, I have loved exposing the girls to the world that they will forever be a part of. It is important that each student appreciate the logic and complexity behind the technology they are using. No matter what their interest, these skills will make them competitive in their academics and in their careers.

Mrs. Murphy began teaching at Santa Catalina in 2007, but her relationship with the school started when she was a student in first grade. After receiving her B.A. from Yale University, she worked as an Equity actress in New York. In between acting jobs, she found that her most important work was social work—something she can trace back to the seeds of service planted at Catalina. Now back at her alma mater, she hopes to plant those same seeds. She enjoys biking, traveling, theater, movies, music, and soccer.

I feel very privileged in my work here to give to our students what Santa Catalina offered me—the understanding that we are here to serve God by serving others. I also feel so blessed to work with others in such a collaborative and joyful way. Santa Catalina really is a community of love.

Dr. Murphy has been at Santa Catalina since 1996. He was born in London but grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is an avid Green Bay Packers fan. He holds a B.A. in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, an M.A. in history and philosophy of religion from the University of London-King's College, and a Ph.D. in philosophy of religion and theology from Claremont Graduate University. He was also a post-doctoral fellow in philosophy at Harvard University. He is inspired by the curiosity and intelligence of his students, and loves that teaching philosophy involves a sense of discovery.

Ms. Niemer joined the Auxiliary Programs team in 2024 after two years of working with Summer at Santa Catalina. A passionate believer in summer camps and girls education, she also has worked at Camp OSP and Girls Leadership. She holds a B.S. in secondary education and social work from the University of Portland. Originally from Redding, California, she enjoys spending time outdoors, going for walks, watching documentaries, and reading nonfiction.

I believe that all-girls spaces are powerful; they give girls an opportunity to use their voice, discover their passions, learn to make mistakes, and develop their leadership skills.

Ms. Ongley started at Santa Catalina in 2004 after serving as an adjunct math instructor at Cabrillo College. She holds a B.A. in mathematics with a minor in anthropology from Humboldt State University and an M.S. in mathematics with a math education emphasis from Montana State University. She was born in Finland but also claims Michigan, Chicago, and Alaska as home. She enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, reading, and watching movies.

I love seeing the students finally understand a concept they’ve struggled with and just generally gaining confidence in their abilities.

Mr. Orihuela joined Santa Catalina in 2022. He spent more than a decade teaching Grades 1-5 in local elementary schools, and also served as a CSUMB mentor teacher. He holds a B.S. in human development from UC Davis and a multiple subject teaching credential. He loves to travel to Lake Tahoe and Hawaii and enjoys the outdoors, hiking, and camping.

Señora Orquisa was born and raised in São Paulo, Brazil. After graduating from college, she participated in a travel abroad program that took her to Colorado. The next stop in her journey was Peru, where she lived for eight years and became fluent in Spanish. She returned to Brazil, where she taught Spanish before moving to the United States. Señora Orquisa taught at Santa Catalina for a number of years before taking a break to raise her three children, and she was thrilled to return to the school in 2024. She loves hosting parties (especially if they’re themed), dancing, and roller blading.

I love how learning a different language can transform one's perspective in life. It allows us to experience another culture fully and deeply, which helps us become better citizens of the world.

Ms. Ortiz joined Santa Catalina’s communications team in 2024. She holds a B.A. in graphic design from the University of San Francisco. She strives to use her creativity to lift organizations that want to do good and promote social and environmental justice. Outside of Catalina, the Monterey native celebrates the natural beauty of her hometown through her own arts and crafts business.

I highly value education and its ability to empower students to personally exceed and be the best versions of themselves.

Dr. Ostos is Santa Catalina’s fifth Head of School. She is an experienced educator who has spent more than 20 years as a teacher, grade-level leader, dean of students, divisional principal, and school-wide administrator. She holds a B.A. in government from Harvard University, an M.A. in nonprofit leadership and management from the University of San Diego, and an Ed.D. in educational leadership from UC San Diego. Prior to joining Catalina in 2022, she was the Assistant Head of School at Catlin Gabel in Portland, Oregon, where she earlier served as Middle School head and as the senior administrative lead for diversity and inclusivity. She began her educational career at Francis Parker School in San Diego, where she taught Spanish, history, study skills, and more in the Middle and Upper Schools, and served as Middle School dean of students. Dr. Ostos was born in Guanajuato, Mexico, and grew up in San Diego. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children playing games, watching movies, baking, playing basketball, and bike riding.

Intentional school communities like Santa Catalina have a transformational power in the lives of students, families, and employees.

Coach Panes started as Catalina’s Middle School Athletic Director in 2021 after nearly 20 years in the same position at Junipero Serra School. He has also coached the Upper School track and field team since 2014, earning the CCS Honor Coach Award.

Dr. Reilly was a marine ecologist before coming to Santa Catalina in 2008. He spearheaded Santa Catalina’s Marine Ecology Research Program, which is one of the reasons he received the school’s Sister Carlotta Distinguished Service Award in 2016. He was also named Teacher of the Month by the American Association for the Advancement of Science in April 2017. Dr. Reilly holds a B.S. from The Evergreen State College, and M.A. in biological science from Boston University, and a Ph.D. in biological sciences from Stanford University. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, he enjoys surfing and coaching youth rugby, and volunteers at the Pacific Grove Hyperbaric Chamber.

I like being able to teach about research and exploration so close to the margins of the Pacific Ocean, where I find so much scope for both.

Ms. Stallworth joined Santa Catalina's admission team in 2024. Originally from Mississippi, she previously worked for Chadwick International School in South Korea. She holds a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in educational leadership and administration from Argosy University Orange County, and an M.S. in educational leadership and administration from Pepperdine University. She likes outdoor theatre and will travel to see Broadway shows and musicals. In addition to her admission duties, Ms. Stallworth is a member of the resident faculty.

Miss Westhoff joined Catalina in 2024. She previously worked at St. Bede the Venerable School in La Cañada as the vice principal and served as the Dean of Grades 5-8 and Director of Student Services. Miss Westhoff is excited to be part of Santa Catalina’s admissions team and is inspired by the culture of the school. “Santa Catalina’s vision of preparing students to lead lives of meaning and purpose and the motto of Veritas both align with my philosophy of schooling and the way I choose to live my life,” she says. In her spare time, she enjoys going for walks, baking and cooking, and exploring the Monterey area.

I want to help potential families discern the right path for their family as they seek to find a community where their children can flourish and find joy in school.

Mr. White joined Santa Catalina in 2006. He taught English and art history for more than a decade before transitioning to the College Counseling office, becoming director in 2020. He holds a B.A. from Goucher College, where he was elected to the Phi Beta Kappa Society, and an M.A. from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, where he later served as an adjunct English instructor. In 2013 he was named a National Endowment for the Humanities Scholar, studying Dante’s Divine Comedy in Siena, Italy. The Baltimore native enjoys traveling, cooking, reading, digging into genealogy, and shooting sporting clays when he needs some excitement.

I relish the opportunity to help young people see the world more clearly—to grow their capacity for wonder—and to help them learn to use their freedom wisely.

Mr. Ziegler joined the Middle School as a history and English teacher in 2019. A Bay Area native, he previously taught at The King’s Academy in Sunnyvale, where he served as English department chair. He earned a B.A. in English from UCLA and an A.L.M. from Harvard University. He and his wife, also a teacher, have two young daughters. Mr. Ziegler loves hiking, biking, cooking, reading, sports, and doing crossword puzzles.

Learning to understand the stories of others is the hallmark of the humanities as they confirm or clarify our own stories.