"Every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be. " - Rita Pierson
Ms. Winnie
Director of Administration
I was born in Hong Kong but have spent the majority of my life in San Jose. Prior to working for GPA, I spent 7 years as an Environmental Chemist at a sewage treatment plant ensuring proper treatment and compliance for wastewater and drinking water.
I left my position as a chemist to raise my 3 children, and returned to the workforce in 2011 when I heard about the exciting opportunity to launch a preschool. When I'm not working, I love spending time with my family doing outdoor activities, such as family bike rides, trips to the community swimming pool, and visits to various museums.
Languages Spoken: English, Cantonese
Credentials:
BA: Integrative Biology
Certifications:
Child Development Program Director Permit
CPR/First Aid
Ms. Marley
Lead Teacher: Soaring Eagles
I was born and raised in San Jose. Growing up, my family and I lived in a house that we shared with my aunts. I loved living there because I was able to grow up with my cousins. My fondest memory is playing hide and seek with them.
I attended San Jose City College and Evergreen Community College to earn my AA in Child Development. I am now furthering my education at San Jose State University to pursue my bachelors degree in Child Development. I expect to complete my program in 2025.
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Credentials:
AA: Social and Behavioral Science
AA-T: Child and Adolescent Development
BA: Child Development (projected 2025)
Certifications:
Child Development Teacher Permit
CPR/First Aid
Ms. Iris
Lead Teacher: Roaring Lions
Hi, I’m Iris, and I am excited to be a part of GPA this school year! I was originally born in Mexico, but my family migrated to the U.S. when I was 3 years old. I have two younger brothers therefore working with children is like second nature to me; and I couldn’t be happier. I hold an A.A in Early Childhood Education, which I received studying at Mission College. In my spare time, I love to go to the gym, run, hike, and box. I am also a leader in a youth group at my parish. Therefore, it’s a blessing that I can serve the Lord by working with his children! I also can’t deny a yummy sweet treat, so I enjoy baking as well.
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Credentials:
AA: Social and Behavioral Science
AA-T: Child and Adolescent Development
Certifications:
Child Development Teacher Permit
CPR/First Aid
Ms. Michelle
Lead Teacher: Growing Sheep
I was born and raised right here in San Jose. After graduating from Independence High School in 1995 I briefly studied to be a CPA and knew right away that wasn't my calling. I grew up in a large family with 5 brothers and no sister but lots of extended family nearby. I knew I liked working with children and enjoyed it during my junior and senior years of high school as I volunteered in the school's child development center. It came natural to me so I entered the field in the fall of 1999 and have worked at 4 centers since. I earned my child development credits at San Jose City College. I am a mother to one biological child and a step mom to four awesome children. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband and family at the beach, an amusement park, shopping and seeking out a new local ethnic food restaurant. Being in a Christ centered school not only allows me to share Jesus with the children but also keeps me accountable in my walk with him.
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Certifications:
Child Development Associate Teacher Permit
CPR/ First Aid
Mr. Angus
Lead Teacher: Afternoon Program
I was born in Hong Kong and moved here for college at the age of 18. I went to University of California @ Irvine for a B.A. Psychology and Social Behavior and B.F.A. Dance in Choreography. God has called my focus to educate children with all abilities. I have worked with children with autism as a Registered Behavioral Technician for the past two years. I am excited to participate in GPA to engage students in imaginative thinking, loving hearts for others and the amazing God that we all know from the Bible.
Languages Spoken: English, Cantonese, Mandarin
Credentials:
B.A. Psychology and Social Behavior
B.F.A. Dance in Choreography
Certifications:
Registered Behavioral Technician
Child Development Site Supervisor Permit
CPR/First Aid
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Ms. Jenny
Assoc. Teacher - Soaring Eagles
My name is Ms. Jenny and I am so excited to meet you all. A little about me: I have two sons and I like bright colors. I adore my job so I do it with all the love in the world. My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love trying different ethnic foods and I love spending time with my family. In my spare time I like to travel and binge watch shows and movies on Netflix. I like to take my kids out for fun activities.
Languages Spoken: English, Vietnamese
Credentials:
Currently enrolled in Child Development courses
Certifications:
CPR/First Aid
Ms. Natalia
Assoc. Teacher - Roaring Lions
My name is Natalia, and I am blessed to be a mom of two. I am currently in my first year at GPA with a Associate Teacher Permit, and I'm hoping to continue making a difference here, as well as continue in my own education. My journey into child development began with a desire to better understand and support my son, who is on the spectrum. I love spending time with my family, Tim Burton movies, and everything Disney.
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Credentials:
Certifications:
Child Development Associate Teacher Permit
CPR/First Aid