"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 Site Supervisor Permit
CPR/First Aid
Ms. Yessica
Director of Curriculum + Staff Dvlpmt
Lead Teacher: Soaring Eagles
I am the oldest of 4 and growing up, I knew I wanted to work with children. It was already imbedded in me to care for others. I even contemplated joining the army to become a nurse to help children in other countries. My passion for teaching children began with my parents as they were deeply involved in our Sunday School classes. They love what they do and I believe they guided me to be passionate in what I do now. I remember helping a Sunday School class when I was 12 years old. In college, I became a nanny to two wonderful families for about 3 years. Finally, God led me to join the GPA staff in the Spring of 2012. Everyday I learn something new and exciting with each child! When I am not at GPA, I love spending time with my family, working out and visiting new places!
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Credentials:
BA: Child Development
Certifications:
Child Development Program Director Permit
CPR/First Aid
Ms. Marley
Lead Teacher: Roaring Lions
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
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
Ms. Betty
Teacher Aide
This is my second year at GPA. I have a bachelors degree in psychology from San Jose State University and a minor in Child Development. I enjoy going to the gym and doing my makeup. I love cats, and my favorite beverages are electrolytes and coconut water. In my spare time I enjoy going to concerts and baking. My favorite color is pink and I have one black cat.
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Credentials:
B.A. Psychology
Minor: Child Development
Certifications:
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
Ms. Miaki
Teacher Aide
I worked at a home daycare for two years prior to coming to GPA. I am currently a 2nd year college student studying child development.
Languages Spoken: English
Credentials:
currently enrolled in Child Development courses
Certifications:
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
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Ms. Jenny
Teacher Aide
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