Our Staff
"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
Site Supervisor Permit
Ms. Yessica
Director of Curriculum +
Staff Development
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
Program Director Permit
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 2024.
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Credentials:
AA: Child Development
BA: Child Development (projected 2024)
Associate Teacher Permit
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
Registered Behavioral Technician
Master Teacher Permit
Site Supervisor Permit
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