Our faculty and staff are the heart of Keys School.
A diverse and talented group of individuals, our faculty and staff bring their passions to the classroom and the entire school community. Whether they are artists, bakers, scientists, musicians, gardeners, or mathematicians, they all share a genuine dedication to education and a deep commitment to seeing every Keys student flourish.
Lower School Faculty
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Jeff BerridgeLower School Physical Education Teacher
There is a powerful sense of optimism and inclusion among Keys students and community members that really sets it apart from other schools.
Education: B.S. in Business Administration from Notre Dame de Namur; Single Subject Credential in Physical Education from Notre Dame de Namur
Years at Keys: 1
Years in education: 2
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Carmen CentenoLower School Spanish Teacher
My hope for our students is that they look back at their time at Keys with love and appreciation and they grow to become balanced and caring human beings.
Education: B.S. in Early Childhood Education from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello in Caracas, Venezuela; M.S. in Bilingual Education and ESL from the University of Houston Clear Lake
Years at Keys: 2
Years in education: 14
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Patricia ChangCoordinator of Student Support and Lower School Learning Specialist
Keys students’ inquisitiveness and unhesitant exploration of learning in all its forms, the care in the hugs between our youngest and oldest student buddy pairings, the generosity of their sharing with classmates and adults alike. It’s hard to succinctly describe what I love most about our students, because the breadth of my answer probably speaks volumes itself about the outstanding learners we have here!
Education: B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Michigan; Ed.M. in School Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University
Years at Keys: 2
Years in education: 7
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Annie CuadraFirst Grade Teacher
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Yael CushmanFirst Grade Teacher
I push my students to try new things, to push themselves out of their comfort zone even if it feels scary. I often teach them that if something is hard either academically or socially, they should try to find the fun in all of it. In life there are certain curve balls that are thrown our way, but it is the way that we handle the situation that help us learn and grow as people.
Education: B.A. in Art History from University of Oregon; Teaching Credential from DeLeT Fellowship – Hebrew Union College
Years at Keys: 4
Years in education: 8
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Ambera DeLashKindergarten Associate Teacher
I think what surprises me most about Keys students is their ability to socially and emotionally express themselves through their academics. I’ve had such an amazing time getting to know each individual learner.
Education: B.A. in Theatre from San Jose State University
Years at Keys: 3
Years in education: 5
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Sharon DiamondLower School Counselor
Every time I see or hear a student naturally use the skills or language that have been explicitly taught, I feel such a sense of satisfaction. To know that life skills that are not academic in nature are being imparted in such way that they can develop and play out in a natural manner is so heartwarming and satisfying to witness.
Education: B.A. in Sociology and Social Services from UC Davis; M.A. in Marriage, Family, and Counseling from the University of Southern California
Years at Keys: 7
Years in education: 17
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Susan EssaryKindergarten Teacher
I want our students to enter the world with a sense of who they are and confidence that they can handle and persevere through anything life gives them. To know their strengths and accept their growth areas with self-compassion. To know they have the power to impact everyone they meet in their lives by just the smallest action and for them to live each day with the unspoken philosophy that life begins just outside their comfort zone.
Education: B.A. from University of Buckinghamshire, England; Education certificate from Brunel University, England
Years at Keys: 8
Years in education: 13
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Jennifer FarnhamLower School Art Teacher - Leave Replacement
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Megan GallesFirst Grade Associate Teacher
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Laura GreenleesThird Grade Teacher
I love that teaching allows me to work with children, parents, and other educational professionals. The best part about teaching is that every day is different! I was particularly interested in Keys because I have always enjoyed working in independent school environments, and I felt a warm sense of community immediately. I love that the school is proud of its traditions while encouraging new initiatives in order to best serve the families and faculty.
Education: B.A. in Sociology from The Catholic University of America; M.A. in Early Childhood Education from Teachers College Columbia University
Years at Keys: 3
Years in education: 9
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Angie HigginsTheatre Arts Teacher
Having the attention of an audience is a gift. It is a chance to help them forget their worries, make them laugh, make them cry, transport them to a world of wonder, make them reflect on life, or even help them think of something in a new way. The collaboration I experience in every production is a magical melding of minds, creativity, and hard work. Merging my passion for Theatre and my strong desire to help that shy child that I used to be come out of their shell has made me who I am today.
Education: B.A. in Creative Art, minor in Drama from San Jose State University; M.A. in Theatre Arts Education from San Jose State University
Years at Keys: 17
Years in education: 18
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Marisa Hodgett-ChiangLower School Music Teacher
Keys students are up for anything! They bounce into every classroom with smiles beaming, minds on, and hearts open. They develop deep bonds with their classmates and teachers, and they diligently take care of others. They are able to equally celebrate their individuality and come together as a team.
Education: B.A. in Music Education from Loyola University, New Orleans; Orff Certification – Level I; Kodály Certification-Level I
Years at Keys: 11
Years in education: 15
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Benjamin HoweLower School Technology Curriculum Integration Specialist & Lower School Before Care Teacher
Benjamin Howe
Lower School Technology Curriculum Integration Specialist & Lower School Before Care TeacherI am very interested in interdisciplinary work and how different subjects can work together to solve problems and answer questions. I want to expose my students to a variety of learning tools and skills to be a part of their life “toolbox.” I want them to be curious about the world and always question how things work. I want them to be independent thinkers, be able to solve problems on their own, and come up with new ways to solve questions and problems as they arise. They should always challenge why things are the way they are and find ways to come up with new solutions when things do not seem quite right.
Education: B.H.A in Psychology and Architecture from Carnegie Mellon University; M.Ed in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard Graduate School of Education
Years at Keys: 4
Years in education: 6
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Alex JessupLower School After School Assistant
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Celeste Le DucLower School Art Teacher
I appreciate how much Keys values the arts and it shows in how our students express themselves and think creatively. They feel safe to explore. They’re given so many opportunities in and out of the art room to interact with the world in an artistic way. It is truly remarkable to see what these students come up with!
Education: B.F.A. from California College of the Arts
Years at Keys: 3
Years in education: 7
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Kelsey McMillanFourth Grade Teacher
We live in a competitive world and face many complex global issues as a society. My dream for all Keys students (and what we try to teach them) is to become thoughtful global citizens who advocate for themselves and for others. I want students to become well-rounded individuals who are compassionate, thoughtful, and deeply motivated to grow, innovate, and creatively express themselves in every capacity.
Education: B.A. in Integrative Studies: Art History/Women’s Studies/Modern Dance from Guilford College; M.S. in Museum Education and Childhood General Education from Bank Street College of Education
Years at Keys: 4
Years in education: 10
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Fiona MerridewLower School Librarian
I remember walking into my classroom on the first day of fourth grade many years ago and being greeted by a still life art display in the middle of the classroom. It was so wild and totally unexpected. I was thrilled that a teacher had dared to do something so different, so creative, and so exciting on our first day of school. I remember my teacher clearly, her enthusiasm, and what she inspired in her students. This is what I strive for as a teacher.
Education: B.A. in Fine Arts from University of Witwatersrand; M.A. in Art Therapy and Family and Marriage Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur
Years at Keys: 1
Years in education: 11
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Kiri NakamuraSecond Grade Lead Teacher
Keys students are great listeners who ask dynamic questions. They support one another by accepting each other’s similarities and differences. Students, starting as early as Kindergarten, respectfully challenge one another and benefit from each other’s perspectives.
Education: B.A. in English from University of Pennsylvania
Years at Keys: 2
Years in education: 7
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Jordan OroscoLower School After Care Coordinator
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Maria PurcellKindergarten Teacher
Having taught in public schools, learning support schools, and private schools, my journey in education has been a long one that keeps evolving. I view education as a life long practice of growth and discovery, revolving around meeting the academic and social needs of every new student. It is exciting, challenging, and always different. Teaching allows for change to occur constantly in very worthwhile ways.
Education: B.Ed. and Double Major in English Literature, Philosophy and World Religions from University of Wales College
Years at Keys: 3
Years in education: 17
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Kelly RitzFourth Grade Teacher
Everyone at our school is so welcoming and willing to lend a hand. I know that I can go to anyone, at any time, to ask questions or to just chat over lunch. We truly care about one another professionally and personally.
Education: B.A. in Elementary Education from CSU-Monterey Bay; M.A. in General Education from UC Santa Cruz; Cleared Credential from UC San Diego Extension
Years at Keys: 7
Years in education: 9
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Maren ScheinerSecond Grade Teacher
In college, I came to the realization that much of my learning to that point in my life had been dictated by and rewarded by a teacher or coach. When I had the opportunity to choose the subject matter and direct my own learning, I came to a deeper understanding with far greater rewards than praise or a letter grade. As a teacher, I truly appreciate the value of voice and choice in the learning process.
Education: B.A. in French and Elementary Education from Middlebury College; M.A. from Bank Street College of Education, New York
Years at Keys: 6
Years in education: 11
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Jenna SchmidtLower School Math Specialist
Keys has given me the opportunity to work with people who push my thinking, challenge me to try new things, and who encourage me to constantly reflect on my practice. The staff here is always challenging themselves to refine their practice and put the students’ best interests at the center of all their decisions.
Education: B.A. in American Studies and M.A. in Elementary Education from Stanford University; Cleared Credential from UC San Diego Extension
Years at Keys: 8
Years in education: 9
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Holly SheetzThird Grade Teacher
The students at Keys are kind, caring, empathetic, responsible, and independent people who grow up to be life-long learners. They care deeply about their family, friends, teachers, and the world around them.
Education: B.A. in Early Childhood Education and General Science from Boston College; M.A. in Reading and Literacy from Boston College
Years at Keys: 4
Years in education: 9
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Anitha Sunder RamAfter School Assistant
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Manisha Tejura
After School Assistant -
Grace TingLower School Mandarin Teacher
I hope my students are not only learning Mandarin as a foreign language but will explore and know themselves by experiencing a different culture, people, and customs. They will be more open-minded and flexible when interacting with people with different backgrounds, and they will develop their own value systems when facing fast-changing circumstances around them.
Education: M.A. in TESOL from San Jose State University, California Single Subject Credential in Mandarin, San Jose State University
Years at Keys: 5
Years in education: 17
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Maresa TuckerLower School Science Teacher
Students at Keys are not afraid to fail. They understand how to learn from their mistakes and are inspired to do things differently until they do succeed.
Education: B.A. in Psychology from University of California, Berkeley; M.A. in Education from University of California, Los Angeles
Years at Keys: 4
Years in education: 8
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Kathryn VardaLower School Reading Specialist
When I became a mother and I had a child who struggled to learn to read, this gave me incredible insight into the world of students who feel the struggle of learning. This prompted me to learn everything I could about teaching children to read. There is no greater motivation than knowing you have to be the best resource you can possibly be to help people who need you. There is no greater satisfaction in life than knowing you have the power and the ability to change someone’s life for the better.
Education: B.Ed. in Education from Leicester University, England
Years at Keys: 14
Years in education: 33
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Lani WengerKindergarten Associate Teacher
Jeff Berridge 
Carmen Centeno 
Patricia Chang 
Annie Cuadra 
Yael Cushman 
Ambera DeLash 
Sharon Diamond 
Susan Essary 
Jennifer Farnham 
Megan Galles 
Laura Greenlees 
Angie Higgins 
Marisa Hodgett-Chiang 
Celeste Le Duc 
Kelsey McMillan 
Fiona Merridew 
Kiri Nakamura 
Jordan Orosco 
Maria Purcell 
Kelly Ritz 
Maren Scheiner 
Jenna Schmidt 
Holly Sheetz 
Grace Ting 
Maresa Tucker 
Kathryn Varda 
Lani Wenger Middle School Faculty
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Corey BakerMiddle School Librarian
In my first Education class in college, the professor had us learn how to knit. The experience was to help us understand how students felt learning something challenging and new in the classroom. It was endlessly frustrating, but I was able to bond with my classmates through the shared experience. I can’t express the joy I felt when I finally got it and ultimately got pretty good at it! I want to help students feel that same feeling!
Education: B.A. in Psychology and Education from Swarthmore College; M.L.I.S. from University of Denver
Years at Keys: 2
Years in education: 7
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Claude FergusonMiddle School Art Teacher
After graduation I talked to several 8th graders. They gave me this big group hug and each one of them talked about how art has allowed them to see in a totally different way and how important it was to have time to relax and just be creative.
Education: B.F.A. from North Carolina Central University
Years at Keys: 7
Years in education: 13
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Louise FernquestMiddle School Language Arts Teacher
As I look back now at my own elementary school experience in a remote sheep farming valley in New Zealand, I realize how profoundly influential it was for me as a student, and that it inspired the first stirrings of my love of teaching. Being in a tiny, one-room school house with a single teacher for K – 8 meant that the older students became teachers themselves – helping the little ones with their reading, explaining math to those a few years younger, supervising the games on the playground. We all interacted all day long, whether in the classroom or outside studying the ferns in the native forest around us. For much of the day, we had no individual attention from our teacher, so we became independent and resourceful – good at working in groups and helping one another. I see now that this was where the seeds of my Keys experience were sowed.
Education: B.A. in Languages and Literature from Canterbury University, Christchurch, New Zealand
Years at Keys: 20
Years in education: 23
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Angie HigginsTheatre Arts Teacher
Having the attention of an audience is a gift. It is a chance to help them forget their worries, make them laugh, make them cry, transport them to a world of wonder, make them reflect on life, or even help them think of something in a new way. The collaboration I experience in every production is a magical melding of minds, creativity, and hard work. Merging my passion for Theatre and my strong desire to help that shy child that I used to be come out of their shell has made me who I am today.
Education: B.A. in Creative Art, minor in Drama from San Jose State University; M.A. in Theatre Arts Education from San Jose State University
Years at Keys: 17
Years in education: 18
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Kathleen JalalpourMiddle School Math Teacher
I hear our eighth graders say, “I had to learn HOW I learn, and now I know that I can handle any math that comes along in high school.” This is my goal. With some students we kindle a love of mathematics that influences their life choices. For other students, we kindle an affection for mathematics, a feeling of, “I can do this. It’s not my passion, and I’m not the fastest, but that’s not what matters. I know I CAN do math – with understanding, with pleasure, and with success.”
Education: M.A. in Economics from the Free University of Berlin; CA Multiple Subject Credential; Experienced Singapore Math trainer for schools nationwide
Years at Keys: 23
Years in education: 37
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Greg LambertAthletic Director and Middle School Physical Education Teacher
The countless ways in which Keys parents involve themselves in the school community and sincerely care to learn more about their children’s teachers makes me feel truly cared for and appreciated.
Education: B.A. in Psychology from UC Santa Cruz
Years at Keys: 1
Years in education: 8
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Nat LewisMiddle School Math Teacher
We embrace the idea that mistakes are healthy and an appropriate part of learning and growing. This makes Keys being a much safer place to learn, because we are shielded from much of the insanity of Silicon Valley and education in general.
Education: B.A. in Environmental Studies from UC Santa Cruz
Years at Keys: 4
Years in education: 17
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Stephanie NortonMiddle School Spanish Teacher
The first time I stepped foot on campus, I knew Keys was a special place. The students here are truly kind-at-heart. From making sure no one feels left out on the playground, to accompanying each other to the office when a friend isn’t feeling well. The other day one of my students brought me a lemon lozenge because I had told the students that I was recovering from being sick!
Education: B.A. in Human Biology from Stanford University
Years at Keys: 3
Years in education: 13
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Emily O’KeeffeMiddle School Social Studies Teacher
I love that students choose to hang out with teachers. Students feel comfortable approaching teachers with academic queries or even just to talk about their weekend. In the morning, students don’t just come in my classroom to “dump their laptop” or come in from the cold, but, more often than not, they want to say good morning and let me know about their lives.
Education: B.A. in Anthropology from the University of California, Davis; M.A. in Ethnic Studies from San Francisco State University; Ed.M. from Harvard Graduate School of Education
Years at Keys: 7
Years in education: 13
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Ivana ParkMiddle School Social Studies Teacher
It is the people who make this place one of a kind. My colleagues regularly stop by my classroom at random points throughout the day to connect, collaborate, and assist.
Education: B.A. in Economics from UC Berkeley; M.S.W. with a Concentration in Children, Youth and Families from Boston College
Years at Keys: 4
Years in education: 10
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Jessica PattiMiddle School Language Arts Teacher
I enjoy the creative collaboration that exists between teachers at Keys. Within the first few weeks of the new school year we were already working on some exciting cross-curricular explorations.
Education: B.S. in Anthropology and English from Tulane University; Ed.M. from Harvard Graduate School of Education
Years at Keys: 1
Years in education: 17
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Jeff RedlawskMiddle School Music Teacher
I want our students to include music in their lives every day going forward. I want them to be curious about music, always exploring past, present, and future trends. I want them to enter high school with a skill set that allows them to thrive while they continue their musical studies in appreciation, performance, or teaching, however that looks for them.
Education: B.M in Percussion Performance from Western Michigan University; M.A. in Percussion Performance from San Jose State University
Years at Keys: 6
Years in education: 20
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Jennifer ShortMiddle School Mandarin Teacher
When I came to Keys to work as a teacher, it opened my mind about the importance of building relationships with students and faculty, and how to appreciate each and everyone’s uniqueness.
Education: B.A. in History from the National Taiwan University; M.S. in Computer Science from San Jose State University
Years at Keys: 6
Years in education: 13
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Jennifer SpaethMiddle School Science Teacher
Our students are adept at following and extending their passions. They are self-motivated, emotionally aware, adventurous, kind, and risk taking. They are always up for a challenge and have the grit to take on difficult things. All of this allows for the development of really wonderful curriculum – when you know your students will be able to handle a unit or project that is challenging in multiple ways, intellectually, socially, creatively.
Education: B.A. in Biology from U.C. Santa Cruz; M.S. in Natural Resources and Environmental Policy from the University of London, Wye College
Years at Keys: 10
Years in education: 27
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Monica SullivanMiddle School Learning Specialist
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Douglas WardMiddle School Physical Education Teacher
Here at Keys, students consider teachers as mentors and partners in their learning. Everyday I strive to empower them with self-confidence, fitness and health, movement skills, teamwork, and strategic thinking.
Education: B.S. in Physical Education & Health Science, Indiana University: Bloomington, IN.; M.Ed. in Curriculum & Administration, University of Illinois: Champaign, IL. Diploma TESOL, St Michael’s College of International Studies: Burlington, VT. Lifetime Teaching License from State of Indiana
Years at Keys: 3
Years in education: 32
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Joan YoungMiddle School Counselor and Self Science Teacher
The fact that Keys addresses the needs of the whole child means the world to me. I believe that students are complex, unique, and quite vulnerable at the Middle School phase. Our kids need faculty who prioritize their emotional, social needs along with academic needs…it really feels like here students have a safety net ready to catch them when they fall and boost them as they succeed.
Education: B.A. in Psychology from UC Irvine; M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University
Years at Keys: 5
Years in education: 17
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Carlos ZarateMiddle School Spanish Teacher
Our community cares not only to have our students learn the material we teach, but to discover and understand their own personal learning style so that they flourish and achieve their full potential as students inside and outside of the classroom.
Education: B.S. in International Business and Economics from University of Tampa; M.S. in Data Journalism from IE Business School
Years at Keys: 2
Years in education: 7
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Steven ZeiglerTechnology Integrationist
My hope for Keys students is that they use the gifts given to them and the trajectories they are on to help others or bring beautiful ideas or things into the world.
Education: B.A. in History from Cal State – Sacramento; Apple Certified Macintosh Technician and Google Certified Educator
Years at Keys: 7
Years in education: 10
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Katrina ZergaMiddle School Science Teacher & Outdoor Education Coordinator
Outdoor Education is such a vital part of our program at Keys. Students learn just as much about themselves throughout the years on their outdoor trips as they do about the ecology, the recreational activities, and the environments that they spend their time in. Time in the outdoors offers new challenges, opportunities for discovery, and can pique their curiosity. Connecting with the natural world provides unique experiences.
Education: B.S. in Anthropology and Biology from the University of Oregon
Years at Keys: 23
Years in education: 28
Corey Baker 
Claude Ferguson 
Louise Fernquest 
Kathleen Jalalpour 
Greg Lambert 
Nat Lewis 
Stephanie Norton 
Emily O’Keeffe 
Ivana Park 
Jessica Patti 
Jeff Redlawsk 
Jennifer Short 
Jennifer Spaeth 
Monica Sullivan 
Douglas Ward 
Joan Young 
Carlos Zarate 
Steven Zeigler 
Katrina Zerga Staff
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Alyson AbregoAssistant Director of Development for Data Management
My hope for Keys students is that they leave here confident and kind, with a love of learning and a passion to think beyond themselves that stays with them throughout their lives.
Education: B.S. in Marketing from Santa Clara University; M.B.A. in Business Administration from U.C. Berkeley
Years at Keys: 2
Years in education: 5
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Kate AtmoreDirector of Community Engagement and Growth
I am grateful to be part of a school that allows parents, teachers, and students to bravely choose a balanced approach – an approach which values the arts, the whole child and childhood itself – in the face of increasing local and worldwide pressure to achieve “perfection” at all costs.
Education: B.A. & M.A. in Social Psychology from Stanford University
Years at Keys: 9
Years in education: 10
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Francisco BarajasLower School Facilities Manager
I greatly admire the fact that Keys School is a community of respect. Faculty, staff, and students appreciate each other, are helpful, and simply value the positive, happy relationships that exist here.
Education: TBA
Years at Keys: TBA
Years in education: TBA
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Jan BruzzeseDirector of Communication
Over the years, I have seen so many students at Keys “find” themselves, emerge from boxes that previously had defined how they perceived themselves as students or their place within the social fabric of a class. That emergence of the true individual, the authentic person, is an awesome thing to witness. I believe that the role we as a school have to play in fostering the emergence and development of self is possibly one of the most vital things we do.
Education: B.A. in English from Notre Dame de Namur University
Years at Keys: 18
Years in education: 18
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Maria de la PazBusiness Assistant
My hope for Keys students is that they enter high school knowing they can be who they are and be ok with that – not to let others be so much of an influence on them or change who they are for others.
Education: B.A. in Behavioral Science from Notre Dame de Namur University
Years at Keys: 8
Years in education: 8
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Katie DleskAssistant Head of Middle School/Curriculum Coordinator
I had a hunch from a pretty early age that I wanted to be an educator. I had always loved working with kids, but in college, I tried to explore other fields. After doing the crossword all through economics lectures and failing to connect to medieval poetry, I signed up for a course called “Schools, Community and the Teacher.” Being in the course felt like coming home. The content was important, challenging, inspiring, and real. After that, I dove head first into the world of education and never looked back.
Education: B.A. in History from Yale University; Ed.M. in School Leadership from Harvard Graduate School of Education
Years at Keys: 3
Years in education: 9
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Betsy DossHead of Lower School
Keys students are caring and unique individuals. They have the confidence to be themselves and the willingness to accept and encourage others to do the same.
Education: B.A. in Environmental Biology and Psychology; Elementary Education Certification from University of Colorado, Boulder; M.A. in Curriculum and Teaching from Teachers College, Columbia University
Years at Keys: 5
Years in education: 18
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Ella DuncansonDirector of Development and Alumni Coordinator
The relationships that develop between Keys teachers and their students are so unique and really set Keys apart from other schools. When your child attends Keys, you can rest assured that they will not be lost in a sea of students – they will be known, cared for, and respected for who they are as individuals.
Education: B.A. in Law and Society from University of California, Santa Barbara; ABA/AALS from California Western School of Law
Years at Keys: 2
Years in education: 2
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Manny HernandezFacilities Manager
Keys is a really unique place to work. From the moment I stepped onto the campus, I was surprised at how respectful and caring the faculty and the students were.
Education: Certified in Appliance Work, Lead and Asbestos Abatement, Mold Prevention; Graduate of Prospect High School, San Jose
Years at Keys: 1
Years in education: 1
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Douglas IbeyController
I love the unabashed self-confidence that Keys students display.
Education: B.S. in Business Administration with an Accounting Emphasis from University of Montana; B.S. in Computer Engineering with a minor in Electrical Engineering from Montana State University
Years at Keys: 4
Years in education: 4
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Victoria KimballAssistant Director of Admission
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I-Han LiangDirector of Admission
I chose to come to Keys because I believe passionately in its mission and the community of people who comprise it. I’ve seen first hand how it can change lives for the better and I wanted to be a part of a place that cares for and supports children and families during such a pivotal time in their lives. Providing families with a safe and nourishing environment is what Keys does best, and I’m honored to carry on that tradition in any way I can.
Education: B.A. in English from Stanford University
Years at Keys: 3
Years in education: 11
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Michelle MathersSenior Office Administrator, Lower School
At Keys we take care of the whole child. We are a part of our students’ lives in such a deep and meaningful way. Not only do we foster them academically but we take care of them as if they were our own children. We appreciate and understand that every student is unique, and we take pride in knowing all those little details about each student that makes them who they are.
Education: AA in Environmental Studies; B.A. in Environmental Studies with a Minor in Social Science
from San Jose State
Years at Keys: 7
Years in education: 7
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Ryan MatyjasikDirector of Technology
I love the curiosity and willingness of Keys students to be themselves, but also their open acceptance of each other as individuals. My greatest joy is seeing that handful of students who want to learn more about technology even to the point of pushing the bounds of appropriate use. They are truly independent in their learning but ask the appropriate questions to help their learning get over the speed bumps they encounter. They fully own the fact they are the “Computer Geeks” and enjoy that badge. I was that same computer geek at their age, but was not comfortable owning it as they do.
Education: B.S. in Elementary Education from Cleveland State University
Years at Keys: 7
Years in education: 17
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Emily Nadler
Middle School Office Administrator
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Lindsay ObringerAssistant Director of Community Engagement and Growth
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Anisha PatelAssistant Director of Communication
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Sara PoplackAssistant Head of Lower School/Curriculum Coordinator
I had the most amazing teacher in fifth grade who presented us with problems and never gave too much guidance. Whether we were creating our own indoor planetarium or taking field trips to search for trilobite fossils and examine fault lines, the classroom was active, student-led, project-based, and challenging. The takeaways I have from that year as a student are quite in line with current educational theory and best practices. I find myself pulling from both as I work with teachers to promote inquiry and challenge in our curriculum.
Education: B.A. in Psychology: Neuroscience from Colby College; M.A. in Elementary Education from Fairfield University; M.A. in Educational Leadership and Administration from Santa Clara University (in progress)
Years at Keys: 7
Years in education: 11
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Larry PurcellHead of Middle School
Keys is more than just a school at which to learn. Keys is an experience to live. I have worked in schools where curriculum, test scores and standards are the measure of success. At Keys, the measure of success is one of heart and head, of process not product, and of connection to community. Those qualities align with my philosophy as an educator and as a human being – perfectly.
Education: B.A. in Theatre from UC-San Diego; M.Ed. in Instructional Leadership from University of Illinois-Chicago
Years at Keys: 8
Years in education: 17
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Alona ScottHead of School
While visiting a second grade math class, I observed the teacher gather the students to debrief at the end of the lesson. She asked, “How many of you thought this math lesson was in the comfort zone?” A few hands went up. “How many of you thought this math lesson was in the learning zone?” More hands went up. “And how many of you thought this lesson was in the panic zone?” she asked, lowering her voice at ‘panic.’ The few remaining hands went up. For me, I loved that I had found a school where talking about the experience of learning is as much a part of the learning as mathematical calculations.
Education: A.B. Religion Princeton University and Certificate in Teacher Education from Princeton University; M.S. Ed. Reading And Literacy from Bank Street College; M.S. Ed. Private School Leadership from Teachers College Columbia University
Years at Keys: 5
Years in education: 21
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Steven SmithDirector of Finance and Operations
As our students step into the world, my hope is that the lessons of kindness, compassion, concern, and care for others carry onward. My dream is that our students embody goodness and greatness in each moment and each interaction.
Education: B.A. in French/European Studies and Russian/Soviet Studies from American University; M.B.A. in International Management from Monterey Institute of International Studies; M.A. in Consciousness Studies from John F. Kennedy University
Years at Keys: 8
Years in education: 13
Alyson Abrego 
Kate Atmore 
Francisco Barajas 
Jan Bruzzese 
Maria de la Paz 
Katie Dlesk 
Betsy Doss 
Ella Duncanson 
Manny Hernandez 
Douglas Ibey 
Victoria Kimball 
I-Han Liang 
Michelle Mathers 
Ryan Matyjasik 
Lindsay Obringer 
Sara Poplack 
Larry Purcell 
Alona Scott 
Steven Smith 
