At Method Schools, we’ve crafted a caring online learning environment to meet your student’s K-12 education needs and fuel their future.
Dr. Jessica Spallino and Mark Holley founded Method Schools in 2013 with a clear goal in mind: to build a K-12 public charter school that would end the factory model of education in Southern California, encourage rapid academic growth for every student, and manage sustainable enrollment growth each year.
Since it began, Method Schools has evolved into a leading online charter school that serves thousands of students each year. With custom-built software systems and online courses powering the way, our online learning community is led by certified teachers who have deep experience inspiring students in an independent study environment. Even as our learning network grows, we remain laser-focused on every single student, every single day—because at Method, we believe every student is our story.
At Method Schools, your child will enjoy personalized attention, small classes, self-paced programs, and flexible scheduling—all within a trusted, WASC-accredited online learning community.
Method has been absolutely the perfect solution for us. When we realized our son's school was not going to go back in person for the majority of the year, we had to widen our ideas, and Method has been great. The curriculum has been easy to follow along, and the support has been wonderful. It has been an amazing experience!"
Online school seems way better than actually having to go in, and the people that we have worked with seem pretty awesome so far."
The teachers, counselors and staff are amazing. They are extremely dedicated, and they provide the best education to my son. I am very thankful to all of them."
Method provides every student an opportunity to take required classes and open up their schedule during the school year to take more electives."
When Jessica first became an independent study teacher in 1999, she was inspired by the modality’s ability to meet students on an individualized level. Enhancing the modality and its reach to students in need of an education less traditional has since become the mission of her career. As CEO and Co-Founder of Method Schools, she has developed a passion for change management and supporting others through change. She holds deep origins from a Southern California working class family of seven upbringing. Her experience includes working for small and large charter schools and in K-12 curriculum sales. She is also one of the founders of SmartFox, a fully-integrated SIS, LMS, and online K-12 curriculum platform.
Throughout her career in the independent space, Jessica has encountered change, and resistance to change and has made breaking down barriers to change a primary focus in her career. She is currently working on her second book on developing an accountable independent study program within a change resistance industry. Jessica holds a BA degree from Cal State Northridge, both her single and multiple subject teaching credentials, a Masters Degree in Educational Administration from Cal State San Marcos, and a PhD in Curriculum from New Mexico State University.
Mark is the co-founder and Chief Business Officer (CBO) of Method Schools and SmartFox K-12. He’s been working in the marketing and finance areas of K-12 education for two decades, after starting his career in the field as a janitor and forklift operator. As Method’s CBO, he divides his time between finance, marketing, and SmartFox development, with a particular interest in systems enhancement and customer experience improvement.
Mark holds a B.S. in Business from Utah Valley University and an MBA from Brigham Young University. In his spare time he’s often found somewhere on his mountain bike.
Stefanie is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Method Schools and SmartFox K-12. She has worked in public accounting, the private sector and most recently as the CFO of a public school district in Utah. She holds a Masters in Accounting from the University of Utah and is a Certified Public Accountant.
New to the Method/SmartFox team in the summer of 2021, Stefanie is excited to work at Method Schools and SmartFox K-12 in the dynamic arena of on-line K-12 education. Trips to the Caribbean chasing salt water fish on a fly, are at the top of her non-work priorities.
I am a veteran teacher with several years of experience in both traditional and charter schools. I have experience working with students at all grade levels and finds the greatest satisfaction from helping struggling students succeed. I studied English Literature at UCSD before pursuing my teaching credential and I have a Masters Degree in Teaching and Education.
Originally from Escondido, I moved just up the road to Temecula in 2012. A love for languages inspired me to earn my Bachelor’s in Linguistics from UC San Diego, and I later earned a Master’s in Business Administration with a specialization in Marketing from National University. When I’m not working, I enjoy reading, golfing, and playing outside with my son and our dog, Leroy. I love traveling somewhere new with my son every year, and often choose our next adventure by throwing a dart at a map!
HR Department Email: hr@methodschools.org
Sarah is the Director of Curriculum for Method Schools. A former high school English teacher, professional development coach, trainer and school administrator, Sarah has over two decades of experience in education. With the goal of evolving the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to public education, Sarah developed the practice of Standards Based Instruction and Assessment as an equitable approach to teaching and grading that allows students to approach learning and mastery at the rate that works for them. Sarah believes the online independent study space is the perfect place for students who don’t benefit from the traditional constraints of brick and mortar institutions to find success.
Sarah has a BA in English from UC Santa Barbara and earned her MS in Educational Counseling from the University of LaVerne. Credentialed in secondary English instruction, Pupil Personnel Services, and Educational Administration, Sarah is currently working on her PhD in Psychology. Her professional interests are in the areas of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the need for wellness and social emotional practices for both students in schools and employees in organizations.
Amy has been working in education for over many years and spent 7 years working for the Department of Defense Education Activities in Sasebo, Japan. She loves working with students and creating curriculum and lessons that are engaging while challenging students to be their very best selves. She has worked and lived overseas for 21 years returning stateside in 2017 and began working at Method Schools.
Amy holds a B.S in Marketing and Business Administration and returned to school for a Credential in Education and teaching after discovering her love for teaching while raising 3 children. She is well known among her students and friends for her love of all things food. If she is not cooking you can find her reading or looking for her next travel adventure.
Tracy Washington, raised in Green Bay, WI, moved to AZ, where she earned her Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from ASU before moving to California with her three children. She is a part of Method's high school counseling team, teaches 11th grade English and is an anchor for Smartfox TV. Ms. Washington's credentialed in Arizona and California; English, ESL, Critical reading specialist, Dance, PE/Health. She coached cheer & dance for over 15 years and is most proud of starting the dance program for Dysart Unified School District's Fine Arts Academy in Arizona.
"You will be the same person you are today, even 5 or 10 years from now; what changes you are the people you meet, the places you go, and the books you read."
I believe all students should receive a rigorous but flexible education that provides and creates valuable opportunities, impacting them during their primary education and well after graduation. I am thrilled to put into use, daily, the knowledge and expertise that I acquired from earning my Bachelor of Science in business management and master’s in special education. I have been blessed for the past 5 years, to invest my educational training in K-12th education, including all realms of Special Education, Educational Purchasing, and Athletics. For me, playing collegiate baseball was the platform that unlocked the life-changing opportunity of receiving an education. All of these experiences allowed me to find my passion for serving and empowering youth in the field of education.
My name is Thaddeus Brown. I am excited to support my students this academic year as a High School Teacher for Methods Schools. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from the University of California, Santa Barbara. During my time at UCSB is where I met my wife, and we have been married for five years. I received my single subject teaching credential in mathematics from Azusa Pacific University. I have over seven years of experience in education from my time spent as a tutor, substitute teacher, and full-time high school math teacher. My wife and I have an adventurous one-year-old son who loves to laugh all day. I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking new recipes, and also writing, recording, and playing music.
Hi there! I'm Ms. Eikmeier. I graduated from Cal State University San Marcos with my B.A., and University of Redlands with my M.A. in Teaching and Education. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy cooking, working out, and mountain biking. I love to travel and explore, so I'm often found outdoors on the weekends.
My name is Mr. Faber and I am originally from Calabasas. I learned in college that I had a passion for motivating students to reach their goals. My first job serving students was through YMCA's afterschool program in Riverside's Eastside neighborhood. This was my window into teaching and I realized I wanted my career to be centered in education. After obtaining a Masters degree in history from San Diego State, I eagerly served as a Long Term substitute for San Diego public schools. I earned my teaching credential through Cal State Fullerton and have been teaching with Method ever since!
Marina is Method’s Enrollment Specialist. She enjoys being able to help students and families on their journey to achieving academic success. As a Navy wife of 23 years and mother of three she has enjoyed traveling around the U.S. and experiencing different cultures. She grew up in Long Beach & Carson, California. Marina has a passion for knowledge, baking, reading and music. On her free time you will find her whipping up some gourmet desserts and spending time with family & friends, all while listening to K-Pop.
Hello! My name is Lisa Honig, and I am a Math Teacher at Method School. I grew and attended university in The Netherlands, earning a bachelor’s degree in Education.
Dalton is a Teacher at Method Schools. In his last 5 years with Method, he has developed the student athletics program and has facilitated growth for student athletes in academic achievement and athletic performance. Dalton was a three-sport athlete and graduate of Murrieta Valley High School. He then went on to receive a division I football scholarship to attend California State University, Sacramento. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a master’s degree in Education/ Educational Leadership. In his free time, he enjoys spending family time with his wife Danielle and his two boys Dalton and Tobias. Dalton demonstrates a profound love of education and athletics and is invested in guiding students, parents and families to create as many opportunities for success for each individual student athlete at Method Schools.
My name is Ashley Madrigal and I am an Elementary Teacher. When I was younger, I did not have the dream of being a teacher. I wanted to be a veterinarian. I actually disliked school when I was little. As I grew older and went to college, I found a love for school that I never knew I had. Teaching others always brought a smile to my face. Seeing the glow when all the dots are connected warms my heart. I have found what I truly love to do is bring that glow to every student and help them find a love of learning!
Hello! My name is Shireen Malek and I am an Elementary Teacher at Method Schools. I grew up and currently live in Arcadia. I attended Cal Poly Pomona to earn my Bachelor’s Degree and later attended USC to earn my Masters Degree and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential with an authorization in Math. In my free time, I love traveling, baking, and spending time with friends and family. I am excited to start my 8th year in teaching and working with all my students.
Hi! My name is Alejandro (or Alex) and I am one of the SSMs and data analyst here at Method. This will be my second year as a SSM supporting both middle school and creating new technologies to better serve students and teachers.
Before joining Method, I was a computer technician, full time mathematics teacher and was doing my masters in mathematics as well.
I received my B.S. in Computer Engineering with a minor in mathematics from Cal State University San Bernardino. My hobbies include learning new technologies, watching anime and spending time with family.
Hello! My name is Marcella Monney, and I'm a K-12 Special Education teacher here at Method. I received my BA in History, then a Masters degree in Special Education, in NYC. I've lived most my life abroad in Costa Rica, then moved to NYC to pursue my education. I taught at some of the toughest inner city schools in NYC which really shaped my motivation to keep working with students who have the highest needs. I moved back to California because my family is here and so far I love it! I live with my son in Orange County and love the sunny weather. In my spare time, I like to explore different cities, towns, art festivals, books, historical sites, and beaches. I love what Method has to offer and looking forward to the new school year!
Tamara Moody was born in the foothills of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, spending her childhood outdoors before moving to California. She received her B.S. in Landscape Architecture from U.C. Davis and later moved to San Diego to raise a family. After devoting much time to volunteering and teaching art to children, Tamara returned to college. She obtained her multiple-subject teaching credential from C.S.U. San Marcos when she realized that teaching brought her more joy. Supporting younger students to experience success in school, building confidence, and building relationships is what she enjoys most about teaching.
“One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” - Malala Yousafzai
My name is Steven Reno and I am happy to be teaching History at Method. I enjoy working with students to help inspire, and build confidence for a better future.
I am a graduate from Cal State San Marcos, as well as National University.
Sports, music, and outdoor activities are my thing. I enjoy fishing, surfing, mountain biking, and camping. I play the guitar, banjo and bagpipes! Hurling is my favorite sport as well as soccer, baseball, nascar, and ice hockey. I also enjoy participating in living history events, and civil war reenactments where I spend some weekends reenacting with the 69th Irish Brigade.
My current focus is helping raise my daughter June who is just over 1 year old. She is a lot of fun and helps keep me on my toes.
“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn” - Benjamin FranklinRobert Robinson (Coach Rob) was born in Kansas City, Missouri and raised in Leavenworth, Kansas. He moved to California to finish high school, attending Cabrillo High in Lompoc, CA. After graduating Cabrillo High (91), he played basketball for three schools: Allen Hancock Community College, Stephen F. Austin State University and concluding his college hoops career at UC-Riverside in 1996. While at UC Riverside, he also ran track - qualifying for the NCAA national championship finals in the high jump in '96.
He received his Bachelor's degree in Sociology from UC Riverside in 97’ and his master’s degree in Instruction and Curriculum from Emporia State University in Kansas in 2005. He has been married to his wife Krysten since 1997 and they have three sons, KJ 22, Meda 22, and Justus 20.
Coach Rob has 22 years of teaching and coaching experience at the high school and college level. Along with his duties at Method Schools, he is currently the assistant men's basketball coach at East LA Community College.
I am a teacher, yogi, runner, hiker, walker, mom, and nature enthusiast. I am a credentialed Spanish teacher and have been teaching kids to love learning not only Spanish but to love learning by nature for over a decade. Originally from Mexico City, I hold a BA in Spanish Language and Culture from the Universidad de Granada in Spain and an MA in Spanish Philology from CSU Northridge. After working as a teacher and translation project manager, I traveled globally, volunteering and joined the Peace Corps, working on the Teaching English for Livelihoods program, an initiative that supported the Secretary of Education’s efforts to train Colombian English teachers and create more opportunities for future Colombian graduates. I completed the College Board AP Spanish Teacher Certification and have been teaching Middle School and High School levels. I am excited to teach and support the next generation of young minds here at Methods Schools. I believe each student embodies a unique and wonderful spirit. I aspire to see my students grow into adults who are independent, responsible, and compassionate innovators. Also I LOVE TACOS! Al pastor tacos are the best!!
Hello, my name is Awara, and I was born and raised in upstate New York. I moved out to California and received my B.A from Cal State San Marcos and my Teaching Credential from San Diego State University. I have been teaching Elementary School for over 10 years in Southern California. In my free time I love to golf, hike, garden, and make home projects. I have 2 dogs and 1 cat. My husband and I love to watch football with my favorite team being the Green Bay Packers. I am excited in getting to know my students this year. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am happy to help.
As the Community Development and Event Specialist, Jen’s dedicated to creating memorable moments for our Method family. Whether writing weekly newsletters, planning for field trips, organizing staff activities, or designing the graduation ceremonies, she’s behind the scenes making it happen! Her favorite aspect of serving at Method includes collaborating with staff and communicating with parents and students on a personal level.
Married for over twenty five years and a mom to three young adults, Jen and her family have lived in the Temecula Valley for 17+ years. As a recovered cancer warrior determined to live life joyfully, she loves hitting the beach, line-dancing, serving in the local community and taking a variety of work-out classes. Jen’s always up for conversation and a rich cup of Nespresso.
Please don’t hesitate to contact Jen if you have a creative idea for an activity or event.
Hi! My name is Alyson (or Aly) and I am one the SSMs here at Method. This will be my second year as a SSM supporting both middle school and elementary school.
Before joining Method, I spent 3 years in a classroom as a teacher’s assistant. And before that, I spent about 12 years at a popular theme park in Southern California.
I received my B.A. in Communications with an emphasis in Entertainment from Cal. State Fullerton. My hobbies include going on adventures with my little family, watching musicals, dancing, and sleeping.
Hello everyone. My name is Chris Yeates, and I am the Middle School Lead and Physical Science Teacher for the 2021-2022 school year. I received my B.A. from Cal State Fullerton, my M.A. and teaching credentials (General Science and Geosciences) from the University of Redlands, and my clear credential through Orange Unified School District. If I am not teaching, I am playing my drums, messing around on motorized vehicles (including sailboats), and going on adventures with my awesome family. Oh, and eating. Food is awesome.
In online education, as with any educational model, teacher support, rigorous curriculum, student focused methodologies, teacher development and a strong culture are incredibly vital to student success. Find out what we've learned after successfully serving more than 35,000 California online students.
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