Meet The Team

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 of Edhype, in addition to founding Method Schools and SmartFox. He has been working in the marketing and finance areas of K-12 education for two decades, including experience leading teams at charter schools, a school district, and a K-12 industry corporation. Finding new ways to solve age-old K-12 problems is one of his work passions. He holds a B.S. in Business from Utah Valley University and an MBA from Brigham Young University. 

Mark resides in Southern California, where he’s happily married and has two adult children and one teenager. In his spare time he’s often enjoying the California sun on his mountain bike or is out with his black lab Apollo.

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.

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.

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.

Sarah Avanessian is a curriculum writer who has worked as an educator for the past two decades. She also is an instructional coach focused on helping teachers improve their craft.

Charity has over 20 years experience teaching in both brick and mortar classrooms and in online charter schools. She has a B.A. from San Diego State University in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Education and a specialization in Child Development. She also has a Masters in Education from National University. In her free time she loves to spend time with her family, read, and travel. 

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! My name is Maddie Buckley and I am so excited to be joining the Method team! I have previous experience teaching middle school English and History in Los Angeles, CA. I'm originally from the Mission Viejo area. I graduated from California State University, Fullerton with a degree in American Studies and returned to complete my credential there as well. I currently reside in Los Feliz with my partner, Devin, and our two cats, Simon and Nell. In my free time I love to go record shopping, read books, and binge watch movies.

I attended California State Channel Islands and received a BA in English. I moved around the country with my husband, a member of the US Navy, and picked up a masters degree in education from Old Dominion University in Virginia. I am certified to teach language arts in both VA and CA but I am happy to be back in my home state teaching at Method.  I have three daughters and six chickens to keep me busy at home.  If you ask me about my favorite food I might tell you pizza one day and crispy tacos another day, it depends on my mood.

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 everyone! My name is Sally Feng and I am an elementary teacher at Method Schools. I received my BA in Cognitive Sciences and MA in Education at UC Irvine. Throughout my teaching career, I have enjoyed meeting the various academic and language needs of my students through individualized instruction. In my free time, I like to read, watch TV shows, go outdoors and travel (locally and globally). I also love playing with my 4-year-old jindo mix, Yooja, whom I recently adopted from the shelter. I look forward to getting to know all my students this upcoming school year. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

I attained my B.S. degree in Child Development with an emphasis on Elementary School Teaching and a multiple subject teaching credential from National University. I have years of experience working as a teacher as well as a lead academic advisor for Orange County schools. My versatile experience in and outside the classroom has given me leverage on how to build student interventions, encourage academic growth, and promote challenge for high achievers. I enjoy collaborating with parents to build a community between home and school for the success of student learning. I enjoy spending time with my husband, two energetic sons, and my lazy yet adorable dog. My hobbies include traveling, hiking, water sports and having BBQs.

My name is Alycia Higa and I am a Biology teacher at Method. I received my B.A. in Biology from CSUSB and my teaching credential from Brandman University. I started my career as a Biology Teacher in Moreno Valley and am excited to be teaching at Method. My husband and I have two adorable kids and a very excitable dog. I enjoy a variety of activities in life. You are just as likely to find me outside camping and hiking as you are to find me inside reading, playing games and sewing.

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.  My passion for education began with my first teaching job in The Netherlands, where I taught art, media, and photography.  I continued my education career by receiving my teaching credential from San Diego State University.  Soon after began teaching Mathematics in the San Diego Pubic schools and have continued teaching math in different settings (online/traditional) and various levels.  Currently, I live in San Diego with my daughter, wife, and husky/German shepherd mixed, Mica. In my free time, I like to take my dog to the dog beach, read and go surfing when the waves are right. I am excited to begin the school year and am looking forward to meeting all of my students on August 22nd.

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.

I have been in elementary education going on 12 years, first as a teacher in the upper grades, then as a literacy teacher K-5, next as a first grade teacher in the virtual environment, and most recently as a SSM lead with Method Schools. I support students, families, and teachers toward the highest success for the students in our community!

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 8^th year in teaching and working with all my students.

I went to Sonoma State University where I received a Liberal Arts Degree and Cal State Northridge to get my Biology Teaching Credential. During that time I volunteered in Tanzania teaching English and Math, worked for the Adventures in Nature educational summer program at the Natural History Museum, and spent five years as a teacher's aide in a special needs school. My goal is to always make science fun and engaging while catering to students of all different learning styles.

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

I am a 2015 graduate of the University of California, Riverside with a degree in Asian Studies and Anthropology. I have an adoration of traveling, education, and cultures which has lead me to take part in various opportunities such as an assistant language teacher for the JET program (Japan Exchange of Teachers), studying abroad in Ghana and Japan, and multiple volunteering opportunities which includes Maji Mazuri Centre International in Kenya and the Nikkei Youth Network in Japan. I have 5+ years of experience working with K-12 students.

My name is Ms. Nellum and I love my job! I teach English Language Arts in high school and look forward to spending the year with you all. I attended CSUDH and graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I learned about different cultures and people from our past history. Social studies interest me because I get to learn about the globalization of all cultures. A fun fact about me: I love movies!! So ask me if you would like a movie recommendation. I look forward to meeting you at Method!

I received my B.A. in Education from UCI, my M.A. in Education from Pepperdine University, and an M.S. in Educational Leadership from Pepperdine University. I have worked with LAUSD elementary schools for 5 years, 8 years with the Torrance USD for high school, 5 years with online charter schools.

BS Applied Mathematics UCLA 07, 13

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 Franklin

Robert 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!!

I was raised in Temecula and Wildomar, CA. I received my Bachelors' in Criminology and Social Justices at University San Marcos. For the past few years during the summer, I have been to New York City to visit my cousins and Boston. During my downtime, I enjoy reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with my family.

My name is Rachel Teplin and I have been teaching for over 12 years. I have a bachelor of science in child and family development and a master's degree in general education. I have two children ages 14 and 11. My hobbies are crafting, running, and reading. I am very excited to begin this new journey at Method Schools. 

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.

Hi! My name is Isabella Venezia. I'm a Student Success Manager here at Method. When I'm not working, I love getting outside and being active with my dogs as well as discovering unique local spots in my hometown of Oceanside, California. Working with kids has always been a passion of mine, and I am so grateful to be working in such a creative environment here at Method. 

Born and raised in San Diego, California, Gerric was exposed to a lot of wonderful things in the County. Baseball, however, made the biggest impression on Gerric from a young age. He was introduced to the sport by his father and other members of his family who played and worked for Major League Baseball.
As a kid growing up Gerric’s father joined a unique partnership that formed the San Diego School of Baseball. This group was composed of talented and influential baseball figures from the Amateur and Professional arenas serving baseball communities locally, nationally, and internationally while enhancing the development of many players.
Individuals like Hall of Famers Tony Gwynn and Alan Trammell, and Tom House (considered to be a highly influential and respected throwing instructor of MLB, NFL, and amateur talent) amongst others assisted in Gerric’s development.
After college, Gerric participated in Spring Training with the San Diego Padres as a player in their Minor League farm system, followed by stints in various leagues. He then decided to focus on a career in MLB Baseball Operations serving positions as a scout (Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Dodgers), and Co-Director of Baseball Operations of the Arizona Fall League (A league owned and operated by Major League Baseball). He currently serves as the Director of Operations for Tony Gwynn Baseball travel ball organization and has spent over 37 years in youth athletics in roles as a coach, hitting instructor and consultant assisting the development of young men and women.
Following his career in MLB, Gerric obtained his B.A. in Business Administration.
DMSA has provided Gerric a unique opportunity in which he looks forward to sharing his experiences and network to assist in the development of DMSA student athletes.

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.

Courtney is Method's Enrollment Lead and Marketing Specialist. She graduated from ASU with a Bachelor's in Liberal Studies and a minor in Human and Family Development. Go Sun Devils! She enjoys being a part of the Method Schools community and helping to connect students and families to their path for achieving educational success. She has a passion for education, travel, music, and food. When she is not working, you can probably find her hiking or biking in the mountains, or running around the nearest music festival. She grew up in Mt. Baldy, California and considers herself to be a nature enthusiast with a love for endless outdoor activities.

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.