Summer enrichment institute 2024
Registration opens on Friday, March 29 at 12 noon.

Elementary Campus = LEE

SEI Session 1
June 17 - 28 (No Class on June 19)
SEI Session 2
July 1 - 12 (No Class on July 4 and July 5)

2024 Class Offerings are now posted below!!

2024 Elementary SEI Flyers

2023 High School Offerings

Please note that the Multi-Class discount applies to SEI classes only. It does NOT apply to Summer Sports Camps run by High School Coaches or Camps in the Arts run by High School Directors or the High School Health Graduation class.

Elementary Class Descriptions – SEI 2024

Click on the arrow to read class descriptions
Please note that each Jumpstart Class is the same in Session 1 and Session 2.
All Jumpstart Classes are aligned with Common Core State Standards.

Acting is a great way for students to learn about language, storytelling, and character, all while building confidence and stage presence (including elements such as diction, projection, and more!) Students will have the opportunity to use their imagination and harness their creativity in new and exciting ways, through improv, theater games, in-class work and monologues (with Musical Theater/Singers welcome to perform for the class as well). The possibilities are limitless – as the class offers something for every level performer.

ASL is a fun, interactive, hands-on second language! Learning ASL has many cognitive benefits such as higher abstract and creative thinking, better problem-solving, better listening skills and greater academic achievement. Students will present what they have learned at the end of the session.

Spanish students will be exposed to a Spanish language program that engages children to learn through creative activities. Instructional focus is on acquisition of vocabulary and practical conversation through multiple learning strategies to stimulate every learning style. A fun filled approach allows children to learn a new language and with a high level of retention. 

Students will be taught about other people and their cultures to instill compassion and understanding in young learners. Students will be immersed into a captivating journey through diverse traditions, celebrations/holidays and arts around the globe. This class will inspire a love for multicultural learning.

Students will learn about the history of each specific artist and their specific art piece. Students will explore various textures, colors while enhancing fine motor skills. We will create an art piece relating to each master artist.

In this class, students will learn the lyrics to a handful of songs as well as choreography to go with each song. Students will also get the chance to freestyle dance and play team building games with their peers. At the end of the session, students will perform the songs and accompanied choreography they have learned. This class allows students to practice performance, while being creative and physically active.

We will teach your child the skills they need for both on and off the court, to be a better student athlete. Students will learn the fundamentals of passing, shooting, dribbling and rebounding. Athletes learn new basketball skills along with vital life lessons such as respect, teamwork and responsibility.

This course is perfect for the beginner ukulele player that is looking to start playing fun songs and wants to have fun playing! Fret board knowledge, string knowledge and note positions will be covered.

*Must bring a ukulele to class. Ukuleles can be bought for approximately $20 on Amazon.

To obtain knowledge about breakdancing while also developing their own personality and establish confidence. Students will understand the value of discipline and hard work while having fun and dancing with others.

Build your own portfolio with masterpieces you create each day. Explore a variety of art materials and styles. Students will build confidence and creative thinking by engaging their imagination.

In this class, students can expect to learn how to write different comic strips that will explore their creative side. Students will learn the importance of character choice, word choice, and the purpose in which they write. In addition, students will come to understand how comics began while learning different events in history and science in which they have been used. Students will look at different stylistic choices that famous comic book/strip authors use to pull in their readers. This will help students in writing, reading, speaking, and communicating.

Students will learn to read, make and follow a simple recipe for a snack, salad or other food item in class that they can duplicate at home for their after school cravings or as a simple meal to impress their family.

In this class, students will develop foundational writing and public speaking skills by creating narrative stories. Students will be taught how to add details to stories through graphic organizers and creative writing assignments. Students will work independently as well as collaboratively to create original stories that correlate with common core.

This beginning jazz class will introduce your child to the basics of dance. Our program will teach your child proper stretching techniques, basic jazz movements, and musicality. Your child will develop strength, coordination, and confidence. Our goal is to help your child gain a solid understanding of dance principles in a fun and creative way.

In this class will explore several techniques of printmaking, including block printing, monoprinting, collagraph printing, stamping, and faux screen printing. Each student will print on a matte board as well as a T-shirt. Each printing technique will become a part of the students’ t-shirt design.

 

There is an unseen world that only science can see and it is time for YOU to see it, too! Exploring the Invisible Universe will go beyond what the eyes can see. We’ll be detectives and reveal amazing patterns in our fingerprints, find hidden ecosystems on the bottom of our shoes, use microscopes to see the tiniest details in an insect’s wings, and even make things we can see disappear! Ready to see and explore the invisible?

Students will learn the value of exercise and movement for a future lifestyle, and learn to find their own favorite type of exercise. Basic fitness movements like squats, situps, etc. will be taught, and games will be played to have fun, friendly competition and to learn teamwork.

An age-appropriate fitness class that gets kids moving, builds balance and coordination skills, and instills the importance of an active and healthy lifestyle. During class kids will learn fitness through games, obstacle courses, as well as speed, agility, and quickness drills. Each week the class will follow a basic format while the activities change. Our emphasis is teaching kids that fitness is fun!

Students will experience fun outdoor activities. These activities will help the students learn the basics of fitness and it will enhance the basic skills they already have. The students should expect a day filled with fun sports, competition, and fitness.

 Bonjour! Have fun learning the basics of French language in a dynamic and interactive environment!  In this class students will be introduced to foundational French vocabulary and phrases. Students will practice conversation with their classmates and learn about French culture and arts.  They will also learn language basics such as introductions, colors, animals, and daily activities. Instruction will include movies, videos, games and fun activities that will immerse you in all things French.

 From slime-making with new recipes, to growing plants and exploring building strategies, the focus of this class will be hands-on FUN. The students’ interests will shape what we decide to dig into and explore, allowing your child to discover innovative approaches to solving problems while being creative and having fun. We’ll engage in projects that introduce and reinforce STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) concepts through creative materials, allowing students to learn through inquiry, exploration and play.

Students will learn various styles and techniques used by famous artists through hands-on projects. They will also learn how some of these styles adapted through history and are used in today’s time. 

This Beginning/Intermediate Gymnastic class will introduce your child to the exciting sport of gymnastics! Our program will teach your child stretching, locomotor skills, and basic gymnastics skills on the vault, bars, balance beam, and floor. Your child will improve coordination, strength, and developmental skills in a fun and safe environment. Gymnasts will be challenged with skill progressions as they advance in their abilities. 



In this class, students will acquire basic vocabulary and grammatical structures that will allow them to engage in basic and daily conversations in Spanish. We will focus on high frequency vocabulary, which supports fluency. Students will acquire the language through personalized and engaging activities, such as student-centered conversation, songs, acting, compelling stories, and games. Essential vocabulary and grammar will be presented slowly, in context, and with visual, auditory and kinesthetic supports to make it comprehensible and accessible to all students.

What do you get when you combine curiosity, creativity, and an imagination? You have the perfect ingredients for solving the STEM challenges in our class.  Come participate in a variety of STEAM activities that range from coding, designing, constructing, and testing various structures, and programming Ozobots.  Get ready to learn about the Engineering Design Process, plus Science experiments: here we come!  Let’s make slime and learn how crystals are formed.   Come join us for a STEAM-tastic class!



This class will focus on bully prevention and self-defense, while helping students gain confidence in their physical abilities using Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. This is a grappling style of martial art where children will learn to use takedowns and positional control to protect themselves. Our goals are to learn safety techniques, get/stay in shape, build coordination and strength, gain better focus and have fun! Classes will be divided into conditioning/general warm up, skill and techniques specific movement drills, technical instruction and practice, and conceptual mat chats. See you on the mats!

 

Children will be exposed to the Soundabet phonics program and Houghton Mifflin Alpha-friends through writing activities, music and movement, and hands-on activities. This course gives your child a head start in reading, which can lead to kindergarten success. It also builds confidence in your child, which will ease some first day of kindergarten jitters.

Children will also engage in developmentally appropriate activities that will promote mathematical higher thinking skills.  Your child will take part in fun and enjoyable large movement games and art activities that address kindergarten math goals. This course gives your child a jump-start with mathematical skills that include the following: counting, number recognition, patterning, adding, subtracting and more!

Students will encounter daily activities that will prepare them for first grade success.  Students will participate in C.G.I. math problems with varying number sets and participate in Writer’s Workshop where they will learn to write, revise, edit and publish their own stories.

Please note that each Jumpstart Class is the same in Session 1 and Session 2.

Students will encounter daily activities that will prepare them for second grade success. They will use manipulatives to solve and discuss CGI math story problems, participate in guided reading groups, participate in Writers Workshop with an emphasis on adding details, editing and revising with a published story at the end of each week. First grade sight words, language conventions and math fast facts will be reviewed.

Please note that each Jumpstart Class is the same in Session 1 and Session 2.

Students will be exposed to fundamental third grade concepts and skills so they are prepared for and continue their forward momentum towards 3rd grade success. The course will include lessons in reading, fast facts, C.G.I. and multiple writing activities that focus on paragraph development and descriptive language.

Please note that each Jumpstart Class is the same in Session 1 and Session 2.

Students will participate in various writing activities with an emphasis on sentence structure, grammar, and punctuation. Students will also be exposed to fundamental fourth grade math concepts in Number Sense, Algebra, and Measurement & Geometry to prepare them for a smooth transition to fourth grade.

Please note that each Jumpstart Class is the same in Session 1 and Session 2.

Students will encounter activities in writing and math that will prepare them for fifth grade success. They will participate in various writing activities with an emphasis on sentence structure, grammar, and punctuation. Students will be exposed to fundamental fifth grade math concepts in Number Sense, Algebra, and Measurement & Geometry to prepare them for a smooth transition to fifth grade.

Please note that each Jumpstart Class is the same in Session 1 and Session 2.

Kids of all ages learn self-discipline and respect in this physical fitness class. Basic Karate techniques will improve student strength, flexibility, endurance and coordination.

Leadership instills confidence and helps children solve problems creatively, work in a team and work collaboratively with others while also developing crucial social-emotional learning. Social Emotional Learning is an essential piece of the puzzle to help students learn the soft skills they need to be productive, successful adults. Our curriculum pairs specific learning pillars with games, team-building, exercises, activities, self-assessments, and a custom reflection workbook.



This class will focus on the dance moves of today’s popular line dances (for example cupid shuffle, etc. and also dance moves in the hip hop, latin, and swing genres. Students will learn choreography and the basics of stage performance while growing in their confidence, social skills, physical activity and teamwork.

This class is perfect for kids who love to sing, dance, and act and want to get better at it! We will start each day with fun warm-up games and team-building exercises, and then move on to our one-of-a-kind curriculum that includes self-esteem activities with Performing Arts Education! This class is for students at all talent and experience levels. We have tailored our classes to prioritize a safe and FUN environment. Please send your student with water and light weight clothing that they can move in. Your future star will have an amazing experience in this musical theater class!

“One, Two, Three, Sing” is for the budding beginner singer to explore their creative voice while learning to sing with others. Expect to learn singing basics, play music games, sing along to popular hits, and of course, have fun! The next step in your musical journey begins this Fall!
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Students will be taught the rules of soccer along with the basics and fundamentals. This will include techniques like dribbling, footwork, passing, and shooting through drills. There will be an emphasis on teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness. This course will also be an educational and fun environment while developing soccer skills.

The priorities of this class are nurturing a love for the game, skill development, and creating a supportive, fun environment. Join the class for an immersive learning experience where students acquire soccer techniques and build character through discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship under the guidance of highly experienced, qualified coach. 

Following an age-appropriate curriculum, every player will be provided with a fun yet challenging environment facilitating the development of soccer skills and techniques.



Students blend art and science as they investigate the physics and technology behind the COLOR in our world. We will explore the science of color, covering topics such as the light wave behavior, the neuroscience of vision, and artistic color theory. This interdisciplinary class is sure to leave students seeing their world in a whole new LIGHT!

 

Develop a love for literature and reading for your child! Story Circles will focus on one classic picture book story per day. The book will be read and discussed while learning about phonics, vocabulary, theme, setting, mood and interpreting illustrations. Additional daily activities will include music, games, and arts and crafts related to the story. Children will also build community and learn communication skills during circle times.

Young artists will rub elbows with famous artists such as Warhol, Pollack, Basquiat and more. The students will explore mixed mediums while engaging in their creativity and imagination.

Chef Ollie will teach children about California food history, agriculture, gardening, cooking and safe food preparation. Children will make snacks and small dishes using fresh produce from local farmers markets and from garden harvests. All classes are peanut-free, however some ingredients may have been processed in the same facility that processes nuts. Chef Ollie is happy to make any reasonable accommodations and modifications to ensure your child has an inclusive and fun experience.  *$50 Material Fee is added at checkout.

Students in this upbeat class will learn vocal technique, basic music theory, as well as how to perform a song. Using both classic and contemporary songs as a guide, students will enjoy learning how to portray character and emotion, giving each song meaning. We will incorporate free-form dance to loosen up the body and strengthen the diaphragm. This is the perfect class for the child that loves to sing.



Students will learn the basic skills needed to participate in the sport of volleyball. The focus will be technique when passing (bumping), setting, serving, and hitting (spiking)! These skills will be applied while participating in drills and lead-up games.



Do you love science? Are you torn between seeing things explode, discovering amazing bizarre animals, or understanding how the universe works? Would you like to explore The Whole Wild World of Science all in one class? Biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy and Earth science are all wrapped up into one class where you’ll make stethoscopes, create a pair of lungs that breathe, experiment with magnets and motors, and mix up some explosive fun. It’s time to explore it all in the Whole Wild World of Science!

Students will learn concepts of science that are present in their everyday lives. This course is designed to apply knowledge of these scientific theories to the world around them. Students will conduct hands-on experiments to illustrate the wonderful world of science!

Elementary Teacher Bios – SEI 2024

Irene has taught Art in grades K-8th; 4 years in AZ as well as 30 years in CA. She recently retired after 30 years teaching 4th and 6th grades in ABC Unified School District in Cerritos, CA. During these years she was the Art Director for the program Meet the Masters. She loves working with elementary students. Most importantly, she believes that Art instruction plays a vital role in that it provides students with valuable skills and experiences that extend and enrich their lives both academically and personally. There is an Artist in All of Us!

Lesli Ayers is happy to be back for her 12th year teaching SEI for LAEF! She has taught elementary education for the past 36 years between Los Alamitos Unified, Long Beach Unified and the city of La Cresenta. She is a proud graduate of Long Beach State and a proud parent of a Los Alamitos High School Graduate. Lesli looks forward to helping students reach their full academic potential through academics and the arts.

Stefana received her Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies and her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from CSULB. She has been working for Los Alamitos Unified since 2013 and was an intervention teacher at Hopkinson until the summer of 2015 when she was hired on at McGaugh Elementary to teach 4th grade and then last year she found her home in teaching Kindergarten at McGaugh. She is extremely excited to teach for LAEF again this summer!

Melisa has a passion for teaching and motivating young people to discover their own passions, while striving to accomplish their goals.  This fall will be her 15th year of teaching.  As a Titan alum, she has a Bachelor of Science degree in Child and Adolescent Development and a Multiple Subject Teaching credential from California State University, Fullerton.  Melisa has worked with a diverse group of students during her years of teaching, ranging from grades TK through 12th grade.  She also has numerous years of experience teaching STEM with the Tiger Woods Foundation, through their enrichment and afterschool programs.  Melisa is currently the STEM teacher at Rossmoor Elementary. As an educator, Melisa is driven by one philosophy; Inspire young people to believe in themselves and empower them to create positive change in the world. Melisa and LAEF are both excited to have her on board for her third summer teaching during SEI!

Leslie is an experienced basketball coach and player who loves the game dearly. He enjoys all aspects of the game including: playing, watching, teaching, and coaching. He has been playing since age 5 and continues to play in multiple competitive men’s leagues to this day. He has coached all ages ranging from Kindergarten (age 5) up until high school kids. While attending UC Riverside, he even assisted the women’s team as he participated as a practice player. Currently Leslie coaches skills academies and an AAU middle school girls basketball team. Even though he is always playing he makes sure to watch and follow the majority of all NBA games. His favorite team is the LA Lakers. Leslie is excited to teach for LAEF during his third SEI.

Brianne is a creative elementary art teacher who has a strong passion for introducing children to the interactive world of art. Brianne is an imaginative teacher. She is professional and highly trained in a wide array of artistic mediums. Brianne makes instant connections with her students through creative art activities.

Ollie graduated from UC Berkeley with a B.A. in Comparative Literature, English, Italian and Spanish. Ollie is a fully credentialed and highly qualified classroom teacher. She earned her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Cal State Long Beach, and an Ed Specialist Credential from the Orange County Department of Education with English Language Learner and Autism Authorization. Ollie earned her director’s credential from UCLA and has run an enrichment program and preschool as both a non-profit and a small business. She has 16 years of teaching experience and integrates inquiry-based and hands-on learning into her cooking classes. She cooked in Spain and Rome while completing her undergraduate work; and traveled extensively throughout Italy, Costa Rica, Mexico, Hawaii and Europe. Ollie brings her traveling experiences to the kitchen with simple, rustic dishes using local and sustainable ingredients. While living in Berkeley, Ollie was inspired by Alice Waters’ cooking, edible garden, and farm-to-school programs. She currently works as a private chef and teaches organic cooking and biodynamic gardening classes. Her family’s roots are from Ischia, a small island off of Naples, which is reflected in her Italo-California fusion cooking and passion for gardening. In her spare time she enjoys cooking with her family, creating cheese plates, caring for a baby California desert tortoise and Zucca the puppy (Italian for squash). Ollie is excited about teaching for LAEF again this summer!



Ellie is a passionate dancer who enjoys sharing the art of dance and music with children. She has been highly trained in various styles of dance since the age of two. Ellie is extremely creative and works well with children of all ages and abilities. Ellie is a homegrown/recent graduate of Los Alamitos High School in 2023. She is currently attending Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Ellie is excited to teach during her first Summer Enrichment Institute!

Melodie graduated from Hope International University in Fullerton with a B.A. in Human Development and has taught in several private elementary schools throughout southern California for over twenty years. Developing her own curriculum and spear-heading an innovative after school program on the east coast, she moved back to California to pursue her love of hands-on teaching in the classroom.  She is currently a projects coordinator at Oakwood Academy in Long Beach and regularly teaches for LAEF after-school and during the summer.



Carrie is in her 9th year as an elementary school teacher at McGaugh Elementary School in Seal Beach. This is her 22nd year as a teacher. In her career she has taught from 1st grade to 4th grade but has been teaching 3rd grade for the last 7 years. She grew up in Long beach and went to schools in Long beach. She then spent the next 2 years at Long Beach City College and transferred to Oregon State University where she graduated as a Broadcast Journalism Major. She is married now with 3 boys who are 18, 16 and 12. They are a water polo family and that is what she does most weekends. Her oldest will be attending Long Beach State in the Fall to play water polo and they are so excited to cheer him on! She loves being around kids, watching sports and being with her GoldenDoodle, Sailor.

Founded in 2017 by two soccer coaching experts driven by a shared vision for developing inclusive youth programs, First Touch Soccer is committed to delivering world-class soccer initiatives. As the foremost provider of soccer programs for the American Youth Soccer Association (AYSO) in Southern California, First Touch Soccer is a local company deeply rooted in the communities.

Our leadership team has over 80 years of combined experience in this space, and we’ve become a leader in the market. Our coaching staff are experienced, reliable, and fully vetted. They are trained to work with players of all ages and abilities.

We have three core principles by which we run our sessions: enthusiasm, knowledge, and fun.

Our classes are engaging. They offer a rewarding experience for students, providing them with physical exercise, skill development, social interaction, and personal growth outside the classroom.

We are very excited to be a part of the LAEF program!

Tanya Gelder and Carolyn Simon run Fitness For All and are certified personal trainers. They have worked at local gyms as personal and group fitness trainers for adults and children.

Free to Be Me Performance Academy provides quality performance training in a positive, enthusiastic, nurturing, and embracing environment. Through their classes students learn essential life skills such as teamwork, respect, responsibility, care and compassion. They emphasize the importance of character both on and off the stage and work to inspire each student to BE a positive light out in the community. Most importantly they encourage FUN!



Born and raised in Torrance, CA, Sabrina Fuster-Maldonado is a genre-defying singer, songwriter, pop pianist, and voice-over actress. Years of training and honing in on her diverse skills have led her to some amazing experiences including acting in the feature film “Elena Undone” and writing an original song for the film’s soundtrack (2010), writing songs for other artists (on-going), performing on Jimmy Kimmel Live with Youngblood Hawke & Thirty Seconds to Mars, recording vocals for the Thirty Seconds to Mars album, “LOVE LUST FAITH + DREAMS,” co-writing with seasoned industry songwriters Billy Steinberg and Ken Hirsch, appearing in a Gap holiday commercial singing background vocals for Janelle Monáe, and singing on The Late Late Show with James Corden. In addition to on-camera acting, singing, performing, and songwriting, Sabrina’s voice can be heard on commercial voice-over campaigns for brands such as Universal Studios, Kaiser Permanente, Pizza Hut, SoCal Gas, The Container Store, Johnnie Walker & T-Mobile. Sabrina is also a performing artist, with released songs under her own moniker, “Sabrina Carmen.” Much of her original catalog of music is signed with top sync licensing companies like Glow Music Group and North Star Media. With all of her firsthand experience, Sabrina is thrilled to be sharing what she loves most with her students. She holds her own teachers and mentors in the highest regard and is passionate about helping others cultivate their creative voice. Sabrina teaches all levels of singing, beginner to intermediate pop piano, songwriting, and voice-over acting. 

Mrs. Val is a creative from Orange, CA. She enjoys many types of art including drawing, painting, graphic design, ceramics, mixed media, and printmaking. When she is not creating, she enjoys gardening with her cat and dog, or roller skating with her friends. She also spent one winter as a kid’s ski instructor in Utah, and loved it. Val is looking forward to teaching an exploration into printmaking!

Natali is a Los Alamitos USD alumna and current employee at Rossmoor Elementary. Natali graduated from CSULB with a B.A. in Child Development and Family Studies and is currently enrolled at the university to earn her teaching credential. As a native Spanish speaker, Natali is eager to serve Los Al families by teaching LAEF Spanish classes.  



Jessica Jakubowski is a graduate from San Diego State University where she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. She currently works at McGaugh Elementary School in Seal Beach where she teaches as a Reading Intervention teacher. Growing up, Jessica took ballet and jazz dance classes, and she attended Los Alamitos High School where she was apart of the Soundtrax and SoundFX show choir groups. She also participated in an acapella group in college called Soundwave. Although Jessica now spends most of her time teaching academics in the classroom, she still holds a passion for performance and music. 

Meet Jayden, a college student who is looking for an opportunity to make an impact on children. Jayden is very passionate about his teachings in athletics and has been learning about athletics since the day he was able to touch a ball. His love for sports encouraged him to spread his knowledge and love for sports. He has a heart for teaching and is very encouraging when it comes to teaching children and the youth. 

Susie received her undergraduate degree from UCLA and her multiple subject credential from CSULB. She has a master’s degree in reading instruction. Currently, she teaches kindergarten at McGaugh Elementary. She has over 14 years of teaching in the primary grades. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, bowling, and attending concerts. Susie is looking forward to teaching for LAEF for her 4th year.

A program designed to inspire the youth through Breaking. As a former athlete, Jason uses skills, drills, and repetition to teach proper dance techniques. Encouraging his students to move with the music, he wants them to build character and design their movements as artistic expressions. Knowledge Breaking Crew shows young dancers that anything is possible by the dint of hard work and dreams.

Andrew Maldonado is a Musicians Institute graduate with two decades of live performance experience. Andrew owns his own music school called Blue Box Music in the city of Los Alamitos and has a decade of teaching experience. He was the music director for the JCC Maccabi Games and Artsfest in Long Beach. Andrew is excited to teach Ukulele at his first Summer Enrichment Institute.

Alejandra was born and raised in Costa Rica and has been living in Southern California for the past 11 years. Her love for nature, culture and adventure were her main motivation to get her College Degree in Hospitality and become a Travel Agent, working in the Tourist Industry for over 10 years. She loves teaching kids her native language and uses it as a tool to teach young generations about the importance of acceptance, diversity and cultural awareness. She is a strong believer that an early exposure to different cultures is a great way to become a more inclusive and empathetic person. Alejandra has three kids, two of them are students of Los Alamitos Unified School District and enjoys traveling in her free time. She is currently working on a Spanish Immersion Program for kids in the Cloud Forest in Costa Rica, what a great way to combine her love for teaching and nature conservation!

Hilary McGilton is starting her 5th year teaching.  She is a teacher in Colorado where she’s taught 2nd and 4TH grade.  Hilary grew up in Rossmoor; attending Rossmoor Elementary, Oak Middle School and Los Alamitos High School. After high school, Hilary earned degrees at San Diego State University in Journalism and Political Science. After working in television news and law enforcement, Hilary decided her real passion was teaching.  She received her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Colorado Christian University. As an educator, Hilary fosters growth in her students by being dedicated to develop a learning community filled with love, wonder and respect.  

Kristina is a Los Alamitos High School graduate and is currently working as a long term sub teaching math and science at McAuliffe Middle School. She recently earned her single subject teaching credential in Science. Kristina is very passionate about science and very excited for the opportunity to teach with LAEF this summer! 

Bella has been playing soccer since she was five years old and has loved playing ever since. She is currently a collegiate athlete playing soccer at Mercy University therefore, she knows what it takes to play at a high level. She has coached kids at all different levels ranging from youth programs to high school. She encourages education and fun throughout her trainings. She’s excited to see the development of her players and share her passion for the sport with the next generation. 

Kristin is a veteran teacher starting her 17th year teaching, her 12th year with Los Alamitos Unified, and her third year with LAEF’s Jumpstart program. She holds a multiple-subject credential from Cal State Fullerton as well as a Science credential, and during the school year she teaches 3rd Grade at Rossmoor Elementary. She has taught several years of summer school with the District as well as LAEF’s summer enrichment program and is excited to once again join the LAEF summer enrichment team.  She’s taught all grades and subjects K-8 and loves to make learning hands-on, active, and fun. After teaching Science at Oak Middle School for 8 years, she is happy to return to her elementary roots and now teaches 3rd grade at Rossmoor Elementary. When she’s not in the classroom, you can find her spending time with her family at the beach or a baseball field.

Whitney has been employed with Los Alamitos Unified for 13 years as an Extended Day Care Center Assistant and more recently as a substitute teacher for TK-12th grade. While attending Los Alamitos High, she “accidentally” discovered her passion for teaching through an ROP program for preschool teacher assistants. While learning how to work within a preschool setting, she knew her future career would involve educating children while inspiring them to discover their passions and a love for lifelong learning. After attending Cerritos College and receiving her AA in Child Development she transferred over to CSULB to obtain her BA in Communication Studies, and then later to complete the Multiple Subjects Credential Program in order to become an elementary school teacher. When she isn’t studying you can find her at Disneyland (pre covid) or with her dog, Mr. Sy. 



Yesenia Quezada comes from a strong Hispanic household who values education. At a very young age, her parents taught her the value of education, and today she wanted to share this value as an educator. Yesenia Quezada graduated from Chapman University with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Disability Studies. She is currently enrolled in the Graduate Program at Chapman University to complete her credentials and MA in Teaching with Elementary Education Emphasis. Her patience and dedication to children has driven her in this path to work toward a career working with children in a school setting. She has the determination and knowledge to create a welcoming, creative, and engaging learning environment for all students. Through her courses in psychology and disability studies, she came to realize that the educational system lacks individuals who truly understand disabilities, which she strongly believes is an essential component to anyone interested in becoming a general education teacher.

During her time working at Michael’s, she had the privilege of instructing Sunday afternoon classes. This was a life changing experience for her because it was then she realized she wanted to become a teacher. Using their hands as their voices and their smiles as their emotions, she found her passion for teaching. Valuing the importance of inclusion, Yesenia Quezada changed her minor to disability studies. She took this opportunity to get involved with students with disabilities as an Instructional Assistant in Special Education at LAHS. She hopes to continue to get involved in the Los Alamitos School District as she is an alumni from Weaver Elementary, McAuliffe Middle School, and Los Alamitos High School.

Yesenia Quezada is confident that her educational background at Chapman University has well prepared her for the next step into her career as a school teacher. The compassion and wholeheartedness she has toward educating children is a huge component as to why she wants to become an elementary school teacher. As a LAHS alumni, the Los Alamitos School District has opened a number of doors for her, and she hopes one day it will help her open the door to my own classroom. Yesenia is excited to teach her 2nd summer in a row for LAEF!

Devin is a motivated educator that has just completed the multiple subject teaching credential program at the California State University of Long Beach. She received her bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in education in 2021. She has worked with a variety of students over the last seven years and is eager to continue her journey as an educator. She has had professional experience working with students in educational settings such as being a teacher assistant at a preschool, one on one therapy for students with disabilities, substitute teaching at the Cypress school district, and working with students at an after school daycare program located at Jack L. Weaver elementary school. Devin is dedicated to working with students of all ages and is passionate about education.

Miss Redmond is a recent graduate of CSULB with a B.A. in Liberals Arts of ASL Linguistics and Deaf Cultures. As she reaches her goals to become an interpreter to speak for everyone around the world and to all Deaf Communities with her hands, she’s thrilled at the need for teaching the hearing youth the way of speaking with their hands while they are working to achieve standard academic goals. One of Miss. Redmond’s big goals for her students is to them and their families that they can begin to develop a second language at them young age and that teaching them a new language helps make learning fun for the students.

Heather Richmond has over 12 years teaching experience in classroom environments. She is currently a Reading Intervention Teacher at J. H. McGaugh Elementary. Heather graduated from California State University, Fullerton with a Bachelors of Science degree in Child and Adolescent Development. She earned her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from CSU, Fullerton as well. Heather is active in her son’s Boy Scout Troop and enjoys all outdoor activities. Her family resides in Seal Beach. Her daughter attends McGaugh and her son attends McAuliffe.

 

Tiffany Salter, former elementary teacher, private tutor, and mom to two recent LAHS graduates, has always been involved with youth. As a Scout leader for the past 15 years, she has created fun and engaging activities for kids of all ages; and as a Kidsguide Magazine staffer throughout that time, she has been immersed in local family events and programming. A creative and engaging out-of-the-box educator, her focus is on fun — her students are always learning …whether they realize it or not!

Toni retired from the Paramount Unified School District after teaching for twenty years. Previous to her teaching career, she was the Children’s Librarian at the Los Alamitos-Rossmoor Library. Toni conducted pre-school story times, summer reading programs, and lots of other activities. She is still often recognized in the community by many people who still remember me from the library. Toni teaches for LAEF after-school at LAE! She is excited for her first summer with LAEF!

Erin Schmitt will be teaching Fundamentals of Art this summer. She was a substitute for the LAEF program last summer and is looking forward to taking her own class on an adventure through art. Erin currently attends Azusa Pacific University where she is pursuing a degree in Liberal Studies and eventually becoming an elementary school teacher. Erin’s dream is to educate young minds by making learning fun, energetic, and hands-on. Erin is eager to introduce art to young students while helping them produce, appreciate, and understand the basics of art and its masters.

Paul is no stranger to the stages of the Los Alamitos School District, performing with the McAuliffe and Los Alamitos High School show choirs and drama programs, winning best performer, musician, and singer throughout his years in the highly celebrated programs. Paul then studied Musical Theatre at CSUF and performed professionally in regional theater in productions such as Legally Blonde, Shrek, Bonnie and Clyde, as well as the world premiere of the play Jupiter Moon. He continued to study acting under Sue Hamilton in LA (focusing on scene study, on-camera auditions, and improv), as well as working with Central Casting doing background work, featured in shows like Young Sheldon, Scream Queens, American Crime Story: Versace, Silicon Valley, and more. Paul recently graduated from Cypress College with an AA in Film, Television, and Media and certificate in Creative Writing. Now Paul is studying Film (Screenwriting and Production Management) at CSULB while working as Box Office Manager for the Performing Arts Center at Cypress College and Stage Managing Holiday Shows at the Bella Terra. His experience in teaching is quite extensive. Mr. Scott volunteered as a Teaching Assistant for Los Alamitos School District’s Elementary Summer School, working for three summers from 2011 to 2013. In 2019, he was hired as a Teaching Assistant to an Art Teacher through Cypress College Art Gallery and Able ARTS Works. Paul teaches after-school classes for LAEF and he is excited to teach at his first Summer Enrichment Institute!

Nalani owns the mobile gymnastics program Leap of Faith Gymnastics with her husband, Chris.  She fell in love with the sport of gymnastics at just four years of age. Nalani competed for Newhope Gymnastics in Fountain Valley where she began coaching in high school, working her way up to recreational supervisor, special events coordinator, and competitive team coach. Nalani has been coaching for over 20 years.  She has been a USA Gymnastics professional member and a certified compulsory judge.  



Lisa Swain is a mom to three amazing children who are 17, 18, and 20, who attended McGaugh Elementary, McAuliffe and Oak Middle School. Lisa has served in education for 18 years as a teacher and Teacher on Special Assignment for every school in Los Alamitos Unified for 15 years. She currently serves as a Middle School Assistant Principal in Tustin Unified but loves spending her summers teaching students.  She spent her earlier years as a lifeguard and junior lifeguard instructor and playing water polo in college. Her passion outside of her family is teaching students how to find their curiosity and to see how their learning connects to everything that surrounds them. Lisa is excited to partake in her 1st ever Summer Enrichment Institute with LAEF.

Brent currently teaches fifth grade at Hopkinson Elementary School. Before he was hired as a teacher at Hopkinson, he taught intervention classes for the Los Alamitos Unified School District. He is excited to teach again for LAEF at our Summer Enrichment Institute.

Cassie Torres is a fitness trainer who believes every single person needs to find their best movement and healthy lifestyle.  She came from a marketing and sales background but has been training professionally since 2021, after feeling the call to help others stay active during the pandemic.  She has trained in various settings such as corporate gyms, outdoors and online, from private sessions to large groups for everyone from children to seniors.  Cassie’s mission is to encourage everyone to move, enjoy life and to especially lift up those who have felt left behind by the fitness industry.  She lives in Long Beach with her husband and enjoys the beach, Disneyland, good food, music, dancing and traveling.  

Emi Torres is a Dance instructor with more than 20 years of teaching experience. His specialty is teaching dance to kids and the special needs community.  Dance genres like hip hop, salsa, and cha cha are among some of the dance styles he is proficient in. From beginner to advanced levels, Emi works with the ability of the student and believes everybody can learn, grow and have fun dancing!  

Andrea has been a student of Kenpo Karate for over 30 years and is currently a 5th Degree Black Belt. She has been the International champion six times and has won more than 150 1st place trophies in her tournament career. Ms. Pfefer- Trombi owned and operated a karate school in Telluride, Colorado for 15 years. She has instructed several hundred people over the years, having many advanced students, and bringing several people to the rank of black belt. She moved back to her home state, California, with her husband and two children who attend school in the Los Al school district. Ms. Pfefer-Trombi is passionate about teaching kids and is always excited to be an instructor for the LAEF program!

Coach Jay is a college athlete that currently plays at Hope International University. She has been playing soccer since she was four years old and loves soccer deeply. She has also been named All GSAC for her college conference! Since she is a collegiate athlete she knows what it takes to get to play college soccer! She currently coaches at Beach FC and at Saint Joseph High School. She wants to share her passion with the kids to see them progress and get to the level that they dream of being! Lastly she enjoys having fun while training because its all about loving what you are doing! 

 

Mrs. Vida grew up speaking French as her native language. She was raised in the Loire Valley, in France; graduated from college with a language degree, and worked in Paris in an American Company, before moving to the USA in her thirties. She is very familiar with our Los Alamitos Unified School District as she volunteered on PTA Boards for over 20 years. This is Mrs. Vida’s second year working for LAEF and she is so excited to get back at it!



Gabrielle has been a third grade teacher in Scottsdale, Arizona since 2018.  She was born and raised in Seal Beach and is a LAHS, Oak, and Weaver alumna. Gabrielle attended Northern Arizona University and then decided to continue her stay in Arizona because she loved it so much! Of course she couldn’t stay away from California for too long so she is back here for the summer. She has always enjoyed school, especially writing and can’t wait to share what she loves! 



Jerry is the founder of Red Zone Threat Management and travels nationally and internationally teaching seminars to members of the DEA, Local Law Enforcement, and civilians on the topic of personal protection. He is the author of the book “Red Zone Prime: A Foundation for Personal Protection”. In addition he is a passionate instructor of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts which he teaches at the facility he has owned and operated for the last 14 years, Centerline Martial Arts and Fitness. Jerry runs kids classes daily in mixed martial arts and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as well as the kids BJJ competition team. He has two children who both attend schools in Los Alamitos Unified. Jerry firmly believes that every child has the right to enjoy their school days without fear of being bullied and is committed to helping them develop the necessary tools and attitude to help them on their journey.

High school Class Descriptions

This in-class teen Driver’s Education program is approved by the DMV to comply with California requirements to earn an instructional permit. *This class does not cover behind the-wheel training.

 

Health will satisfy the state requirements of instruction of Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco, in addition to the California Healthy Youth Act. It satisfies the Health requirement for a high school diploma. Topics covered include Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) & Hands-On CPR, First Aid, Injuries, Tobacco, Alcohol, Drugs, Sexual & Reproductive Anatomy, Sexual/Gender Identity, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) & Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Birth Control, Healthy Relationships. The course will be completed in sixteen hours. This Health class is for the class of 2023 through 2026 graduates who are Performing Arts students and athletes!

High School Teacher Bios

James grew up in Los Alamitos and graduated from LAHS in 1999.  He earned his bachelor’s degree from CSULB and holds teaching credentials in Health and Social Science.  James has worked at LAHS for 7 years. He coaches girls’ basketball, and is currently working towards earning a master’s degree from Concordia University in Education Administration.

Dave teaches PE and Health at LAHS. He is also the Head Coach of Girls’ Volleyball. Dave graduated from CSULB with a BA in Human Development and a MA in Education. He played volleyball, football and basketball at Fallbrook High School and volleyball at CSULB.

All of Kanor’s driving instructors have passed industry standardized tests as well as in-house testing prior to becoming a member of their staff. You can be confident that Kanor’s instructors know exactly what it takes to help the student reach their goal of becoming an educated driver.

 

The Summer Enrichment Institute (SEI) offers fun, engaging and educational courses designed to keep our LAUSD students entertained during the summer…and your children (students entering Kindergarten through 12th grade) will absolutely love it!  Our courses also counter the effects of something called “summer learning loss.”

What’s “Summer Learning Loss”?    Research shows that on average, all students lose skills over the summer.  Educators increasingly promote quality summer learning ON ANY TOPIC as a key strategy to improving achievement.  Plus, studies conclude that the effects of summer learning programs endure for at least two years after the student has engaged in the summer program.  LAEF really cares about this!  Since our very first SEI in 2010 we have increased the number of students attending summer classes each year…and students and parents continue to rave about the sessions.

LAEF offers opportunities for quality enrichment programs, both those typically offered during the school year and courses that encourage students to expand their interests, while still reinforcing reading and often incorporating math skills.  SEI also offers courses for high school graduation credit on-campus at LAHS and online.

Our SEI programs feature all of the research-supported measures of a quality program: smaller class sizes, differentiated instruction and small working groups, high-quality instruction, aligned school-year and summer curricula, engaging and rigorous programming, maximized participation and attendance, sufficient duration and involved parents.

Here are a few quotes from some SEI students, proud parents, and teachers:

"Sydney has been with LAEF Summer programs since Kindergarten. Thank you for all of the great teachers! We have attended Hopkinson, Lee and this year, virtual classes. Great experiences!"
Virtual Summer Enrichment Parent
"The Rights/Wrong class was very informative and my daughter really enjoyed it!"
Virtual Summer Enrichment Parent
"Kids REALLY enjoyed, I'm an Artist, Survival Science, and Perfect Paragraph. Each teacher was incredibly engaging and the kids really learned."
Virtual Summer Enrichment Parent
“I learned a lot in my art class at SEI. The best part was doing all the art projects. I loved using colored pastels and paint. It was so much fun.”
Rochelle Ner,
LAUSD 1st grader
“LAEF is doing great things! In the past few years, our three children have participated in various offerings from LAEF, like the Summer Enrichment courses, the after school art classes and even the Young Americans weekend program. WOW, we are so lucky to have so many options that provide our children great learning opportunities, filled with fun and education. We can’t say enough about how fantastic the Young Americans weekend was for our fifth grader! She loved the singing and dancing and experiencing art and music in a totally new and exciting way. Our youngest enjoys attending art class after school. She is learning to apply her imagination and creativity through painting and drawing. And lastly, Summer Enrichment really motivated all three to expand their knowledge of various academic subjects, preparing them for the new school year, while engaging them in new concepts and exciting activities. Thank you LAEF, we are so grateful to you all for putting together these amazing programs. Keep up the great work!!”
Eric and Kristi Kirkendall,
LAUSD Parents
“It was a privilege to join SEI as an educator this last summer, because it was a chance to teach subjects that I love and are close to my heart: Jump Start First Grade and Poetry. The jump start program is well named…we jumped into the beginning of the first-grade year! Students were introduced to math wall, writer’s workshop, reader’s workshop and CGI at a first-grade level. The smaller class sizes and highly engaged students allowed for a quick jump into the material. As a teacher and mother of a 1st grader, I loved the fact that children were going to start off their year hearing familiar academic language and participating in similar routines that they’d already been introduced to in the SEI program. Many students took a 2nd class in the afternoon and enjoyed art, poetry, singing, dancing and more. The SEI program is a valued part of the Los Alamitos School District with its commitment to excellence and continued growth in adapting the National Core Standards in a fun and concise program. I would definitely recommend signing your child up to experience the SEI program next summer!”
April Schmietenknop,
LAEF Teacher, First Grade Teacher and Parent
" Please keep up the great work!"
Virtual Summer Enrichment Parent
"Teachers and coaches were great. They make time to check in on each student to make sure they are focused and learning."
Virtual Summer Enrichment Parent
"As an educator who incorporate SEL into my curriculum, I truly appreciate the expertise shared, scaffolding in the unit, socratic engagement, and the development of interpersonal/intrapersonal skills in this class. Excellent teacher. Would recommend this class and specifically her instruction for all students in the district."
Virtual Summer Enrichment Parent
"As a first time kinder mom, I found the class to be a great tool to ensure my son was ready for kinder. I feel that he is now set up to succeed. I also thought Mrs. Kim did an excellent job."
Virtual Summer Enrichment Parent
"My daughter really enjoyed each session of her jump start classes. She was able to follow along and complete her work each day with a sense of accomplishment and success. We really love having classes on a virtual platform."
Virtual Summer Enrichment
"Ms. Moushon was amazing! My child was excited to share what she learned and thought the class was fun. Also, Ms. Moushon communicated with parents before the session began, during and after. She was truly amazing!"
Virtual Summer Enrichment Parent