Meet the Team

Andrea has over 25 years of experience in a variety of industries, including owning several businesses.  She provides Orenda Education with clerical and technical support, both in back-office operations and on-site in school districts.

Anita Maxon is an Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. Anita believes every educator a child encounters truly impacts the vitality of her future. Thus, every teacher shall behold the fervor to ignite the love of learning within each child and provide access to the premium education that ALL deserve. With over 18 years in education, she has experience as an elementary and middle school teacher, English Learner Coordinator, Intervention Support Teacher, Literacy Coach, Assistant Principal and Principal.

Because her own mother experienced the struggles of an English Learner living in poverty, Anita recognizes the power educators can wield. While some practices attempted to hinder her academic success, her mother credited the unconditional support and encouragement she received from a handful of teachers along the way that empowered her to develop her instrumental music ability, leadership skills, and academic prowess.

Anita has unique expertise in the following areas:  academic curricular alignment as well as instructional leadership and student support services, including counseling. She has extensive experience around English Learners, educational technology, parent/community involvement and professional development. Anita earned an administrative credential from California State University, Dominguez Hills, a Master’s degree in Curriculum, Assessment & Instruction from University of Phoenix, and a Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Long Beach.

Beyond her professional experiences, Anita enjoys reading, creating delicious meals while spending time with friends and family, dancing, and supporting her son as a competitive swimmer.

Austin Morales believes that bridging education and technology is critical to ensure long-term success from students.

With three years in technology, he has experience in cyber security and software development.

Austin has an affinity for serving students who are vulnerable to struggles in school because he was one of those students while growing up and wants to ensure others have better opportunities for learning.

Austin has unique expertise in the following areas: web security, reverse engineering, and backend development.

He earned a B.S in Computer Information Systems at SUNY Buffalo State University.

Something interesting about Austin is he’s a big Buffalo Bills 🏈 and Buffalo Sabres 🏒 fan, (and a fan of the cold!) let’s go Buffalo!

Bambi Smith is the Senior Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. Bambi believes that all children deserve a premium education so that at the end of their high school journey they have a wealth of options for a rich quality life.

With 32+ years in education,  she has recently retired from Lynwood Unified School District as a high school principal implementing the work that she learned as an elementary school teacher, instructional lead, and response to intervention coach when the district partnered with Orenda Ed. She also served as principal of the adult school and assistant principal of guidance, where Guidance Alignment truly began to develop the synergistic protocols in place today.

Growing up in a small rural town, Bambi understands how a premium education can open doors to all of life’s options and is on a mission to bring this message to as many vulnerable students possible.  She has unique expertise in the following areas:  high school college and career readiness, alternative education, and adult education.

She earned a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Concordia University and her undergraduate degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

Dr. Carlye Olsen Marousekis the Senior Research Fellow for Orenda Education.  She recently retired after 34 years in public education, serving as Teacher, Principal, and District Administrator. She was charged with the development of teacher teams administering common assessments and using data to improve student learning, particularly for vulnerable students.

She has expertise in coaching administrators and has developed and taught many university courses preparing administrators and doctoral candidates to turn around schools educating predominantly vulnerable students. She now works on passion projects with schools and districts to help create more opportunities for all students to excel in a rigorous education, so they have more life options available to them when they leave high school.

Carlye earned her doctorate degree from USC in Change Leadership for Urban Education. She also completed doctoral coursework in Organization Development, along with her Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction and Bachelor’s degree in Biology/Psychology from UC Riverside.

Christian Rodriguez believes as technology becomes important to our society, it’s important to ensure that no one is left behind. Christian is an accomplished product owner known for his unwavering dedication to driving results.

With a proven history of delivering successful projects for organizations of all scopes, Christian brings over 15 years of expertise in research, data, and technology to the table. His profound understanding of complex solutions is evident in every endeavor he undertakes.

Christian’s commitment to crafting products tailored to the specific needs of his clients speaks volumes about his dedication to adding value and fostering business triumph.

Christine Rich is the Senior Director of Educational Services for Orenda Education. Christine believes every student deserves a premium education regardless of demographics.  As a child of an immigrant, she has personally experienced the power of education and how it improves overall quality of life.  You will often hear her say, “I want every student to have access to make the choice for higher education and a higher wage career, so they too can experience the privileges that come with a decent salary, benefits, and health care.  There is enough for ALL to enjoy life to its fullest potential!”

With over 20 years in education,  she has experience as an administrator, professional developer, teacher, and national key trainer for Project G.L.A.D.  Christine’s heart has always been for historically vulnerable student groups.  In all her roles in public education, her focus has been on how the school experience can be enhanced with positive academic outcomes, as well as future possibilities.  Her belief in her students extended out to families, as she developed relationships to help them navigate unknown territories in access, pathways, and most importantly, the belief that it is possible!  As the first college graduate on her dad’s side of the family, she personally understood how difficult it could be not having the guidance and know-how in life after high school.  This experience added to her WHY.

Christine has unique expertise in the following areas:  educational leadership, curriculum, instruction, brain-based teaching and learning, special education, literacy development, and language acquisition for English Learners.  In each of these areas, cultivating relationships with others was her favorite part!  She earned a Master’s degree from Concordia University, Irvine and a Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Long Beach.

Christine believes her perfect balance in life is centered on helping others in education as well as in health and wellness.  Her own health journey led her to becoming a certified health and wellness coach and Pilates instructor.  To Christine, life is about supporting others to elevate to their maximum potential.  This is the legacy she strives for and desires in her life!

Cindy Aguilar-Munoz, an Achievement Specialist at Orenda Education, is propelled by a profound conviction in the transformative force of education to elevate individuals and entire communities. Her fervor is dedicated to serving, bolstering, and partnering with educators in their pursuit of equity for every student. Central to her mission is the steadfast belief that demographics must not determine destiny. 

With a career spanning two decades in education, Cindy has assumed diverse roles, including community liaison, elementary, middle, and high school educator, and school administrator. This rich experience has endowed her with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted needs of students. Cindy’s dedication to supporting students facing educational challenges arises from her firm belief that every child is entitled to equitable access to exemplary instruction and resources, vital for optimizing their educational journey and cultivating opportunities.

Her expertise in instructional methodologies, assessment of learning, professional learning development, and AVID implementation underscores her commitment to empowering students and nurturing academic achievement. Cindy’s academic credentials include a Doctorate in Education from Argosy University, complemented by a Master’s degree from Azusa Pacific University and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Riverside.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Cindy finds joy in exploring culinary adventures, staying active through fitness activities, and treasuring precious moments with her growing family.

Cynthia Herrera serves as Director of Education Services for Orenda Education. She has worked in education for over 30 years from her first educational position as an instructional assistant to teacher, assistant principal, coordinator, principal and assistant director at district office.  Cynthia believes that all students deserve access to high-quality learning experiences that empower them to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.  She is committed to serving English Learners and underserved students, recognizing the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to flourish and reach their full potential, regardless of linguistic or cultural barriers.  She has expertise in many areas including:  curriculum, school administration, reading instruction, special education, teaching and learning, professional development and supporting English Learners.

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from USC as well as a Master’s degree in Reading instruction from the University of La Verne with Administrative Services Credential and a Reading Specialist Credential.  Born in Los Angeles, she has had the special experience of having attended high school in Guadalajara Mexico, giving her a unique perspective on education from an international lens. Back in Jalisco, Mexico, her family includes superintendents, teachers and principals.  It is little wonder, with such deep roots in education, that Cynthia also pursued a career in instruction and educational management.

Cynthia Monreal González is an Achievement Specialist. Cynthia believes that a high quality education is a basic human right that will ensure access to all children. As such, it is imperative that all children have a high quality education so that each person is enabled to determine their own path in life. 

With over 20 years in education,  she has experience as an AVID tutor, elementary and middle school teacher, instructional lead, coordinator, director, and Executive Director of Educational Services. The depth and breadth of her experiences has allowed her to engage in and support all aspects of the K-8 educational system in a very high needs community, leading to improved outcomes for all students. 

As a first generation college graduate, Cynthia has the lived experience of being a student in an underserved community. This experience informs the urgency of this work for her. 

Cynthia has unique expertise in the following areas:  curriculum and instruction, professional development for teachers and administrators, language acquisition for English learners, and capacity building through strategic planning and implementation coaching.   

She earned a Bachelor’s degree from University of California, San Diego as well as a Master’s degree from San Diego State University. Additionally, she holds an Administrative Services Credential and a National Principal Supervisor Certificate for Equity and Excellence. 

David has over 18 years in the tech ed sector. He is one of the founding members of Orenda Education (formerly Principal’s Exchange), having served as Technology Director. He holds degrees in Computer Science, and Technology Leadership. David supports Orenda in the integration of technology hardware and software, as well as by providing technical support to Orenda team members and partner schools.

Dr. Elizabeth Valenzuela is an Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. Elizabeth believes that those students who start from behind have a natural fighting spirit but need at least one adult to guide and believe in them to have a true fighting chance.

With 25 years in education, she has experience as a Teacher, Dean of Instruction, and Principal.  She resonates with and has an affinity for serving students who are quiet, unnoticed, and underestimated in school. She has unique expertise in the following areas:  teacher leadership, curriculum and instruction, acceleration for equity, and coaching administrators in instructional leadership practices.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree from USC, a Master’s Degree from the University of La Verne, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University.

Erica is the Senior Operations Manager at Orenda Education. Erica believes that demographics should NOT determine one’s destiny.

Prior to joining Orenda in 2019, Erica began her journey in Expanded Learning with Think Together in 2008. During that time, Erica worked with K-8 students in Ontario-Montclair, Moreno Valley, Rialto, San Diego, Compton, and Upland.

She enjoys her role at Orenda because she’s not only supports the business needs of the entire team, but she is out in the field observing our Achievement Specialists and partners in action, especially during Summer Institute.

Erica earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication, with an emphasis in Public Relations from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and plans to pursue her MBA in the near future.

In her free time, Erica enjoys Jazzercise, running 10Ks, and spending time with her loved ones.

Erica Thomas is an Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. Erica believes that all students must understand the clear path to get to their dreams.  When students know how to get from where they are today, to what they want tomorrow, we have accomplished a major feat!

With 24 years in education, she has experience as a secondary teacher, assistant principal, principal, and director.

Being a middle of the road student as a child and getting minimal support from educators throughout her school age years, she grew to understand how students could easily fall through the cracks.

Erica has unique expertise in the following areas:  secondary science education and pk-12 administration.  She is also an adjunct lecturer at CSULB.

She earned an Ed.D in Educational Leadership from California State University, Long Beach, as well as a Master of Science degree in Administrative Leadership, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry.

She is a mother of four, with a passion for trying new foods. “Food is such a powerful way to learn about different cultures, and I love to experience diverse culinary traditions.”

Genny Sosa is the Vice President of Education Partnerships for Orenda Education. Genny believes in building a community of equity leaders that has the power to change the odds for our most vulnerable students!

With over 27 years in education, she has experience as an Elementary and Secondary Teacher, Principal, Principal Coach, and District Director.

She has spent her educational career implementing equity systems that will have long lasting improved outcomes for the various communities that she has served. She has unique expertise in the following areas:  English Learners and struggling students, in general.

She earned a degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from Whittier College and an Administrative Credential from Cal Poly Pomona.

Janet Hwang has had over 25 years experience in public education at the secondary level as a middle & high school teacher and site & district leader in urban and inner-city school contexts. Her roles have specialized around secondary ELA, English Learners, curriculum & instruction, professional learning, coaching, parent engagement, assessments, state & federal program accountability and continuous improvement data systems. Janet also taught aspiring educators at the graduate school level before joining Orenda Education. She is living her dream of working with like-minded educators who strive to see school systems shatter inequities so that all students reach their academic and professional dreams. 

Jeanette Salinas is the Vice President of Education Services for Orenda Education. Jeanette believes that it is our responsibility as adults to provide every child with a premium education. We must establish a system in every school that prepares all students for college and career success, especially in vulnerable communities.

With 30+ years in education, she has experience as a teacher, literacy specialist, instructional coach, and principal.

Jeanette achieved a remarkable accomplishment by being the first in her family to graduate from college. Despite the lack of guidance she received in high school, she persevered and succeeded in her goal. She is determined to ensure that all students receive the necessary support to achieve success throughout their educational journey.

She has unique expertise in the following areas:  curriculum alignment, balanced literacy, and instructional design.

She earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Cal State University, Fullerton, and an Administrative Services Credential.

Jeanette is a family-oriented person who finds immense love and pleasure in spending time with her loved ones. She is happily married, has three grown-up children, and recently became a proud grandmother. Jeanette loves to create beautiful memories with her family, such as baking and cooking traditional family recipes that have been passed down over the years. She also enjoys sitting around the table, telling stories, and cherishing each other’s company.

Jeff Grenard is an accomplished technology leader and Purdue alumnus who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Enterprise Architect at Orenda Education. With a passion for creating innovative software solutions that transform organizations, Jeff is thrilled to be part of the Orenda team and eager to help the organization achieve its technology goals.

Jeff earned his bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Purdue University, where he developed a strong foundation in programming, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering. After graduating, he began his career in software development and quickly moved into leadership roles, honing his skills in project management, software architecture, and team building.

Over the years, Jeff has worked with a variety of organizations, ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies. He has led complex software projects in various industries, including finance, healthcare, and education, and has a proven track record of delivering successful solutions that drive business results.

At Orenda Education, Jeff is leading the software department, driving innovation, and helping the organization meet and exceed its technology goals. He is passionate about leveraging technology to enhance education and is excited to be part of an organization that is making a positive impact on students’ lives.

When he’s not working, Jeff enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, camping, fishing, remodeling also has a strong passion for open-source software and automation.

Jose Ochoa is an Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. Jose firmly believes that access to quality education is essential for every student regardless of demographics.

With a wealth of experience from 18 years dedicated to education, Jose’s extensive journey notably unfolded serving the good people of South-Central Los Angeles. His depth of experience extends to the ambitious undertaking of helping open a new comprehensive public high school, where the commitment to educational excellence saw Jose actively work with teachers, students, administration, and counselors. This endeavor involved meticulous efforts in curriculum alignment and dedication to cohesive and impactful learning experiences for students. A distinctive affinity for struggling students emerged as a defining characteristic throughout his journey. Jose’s passion lies in understanding and experiencing the unique challenges students face in and out of the classroom.

As a prisoner of hope, the son of two Mexican immigrants, and his struggles as an English language learner, he remains committed to professional growth and a deeply rooted belief that every student can thrive academically. His expertise includes the History-Social Science Curriculum and Framework, secondary instruction, school counseling, professional development, and supporting student learning.

He holds an M.A. in School Leadership from CSUDH with credentials for school administrative and single-subject social studies. He earned his B.A. in Ethnic Studies from CSUF.

When not working with our partners, he enjoys traveling and learning how to restore classic cars.

Kris Johnson believes in the value of fighting inequity in all its forms and the role software can play in that fight.

With 4 years in education (not directly, but in Juvenile Justice) and 7+ years in software, he has diverse experience from working with disadvantaged youth, to supporting software users and driving/building quality software.

Kris’ passion for educational service and fighting inequity was built over years spent working in juvenile justice as well as being the child of a single-parent teacher. Kris has unique expertise in the following areas: analytics, customer advocacy, and quality software advocacy.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in history from University of Missouri-St. Louis.  He originally pursued the History degree with designs on becoming a Social Studies teacher but found his way into public service via Juvenile Justice instead.

Lisa Ceja is an Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. Lisa believes in equal access to a premium education for all students, regardless of their backgrounds, ensuring that demographics do not determine destiny.

With 30+ years in education, she has experience as a High School Math Teacher, Ed Tech Coach, and an Intervention Specialist. She also served as the Co-Director of the UCLA Mathematics Project and as an instructor at UCLA.

Lisa’s deep understanding of the challenges faced by students vulnerable to academic struggles stems from her firsthand experience returning to teach at her high school alma mater, where she witnessed the vital role of family and school community support in overcoming obstacles to success. She credits being the first in her family to graduate from college to the support she received from her parents, family, and school community.

She has unique expertise in the following areas: secondary mathematics education, educational technology, mathematics curriculum development, and professional learning.

Lisa earned a Masters of Education and Bachelors of Science from UCLA and is a proud Google for Education Certified Innovator and Trainer. She enjoys any conversations that include the topics of cats, nail art, mathematics, astronomy, or music.

Dr.  Luz Castillo is an Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. Luz believes in an educational system that recognizes the unique strengths and needs of each student and equitable access to resources to ensure that all students thrive – regardless of background or circumstance. With 26+ years in education,  she has experience as a teacher and administrative experience supporting teachers, students, and parents at the elementary and secondary levels.

Driven by a belief in every student’s potential, Dr. Castillo is particularly drawn to supporting students who face challenges in school, as she sees the transformative power of education in overcoming obstacles and achieving success. She has unique expertise in the following areas:  improving learning opportunities and conditions for all students; developing effective relationships with all stakeholders; providing a clear vision toward academic excellence by way of having courageous conversations and implementing systems to promote teacher collaboration and data reflection; promoting and developing programs to create a positive climate and culture by building capacity of administrators, teachers, and personnel.

She earned an Ed.D. in Higher Education from the University of Phoenix, a Master’s in Science in Educational Administration from National University, and her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science from the University of California Irvine.

In her free time, Luz cherishes spending quality time with family and friends. When seeking relaxation, she gravitates towards the beach. However, her greatest joy lies in sharing her passion for learning with her 6-year-old daughter. Together, they can often be found in the STEAM lab, where they explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Whether it’s collecting and dissecting plants, examining rocks and seashells, playing with legos, expressing creativity through drawing and performance, or embarking on a journey to learn Spanish, Luz finds immense fulfillment in fostering her daughter’s curiosity and love for learning.

Maria Annett Soto is an Instructional Specialist for Orenda Education. Maria believes education is the path to equity and empowerment for all learners. Through our work, we support the advocacy of our most vulnerable learners by creating the opportunities to change belief systems and educators’ understanding of the potential for all students to achieve the highest levels of learning. 

With 34 years in education, she has experience as a teacher, Title VII Resource Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, District Administrator, and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services.

Maria believes that all students rise to the expectations that are set for them and are capable of achieving their highest potential when given the supports they need.  She has unique expertise in the following areas: curriculum and instruction development, creating organizational systems, Bilingual Education, and coaching.

She earned a Master’s degree from Cal State Los Angeles in Educational Administration, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona.   

She enjoys her new semi-retired travel adventures, spending time with family, and being the biggest cheerleader for her two grandkids.

Marty Maya is Chief of Staff for Orenda Education. Marty believes that every child/student deserves to have an excellent education, no matter where they live and no matter what circumstances may affect their lives. Every child/student needs to be provided an education that allows them to be in the position to attend college, if that is what they choose. They must be college and/or career ready.

With 35 years in education, she has experience as a teacher, principal, and Assistant Superintendent.

Marty is a first-generation college graduate who grew up in East Los Angeles. Her mother received her high school diploma as an adult and her father left Mexico as a young man seeking a better life in the United States. Her passion for ensuring that she would go to college and graduate was a dream fulfilled for her parents. The sense of “giving back” to the community that groomed her was instinctual and came with a sense of obligation to serve students who are vulnerable and did not always have the “extras” that other more affluent students had at their disposal. Credit goes to Marty’s parents who believed that an education was the “way” to a secure and successful life. She has unique expertise in the following areas: educational leadership, strategic planning, and building relationships.

She earned a Master’s in Education from California State University, Los Angeles, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish from California State University, Los Angeles.

She is a proud mother of two children and a proud grandmother of five grandchildren. They range in ages from 30 to 7 months! Her oldest set of grandchildren are both college graduates with master’s degrees. One is a Special Education teacher and the other a soon to be a Marriage and Family Therapist with a specialty in trauma. All to say, that they are both giving back to the community and serving the needs of the most vulnerable. Additionally, another major feather in her cap is that she celebrated 53 years of marriage to her college sweetheart!

Nate Fukuwa is the Director of Data Analytics & Operations for Orenda Education. Nate believes that technology and data are an integral part of our work, helping teachers and administrators analyze student performance and ultimately breaking down barriers to ensure student achievement. With over 10 years in education, he has experience as a teacher, coach, and district educational technology leader.

Nate found his niche in the educational data realm and has developed numerous tools for analyzing student data to help identify systematic trends hindering student performance. He has unique expertise in the following areas: Educational technology, database administration, data analysis, and data visualization.

He earned a Master’s Degree in Teaching with an emphasis in Educational Technology from Chapman University. As well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology from Rochester Institute of Technology.

Nate also serves as a Major in the US Marine Corps with 16 years of leadership experience, where he works as a Battalion Operations Officer, teaching and mentoring our future leaders.

Omar Zúñiga is an Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. Omar believes that every student deserves a premium education, regardless of demographics. With over 20 years in education, he has experience as a High School Mathematics Teacher, University Mathematics Instructor, International Baccalaureate Program Coordinator, Instructional Improvement Lead, English Language Coordinator, and Testing Coordinator.

As a child of immigrant parents and as an English Language Learner, Omar experienced first-hand many of the challenges that many of our current struggling students encounter. He firmly believes that a premium education empowers students to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. He is passionate about serving historically vulnerable students and in working with educators to support them in creating systems that lead to equitable outcomes for all students.

Omar has unique expertise in the following areas:  mathematics curriculum development & implementation, instruction, theoretical mathematics, assessment development, and professional learning.

He earned a Master of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of Arizona, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of California, Riverside. He enjoys spending time outdoors with his fur babies and is obsessed with exceeding his daily goals of ten thousand footsteps and of at least one hour of physical activity.

Payel Chatterjee is the Vice President of Product and Engineering for Orenda Education. Payel believes that all students deserve the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or learning style. With over 19 years of experience leading cross-functional teams, she possesses a deep understanding of the entire product lifecycle, from ideation to implementation and brings a strategic and analytical approach to creating impactful and data-driven software solutions.

Payel is passionate about empowering educators and leaders with the tools and resources they need to succeed. She believes that data-driven insights, coupled with a deep understanding of the educational landscape, are essential for creating positive change in classrooms and schools. She actively seeks opportunities to use data and technology to identify and address challenges faced by educators and leaders, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to create thriving learning environments.

Payel brings a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities in education technology, with expertise in Software product management and data analytics and visualization.

She earned an MBA from XLRI School of Management in India as well as a bachelor’s degree in commerce and accounting.

Payel is an avid reader and Indian classical dancer and enjoys spending time with her family in her free time.

Priscilla Martinez is an Achievement Specialist for Orenda Education. She believes in building partnerships with schools to provide a premium education for all students.

With 26 years in education, she has experience as a classroom teacher, Instructional Coach, School site Coordinator, and Administrator, K-12.

Priscilla continues to advocate for students, partnering with schools and districts across the state to guide and support them through their journey of implementing equitable systems to raise academic achievement for all students.

Priscilla has unique expertise in the following areas:  curriculum alignment, instructional support, guided planning, and language development for English Learners.

She earned an Administrative Credential degree from the University of Irvine, California and California State University, Northridge, a Master of Arts/Teaching Credential degree from Claremont Graduate School, a Master of Arts degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a bachelor’s degree in history, with a minor in Education from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Growing up a second language learner in a Southeast community of Los Angeles, she was faced with the challenges of overcoming ethnic, gender and class inequities in and out of school. These challenges became the catalyst for her to be a champion for students and challenge inequities in educational systems. She has spent over 25 years serving the schools in East Los Angles and looks forward to many more years of supporting schools across the state.

Sara M. Shankin, Senior Data and Technology Specialist at Orenda Education believes that the experts at Orenda understand the diverse needs of students, their districts, and their schools. They consistently empower organizational leaders with the essential tools to ensure a premium and equitable education for all their students.

Sara has always believed that every child should have access to the resources needed for fair opportunities in both academic and post-educational success! Despite the wealth of available data and her extensive experience within and beyond school systems, she observes that access and fairness are still sorely lacking. Therefore, she continues to support the Orenda team’s ongoing efforts to address and improve our educational systems for all our children.

Dr. Sarah Mott Gonzales is the Vice President of College Readiness at Orenda Education. She strongly believes that education is the key to achieving justice and equity in our nation. It provides vulnerable communities and individuals with opportunities and choices, which equals control of one’s destiny.

Sarah has over 22 years of experience in education, having worked as a Secondary English Teacher, International Baccalaureate Program Coordinator, and high school site administrator before joining Orenda Education. Sarah’s passion is to influence schools and districts across the state to make real, systemic changes that result in significant and measurable achievement gains for vulnerable students. She has unique expertise in teaching and learning, professional development, teacher/administrative coaching, and college/career readiness. Sarah is projected to graduate from the University of Southern California (USC) with her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) in May 2024. She also holds a Master’s degree from Yale University and is a graduate of Carleton College.

Sarah loves spending time with her husband and two daughters, especially when they can travel and see new places. Currently, her family’s favorite place to visit is London, UK.

Scott has over 20 years of experience as a teacher, intervention specialist, district-level professional development specialist, instructional technology coach, Elementary School Principal, and most recently serving as Director of Education Services at Orenda Education, serving to help other schools and districts work to ensure that all students achieve at high levels. He holds his master’s degree in Educational Leadership and a bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Students. As Senior Director of Education Services, Scott, works together with equity-minded school leaders to actively address the root causes of the achievement gap through an improvement science framework that accelerates learning and collaboration across districts and school systems, creating a foundation for transformation, resulting in increasing achievement for every student demographic.

Carli Garcia is the Business Operations Manager for Orenda Education. Carli believes Orenda Education has the potential of impacting so many students & families that have experienced inequity in the education system. She’s seen it done many times and is excited for the future of what more we can accomplish.

With over 8 years in production & project management, she has experience as a Production Coordinator and Chief of Staff. She is a daughter of a teacher and administrator, wife and family member of proud immigrants, and a mother to a brilliant little girl who will soon be a part of our education systems in California.

Carli has unique expertise in the following areas project management, timeline and budget creation, filmmaking and marketing strategies, and a passion for customer/student service.

She earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Arizona State University. She started her career working at Marvel Studios on Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol.2 & Black Panther.

Marina Coco La Salle is the Manager of Education Partnerships for Orenda Education. Coco believes that every student, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves access to quality education that leaves them feeling empowered and provides them with all of life’s options for their choosing. 

With 10 years in education and business,  she has experience as a Teacher’s Assistant, Substitute Teacher, Teacher (Department Chair), Marketing and Events Coordinator. 

Coco is uniquely attuned to the needs of students vulnerable to academic struggles, drawing inspiration from the remarkable journeys of her parents who defied odds, emerging from low-income neighborhoods to attain advanced degrees in education and technology, illuminating the path for future generations.  She has unique expertise in the following areas:  Education, Marketing, Event and Project Coordination. 

She earned a Communications degree from the University of Hawaii – Manoa, a Master’s degree in Business from the University of Florida and a Teaching Credential from the Los Angeles County of Education.  

She has 10+ years of experience as a competitive athlete and fitness instructor, which motivated her to open her own fitness club. She earned the following health and fitness certifications: PFT, CSCS, CFL1, CFL2, CFN1. Since having her company she found a love for exploring movement through CrossFit, boxing, hiking, and running.  Her most favorite hobbies outside of fitness involve traveling,  camping, reading, live music, and spending time watching movies with her family and fur babies.