Our Teachers

Ms. Mora (SDC Preschool)

Room 3

Hello! I am Ms. Melissa Mora! I am a veteran skilled educator and previously supported a Special Education program and high school bringing over 10 years of experience in Special Education. I am an expert in differentiation and implementing research-based programs in the classroom. I believe in building a strong, positive classroom climate and culture through relationship building, collaboration with families, observation, and feedback. I am a strong advocate for increasing parent engagement and community partnerships and providing a high quality program for individuals with special needs. In the classroom I use differentiated instruction and evidence based approaches to support students utilizing students’ strengths and preferred learning styles. I am caring, flexible, and love animals (especially dogs). I enjoy traveling to new destinations and trying new restaurants. I am always up for an adventure! 

Ms. Tavakol (TK)

Room KA

Hi I’m Kendall Ann Tavakol, and I began my dream job growing as a professional educator in 2017. I grew up in the town of Los Gatos and always loved school. I received my Bachelors, teaching credential and Masters all from San Jose State University. While attending SJSU, I worked as a lead preschool teacher, and directed a summer camp program called Camp Jelly Bean. Most recently I've been a part of a professional growth learning experience, working with the Tech Museum. I've been diving into the mechanical engineering design process, particularly focused on bringing STEAM to the classroom! I attain my STEAM Leadership certificate and can't wait to bring my learning back to the classroom encouraging my students to explore real world problems, make predictions and solve problems together, On my free time I love to spend time with my husband Mr. T (a first grade teacher) and my three baby girls Nova Adalynn, Sierra Ann and Winter. We love gardening, painting and finding new projects to build. Whatever gets us outdoors exploring new hikes, parks and simply our own backyard spending time with our fur babies (dogs), chickens and honey bees.

Mrs. Zieper (TK)

Room 2

Hello Everyone! My name is Melissa Zieper and I am thrilled to be a part of the Sartorette TK team. Though I am originally from Southern California, I have called the Bay Area home since 2018. I earned my BA from University of Arizona and subsequently, a multiple subject teaching credential from Los Angeles Pacific University. I also completed a Transitional Kindergarten program through UC Riverside. I have a special affinity for working with TK students and watching them develop throughout one of the most formative years in elementary school. I am overjoyed to help support them each small step of the way. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband, two kids, and our poodle-terrier named Parker. I enjoy hiking in the redwoods, gardening and traveling.

Ms. Gonzalez (Kindergarten)

Room 4

Hello! My name is Daisy Gonzalez! (Ms.Gonzalez). I graduated San Jose State University with my Bachelors in Child and Adolescent Development and obtained my Master’s in Teaching. I am extremely excited to teach Kindergarten. With my deep passion for education and commitment to foster an engaging learning environment, I am eager to make a positive impact on students’ academic and personal growth. In my spare time, I enjoy to exercise, read books, and travel!

Mrs. Peckham (Kindergarten)

Room KB

Hello, my name is Patty Peckham, my alias is Mrs.Peckham. I began my teaching career in 1983. I have lived in Santa Clara county all my life. (San Jose, Los Gatos, Campbell) I played collegiate tennis at San Jose State University before graduating in Human Performance and receiving two teaching degrees; K-12 grade health and physical Education and a Multi Subject K-8. I have taught and coached high school to kindergarten students. I am happily married and have two adult sons. I like to hike, bike, swim, read, and explore new places. My happy place when I’m not with students; is being with my family preferably in the mountains; at the beach and occasionally at Disneyland.  I have been blessed to teach in Cambrian since 2002 and Sartorette since 2004. I love teaching kindergarten and k/1 students. My greatest delight is to see kids turn on to learning and also to show empathy for others. Our class mottos are: “Just keep trying, with practice you will get it!” and “Always be kind.” Click the link to access my classroom website.

Mrs. Colón (1st Grade)

Room 1

Mrs. Colon's Class Website

Hello! I’m Katie Colón, and I began my teaching career in 2005. A Bay Area native, I grew up in San Martin and attended school in Morgan Hill. I graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 2004, with both my degree in Liberal Studies and my teaching credential. I recently completed my master’s degree in Education, specializing in Reading and Mathematics, from Walden University. My family and I have called San Jose home for over 15 years. I love to learn new things about the world around me and I aim to cultivate that curiosity in my students, too! When I am not at school, I enjoy playing clarinet in the Morgan Hill Wind Symphony, volunteering at my church, and spending time with my husband and three children. We love to watch movies, visit with our extended family, and play games together. 

Ms.  Louie (1st Grade)

Room 5

Hello! My name is Jadyn Louie. I am from Elk Grove, and I moved to San Jose to attend San Jose State University where I received my Bachelor’s in child and adolescent development and Master’s in teaching. While I was at San Jose State, I worked as a preschool teacher. 2024 is my first year teaching in a K-5th grade setting and I’m very excited to be in the Cambrian School District! I am very passionate about teaching and am always looking for new and effective strategies to create a safe, fun, and engaging learning environment. During my free time I enjoy cooking, going to the gym, and playing board games with my friends and family.

Mrs. Jones (SDC 1st & 2nd Grade)

Room 14

Hello! I’m Anja Jones, and I’m proud to be part of the Sartorette family. I have lived in Campbell / San Jose for over 15 years, and both of my kids completed K through 8 in the Cambrian School District. Over the years, I have come to love this community with all my heart, and my passion for teaching all students continues to grow. I was born and raised in Germany and have lived in the US since the 90s. I graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with a BS in psychology and received my teaching credentials in special and general education from National University where I also completed a Master’s Program in Special Education. As a lifelong learner, I am super excited to continue my educational journey with all of you. When I’m not teaching, I love to garden, camp, hike, kayak, do yoga, meditate, hang out with my family, and travel.

Miss Kirk (2nd Grade)

Room 7

Hello! My name is Alysha Kirk. I am so excited to be back and a part of the Sartorette family. I was a Sartorette Superstar when I was younger and loved it so much, I had to come back! I also went to Dartmouth Middle School and Branham High School. I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology and Minor in Child and Adolescent Development, Teaching Credential, and Master’s in Teaching at San Jose State University. While obtaining my degrees, I worked with children as a nanny and at a preschool. I am deeply passionate about teaching and creating an inclusive, safe, and fun learning environment! In my free time, I love spending time with my family and friends, reading, and watching my favorite TV shows. 

Ms. Renee Yamasaki (2nd Grade)

Room 6

I was born and raised in the Bay Area and am blessed to call it my home! I'm a proud alumni of Archbishop Mitty High School and San Jose State University (go Monarchs and Spartans)! My favorite activities include going for hikes, drinking tea, listening to music, being around animals, and most importantly, being around my friends, some of whom I've known since 2nd grade. Fun fact: I used to be a dog-only person, but after some cats in my neighborhood "adopted" me, I'm a dog- and cat-person. :)

Ms. Foy (3rd Grade)

Room 16

Hi. I am a dedicated educator with over three decades of experience, My love for children shines through in my approach to education, making each day as enjoyable and engaging as possible for all students. My enthusiasm for learning is often contagious, inspiring those around me to embrace knowledge with open arms. One of my greatest strengths lies in my ability to make connections, whether it's linking different subjects, connecting with my students and familes on a personal level, or helping students relate classroom concepts to the world around them. My long-standing career is a testament to my unwavering dedication to shaping young minds and fostering a positive, fun-filled learning environment. I look forward to sharing my expertise with Sartorette staff and families.

Ms. Baldota (SDC 2nd/3rd Grade)

Room 13

Hello! I am Gazal Baldota and I am super excited to be part of Sartorette Family. I was born and raised in India and moved to US in 2023. I have completed my undergrad in Early Childhood Care and Education, my Bachelors in Special Education and Masters in Special Education from SNDT University in India. I have been working in the field of Special Education since 2011 in different roles and capacities. When I am not teaching, I love to hike, camp, travel with my family and friends. I also love listening to bollywood music, dancing and watching TV.

Ms. Pyne (3rd/4th Grade)

Room 18

Hi! My name is Katie Pyne and I am so happy to be a part of the Sartorette community! I was born and raised in San Jose, and attended Cambrian schools as a child; it’s a joy to continue as a lifelong learner in this district. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon and returned to San Jose to get my Master’s degree from SJSU. I have been teaching since 2017 and continue to love every minute of my time with students. I am particularly passionate about integrating equity and inclusion into my teaching practices, designing my classroom and lessons to best reach all learners, and incorporating family involvement in the classroom. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy exploring new places with my family, reading, and playing with my dog, Reggie!

Ms. Johnson (5th Grade)

Room 19

Hello, my name is Victoria Johnson. I'm a Bay Area native and I'm so excited to be a part of the Sartorette team! I've always had a strong passion for teaching and am always open to new strategies that create a supportive and engaging learning environment. I graduated from San Jose State University first with a bachelors degree in Liberal Studies Teacher Prep. Then immediately again with my Masters in Teaching and my teaching credential. When I'm not in the classroom, I love hanging out with my friends and family, traveling, going to concerts and/or musicals, and reading.

Mrs. Lozzio (5th Grade)

Room 20

Welcome to Sartorette! My name is Mrs. Lozzio (Ms. L.) and I have been an educator for over 20 years! I have worked with infants all the way up to high school students. I am a lifelong learner myself, receiving 4 Master's Degrees beyond graduating from Santa Clara University with a Bachelor's Degree in English. Before I became a teacher, I was a co-owner of a coffeeshop, SO I must really love coffee!! I have a daughter who is a pitcher in softball. When I'm not teaching in the classroom, I'm teaching on the softball diamond as her coach. I love being active and encouraging others to be active too. When my family is able to relax, my daughter and I compete for a spot on the couch with the two boys in the house-daddy and the cat. Go Sartorette Superstars! 

Ms. Buckelew (SDC Preschool Occupational Therapist)

Room 4

Hi there, Sartorette Superstars! My name is Carolyn Buckelew. I am a long time native of San Jose who grew up during a time when the city was filled with starter homes and miles of orchards. I initially began working for schools in San Diego during the late 1980s, as a paraprofessional. When I was nearing acceptance of my B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Administration at SDSU I transferred into a direct teaching/administration position with the SDSU Preschool Program. Although I loved San Diego, I eventually returned to San Jose when I was given an opportunity to open and run my own preschool. In an interest to continue learning new things, I began to take a plethora of night and weekend courses at the local community colleges and eventually discovered the amazing field of Occupational Therapy. I quickly switched direction and jumped right in to earn a M.S. at SJSU. Shortly thereafter, in 2007, I found my wonderful home-away-from-home when I joined the Cambrian School District and I have been contracting as a therapist with Cambrian ever since. Prior to becoming a full-time working mom, I spent most of my free time traveling all around the world while jumping from planes or off bridges, diving with sharks, rafting down rivers, or sea kayaking from remote tropical island to island. Nowadays I spend my free time relaxing in a backyard hammock with a good book, working on home/yard projects, caring for my numerous pets, and most importantly cheering on my daughter as she embraces her own set of adventures. I cannot wait to challenge the Sartorette Superstars and support them on their journey to success!

Mrs. Burkhart (Resource Specialist - RSP)

Room 8

Hello! My name is Mary Burkhart and I graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in Marketing, then worked in Sunnyvale and went on to have two children. When my children entered middle school, I returned to college to follow a my passion of helping students succeed. After teaching mostly third and fifth grade, I hit the books again, and earned a Special Education Credential. I love matching instruction with a student's specific needs and watching students light up and grow in confidence. I enjoy laughing with family and friends. When I can, I travel to anyplace where I can scuba dive; otherwise, I can be found hiking, reading, gabbing with my neighbors, or kicking my feet up watching a good show. 

Ms. Convery-Rank (Intervention Specialist)

Room 15

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Ms. Fernandez (School Psychologist)

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Hi there, my name is Alexandra and I also go by Alex. I’m a SoCal native, but I moved to Campbell in 2021. I enjoy watching sports, playing softball, paddle boarding, playing with my dog, and spending time with my family. I am ready and excited to start my journey with the Sartorette community!

Ms. Gilland Al-Baghly (SDC Preschool Speech & Language Pathologist)

Room 16B

Hello! I'm Kimberly and I am the preschool speech-language pathologist. I'm looking forward to working with you and your student. I work with students and their families to support and develop communication in all of its forms and enjoy inspiring students through play! Providing students and teachers with AAC and coaching on total communication is a professional passion of mine, so please ask me about it! I continue to learn and grow as an SLP to ensure I'm providing the most evidence-based and neurodiversity affirming services possible. When I'm not working, you'll find me curled up with a good book, drinking coffee, and petting my dogs (Declan and Kai) and cat (Chester). Feel free to share your book recommendations!

Ms. Garcia (Paraeducator)

Room 2

Hi! I grew up in a large extended family with many children so being around kids has always come easy. Being a part of their first introduction to school and education, seeing the progress and accomplishments that they make is something that makes my heart happy.

Ms. Hussein (Paraeducator)

Room KA

Hello! I've worked at Sartorette Elementary school for almost 6 Years, and I love working with the kids. I enjoy walking every day and spending time with my three kids. While I enjoy lots of things, my favorite hobby is cooking and baking.

Mr. Mercado (PE Physical Education)

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Teacher (Music)

Room 24

Hello! My name is Amanda Aaronian, or Mrs. Amanda. I grew up in Southern California and have been living in the Bay Area for the past seven years. Last year, I had the pleasure of student teaching with Mr. David Sanchez at Farnham and Bagby Elementary, and I’m extremely excited to now become a part of the Sartorette community. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Music with a Minor in Psychology from the University of California Santa Cruz. I also earned my Master’s Equivalency Degree in Music Therapy from the University of Kansas (“Rock Chalk Jayhawk!”), and completed my Master’s in Teaching along with a Music Single Subject Teaching Credential at San Jose State University. My experiences include teaching music both privately and in groups, providing music therapy services to individuals and groups who are neurodivergent, and teaching general music to grades K-3 for five years as a contract teacher. Outside of teaching, I enjoy cooking, traveling, playing various games (including video games), and spending time with friends and family. I also enjoy watching television with my husband and our cat, Benjamin, who is truly our pride and joy. I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone and sharing my passion for music with the students and the community here at Sartorette.

Ms. White (Instructional Specialist)

Room 8

Hi! I’m Emily White. I’ve been in education since 2004 after earning my master’s degree from Pepperdine University. I loved teaching first grade for 17 years—there’s nothing quite like witnessing children learn to read! Now, I’ve taken on a role that allows me to support students and teachers far beyond the walls of a single classroom. The Cambrian School District is a special place for me—it’s not just where I work, but also where I call home. When I’m not working, you can usually find me cheering on my kids at their sporting events or out walking the dogs and enjoying the fresh air.

Teacher (Art)

Room 9

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Teacher (Occupational Therapy)

Room 12

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Teacher (Intervention Specialist)

Room 15

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Teacher (Intervention Specialist)

Room 15

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