Fall 2023 flyers with class offerings are posted below!
online registration is now open!

FALL 2023 Session Dates
September 11 to December 15, 2023
(Weaver Only - Sept. 5 to Dec. 15)

FREE Online World Language Session Dates
September 18 to December 15, 2023



Fall 2023 FLYERS ARE POSTED BELOW!
Click on the arrow next to your school name to view the Fall 2023 flyers and see our class offerings.

After School Enrichment

Here are the benefits of After School Enrichment Programs:

  • Give children activity choices, engage them in enrichment activities, and support socialization and team learning.
  • Pay academic dividends during the school day, whether or not the class is classified as “academic,” because programs feature reading, language comprehension and analytic thought.
  • Provide opportunities for group projects in music, art, theatre, and computer activities.
  • Let students connect with teachers in a lower teacher-child ratio setting.
  • Allow students greater flexibility to make choices in their class activities, which research connects to better social skills with classroom peers.
  • Decreases screen time for children! In numerous studies, time viewing television has been associated with lower reading achievement and more frequent behavior problems among children.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CALENDAR

*LAEF classes will not be held on designated "No School" days.

Monthly Weekly Daily

September 2023

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Early Bird Pricing Ends

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Weaver classes begin

Fall Classes Begin

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Fall Classes Begin

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Fall Classes Begin

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Fall Classes Begin

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Free Online Language Classes begin

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Free Online Language Classes begin

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Free Online Language Classes begin

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Free Online Language Classes begin

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Free Online Language Classes begin

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No School – Weaver Only

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Fall 2023 Class Descriptions

Click on the arrows to read class descriptions
All elementary ages welcome! 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, theatre games, in-class work and monologues (with Musical Theatre/Singers welcome to perform for the class as well). The possibilities are limitless – as the class offers something for every level performer.

Students will be introduced to drawing and painting techniques based on the elements and principles of visual art and design. We will explore these principles through observational drawing, intuitive free-form activities, and building memorable art pieces. Hopefully each session will expand the minds of creative storytellers and nurture the abilities of aspiring artists-to-be!

This curriculum was designed for young artists to explore their creativity and imagination. Students will create works of art while developing an awareness of shape, color, line, form, texture and value. A free-flowing environment provides a chance to unwind and tap into their creative minds, while building confidence, creative thinking, and problem solving skills.

Students will learn art techniques inspired by animated films. They will be exposed to art fundamentals such as drawing from life and sketching, while learning about art roles that companies like Disney, Pixar, and Dreamworks utilize. This class encourages students’ creativity, storytelling, and imagination skills to be explored.

This fun, skill-intensive program is designed for beginning to intermediate players. Using our progressional curriculum, we focus on the whole player – teaching sportsmanship and teamwork. Boys and girls will learn the fundamentals of passing, shooting, ball handling, rebounding and defense through skill-based instruction. 

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.

Learn to breakdance; a dynamic and entertaining form of dance! Students will be introduced to the world of breakdance and learn moves like TopRock, Six-Step, Freezes, Swipes and more!

Capoeira is an energetic and vibrant artform, combining martial arts, dance, gymnastics, music, language and culture. The capoeira class focusses on physical education as well as cultural art. The martial art side of capoeira includes kicks, spins, escapes, and acrobatics. The cultural art side of capoeira includes language, singing, percussion instruments, self-expression, and fostering community. Students learn discipline, body awareness, rhythm and mindfulness.

This class uses a fun, story-based curriculum to get children excited about chess! Our lessons are tailored to the skill level of the students; all chess levels are welcome! In each class, children will get a chess lesson followed by chess playing time! We use chess to teach many life skills including sportsmanship, patience, strategic thinking, planning, and working toward a goal. The class will end with a fun tournament where children have the opportunity to win trophies and prizes! Each student will receive & earn themed prizes in this course. 

Students will learn the art of oral communication in a fun activity-focused environment. Students learning outcomes include the ability to organize thoughts and ideas and present them to an audience.

Confidence: students will gain poise and self-assurance as their skills grow and this confidence will transition into other academic areas as well as the students’ personal lives. Communication skills: the ACLA learning environment provides students the opportunity to evaluate peers in a shared learning experience where students help each other grow. This session student will construct informative speeches and take on the role of teacher while the develop engaging presentations similar to Tedtalks.

Students enrolled in Communication Arts and Debate classes will have the opportunity to compete in ACLA inhouse and regional tournaments. Tournaments are a great way for students to apply and use the skills they have learned in the classroom. Tournament fees are extra and all tournaments are optional.

This in-class teen Driver’s Education program is approved by the DMV to comply with California requirements to earn an instructional permit.  Students must be 15.5 years of age to participate.  *This class does not cover behind the-wheel training.

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! 

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.

Bonjour!  Would you like to learn how to «parler le français ?»  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, arts and cuisine.  Instruction will include movies, videos, games and fun activities that will immerse you in all things French.  Très bien!

Fun with Making, Growing, Building and More
From slime-making with new recipes, to growing plants and exploring building strategies, the focus of this class will be hands-on FUN, in an environment just for girls. The students’ interests will shape what we decide to dig into and explore, allowing your daughter to discover innovative approaches to solving problems while being creative, having fun and making new friends…with thematic snacks at times, too! 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.

Welcome to our dynamic Beginners’ Dance Class where students will embark on a journey of self-expression and rhythmic exploration! In this class, young dancers will learn the fundamental elements of hip hop while embracing their creativity through movement. Through engaging activities, we’ll focus on building confidence, coordination, and a strong foundation in dance. With a supportive and energetic atmosphere, our class provides the perfect platform for kids to discover the joy of dance and develop a lifelong appreciation for the art of movement.

 

Students will gain exposure and introduction to the Japanese language and culture through reading, writing, listening, and engaging in well-chosen activities according to their developmental stages, which will provide a foundation for further study. 

 

Experience the challenging martial art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. This is a grappling style 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!

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.

This class uses LEGOs to teach fundamental physics and engineering concepts! This class will introduce students to unique math concepts and mechanical designs using LEGOs. Students will build spring balance scales and perform scientific tests using their creation. Students are encouraged to imagine and apply scenarios to their projects that reflect current studies.

In this fun class, students will build their way through history starting with the Ancient Egyptians and ending in a futuristic city! Each week they will learn fun facts about a period in history and then build based on what they learned! They will build buildings, historical settings, and stories out of LEGO® bricks as they learn history and go through time in this Architectural Time Machine!
The session will end with the children showcasing the concepts they learned over the course of the class. Each student will receive & earn themed prizes in this course. 

This class promotes public speaking through the performance art of magic! Students will learn different magic tricks and will craft some of their own magic gear! Children will enhance their motor skills, team work, performance skills, and more! Students will present their magic tricks at the end of the session. Each child will receive a magic gift and certification of participation on the last day.

Calling all 4th and 5th graders who like to build, create, explore, collaborate, and tinker! In this class, students will participate in a variety of hands-on projects with a focus on teamwork, GRIT, and creativity. Students will explore and create with technology as well as recycled materials in Lee’s STEAM Lab with Mrs. Chambers.

This class offers children an introduction to the Mandarin Chinese language and culture through games and interaction. The children will study basic words: greetings, food, animals and counting. They will try their skills at calligraphy and making their own first strokes of Chinese characters. Each lesson will have dedicated time for learning about culture and time for fun, including learning rhymes and songs.

Utilizing classic outdoor games such as Capture the Flag and Relay Races students will be challenged in a variety of subjects; including math, spelling, science, history, and logic puzzles! These fun outside games will test teamwork, strategy + skill while participants learn strategy, focus and gain academic skills while getting a workout! Classes include stretching and warm ups; followed by a wide variety of games paired with a new academic curriculum each week. Masters of the Field promotes students to solve problems, collaborate with others, build teamwork skills, while encouraging sportsmanship and respect. Each student will receive & earn themed prizes in this course.

Come join us to learn Musical Theater skills of Singing, Acting, Movement, Reading, Blocking, Memorizing and Performing scenes from famous musicals…focusing on Something Special About Mary (Poppins)! 😊🎶

 

This class will include learning songs, dances, and scenes from some of our favorite Broadway musicals and films such as The Greatest Showman, Hamilton, Lion King, Little Mermaid and all of the Disney big screens! Your student is sure to come home each day singing and dancing to these unforgettable tunes. 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!

Students will be provided a fun and friendly environment. Promoting an active lifestyle is the goal all while strengthening students’ confidence, accountability, sportsmanship, work ethic, and overall understanding of why staying active is healthy and important. Ohana Kid Fit will focus on running based relays, games, and activities that create an amazing place to get kids up and moving. Students will have fun, will learn quality values, and will be challenged to use their brains.

A fun and exciting class where children will learn the Japanese art of origami along with a different aspect of Japanese culture each week! Every student will receive an origami instruction sheet on what was covered that day. They will take home projects after every class! Students will make origami hearts, origami cups, samurai helmets, and several animals such as dogs, cats, cranes and more! They will start with easy creations and get more and more complex. Each student will receive & earn themed prizes in this course. 

Rising Sun Pickleball covers a health & safety talk, followed by court rules and an exciting, fun game that uses building blocks to teach and foster: communication, coordination, teamwork, friendships and active lifestyles!

We utilize the Kojima (Beau Kojima=Pro Teacher) culture and techniques to demonstrate seamless synergy on the courts.

“You don’t take a photograph, you make it.” – Ansel Adams.
In this interactive class, we will see the world through an artist’s eye and explore what makes an interesting photograph right within our surroundings. Learn to take beautiful photos and tell a story without words. Each week we will explore the school campus and practice a new compositional concept to grow our skills as photographers. Each artist will take home a print of their favorite photograph at the end of the session!

*An iPhone/Android or Digital Camera is required for this 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!

This will be a FUNdamental soccer experience for all players. 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 will learn high-frequency words in Spanish including conversational cues, numbers, alphabet, emotions and colors through songs, games, and stories.

Students will do daily stretches and a warm up activity. Next, they will get into a sports lesson including skills, drills, and game play. Cool down stretches to conclude the day.

Students will be learning a variety of different sports and activities such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, wiffle ball, and the 5 components of fitness. Students will learn the importance of participating in sports, fitness, and exercise for their lifelong health. Students will learn a variety of cooperative games that will help with their physical activity, social skills, teamwork, cooperation, and leadership roles.

When Sports and Science collide you get STEM Sports – a game-changer in STEM education!

We are excited to offer STEM Sports® curriculum! These STEM & Play programs use sports as the real-life application to engage students.

Our double-play combination of physical activity and cognitive thinking provides a comprehensive, inquiry-based educational experience and a solution for crucial science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) literacy for students.


As a result, students develop:

– critical thinking
-collaboration
-creative problem-solving
-leadership skills that can be applied throughout their education and future careers

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.

Fall 2023 TEACHER Bios

We are an organization solely devoted to promoting chess among children. Academic Chess teaches using its own unique set of cartoon characters to represent each chess piece. These characters pique the interest of children and get them involved in the lessons. Also, this visual approach gives kids mental “hooks” on which to hang new concepts. Using posters, booklets, and energetic instructors centered on these characters, we fire up the kids to learn chess!

All of ACLA’s Communication Arts Speech and Debate courses are designed by Professor Willie Washington. Willie is currently a college instructor at CSU Fullerton and Irvine Valley College. Professor Washington was a member of the coaching staff for Irvine Valley College’s national championship speech and debate team. He obtained his Communication B.A. from San Francisco State University and M.A. from CSU Fullerton. The ACLA program Professor Washington developed combines the collegiate discipline of Communication Studies with Speech and Debate. In ACLA courses students not only learn competitive Speech and Debate events. They will also learn valuable communication, public speaking, and critical thinking skills that will be utilized inside and outside of the classroom.

 

Pending…

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 16th 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.  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 year teaching after school!

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 the fall 2021 season.

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!

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.

Jackson Ferreira, also known as “Instrutor Mosquito”, was born and raised in Brazil, and has been training capoeira since he was 6 years old. He moved to the U.S. in 2010, and has been teaching in summer programs, after-school programs, and at his own capoeira school ever since. He is knowledgeable in many styles of capoeira, and loves sharing his vision and passion for capoeira with students of all ages. Instructor Mosquito has participated in world-wide capoeira competitions, placing in the top 8 in his category. In addition to teaching and training capoeira, he also builds all his own musical instruments that he shares with his students.

Jerry Wetzel 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 attend LAHS. 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.

This school year will be her 21st year teaching! She has experience as a classroom teacher in grades 1, 4, and 5, but has spent the last 13 years as Lee Elementary’ s part-time Media Center and Makerspace teacher. She absolutely loves working with her students and supporting the classroom teachers by instructing Lee students in Internet safety, computer programming, and engineering. She has taught the LAEF STEAM Fair workshop class at Lee for the past five years and has coordinated Lee’s STEAM Fair.

*FULLY LICENSED & QUALIFIED Our staff are professionally trained and qualified holding UEFA, Football Association, National Diplomas and / or Brazilian Licenses. On top of their coaching qualifications are staff are up to date with the current First Aid procedures, Child Safety / Safe Haven courses, Nutritional Guidelines and Injury Prevention. *FORMER PLAYERS Learn from our staff who live and breathe the game. Many of our staff have played professionally at grass roots up to the professional levels and have over twenty years experience playing and coaching! *GREAT ROLE MODELS Not only are our staff top soccer coaches but we also evaluate our coaches abilities to be a leader and a role model to the children they coach. Each of our coaches must complete an in depth personality test before any employment in your community.

Pilar DeNardo was born and raised in Barcelona, Spain and in Perú. After graduating from college, she came to the United States to learn English. Pilar earned an M.A in Bilingual Education as well as multiple teaching credentials. After teaching elementary school for 5 years and becoming a mom, Pilar decided to open her own business and teach her native language to elementary age students.

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.

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.

Elena graduated from People’s Friendship University of Russia, earned her B.A. degree in World History. Her diploma comes with teaching credentials. Elena spent three years at Tianjin University where she earned certificates in Chinese language proficiency (including a HSK certificate) and she took Master degree courses in economic and trade law in Mandarin. She worked in Russia as a middle school ESL teacher. In China she tutored ESL to groups of students from preschool to middle school age and individually tutored Russian language to Chinese and Korean students. Elena has experience developing individual teaching plans suitable for different ages, skill sets and requirements, creating fun activities to make classes interesting and fun. She strongly believes that anyone can learn a foreign language and enjoy the process. Elena is a proud parent of two students in the Los Alamitos Unified School District. Elena is extremely excited to teach for LAEF!

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!

Katia Frias is a first-generation Cal State Long Beach Graduate (CSULB), she graduated with her Bachelor’s of Science in May 2023. She went to school to study Physical Education and is currently obtaining her teaching credential. She majored in this field because she wants to share her love for sports and physical education to her students. She wants her students to know that that they can do anything they put their mind too and that physical education is not one size fits all. Some fun facts about her are that she grew up playing soccer her entire life and She is a dog lover she has a Maltese Poodle named Benji that is her entire world. Katia is excited to teach her first season with LAEF during the fall of 2023.

Tanya runs Fitness For All and is a certified personal trainer.  She has worked at local gyms as a personal and group fitness trainer for adults and children.  She is also a mom of two LAE students.

Israel has been playing soccer since he was 5 years old. He’s always had a passion for the game and played college soccer at Long Beach City College, CSU Dominguez Hills, and CSU Fullerton where he also graduated from in 2020. He began coaching in 2019 where he was in charge of running clinics and soccer camps. Israel enjoys watching the youth develop and seeing their growth in soccer while having fun as well. He is currently coaching at Beach FC in Long Beach and enjoys seeing the kids improve their skills everyday.

David Grace received his degree from California State University Fullerton, in the field of Kinesiology. He has a range of experience working with young athletes through the Boys and Girls Club, National Junior Basketball League, and AYSO. He has worked for the Anaheim and Garden Grove school districts as a paraeducator in the Autism and Special Education departments where he worked in classroom, home, clinic, and community settings with his students. He is currently the head freshman/sophomore basketball coach at Garden Grove High School. He is a father of two young children, enjoys playing sports, and camping with his wife and kids.

Jenelle is very passionate about introducing kids to an active lifestyle. She played every sport she could get her parents to drive her to ultimately focusing on volleyball and soccer. Jenelle’s degree in elementary education has brought out the joy she has when teaching kids, a new skill and how to keep going even when the going gets tough. She loves to see kids accomplish a challenge or event or basic movement that they could not previously do and finally get it.

Pending…

Meet Coach Kaylee, a dedicated professional with a degree in Physical Education from California State Long Beach. With an enthusiasm for wellness and health promotion, Coach Kaylee derives immense satisfaction from educating others about their advantages. Having honed her skills and nurtured a passion for teamwork through years of basketball coaching and personal engagement since the age of 9, her expertise extends across various domains, including Hip Hop and track and field. A thriving competitive athlete in her own right, Coach Kaylee invites you to join her on a transformative journey towards enhanced health and holistic well-being.

Krystal Lozano is an artist and storyteller predominantly focused on children’s animation. Inspired by cartoons, she received an undergraduate degree in animation from Cal State Fullerton and currently attends Cal State Long Beach, as an animation Master’s in Fine Arts student. She has freelanced with indie animation companies and individuals throughout the U.S., and has enjoyed volunteering with youth since 2019. Krystal is currently working with professors on story ideas to show-run into children’s cartoons. She promotes the importance of creativity in life and the interests that children take. Krystal is very excited to begin her first session teaching in Los Al.

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!

Marco has been in the soccer coaching scene for over five years. Currently, he is the Head Boys’ Varsity Coach at Diego Rivera Learning Center. Marco also coaches club soccer at Manchester City Soccer Academy in South Gate. Marco holds a U.S. D Soccer License.

A native of El Salvador moved to the US in 1986.  She loves sharing language and culture with students and has been teaching in Orange County since 2008.  Claudia earned her Master’s in Education from Azusa Pacific University and a B.A. in Education and Child Development from National University.  As a language teacher, her goal is for students to be exposed and gain a deeper appreciation of the beautifully diverse multilingual, multicultural, and multiethnic communities we are so blessed to have in California and in our world. She is currently teaching as a reading intervention teacher in Los Alamitos Unified.

Eli Nieto is an aspiring physical education teacher who will have graduated with a bachelor of science in Kinesiology from Long Beach State University in the spring of 2023. He has worked with children ranging from elementary-age children all the way to high schoolers. Eli has been a first communion teacher for 5th graders as well as a confirmation teacher for high school seniors. He currently gives music lessons to children ranging from 6 years of age to 14 and is also the head junior varsity coach for boy’s volleyball at Godinez Fundamental High School. Eli is the third oldest of eleven kids. He loves sports and music, but his greatest passion is the promotion and teaching of health and wellness through the scope of exercise and physical activity.

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. Solow 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 recently moved back to her home state, California, with her husband and two children who attend school in the Los Al school district. Ms. Solow is passionate about teaching kids and is excited to be an instructor for the LAEF program!

Play-Well TEKnologies was founded by Tim Bowen in 1997. Introduced to the LEGO® building system in 1996 and recognizing it to be both a popular play medium and a tremendous learning medium, Tim began to develop projects which drew on his professional experience and combined the elements of fun, challenge, and learning. He began operating a summer camp program in 1997, followed by after school enrichment classes in 1998.  We explore, solve problems, and express ourselves through LEGO. Our curriculum is designed by engineers and refined by teachers, but the kids just think it’s fun!

Coralie Prince’s life has been music from the time she was born! Her father was a singer/songwriter/pianist and producer of shows. Mother, a nurse, performed at home and supported the arts. Coralie began piano when she was a toddler and violin when she was 6. She most recently taught elementary classroom music at Hopkinson and Lee from 1980 to 2014. She directed grade level shows and produced, directed, and accompanied a large musical each year with the 5th grade and/or the 4/5 chorus. She taught piano privately for many years and later, a summer Musical Theater Workshop for grades 3 thru 12. She is so excited to continue working with the students in the LAEF Musical Theater Class.

Mia is in her second year of teaching 3rd grade at Dr. Albert Schweitzer Leadership Academy in Anaheim. She has wanted to be a teacher since she was in 3rd grade, and she loves every day of it! Mia received her Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies and attained her California K-8 Multiple Subject teaching credential from William Jessup University in Rocklin, CA. She graduated with an ASL Minor. This past summer she completed her Masters in Education in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University.
Mia currently runs her school’s after-school ASL Club, called Schweitzer Signers, with 40 students in total. She is passionate about teaching students new skills, improving their overall communication, and bringing awareness and appreciation to the Deaf culture. ASL is a beautiful language backed by a beautiful community!

Sherryl Ramos is a Health Educator for the Alcohol and Drug Education and Prevention Team (ADEPT) at the Orange County Health Care Agency. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the California State University, Long Beach. She has 20 years of experience working with youth in Orange County on alcohol, drug and tobacco prevention.

Pending…

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!
Scott 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 theatre 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. This past summer, he worked with Adventures in Writing Camp. Paul started as a Teaching Assistant, helping the teacher with lessons, taking the kids out for structured break times and games, and reading and revising all the kids’ e-books and podcasts.

Carolyn runs Fitness For All and is a certified personal trainer.  She has been coaching kids sport and fitness classes for over 26 years.  She grew up active in sports and wants to share her love for fitness and sports with today’s youth.

Skyhawks provides a wide variety of fun, safe and positive programs that emphasize critical lessons in sports and life, such as teamwork, respect and sportsmanship. Our programs are designed to give each child a positive introduction into sports while fostering a lifelong love for an active, healthy lifestyle. Our patient and knowledgeable staff use a variety of skill-building games and activities to give each athlete a complete understanding and overview of the sport.

The mission of Strategic Kids is to be a positive impact on our community by teaching life strategies through games. Program instructors have experience working with elementary aged children. They have energetic and fun personalities that inspire kids.

Djallel obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and Sports with focus on Soccer from the Institute of Sciences and Techniques of Physical and Sports Activities, University of Mentouri, Constantine Algeria in 2013. Additionally, Djallel obtained a Soccer Coaching Certification from the Algerian Football Federation. Djallel has been a Soccer Coach since 2014. He has coached all ages from 3 – 17 years old. Djallel has taught PE to high school students. Djallel played soccer throughout his high school and university careers. He has coached for LAEF during recent after-school seasons.

Lorie is a local portrait and landscape photographer capturing life in the moment! She has been offering family, senior and professional portrait photography services in the community for over 10 years. As a proud parent of 3 children in the Los Alamitos School District, Lorie has enjoyed volunteering her time in and out of the classroom for the past 12 years. 

With close to a decade of experience coaching, Daniel takes pride in helping young athletes achieve their potential. After playing 15 years of basketball himself, Daniel went on to coach the sport. When he is not coaching, he is surfing, traveling, and working as a videographer. 

Donna Tran is an artist based in Orange County, earning her MFA at CSULB. She aspires to produce children’s books through her joy of painting and illustrative storytelling. Meanwhile she is learning and spreading knowledge amongst other artists.

Rafael Verdin is currently a coach for Beach FC he coaches B-2016’s, G-2015 and G-2013. He is a soccer coach for St. Joseph High School. They just won their 1st ever CIF and State title for the School. Rafael was a staff member for the LA Galaxy for 10 years in which he got to work alongside with Head Coach Bruce Arena and with players such as David Beckham, Robbie Keane, and Landon Donovan. He is a soccer coach at Cerritos College as well. This is Rafael’s second season coaching with LAEF!

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 School District as she volunteered on PTA Boards for over 20 years. This is Mrs. Vida’s second season working for LAEF after-school and she is so excited to get back at it!

WeBreak Hip-Hop Dance Company was founded in 2011 by Brian Wright. Brian Wright is a natural and gifted instructor in dance and has been teaching dance for the past 12 years. He loves working with children, teens and adults and has been dancing for over 17 years and breakdancing for over 12 years. He, along with a friend, founded and designed the California State University Breakers, a campus club committed to teaching the art form of breaking at Cal State University Long Beach. The CSULB Breakers won the very first intercollegiate breakdance competition at LMU in 2006. Brian also received his bachelor’s degree in computer science from CSULB.

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 attend LAHS. 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.