Our Faculty

Ms. Christine Hansen

Head of Middle School

In her 7th year at MHMS, Ms. Hansen is the Head of the Middle School Department. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development from Cal State East Bay and has taught grades 4th & 5th and English for 6th-8th grades in a private school setting from 1999-2022. She believes that the student, parent, and teacher make an A+ team when communication is open and honest for all involved. Ms. Hansen has two adult sons and enjoys camping, hiking, and visiting the beach. Her “happy place” is in Morro Bay along the Central Coast.

Mr. Sean Yeung

Staff and Campus Supervisor

Mr.Sean, as the students call him, is also a parent who joined the MHMS Community when he and his wife, Liz, registered their daughter years ago. Mr.Sean has an MA degree in Social Work from Boston University. As the Staff and Campus Supervisor, you will find him anywhere and everywhere, tending to the students' needs, supervising the playgrounds, fixing things, recycling, organizing, and never taking a moment to relax. He is always ready to help you with a warm smile and a friendly greeting!

Mr. Oguz Kaya

Math

Mrs. Sneha Sharma

Math

Ms. Sharma holds a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and chemistry and a Master’s degree in Physics, both from Rajasthan University, India. Additionally, she completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Computers from the same institution. With over five years of teaching experience in India, she is in her third year at MHMS, where she collaborates with a dedicated team of educators committed to ensuring student success. As an educator, she firmly believes that our responsibility is to teach, motivate, and inspire students to persevere, even when faced with insurmountable challenges. She recognizes that each child has unique strengths and learning styles and takes pride in supporting them at their own pace, going the extra mile to help them achieve their full potential. Beyond her professional life, she is happily married, the proud mother of a daughter about to embark on her college journey, and a son in grade 4. She enjoys traveling with her family, and her hobbies include hiking and cooking.

Mrs. Jennifer Walker

Math

Mrs. Walker has been a math teacher since 2003. She received a B.A. in Economics from UCSD, a teaching credential from Chapman University, and an M.A.Ed. in Educational Technology from Concordia University - Irvine. She holds multiple-subject teaching credentials, secondary credentials in Business Administration and Economics, and a Foundation Level 1 in Mathematics. Her greatest success in teaching is confirmation from her students that she has taught them to enjoy learning mathematics. She is married and has two adult sons. She enjoys taking Princess Cruises during my vacations and spending time with my husband, family, and my two dogs, Captain and Peaches.

Ms. Arti Arora

Math

Science

Mr. Flavio Sira

Science

Mr. Sira graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz in 2010 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. With eight years of teaching experience, he brings both expertise and a diverse perspective to the classroom, having lived in two different countries. Born and raised in Fremont, California, Mr. Sira is passionate about helping students grow and thrive in a supportive and engaging environment.

Outside of teaching, Mr. Sira has a deep love for music, especially vinyl records, and enjoys both playing and watching sports. He believes in using humor to create a fun and approachable classroom atmosphere, making learning an enjoyable journey for his students. In addition to teaching, he is also an author, having written two novels.

Mr. Sira takes great pride in his multicultural heritage, which includes Native American, Spanish, and Italian roots. His life experiences and cultural background enrich his teaching style and allow him to connect with students from all walks of life. Above all, he is dedicated to fostering curiosity and a love of learning in every student he teaches.

English

Mr. Fred Acosta

English

Mr. Acosta was born and raised in the Bay Area. He graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz in world literature and cultural studies. He has ten years of experience teaching Elementary and Middle School students at public and private schools. As a lifelong reader and writer, he is quite passionate about teaching middle school English through creative and engaging methods. In his spare time, he loves cooking, reading, watching movies, and spending time with his fiancée.

Ms. Richa Sharma

English

Ms. Richa was born and brought up in India. I have done my masters in English and have been teaching since 2013 till 2022 in India. It is her very first year in MHMS. She is going to take 6 and 7 grade English. She is a motivated English educator who works diligently to learn and implement new teaching strategies. Her teaching style caters to the needs of my learners. She immigrated to the United States in June 2022 due to her husband's work commitments. She has a little daughter who is 5 Years old and enjoys attending Kindergarten. The most outstanding achievement was when one of her students was selected to represent our school in "Pariksha pe Charcha"– a program initiated by the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Sh. Narendra Modi in the year 2022 for the kids of class 10 to encourage them for the upcoming board exams. She loves spending her free time with her daughter and husband. She enjoys the funny drawings made by her little munchkin.

History

Ms. Lydia Hirsch

History

Lydia Hirsch is a passionate history educator who studied history at UC Berkeley, emphasizing modern Eastern European history. Her favorite part of teaching is seeing students' curiosity activated and encouraging their drive to gain more knowledge. In her free time, she enjoys reading both fiction and non-fiction, writing poems and short stories, spending time with family and friends, watching movies, and being in nature as often as possible.

Ms. Rekha Raghavendran

History

As a dedicated and team-oriented education professional passionate about educating young minds, Ms. Rekha has taught elementary, middle, and high school students for the past 33 years. In her vast experience in the classroom, she has taught all grades from Kindergarten through 10th. She holds a Master's degree in Education from Portland State University, Portland, OR, and a Master's degree in English Literature from the University of Madras, India. In addition, she also holds a Diplôme-Supérieur in French from the Alliance-française de Madras, India. Ms. Rekha has previously taught 2nd Grade and middle school French at Mission Hills Middle School and has rejoined the staff this year as a middle school History teacher. Outside work, Ms. Rekha enjoys walking, savoring nature, traveling with her daughter and husband, and relaxing at home. Her daughter, an alumnus of MHMS, is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Economics at the University of California, Berkeley. Born and raised in India and having lived in the U.S. for 36 years, Ms. Rekha is pleased and excited to teach World History: Ancient Civilizations to her 6th Grade History class students.

Electives

Mr. Jay Hsu

Art

In his sixth year at MHMS, Mr.Hsu is excited to continue his art program for 4th-8th graders at MHMS. Mr.Hsu holds a Bachelor’s in Applied Science in Motion Graphic Design from the Ex'pression College for Digital Arts Emeryville, CA. With a special love for teaching, Mr.Hsu is working on his Master's in Education. He has over eight years of experience instructing children ages four to fifteen. Mr.Hsu loves sharing his knowledge and creativity with the students at MHMS.

Ms. Sylvia Gonsalves

Technology

This is Ms. Gonsalves's second year at MHMS. She was born and raised in the Bay Area. She graduated from Cal East Bay with a BA in Computer Science and Business. She attended UC Berkeley, where she completed her Education Teaching requirements. She has over twenty-five years of experience teaching Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, High School, and Adults in Computer Technology in public and private schools. She has a deep passion for working with students as they are eager to learn new things, and has taught courses such as Computer Applications, AutoDesk/AutoCAD, Robotics, 3D printing, Laser Printing, and many different programming languages such as Scratch, HTML, Javascript, and Python. As a Technology Teacher, she strives to make the classroom learning environment challenging, demanding, fun, and engaging. She enjoys the everyday challenges and opportunities that arise when working in a school setting with her fellow teachers, staff, administration, and especially the students of diverse cultures and skill levels. She and her students have learned that each day brings new and exciting challenges in the forever-changing world of Technology. In her spare time, she loves to be with her family. She has a daughter(22), and a son (49), and a grandson Noah (5). She loves swimming, going to the movies, and horseback riding on the beach.

Mr. Stuart Pace

French

Mr.Pace has over 18 years of teaching experience. He has a BA in Classical Greek from BYU and an MA in Classical Philology from UCLA. He loves languages (fluent in multiple languages), poetry, literature, art, music, science, drama, and films with subtitles. As an aspiring author, Mr.Pace tries to help students unlock their inner author. He also loves to incorporate music into his classroom. In his 7th year at MHMS, Mr.Pace is excited to teach French to all elementary grades. When he is not teaching, Mr.Pace loves to spend time with his wife and two children.

Ms. Nadyne Ndjoke

French

Mme Nadyne Ndjoke is an accomplished French native-speaker educator. She holds a Bachelor's degree in "Histoire des religions et des civilizations," a Master's in Education, and a Single Subject Teacher Credential from California. Since 2008, Nadyne has enriched her students' lives across various locations: in France at Ivry-sur-Seine, in Cameroon at Lycée Français de Dominique Savio and the Professional College School Matgenie, in Minnesota at Concordia Language Villages, in Oakland at the Francophone School, and in San Francisco at Lycée Français. This year, she embarks on her first teaching role at MHMS, where she continues to transform her French classes into dynamic, immersive experiences. Through her innovative approach, Mme Nadyne's students enhance their writing, speaking, listening, and reading skills and embark on a journey to France and other French-speaking countries worldwide. She integrates art, sketches, cooking, and Francophone history into her lessons, making language learning both engaging and culturally enriching.

Outside the classroom, Mme Nadyne enjoys quality time with her husband and their two blessed children, Dunamis and Kairos. She likes reading, singing, dancing, painting, and being calm in nature.

Mrsl Frida Obeso-Larson

Spanish

Mrs. Frida Larson-Obeso, was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. She completed her studies at the University of Guadalajara, obtaining a degree in Tourism and Gastronomy. Her professional career led her to live in the beautiful city of Puerto Vallarta, where she worked as a cook in various restaurants and hotels. Her passion for cooking also took her to Germany, where she worked as a pastry chef. She gained international experience there and enriched my culinary repertoire with European techniques and flavors. Thirteen years ago, she started her career as a teacher, and for the last six years, she has been a distinguished teacher at MHMS. Her love for teaching and cooking combines with her educational approach, inspiring her students to explore and enjoy the culinary arts. She is happily married and the mother of three children. The eldest is 31, the middle is 25, and the youngest is my only girl, 20. Besides her love for her family and cooking, she enjoys learning new things whenever possible. Her constant curiosity and dedication to continuous learning make me happy and proud.

Mr. Kevin Silveira

Music

Mr. Silveira is a passionate music educator with twenty-two years of teaching experience in the classroom and private settings. He is excited to start his second year teaching at MHMS. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Spanish from SJSU. Mr. Silveira loves to connect with children and mentor them along their path toward their goals and dreams. Outside of the classroom, he has extensive performance credits, sharing the stage with Latin music artists and the Bay Area's Grammy award-winning Pacific Mambo Orchestra. Other hobbies dear to Mr. Silveira's heart are dancing and photography. You may also find him outdoors hiking, at the beach, or enjoying evenings at the opera and ballet.

Coach Kevin Swayzer

Physical Education

Coach Kenndra Fox

Physical Education

Mrs. Alejandra Rosales

Librarian

Mrs. Rosales is in her 9th year as a librarian at MHMS. She is passionate about maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for all students in the library. Fluent in English and Spanish, Mrs. Rosales loves inspiring students to discover the joy of reading and believes everyone is a reader—they must find the right book. Mrs. Rosales has been married for 26 years and has two young men who graduated from MHMS. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and sons, hiking, watching Golden State Warriors and Niners games, and going to the movies.

Junior Kindergarten

Ms. Mayette Losloso

Jr. K Teacher

Ms. Mayette began teaching 38 years ago in the Philippines before coming to the United States in 1991. She is returning for her 15th year at MHMS as a Junior K teacher. With her educational background and extensive experience, Ms. Mayette makes an effort to go above and beyond to meet all her students' educational needs. She ensures that all of her students are well-prepared for kindergarten. She creates a warm and nurturing environment where children feel safe and comfortable to take on the challenges and content of her Jr. K class. She exudes endless energy driven by her love for all her little ones. Her creative projects and those of her students decorate the walls outside her classroom. She loves spending time with her two sons, shopping, traveling, and going to the beach in her free time.

Mrs. Irene Arcaina

Jr. K Assistant

Mrs. Paula Phung

Jr. K Assistant

Kindergarten

Ms. Candice Simpson

Kindergarten Teacher

Ms. Candice is a mother of 3 (a college student, a high schooler, and a middle schooler). This is her second year at MHMS. She has been in education for almost 20 years. She loves reading to her students and sparking their creativity through art and play. She wants all children to develop a love of learning and for their Kindergarten year to be full of excitement and the joy of learning new things.

Mrs. Priscilla Prado

Kindergarten Teacher

Mrs. Priscilla has been part of MHMS for 11 years. Midway through her work at MHMS, she attended Chabot and got her AA. This will be her third year as a teacher. She loves to bake, explore the world, and try new foods in her free time. Her favorite sports team is the SF 49ers, and I love shopping at Target and Amazon.

Ms. Briseida Elias

Kindergarten Teacher's Assistant

Ms. Bris has worked with us at Mission Hills for almost four years, starting her second year as a Kindergarten assistant. She helps kids with schoolwork and resolving issues on the playground. She enjoys all things Disney, crocheting, and getting together with friends.

1st Grade

Mrs. Kathy Miedema

1st Grade Teacher

Mission Hills Middle School has been home for her for over ten years. Her daughters both attended school here, and she has taught first grade here for four years. She and her husband have lived in the Bay Area for more than 20 years, and they met at Washington State University, where she graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Communications. She also teaches journalism, mentors high school students, and helps to create and direct many programs for youth. Her favorite thing about my work is introducing young students to favorite books as we lay a strong foundation for reading and writing, the basis of learning and critical thinking.

Mrs. Deepthi Damera

1st Grade Teacher

Mrs. Deepthi earned a Bachelor's degree in English Literature in 2004 and has since completed Early Childhood Education coursework at Chabot College in Hayward, CA. With a teaching career that began in 2016, she views teaching not as a profession, but as a deep passion. From a young age, Mrs. Deepthi aspired to educate young minds and lay the groundwork for their future success by instilling knowledge, confidence, and self-reliance. In the classroom, she creates engaging and dynamic lessons, incorporating fun activities that encourage students to think outside the box and challenge themselves. The ultimate goal is to foster independent thinking and boost students' self-confidence, ensuring they have a solid foundation for their future academic achievements.

Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with family, particularly through playing board games. Another passion is Carnatic music, andshe loves to sing with their boys, sharing the joy of music as a cherished family activity.

2nd Grade

Mrs. Tawana Easter

2nd Grade Teacher

Mrs. Easter is a second-grade teacher, and she is going into her second year of teaching at Mission Hills Middle School. Mrs. Easter holds a Master's of Arts in Elementary Education, a Master's of Education in Adult & Continual/Literacy Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Social Science Education. Mrs. Easter also holds an Early Childhood Education Program Director Permit from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Mrs. Easter has a heart for making a difference in the lives of others and enjoys working with children.

3rd Grade

Mrs. Richa Tyagi

3rd Grade Teacher

This is Mrs. Tyagi’s 6th year at MHMS. She will teach 3rd grade and is excited to join the MHMS Family. Ms. Tyagi has a B.A. in Education, majoring in Psychology and Economics. She also possesses a Certificate in Early Childhood Development. She has over 15 years of experience, teaching elementary grades in various settings. Ms.Tyagi guides her students in a way that helps them develop a love for learning and enhances their social, emotional, and cognitive development through age-appropriate activities. Her well-planned lessons, classroom management techniques, and caring attitude toward children have helped her achieve her goals. In her free time, she loves to read, paint, and spend time with her family, ”hiking” being a family favorite.

Mrs. Suma Joshi

3rd Grade Teacher

This is Ms. Joshi's 6th year at MHMS. She enjoys teaching 3rd graders with the countless excitement year after year. She has a B.A. in Human Development from California State East Bay University in Hayward, emphasizing Child Development. She brings over eight years of experience, nurturing, and creativity. She is an amazing team player. She loves to empower her students and make them excited about learning. She likes to incorporate classroom discussions and hands-on activities and is flexible about incorporating effective methods to provide the best learning experience for her students. In her free time, she loves to spend time with her family and get creative with Lego blocks.

4th Grade

Mrs. Tina Do

4th Grade Teacher

With her passion for teaching, unconditional love for children, and perpetual enthusiasm, Ms. Do is ecstatic to continue teaching fourth grade at MHMS. Ms. Do possesses a Bachelor’s in Psychology from San Jose State University, a Master’s in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix, and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from California. Her ultimate goal is to provide a safe, interactive, and productive learning environment where all students can excel, regardless of their learning styles or abilities. Ms. Do has been married for nearly 18 years and has a 17-year-old son and a 12-year-old daughter, who also attends MHMS. She enjoys spending time with her family, running, reading, and practicing piano in her spare time.

Tajuddina Ali

4th Grade Teacher

Ms. Tajuddina is now in her first year at Mission Hills Middle School. Before this, she taught college-level courses for 13 years. She holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Central Oklahoma and a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. In addition to their professional accomplishments, Ms. Tajuddina has been happily married for 33 years and has a daughter. In their free time, she enjoys cooking, watching movies, and spending quality time with family.

5th Grade

Mr. Mitch Lin

5th Grade Teacher

In his 15th year at MHMS, Mr. Mitch Lin continues to teach one of the 5th-grade classes. Mr. Lin has a B.S. from California State East Bay University Hayward and a Masters in Education from the University of Phoenix. He also holds a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in the State of California. Mitch has over 20 years of experience working with students in a variety of settings. He strives to create an environment where students feel safe, challenged, and motivated to learn. When not teaching, Mitch enjoys spending time with his wife and two children.

Mrs. Bonnie Bonar

5th Grade Teacher

This will be Mrs. Bonar's 9th year teaching at Mission Hills Middle School and her 29th year teaching 5th grade. Mrs. Bonar has a B.A. in English with a minor in Elementary Education, emphasizing Developmental Reading. She received her education at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York. Mrs. Bonar uses cooperative learning within the classroom, including hands-on and STEM activities that encourage creativity and thoughtful thinking. Mrs. Bonar dabbles in fictional writing and reading Stephen King in her spare time.

Supporting/Substitute Staff

Ms. Christine Reyes

Substitute

Ms. Christine graduated from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies. They have worked at Mission Hills Middle School for 12 years and have thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Initially starting as a kindergarten assistant, she now works closely with all grade levels and serves as the primary substitute teacher. Known for their colorful and creative personality, she is always crafting or creating something new, often using tools like Canva and their Cricut. Additionally, it is an understatement to say that Ms. Christine is a huge fan of the Golden State Warriors—they are an enthusiastic supporter of the team.