Vanessa graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Hutchins School of Liberal Studies at Sonoma State University and received her teaching credential in May 2007. Not only did the program give her the tools to be a powerful teacher, it encouraged critical thinking, promoted an ethic of caring and understanding, and facilitated the acquisition of lifelong learning skills. These are the values she hopes to instill for the students in her own classroom.

Vanessa taught for three and a half years at the SSU Children’s School where she was able to develop a child-centered emergent curriculum, collaborate with colleagues, embrace the diversity families had to offer the school, and cultivate a learning environment that invited
exploration and discovery.

Vanessa works to create warm, nurturing environments where students are engaged in meaningful learning centers and projects.  She believes in thematic, hands-on learning that encourages critical and creative thinking among her students.  

Vanessa especially loves the sense of community that the families and staff bring to DCS. She began working at Discovery Charter School in the Fall of 2007 and is excited to be part of this phenomenal learning community.