Robert "Mr. S" Salvari- Math
“Mr. S” has worked in the field of education for over a decade. His professional experience includes serving as a classroom volunteer, working as a teacher’s assistant, and inspiring students as a classroom teacher from grades K-Adult. He has volunteered in his community in a variety of capacities including serving as a Scout leader for the Boy Scouts of America and as a football coach and division coordinator for the American Youth Soccer Organization. He is a proud father of three; Robert, Ethan, and Serena. His hobbies include exercise, reading, and playing the guitar.
“There is a saying: 'Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift.' That is why it's called the present.”
To contact Robert Salvari, email [email protected].
Joseph Kim- Math
Joseph Kim wanted to be a teacher ever since he could remember. His love for teaching comes from being able to build relationships with students that will further their academic potential, and mentor them to be responsible individuals. He is very patient with students, but always holds them to a high expectation because he truly believes that all students can become successful.
To contact Joseph Kim, email [email protected].
Karen Benzino- Math
Karen Benzino is an educator with 15 years of experience in the classroom. Her educational journey began with the attainment of a Bachelor's Degree in Child Development, specializing in Special Education, from California State University, Northridge. Karen's teaching career spans both elementary and middle school instruction within the private sector. She possesses a versatile skill set and has taught multiple subjects in middle school, including English, science, and history, before eventually focusing her expertise on the field of mathematics. Her greatest source of satisfaction stems from motivating her students to exceed their academic objectives, with a primary focus on enhancing their independence and self-assurance through engaging academic challenges. Recently, Karen achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a Masters of Education in Educational Leadership from American College of Education.
To contact Karen Benzino, email [email protected].
Layla Nourbakhsh- Science
Layla Nourbakhsh is a dedicated educator with over two decades of experience, 13 years of which were devoted to teaching. Her expertise shines in combination classes, where she showcases versatility in meeting diverse student needs. Beyond the classroom, Layla, a mother of two girls, champions early creativity and learning, using her free time to nurture exploration and self-expression through the arts. Layla's unwavering passion, interactive teaching style, and commitment to student development make her a valuable asset in the ever-evolving field of education.
To contact Layla , email lnourbakhsh@emek.org.
Wendy McAdam- Humanities
Mrs. McAdam grew up in Etiwanda, California, graduating from Etiwanda High School. She went on to earn an Associate of Arts degree at Chaffey College and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies from Humboldt State University where she met her husband. More recently, Mrs. McAdam graduated from Capella University with a Masters of Science in Education with an emphasis in curriculum and instruction. She began her teaching career in 1997 at a private school in Simi Valley. Although she has taught grades third through eighth, her greatest joy is teaching middle school English and history. After twenty-three years of teaching at the same school, Mrs. McAdam felt the need for a new challenge. She feels blessed to have found a new home at Emek. Currently, she and her family reside in Simi Valley. Her husband is a recreation coordinator with Conejo Recreation and Parks District in Thousand Oaks. They have two amazing daughters. The oldest is a recent graduate from Sonoma State University. While the youngest is just starting her college career at the University of Santa Cruz. On the weekends, she and her family enjoy watching movies, playing games, and strolling through museums.
To contact Wendy McAdam, email [email protected].
Amanda Mukozaka- Humanities
I was born in Toda, Japan and raised in Simi Valley, California. I immigrated here as a child before gaining citizenship in ‘95. I graduated from Cornell College with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education. For 6 years, I worked with children via summer camps and writing workshops as a counselor, tutor, and Assistant Camp Director. After graduating college, I joined the faculty of that school as the Music Director teaching preschool - 8th grade, and also spent time as a substitute teacher for middle school English and History. After taking a short break from education, I returned to the classroom and have found a new home here at Emek. Currently, I reside in Mar Vista. I'm an avid reader and enjoy hiking, traveling, crocheting and going to concerts with friends. I also often go to Seattle, Washington or New Jersey/New York to spend time with extended family.
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