school the way it should be
Supported by amazing teachers
Each morning, teachers at Pacific Academy Encinitas see every students’ face, be they happy, tired, eager, or anxious. It is a rare opportunity to work with students in such a way that we are able to really see each one of them, and how the various stressors of life and being young, affect them. Whether it's in or out of the classroom, assessing how we can best serve Pacific Academy students, is our highest priority.
Pacific Academy Encinitas is a school that exists because of the passion the teachers and administrators possess, to become a school that lives up to what we imagined a school would be like when we were in college. In many ways, it is rare in our modern society to work at and attend a school that is more concerned with critical thinking and individuality, as opposed to how well a student scores on a standardized test.
Many of us come from public school backgrounds; places we know as being often overwhelmed by the student population, and where being another face in the crowd is the most common experience. In reflection, we look back at our high school selves and think, “What would have been different if I would have had received this level of teacher support? What confidence might I have gained from a teacher who had a real concern for my well-being?” Working at PAE we are able to answer those questions for ourselves and our students, every day.
MARIO GONZALEZ
PRINCIPAL
Administrative Credential
Single Subject Teaching Credential
M. Ed., Diversity in the Classroom
B.A., History.
Mario is an extraordinary hands-on leader at PAE who has been with Pacific Academy for over 15 years. His educational journey started well before he earned his first degree. Mario began working with Native American youth in California and Hawaii to help them find their pathway to college. He became inspired by the prospect of assisting students in achieving their academic and social goals.
After graduating college, Mario entered the teaching world and began his career in the Hawaiian Islands. While a full-time teacher, he decided to continue his education and earned a Master's degree in Classroom Diversity, focusing on Cognitive Development.
As a fully credentialed administrator and teacher, Mario has worked as an educator for decades in the public, charter, and private school arenas. His experience working with students in large schools and small-by-design programs has shaped his educational philosophy. From Maui to Los Angeles, East County San Deigo to North County San Diego, Mario’s extensive experience gives him a unique perspective on education.
Mario has happily been a principal at Pacific Academy Encinitas since 2014.
BRITTNEY MABUS
DEAN OF STUDENTS, English Teacher
M.A., Teaching, University of Southern California, Los Angles, California
B.S., Early Childhood Education and a minor in English, Iona College, New Rochelle, New York
After growing up in New York, Brittney relocated to California in order to further her teaching career. During her four years at Iona University, she played lacrosse in the MAAC conference and was involved in several different community service programs. After graduating, she continued her education by earning a Master of Arts in Teaching from USC.
Brittney has been teaching at Pacific Academy for nearly ten years. She teaches AP English courses and serves our PAE community as Dean of Students. Her educational philosophy is to cultivate a student-centered environment that encourages personal growth and critical thinking through inquiry, exploration, and discovery.
STEPHEN STRONG
DIRECTOR OF ACADEMICS, MATH DEPARTMENT HEAD
M.A., Education, University of Oregon
B.S., Mathematics and General Science, University of Oregon
Mr. Strong has been teaching at Pacific Academy Encinitas for the past 10 years. He has over 20 years of experience in teaching mathematics and science.
He enjoys traveling with his kids and is an avid fan of his Oregon Ducks. Mr. Strong has a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and General Science as well as a Master's of Education from the University of Oregon.
MAY HO LEE
Executive Admissions Assistant, Int'l Student Liaison
B. Arch., University of Southern California
May graduated from USC with a degree in Architecture. After working in the architectural field for some years, she took a break to take care of her family. During that time, she actively volunteered at her son's school as a graphic editor for a school newspaper, LEGO league coach, Science Olympiad committee member, and Boy Scout troop Advancement Chairperson.
May switched gears to the educational field because she finds working with young people so deeply rewarding. She connects with the international students especially as she shares a similar background has come to the US when she was a teenager.
LAYLA HRZINA
Admissions, Marketing & graphic design
Layla moved from the East Coast to Encinitas in 1997, and would consider herself a proud local. Cardiff-by-the-Sea is where she calls home, along with her daughter, Olivia. Layla began a career in Marketing in the medical field while earning her BA in Communication at Cal State University San Marcos.
Layla loves to read, she's an avid beach-goer, a big foodie, and loves the outdoors. Travel has also been a major part of her life and personal growth, it is her joie de vivre. Layla's love of travel and cultural diversity encouraged her to become a mentor with International Rescue Committee (IRC), where she cultivated her love of working with children and families from all backgrounds and nationalities. She is delighted to be working with the Pacific Academy team.
JAYE LEE
Accountant
Jaye was born and raised in South Korea, where she attended Ewha Woman's University and attained 2 Bachelor's degrees, the first in Public Administration, and the second in Elementary Education. She relocated to Irvine, CA in 2011 in her early 30s. Having planned to stay only for 3 years at first, she ended up deciding to stay and become a Californian forever, fascinated by the beautiful weather! So the 3-year plan was canceled and now Rancho Bernardo, SD has become her permanent home, with one handsome guy, two adorable kids, and one very cute puppy.
Jaye loves numbers, coffee, and children.
You can tell how much she loves numbers by her career choice, how much she loves coffee by her photo, and how much she loves children, by her major!
She is so happy to join the Pacific Academy team, where she can work with numbers, be surrounded by children... and coffee is always on her desk!
LISA DECRAUSAZ
aDMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT & LUNCH MONITOR
Lisa is a Sothern California native and currently resides in South Oceanside with her doggy, Coco. She loves cooking, hiking Torrey Pines, yoga, and walking the beach in search of sand dollars and sea-glass.
In recent years, Lisa attained her real estate license and is also a property manager. She is a master of the "side-hustle." Early in her career, Lisa was an Instructional Assistant for Encinitas Union School District, and also a Kitchen Manager for Solana Beach School District. In the 10 years she has worked in schools, Lisa cultivated her love of working with children. She feels so fortunate to have this opportunity at Pacific Academy.
LISA PALMER
COLLEGE COUnseLOR
Lisa moved from the East Coast to San Diego as a teen. She attended a local private high school and earned her undergraduate degree in Child Psychology at SDSU. Her passion for working with children eventually landed her in the classroom as a 1st grade teacher and evolved to AP teaching. She has been recognized as a top-performing educator dedicated to serving diverse communities.
Lisa specializes in building meaningful relationships with students, offering personalized educational plans that align with their unique academic and career goals. Her compassionate, attentive approach ensures students and their families receive thoughtful guidance through the complexities of higher education.
When Lisa is not counseling, she is spending time with her three children, collecting shells on the beach, and competing on the pickleball court. She loves sporting events and supporting youth sports. She is a proud UCSD, Cal Poly SLO, CSU, and fur baby mom.
ELLA CHOMIAK
Elementary school Teacher
B.A. Liberal Studies, University of San Diego
M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, University of San Diego
Originally from New Jersey, Ella Chomiak moved to San Diego to attend the University of San Diego, where she earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees. She holds dual credentials in General Education and Special Education and brings a strong foundation in psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis. Her teaching experience includes a diverse range of classroom settings across San Diego, supporting both general and special education students.
Ella is passionate about relationship-centered teaching and creating inclusive, curiosity-driven classroom communities. She believes in empowering students to advocate for themselves, collaborate with others, and thrive both academically and socially. Her teaching style blends structure with creativity, emphasizing student voice, equity, and experiential learning.
Outside the classroom, Ella leads an active lifestyle and enjoys spending time outdoors through running, hiking, skiing, swimming, and relaxing at the beach. She also loves to travel, journal, read, and seek out meaningful ways to stay connected to the world around her.
KATE ACKELL
Elementary School Teacher
Kate was born in New York City and was later raised in San Diego, California, and grew up in Del Mar. She graduated from the University of Oregon where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Educational Foundations with a minor in Ethnic Studies and then a Master's Degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in English Speakers of Other Languages. Most recently in Eugene, Oregon, Kate substitute taught for grades K-5 and taught second grade and is now teaching back in her hometown of San Diego.
Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, walking her dog, taking pilates classes, shopping, finding new restaurants, traveling, and reading at the beach.
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AMANDA BENNETT
elementary SCHOOL teacher
Amanda was born and raised in Orange County and attended the University of California, Santa Barbara for undergraduate and graduate school. She earned her Bachelor's degree in political science with a minor in education, followed by a Master's degree in education and a multiple-subject teaching credential.
While in Santa Barbara, Amanda led initiatives in elementary education focused on environmental science and mindfulness. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time in nature- hiking, relaxing at the beach, practicing yoga, creating art, and reading.
KATIE BAXTER
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER
B.A. in Liberal Studies, University of San Diego
M.A. in Education, University of San Diego
Katie was born in Seattle, Washington, and lived there until five years ago when she moved to San Diego for school. She attended the University of San Diego for both her undergraduate and graduate studies, earning a bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies and a master's degree in Education with a focus on curriculum and instruction. Coming from a family of educators, Katie has always aspired to become a teacher. From a young age, she spent her summers leading summer camps and youth soccer programs.
Outside the classroom, Katie played collegiate soccer at USD for five years and served as team captain in her final season. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing pickleball, doing hot yoga, traveling, and relaxing at the beach.
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MARIA SANTOS-OCHOA
Spanish TEACHER
B.A. Latin American Studies | San Diego State University
Maria was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. She graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Latin American Studies. She has 20 years of classroom experience with Pre-K-8th grade students, faculty and parents. Maria began her teaching career as a College Prep Advisor for the Student Outreach Services at San Diego State University. She later became a Teacher's Assistant at Kit Carson Elementary School. Since then she has held a position as Dean of Students at Harriet Tubman Charter School and has taught Spanish Immersion as a visiting teacher for the San Diego Unified School District.
Maria enjoys teaching all grade levels. Her hobbies include reading, swimming, crafting and recently has taken up trail running. Her dream one day is to qualify for the Boston Marathon.
KELLY PAWLAK
SCIENCe, oceanography, home economics
B.S., Biology and Chemistry
Saint Francis University
Kelly graduated from Saint Francis University with a Bachelor's Degree in Biology with a concentration in Marine Biology and a Minor in Chemistry. After graduation, she worked at several outdoor education facilities on both the east and west coast teaching marine science.
Kelly continued her love for working with children by working as an academic coach modifying curriculum for students with IEPs and 504s at High Tech High Media Arts and High Tech Middle Arts in San Marcos. While at HTMMA, she also taught math and science.
KATE SETIAN-GONZALEZ
ENGLISH, art, YEARBOOK
Kate was born and raised in Southern California. She grew up in Huntington Beach and attended California State University, Long Beach for her undergraduate and graduate courses. She has a BA in Liberal Studies with a Concentration in Health, Physical Education, and Life Management. She earned her Multiple Subject Credential in 1998 through Long Beach State.
While working as an elementary teacher in Long Beach, California Kate pursued her MA in Education with a focus on Curricular Design through Long Beach State. Kate holds a Single Subject Credential in English from UCLA and has worked in grades K-12 and Special Education for over a decade.
Kate is married and has three children, two lovely girls, and an inquisitive boy. She and her family enjoy spending time at the beach and visiting with family and friends.
DYLAN JONES
History
Department chaiR,
Social science
M.A., Education, University of Phoenix
B.A., History, Cal State University Fullerton
A.S., Mathematics/ Science, Mt. San Jacinto Junior College
Dylan Jones holds a Master’s Degree in Education and a Cleared California Teaching Credential from the University of Phoenix, a Bachelor’s Degree in History from California State University, Fullerton, and an Associate’s Degree in Math/Science from Mt. San Jacinto Junior College. Dylan cleared his Teaching Credential through High Tech High and holds a Certificate of Merit from the Southern California AP Institute for AP US History.
Dylan believes that education is the key to creating a peaceful, global community. Dylan’s academic dream is to contribute to the world in a positive way, which is also his reason for deciding to become a teacher. Dylan currently teaches AP US History, US History, U.S. Government and Politics, Economics, Music Theory 1, and Music Theory 2 at Pacific Academy, Encinitas. When he's not teaching in the classroom, you can either find him sweating in the boxing gym, or on stage somewhere rocking out with his band.
MICAH QUINTANA
SCIENCE, math
Micah graduated from California State Polytechnic University of San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor's Degree in Physics. During this time he worked with the Robotics Education and Competition Foundation to help organize and run tournaments as well as making robotics accessible to students in 6-12. His experience with working with students during that time, he decided to become a teacher.
After graduation, he taught at Central Coast New Tech High School and Nipomo High School. During this time he was a football and baseball coach and the anime club advisor for students on campus. He is excited to join Pacific academy and is looking forward to the school year.
KEVIN KUHLMAN
SOCIAL SCIENCE, ENGLISH
Single Subject Teaching Credential
B.A. History, Point Loma Nazarene University
A California native, Kevin was born and raised in Santa Clarita, California. After graduating high school with 2 years of college credit, he went to Point Loma Nazarene to pursue a degree in History. While there, he developed a passion for working with students through his volunteering at Young Life Point Loma. Kevin graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and his Single Subject Teaching Credential.
In addition to teaching in various school districts throughout San Diego, Kevin has worked with student development organizations such as Junior Achievements and Young Life Point Loma. He especially enjoys working with students from difficult means or backgrounds. In his free time, he enjoys surfing, skateboarding, trail running, and reading science fiction.
ILANA MAREK
SPANISH, ENGLISH
M.A., Education, National University, San Diego, California
M.A., Hispanic Literature, Universidad Iberoamericana, Mexico City, Mexico
B.A., Sociology, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts
Ilana is proud to call San Diego her home after a few years living outside the city. She has worked on furthering her teaching career in the Vista Unified and San Dieguito Union High School Districts in California. She is excited to be a part of the Pacific Academy community and is looking forward to working with her students and helping them further their success to the best of their abilities.
KRAMER SULLIVAN
AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
Mr. Sullivan has been working in education in one form or another since 2014. The son of a retired Air Force pilot, Mr. Sullivan's childhood was mostly spent abroad, living in Belgium, Italy, and Germany. The opportunity to travel at a young age created a strong passion for history and geography. However, despite his passion for history, Mr. Sullivan got his B.A. in English from Cal State San Bernardino. After working as a journalist, and spending a brief period in the army, he realized how rewarding teaching was and earned his M.A. in Education and a single subject credential in social science from University of Redlands. Since earning his degree, Mr. Sullivan has taught primarily English and history to middle schoolers, high schoolers, and college students, most of whom were English language learners.
The key aspect to Mr. Sullivan's teaching is his passion. He hopes that he can help the students find English and history as interesting as he does. In his free time, Mr. Sullivan kayaks, plays video games, and makes educational videos.
CHASE TAYLOR
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Mr. Taylor is an enthusiastic computer scientist with a passion for games. After falling in love with game development as early as middle school, he pursued computer science in college, rising to the position of the President of the Video Game Development Club at UCI, a 150+ member organization devoted to learning computer science through making games.
Since college, he has served as the Academic Director of Tutoring Club of Costa Mesa, tutoring students and developing curriculum for the center, and has learned the common pitfalls that students fall into and how to avoid them. Mr. Taylor hopes to spark in his students a passion for computer science by helping them discover what inspires them.