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Administration Staff Member Profiles

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Kim Vandergrift

Preschool Director

Office: (858) 487-0824 Ext 215
E-Mail:

Hi, I’m Kim Vandergrift, Director of RBCPC Preschool.   Working with young children is a passion of mine.  I have worked with children for over 30 years- from babysitter, to teacher, and now preschool director.  I choose to work with young children because I love their joy for life and excitement in exploring and learning. I believe in the developmental approach to early childhood education focusing on the “whole child” as well as creating an environment that is nurturing and loving with opportunities for children to experiment, explore, and discover themselves and the world around them. I consider it a great privilege to be able to share my love for Christ with preschool children and teach them about God’s love.

I have two amazing kids who have grown up in San Diego most of their lives. I love photography, sudoku, games, watching sports, crafts, and spending time with friends and family.

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Lisa Genovese

Administration & Finance Assistant

Office: (858) 487-0824 Ext. 226
E-Mail:

I joined the staff at RBCPC Preschool in 2004 and have the wonderful privilege of being a teacher in our Two-Year Old and Older Two-Year Old programs. In addition, I work in the Preschool office as the tuition and finance administrator. I love having the opportunity to get to know and share time with our Preschool children and families. Engaging with children and seeing and feeling their joy and enthusiasm as they learn, create, and experience the world around them, is truly joyful -- it is an absolute pleasure and privilege to share in their Preschool adventures! I have a BA degree in Social Science and have worked in the field of Early Childhood Education for 20+ years. My husband and I have three lovely daughters—our oldest daughter is in San Francisco where she works in the tourism industry, our middle daughter is a recent college graduate, living and working in San Diego, and our youngest daughter (an RBCPC Preschool alum!) is off to New York City this fall, to pursue a BFA degree in musical theatre. Outside of Preschool, I love spending time with my family and playing with our sweet pups, hiking and exploring San Diego, watching football, playing the piano, and experiencing live music and theatre. 

Teaching Staff Member Profiles

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Ali Aguilar

Learning Together Teacher

My first experience with RBCPC was in college when I worked at RBCPC as an aide to a student with special needs. I was immediately drawn to RBCPC’s commitment to learning through play and inclusion of all children. I’m thrilled that my children now have the opportunity to play and grow at RBCPC.

I received my MA in Special Education from San Diego State University and I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.  Before having children, I taught children with autism spectrum disorders and developed curriculum for children with special needs.  It is a joy to teach Growing Together and Learning Together.  I feel blessed to be part of the beginning of the preschool adventure for many of our students.  In my free time I love spending time with my husband and my daughter and son, playing at the beach, baking, canning and being involved in church activities.

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Kat Andersen

Learning Together Teacher

I feel so blessed to be part of such a warm and supportive staff here at RBCPC. Although I'm new to this amazing preschool community, I'd love to share some of my background with you. I received my undergraduate degree at The University of Texas at Austin in Communication Science and Disorders, specializing in Speech-Language Pathology. I continued on to receive my Masters in Deaf Education and Hearing Science from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and I'm certified by the AG Bell Academy as a Listening and Spoken Language Specialist. I've worked in public schools, private schools, and early intervention programs across the U.S. While I'm not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and my three children who are 7, 5, and 3 years old. We enjoy the beach, hiking, parks, and watching movies. 

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Ashley Barcelos

Lead Teacher

I feel very fortunate to be surrounded by so much love, support, and years of experience as I begin my first year as a lead teacher here at RBCPC Preschool. My background is in Early Childhood Education and while I was a homemaker, I utilized every opportunity I could to be in the classroom helping and teaching. Watching children grow and discover new skills is such a rewarding feeling. My high school sweetheart and I have been together for 26 years. We have 2 amazing kids, our son is attending the University of San Diego to study Mechanical Engineering and play football. Our daughter is a senior in High School this year and we hope she continues to keep busy through her sports and extracurricular activities. We have a sweet and cuddly 75-pound poodle named Jack and we love to be with friends and family at home or on the beach.

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Stephanie Camerino

Lead Teacher/ Outdoor Teacher

I started working at RBCPC in 2007. I  feel very blessed each and every day to be apart of a loving, spiritual, caring, and respectful environment. Our Mission stands for  who we are and working in a play-based rich environment is so rewarding! I have lived in Rancho Bernardo since 1980. I  married a long time resident, John Camerino, of R.B. in 1993, We have 2 grown college men, Zachary and Joshua. Both are alumni of RBCPC Preschool. 

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Sabrina Castro

Assistant Teacher

I started at RBCPC Preschool as a student observer in the two's classroom, then shortly after I joined the Preschool staff in 2020 in the Growing Together class and in the 4's class. I received my A.A. in Child Adolescent Development at Palomar College in 2022. I am working towards my Bachelor's from CSUSM (graduating in 2024). I love being a part of RBCPC Preschool and I am thankful to be surrounded by amazing support from the other teachers. Aside from working at the Preschool, I've also worked as a nanny and tutored foster children, which have brought me great joy and each child has a special place in my heart. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family either going to the trampoline park with my younger brother, meeting my mom and sister for lunch, or going to concerts or fishing with my dad. 

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Nancy Engstrom

Assistant Teacher

My history at RBCPC Preschool started as a parent, progressed to a lunch bunch teacher, and continues as an assistant teacher; All with a group of people who share, respect and love the life of our Preschool. My last 3 children had the opportunity to attend RBCPC and now it's a joy to welcome my grandchildren here, as well!  

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Michelle Fenlason

Outdoor Teacher

I count myself fortunate to be a part of the RBCPC preschool staff for the last 11 years.   Through the years I have worked with 2’s, 3’s, 4’s, Pre-K, and Lunch Bunch and now I am very excited to be the outdoor teacher.  As an alumni parent, I knew I was going to be working with a great group of women who truly love children and I have been overwhelmed by the many wonderful relationships I have been a part of here at the preschool. I have been married to my husband Don for over 30 years.   We have been blessed with the most amazing sons Nathanael, AJ, Jared, Aaron, Jake, and Sam.   Our family now includes three wonderful daughters-in-law. Whether it was soccer, baseball, track, cross country, or football I have enjoyed traveling around the county, state, and country cheering for my boys.  I also enjoy gardening, reading a good book, playing board games, and our family gatherings in the backyard by the pool.  I also recently returned to school.

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Theresa Hockett

Learning Together Teacher

I joined the staff in 202. I have worked in the preschool field for about 15 years. It has been a pleasure to join a staff that works well together. As you walk on the campus, it is evident that this school offers a program that combines all elements of the child's development. I am working with the 2-year-old class this year. I enjoy watching the children develop new skills throughout the year. Through play, I get to witness how much they learn. Trusting us with your child for the school year is an honor. I am very committed to helping them learn in all areas of their development. I have been married to my husband, Jim for 45 years. We have 2 grown children, Kelley and Ryan. They also attended a nurturing preschool. Their experiences are what attracted me to the preschool field. I love spending time at the beach, reading a book, playing cards, and spending time with my family. 

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Carolyn Keltner

Assistant Teacher

Hi! My name is Carolyn Keltner. I have been teaching at RBCPC Preschool since 2016. I graduated from San Diego State University with credentials in elementary education and special education. I am honored to be sharing my days with the amazing staff and students at RBCPC Preschool.

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Sheri Lieber

Lead Teacher

I have been at RBCPC since 2004, working as a 3's and 4's teacher.  I love that we are an inclusion school, where every child is welcome! I absolutely love getting to know each and every child and family. To guide and encourage these little ones as they grow and learn is a joy and a privilege. I married my high school sweetheart, Glen, in 1980. We have three married children and six darling grandchildren.  I love being with family, friends, reading, and enjoying nature with my dog on the trails. 

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Monzerrat Lopez

Lead Teacher/ Lunch Bunch Teacher

I started working at RBCPC in 2019. I fell in love with the nurturing and kind environment.  Ever since I remember my passion has been teaching children, They have so much to give and watching them grow is so fulfilling. I have a Bachelor's degree in Translation Studies. I have worked with preschool kids and taught French, English and Spanish to different ages.  I have a wonderful husband, 2 boys that we adore and our dog Ruffles. I love being with my family and friends, going on nature walks with picnics, baking, and dancing.  

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Kristen Macari

Assistant Teacher

I'm so excited to be an assistant teacher in the 3-year-old program. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work with an incredibly caring staff and wonderful families. Before coming to the preschool I worked for the RBCPC Childcare Program from 2016-2020. I grew up in the Presbyterian Church on the East Coast. Prior to having my children, I worked for Dr. Seuss Enterprises in La Jolla for 8 years.  My husband Dan, and I have been married since 2003 and we are happily raising 2 teenage sons, 2 dogs, a cat, a rabbit, and 5 chickens. I enjoy reading, traveling, cooking, swimming, skiing, and working part-time at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts. I also, enjoy volunteering for my son's schools and sports teams. 

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Kelly Mansfield

Lead Teacher/Assistant Teacher

Both of my children are alumni of RBCPC Preschool. The warm and inviting environment led me to start working here in 2005.  You can feel it when you walk in the gate!  I have worked in 3 year old and 4 year old classes.  I love working here at RBCPC Preschool.  When I’m not at Preschool I enjoy traveling and reading.

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Nicole Mansour

Assistant Teacher

I have been working at RBCPC since 2013. I have assisted in every age group's class offered here and have enjoyed them all. This school is a special place and every new class is a new learning experience for me. I love working with each age for different reasons because they all offer such a wide range of opportunities to experience with each child the revelations and milestones unique to that stage of development, as well as to that individual child. I was born in San Diego. I'm the oldest of four children and I love music, art, reading, and the outdoors.

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Maddi Perry

Assistant Teacher/Lunch Bunch Teacher

Growing up, I always knew I wanted a job that included working with children, and RBCPC Preschool has provided me with an opportunity to do just that. I started working for the Preschool in 2016 while attending Community College. In 2017 I graduated with an A.A. in Social Behavioral Sciences, and in 2022 with an A.S. in Early Childhood Inclusion Master Teacher. When I'm not working at Preschool, I love spending time with family,  and friends, going to concerts, and teaching dance part-time.  

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Beth Roehrig

Lead Teacher

I began here at RBCPC Preschool as a parent of a three year old and I loved it so much I never left! All three of my children attended RBCPC Preschool and I have been working here since 2002. I love to see the wonder in a child's eyes, the excitement in them when they discover something new or achieve a skill they have been working on. I enjoy connecting with families to ensure they have a great preschool experience. I believe RBCPC Preschool is such a special place where all of that happens! I got married in 1992 to my husband, Tom. We have three children, Haylie, Evan, and Matt. I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, running and enjoying friends.

 

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Kim Rohde

Lead Teacher/Assistant Teacher

Hello!  I am one of the teachers for the three-year-old classes and an assistant to a 4-year old class.  I started working with preschoolers in 1988 when I became an aide in the 2-year-old class at a preschool in northern CA.  That year sparked the beginning of my absolute love for teaching preschoolers.  I graduated from Simpson University with a BA in Liberal Studies, and went on to assist and teach in local preschools.  My husband and I moved to sunny San Diego in 2003, and I took a break from formal preschool teaching in order to home-school our two sons.  During this time, I assisted our church’s children’s ministry leader by heading up the nursery and preschool departments.  Now that I’m an empty-nester, God has blessed me with the awesome privilege of co-teaching one of the 3-year-old classes here at RBCPC and assisting in a 4-year-old class.  This is a vibrant, special place like none other, and I am grateful to be a part of this loving family!

 My husband, Scott, and I have been married for 25 years.  We have two grown sons and a wonderful daughter-in-law.  In my spare time I enjoy getting out and working in my vegetable garden all year long.  I also like to read, quilt, and take care of our two cats and bunny.

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Robin Schoaff

Assistant Teacher

It is such a joy to be here at RBCPC. I have been a preschool teacher for many years. I studied at San Diego Miramar College in Early Childhood Education. I cherish being a preschool teacher. It is a very rewarding career. I have four children of my own and six grandchildren. I have lived in Rancho Penasquitos since 1985 and married to my husband, Michael for 34 years. 

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Bela Sessions

Office Assistant

I have worked at RBCPC Preschool since 1995 and both of my kids are alumni of this great preschool. Working with young children helps me learn something new each day that I'm with them. Plus it always keeps me smiling. I have been married for 26 years, and I have two wonderful children; a daughter that has graduated from San Francisco State University, and a son who is graduating from the University of Colorado. 

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Carol Stewart

Lead Teacher

I started here at RBCPC Preschool as a parent. My youngest was in both the 3-year-old and the 4-year-old program. She is now in high school and continues to talk about each past teacher with such love. I started here at RBCPC Preschool substituting in all classes. I feel very blessed to have had a chance to work and play with each teacher. It was a wonderful opportunity to get to know all the children. Lucky me!!  Currently, I am a 3 and 4-year-old teacher. I have been married since 1992. I have another daughter and a son who are grown. My children are my greatest treasures. I love to bake, watch basketball, and spend every minute I can with my kids.

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Maureen Valley

Lead Teacher

I moved from northern California in 2014 In order to be near my grandson, who attended school at RBCPC Preschool.  I had the opportunity to accompany him in the parent participation classes and was very impressed with the school and the staff.  I love working with young children and seeing the world through their eyes. I am delighted by their imagination and individuality. It brings joy to my life just to observe the many ways in which they learn and play. I am thrilled to be a teacher here. I have two daughters who have each blessed me with grandsons. Three of them reside in northern California, and my youngest is near me in San Diego, where I get to be part of their lives. My hobbies are walking, yoga, reading, attending the produce markets, and healthy cooking. 

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Stephanie Whittaker

Growing Together Teacher

I have been working at RBCPC Preschool since 2006! I have a BA in Early Childhood Education and I  am a Mentor Teacher to college students with ambitions to become teachers. I have had the opportunity to work in all of our programs including our 2s, 3s, and 4s classes as well as our Parent Ed classes! I'm inspired by the natural curiosity and wonder that young children possess and their insatiable need to learn and make sense of the world around them. I was born and raised in San Diego and am now raising a family of my own here. Making memories and spending time with my two precious daughters and husband is my favorite thing to do! 

 
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Aldona Zuk

Assistant Teacher

Hi, my name is Aldona Zuk. I joined the RBCPC Preschool in 2023. I feel lucky that I am a part of such a positive, devoted, and caring community. My goal is to provide a nurturing environment where children can explore, discover new ideas, and learn through play. I grew up in a small town in Poland, and I moved to San Diego in 2013. I am married and have 1 son. My passion for teaching started when I was volunteering and coaching in elementary school. Then, I decided to go back to school and follow my dreams. I graduated from Grossmont College with an A.S. in Child Development Master Teacher and an A.S. in Child Development Site Supervisor. Also, I have completed my bachelor's degree in economics from West Pomeranian Business School, Szczecin, Poland. In my free time, I like to work in my garden, hike, and spend time with family, friends, and my two dogs. Plus, I love to travel to different countries because I like to explore new places and learn more about different cultures.