Primary School Teachers

Primary students benefit from the expertise of multiple full-time teachers, a Learning Expert Teacher who follows the students as they move between classrooms throughout the day and one responsible for delivering content, called a Subject Expert Teacher. Students thus have two full-time, qualified teachers in each class, resulting in a uniquely pedagogically-robust classroom environment.* Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) have degrees or years of experience in the subjects they teach. Learning Expert Teachers (LETs), experts in pedagogy, shepherd the learning environment, supporting the SETs in making complex material accessible to young learners, and supporting the social-emotional growth of our students. Get to know them below.

*Note, students in fourth grade do not have an LET present in each class. The LET acts as a bridge between guided learning and the self-direction needed in middle school by supporting students outside of the classroom.

Meet The
Teachers

Mr. Acevedo

Performing Arts

Mr. Acevedo

Subject Expert Teacher Performing Arts

In 2014, Mr. Acevedo received his Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Since then, he has worked at schools all over the United States, from Maryland to Bakersfield, before eventually settling in the Bay Area. Mr. Acevedo is currently spending his summers working towards his master’s degree in Theatrical Direction.

“I am excited to be a part of the team here and to help my students foster a lifelong love of learning and become positive and curious members of their communities. I believe that education and learning allow us all to lead richer lives, and I am excited to help all of my students achieve their fullest potential (and have some fun doing it!)”

When Mr. Acevedo is not at school, he spends time reading manga, watching anime, playing his Switch, and exploring all the Bay Area has to offer. He also likes to listen to musicals, attend theatre performances, and discover stories through podcasts. Mr. Acevedo hopes he can share his love of theatre with his students as well as his love of English and history.

Ms. Atkins

History, Latin

Ms. Atkins

Subject Expert Teacher History, Latin

Ms. Atkins graduated from the University of Oregon having obtained a master’s degree in classics, with an emphasis on Latin Literature. After obtaining her master’s degree, Ms. Atkins seized the opportunity to see her studies in actuality, traveling across the world to further her understanding of the ancient civilizations that captured her attention.

After spending the summer studying archeology in Rome, Ms. Atkins is eager to return to the classroom and share her love of all things ancient. Offering precious glimpses into the past is one of the greatest treasures that Ms. Atkins hopes to share with her students.

Mr. Baker

Music

Mr. Baker

Subject Expert Teacher Music

Mr. Baker received his bachelor of arts degree in music education, with a focus on instrumentals, from the University of the Pacific, Stockton. He also received a master’s degree in Saxophone Performance from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro.

Prior to his arrival at BASIS Independent Fremont, Mr. Baker spent six years in education, instructing TK–grade 12 music students in public and private schools across the Bay Area and Central California. Mr. Baker excels at teaching students how to read notes on treble and bass clef staves, read rhythms, and start the fundamentals of playing an instrument.

Mr. Baker believes that to have a truly well-rounded education, students need to engage critically with the arts. His teaching philosophy is that every student has a right to a quality music education. Mr. Baker strives to create equitable music lessons intended to foster a lifelong appreciation and love for music.

In his spare time, Mr. Baker enjoys keeping up his professional practice by playing with community bands, watching musical productions, and reading classic literature.

Ms. Bhandare

Learning Expert Teacher

Ms. Bhandare is a Learning Expert Teacher at BASIS Independent Fremont. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Child Development from California State Univeristy, East Bay, in 2019. As an LET, she helps make sure the learning environment in the classroom is safe and helps to execute lesson plans and engaging activities with the children.

“I was so impressed by the camaraderie that exists here,” says Ms. Bhandare. “Everyone’s sole intention is to make sure the children have a safe learning environment. The organization and communication between staff is very impressive and the atmosphere is very welcoming to new students and staff.”

Ms Bhandare believes in giving students space to be independent and confident. “When the students are confident, they want to try to do their best and need positive reinforcement as much as possible,” she says.

When she is not in the classroom, Ms. Bhandare loves going for hikes and getting out into nature to get fresh air and take in the moment.

Ms. Bhora

Learning Expert Teacher

Ms. Bhora received her Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Madras, India, in 1997 and earned a Certificate of Achievement in Early Childhood Education from DeAnza College in 2003. She comes to BASIS Independent Fremont with over 10 years of experience teaching Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students at other reputed Bay Area private schools.

In her own words, “I am thrilled to be joining BASIS Independent Fremont as an Early Education Teacher this year. I love and enjoy teaching young children and am amazed by the learning growth that I witness in each and every one of them from the beginning till the end of a school year. I take pride in the fact that I’m not just helping prepare a solid academic foundation in these young ones’ lives but also readying the next generation of responsible citizens!”

Her belief is that children thrive in a safe, loving, nurturing as well as a challenging environment, which she strives to create for every single student in her classroom.

Ms. Bhora is a proud mother of a college-bound daughter and another daughter in grade 7. She loves to travel near and far with her family.

Ms. Burton

Learning Expert Teacher

As the first sibling in her family to receive a college degree, Ms. Dale Burton certainly understands the value and importance of education, something she hopes to impart to all of her students. She received her Bachelor of Mass Communications from the University of Denver, and then went on to receive a Master of Science degree in Elementary Education from Walden University. Ms. Burton is an accomplished educator with over 20 years of teaching experience in the Bay Area, and is thrilled to be part of the faculty at BASIS Independent Fremont.

Ms. Burton’s goal as a 2nd Grade Learning Expert Teacher is for her students to develop a life-long passion for learning, and she also hopes they “learn to appreciate constructive struggle, develop perseverance, and become self-motivated.” She is committed to creating a learning environment that is safe and nurturing, and allows students to reach their highest potential. Visitors to Ms. Burton’s classroom will see a variety of hands-on activities taking place and, most likely, songs being sung to help the students with advanced concepts.

When she’s not teaching, Ms. Williams enjoys reading historical books and autobiographies, singing and dancing, and learning American Sign Language.

Ms. Gopi

Math & Science

Ms. Gopi

Subject Expert Teacher Math & Science

Mr. Hernandez

Physical Education

Mr. Hernandez

Subject Expert Teacher Physical Education

Ms. Hewitt

Humanities

Ms. Hewitt

Subject Expert Teacher Humanities

Ms. Hewitt earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from the University of Port Elizabeth in South Africa. Additionally, she pursued a master’s degree in Instructional Technology in order to “readily assist her students in accessing information far beyond the scope of their traditional textbooks.” Ms. Hewitt has more than sixteen years of teaching experience, nine of which were dedicated to serving students at an inner-city school in Georgia.

Ms. Hewitt’s passion for teaching led her to BASIS Independent Fremont where she observed students connecting on a powerfully different level, engaging their minds and bodies to impact the overall atmosphere of the learning environment. The commitment and drive of the students and staff is what convinced her to leave Georgia and head for California!

When she is not caught up with schoolwork, she likes to cook, bake, and garden. Hiking, sitting on the beach, exploring, and travelling are some of the things Ms. Hewitt likes doing as well.

Ms. Hong

Mandarin

Ms. Hong

Subject Expert Teacher Mandarin

Ms. Hong earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Beijing International Studies University in China in 2011. She came to the United States in 2016 and earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, with a concentration in Early Childhood education for diverse learners, from George Mason University in 2018.

“I love working at BASIS Independent Fremont because of the strong relationships among the faculties,” says Ms. Hong. “They always happy to offer each other support and communicate openly with each other. All the team members are cooperating effectively and working towards the common goal to provide the best possible education for our students.”

Building positive relationships with children, families, colleagues, community, and culture is the heart of Ms. Hong’s teaching philosophy. She feels that a warm and positive teacher-student relationship will help the student feel more excited about learning and going to school. It also helps build self-confident for students and supports them to have better achievements in the classroom.

Ms. Hong has a puppy named Mango. She loves spending time with her!

Ms. Ju

Mandarin

Ms. Ju

Subject Expert Teacher Mandarin

Mr. Kasper

Engineering

Mr. Kasper

Subject Expert Teacher Engineering

Mr. Kasper received his Bachelors of Fine Arts, with an emphasis in Painting, in 2005, from Andrews University in Michigan. With an itch to see the world, he took a job teaching English as a Second language in South Korea. It was this decision that led him to his life’s calling as an educator.

Throughout the 17 years he lived in South Korea, Mr. Kasper had the opportunity to teach a wide range of age groups and subjects, but it was at the elementary school level that he felt he could make the most significant impact in the lives of his students.

Mr. Kasper has an insatiable curiosity that he loves to share with his students. In his free time, he can be found playing with his two kids, out in nature birdwatching, painting, or watching baseball.

Mr. Miller

Math & Science

Mr. Miller

Subject Expert Teacher Math & Science

Mr. Miller graduated from Montana State University with an Elementary Education degree and mathematics emphasis. He was able to teach under a “Montana Teacher of the Year” candidate while working with 6th graders in every subject level. He is very passionate about teaching and working with kids in every aspect possible.

He has had experience working with children for many years through many different experiences. A large part of that experience comes from coaching soccer, tennis, basketball and swim team. He carries that competitive spirit with him wherever he goes and with whatever he does. He uses that competitive edge to become the best possible teacher that he can, and provide his students with the best educational experience possible.

“My teaching philosophy is based around the ideals of teamwork, communication, self-reliance and inclusiveness. When students are able to consistently work together, they create a sense of community which helps to create a safe and amazing place to learn. I will be able to create this space through the skill of inclusiveness as well. Making sure that each child feels heard and included throughout the learning process. One way this can be achieved is through team building exercises. This safe space then allows the students to communicate properly and participate in stimulating conversations and debates. The skill of self-reliance is something that students will need in every classroom and every day for the rest of their lives. I will work to build skills like organization and self-motivation in my students, which will help them to become amazing life-long learners,” he says.

Ms. Mishra

Humanities

Ms. Mishra

Subject Expert Teacher Humanities

Ms. Mishra earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science from Utkal University, India in 1990. She then went on to earn her Master’s degree in History from Utkal University, India in 1992. Ms. Mishra also holds a Post Graduate Degree in Travel and Tourism Management, as well as several credits in Web/Graphic Designing and Early Childhood Education.

“It is my goal to make learning fun and interesting, where the child is excited about coming to school every day and develops a lifelong love for learning. The earlier we establish this habit, the better,” says Ms. Mishra. “I firmly believe in this proverb: “Tell Me and I Forget; Teach Me and I May Remember; Involve Me and I Learn.”’

When she is not at school, Ms. Mishra loves to travel. She has had the privilege to visit many different countries and places. She also enjoys music and thinks if she was not a teacher, she probably would have been a musician. She enjoys cooking for family and friends as well!

Ms. Qiu

Learning Expert Teacher

Ms. Qiu has been a kindergarten teacher since 2017. Before joining BASIS Independent Fremont, she had substantial teaching experience in public and private schools. She has a bachelor’s degree from Shanghai Open University and an associate degree from Ohlone College, where she majored in early childhood development and earned her California teaching credential.

Ms. Qiu believes early childhood education shapes the future of our society and wants to teach children curiosity, creativity, honesty, kindness, perseverance, and responsibility. Her students learn not only content but also methodologies to benefit them indefinitely. As a mother of two high school students, Ms. Qiu cares for her students but can also be a firm guiding force when the need arises.

Ms. Qiu was born in Shanghai, China, and attributes her background to her ability to appreciate the value of academic excellence, personal responsibility, work ethics, and cultural tolerance. In addition to her emphasis on academics, Ms. Qiu loves art and music. As a singer, Ms. Qui is thrilled to share her love of the arts with her students.

Ms. Qui’s team spirit, easy-going personality, and eagerness to embrace new ideas motivate her, her students, and co-workers daily.

Ms. Ruby

Subject Expert Teacher

Ms. Arora earned a Bachelor of Science, with Life Sciences, from Maharaja Sayaji Rao University, Gujarat, India in 1997, and a Masters of Science, in Microbiology and Biotechnology, in 1999 from the same university. She worked as a scientist in research and development, at Sun Pharmaceutical Private Limited, Gujarat, India, for four years. Later, she spent a year teaching middle school students as a biology teacher, before returning to school to earn a certification in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Arora holds a California State Permit as an Associate Teacher in Early Education. Since 2015, she has been teaching in the field of Early Education at different private schools.

“I am excited to be teaching at BASIS Independent Fremont, where I work with a team of passionate teachers who collectively believe in doing their best to make their students succeed,” says Ms. Arora. “My belief is that a teacher’s duty is to teach and inspire students to never give up and always try, even when faced with challenges that seem impossible. All children are different and unique in their own ways and I enjoy working with them at their pace and going the extra mile to help them.”

Ms. Arora enjoys spending time outside with her family, especially on long drives or hikes. She is passionate about cooking food and enjoys plating food in an aesthetically-pleasing manner and photographing her creations. Fun Fact: Ms. Arora can speak four languages, and she loves learning more!

Ms. Singh

Humanities

Ms. Singh

Subject Expert Teacher Humanities

Ms. Singh earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Shanker Dev Campus, Kathmandu, Nepal in 1995. She also achieved an Associate Degree in Arts from Lake County College, Illinois in 2007. Ms. Singh has additional credentials in Early Childhood Education and Montessori Education.

As an educator, Ms. Singh strives to promote self-discovery and self-awareness, molding independent and eager learners.

“Each student is unique and requires support and encouragement to further their development,” Ms. Singh says. “As a kindergarten teacher, I play a vital role in this growth and place my students’ social, emotional, and physical development as a high priority. I believe in providing a strong foundation for children so that they are capable of tackling any hardship with zest and vitality.”

When she is not on campus, Ms. Singh loves spending time with her family and friends. She also loves listening to music and watching TV/movies, and loves to travel to new places!

Ms. Smith

Learning Expert Teacher

Ms. Kimberly Smith comes from a family of educators and has over 15 years’ experience working with students all over the Bay Area. She is excited to bring her skills and knowledge to the BASIS Independent Fremont education team. Ms. Smith has a Bachelor of Arts degree in History with an African American Studies minor from San Jose State University and a Multiple Subject Credential and Master of Urban Education from Holy Names University.

Ms. Smith has worked as a College Preparation Advisor, After School Program Leader, Activities Leader, Site Coordinator, Teacher’s Aide, Tutor, Substitute Teacher, as well as a second-grade teacher throughout her years in education. As the grade 4 Learning Expert Teacher, Ms. Smith is excited to bring the joy of learning, perseverance, self-discipline, responsibility, and social-emotional learning to the students at BASIS Independent Fremont.

When she is not teaching Ms. Smith enjoys cooking, dancing, hiking, and horseback riding.

Ms. Tardif

Learning Expert Teacher

Mr. Wagoner

English

Mr. Wagoner

Subject Expert Teacher English

In 2007, Mr. Wagoner received his Bachelor of Arts in Education from DePauw University. From 2007 to 2014 Mr. Wagoner taught in Taiwan, Vietnam, and South Korea. In 2014, he moved to the Bay Area and received a Master of Arts in International and Multicultural Education from the University of San Francisco.

“I chose BASIS Independent Fremont because of the school culture and structure,” says Mr. Wagoner. “I believe each of my students is unique. My job is to provide my students with what they need in order to be successful: to stimulate thinking, encourage application, and connect learning to real life.”

When Mr. Wagoner is not at school, he spends time with his family hiking, cooking, traveling, and playing games together. He also likes to read, play soccer and watch the Arsenal team compete, spend time with his friends, and be outside. It is also a life goal for Mr. Wagoner to see as much of the world as possible. He has visited 33 countries so far and cannot wait to visit somewhere new!

Attend an Information Session this Fall

Learn More

Meet TheTeachers

Mr. Acevedo

Mr. Acevedo

Ms. Atkins

Ms. Atkins

Mr. Baker

Mr. Baker

Ms. Bhandare

Ms. Bhandare

Ms. Bhora

Ms. Bhora

Ms. Burton

Ms. Burton

Ms. Gopi

Ms. Gopi

Mr. Hernandez

Mr. Hernandez

Ms. Hewitt

Ms. Hewitt

Ms. Hong

Ms. Hong

Ms. Ju

Ms. Ju

Mr. Kasper

Mr. Kasper

Mr. Miller

Mr. Miller

Ms. Mishra

Ms. Mishra

Ms. Qiu

Ms. Qiu

Ms. Ruby

Ms. Ruby

Ms. Singh

Ms. Singh

Ms. Smith

Ms. Smith

Ms. Tardif

Ms. Tardif

Mr. Wagoner

Mr. Wagoner

Attend an Information Session this Fall

Meet The
Teachers