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. Amerman

Humanities

Mr. Amerman

Subject Expert Teacher Humanities

In 2018, Mr. Amerman earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Hillsdale College. He participated heavily in the university’s music department, where he enjoyed studying composition and setting poems to music for several recitals.

As a Subject Expert Teacher for Humanities, Mr. Amerman considers it important to combine his passions for technique and creativity in the classroom.

“I want my students to develop strong reading and writing techniques, skills that will set them apart in their future academic and professional endeavors, but I also want them to learn how to creatively use literature to navigate life’s greatest challenges,” says Mr. Amerman. “Students develop these skills best when they’re inspired.”

Outside of the classroom, Mr. Amerman enjoys biking and playing pick-up basketball. He also likes trying out exciting new foods with friends and family. Above all, he likes practicing music and performing original compositions at open mic events.

Mr. Betcher

English, Humanities

Mr. Betcher

Subject Expert Teacher English, Humanities

Mr. Betcher brings a deep level of expertise in English and Humanities to BASIS Independent Fremont. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from Reed College in 2005. In 2013, Mr. Betcher earned his Master of Arts in the Teaching of English from the prestigious Teachers College at Columbia University. At Teachers College, Mr. Betcher had the distinct pleasure of being one of famed educational philosopher Maxine Greene’s final students.

“My goal as a BASIS Independent Fremont educator is to help students study how to learn. As students move towards middle school they begin to take the leap from understanding to analysis. I create a classroom where we critically think about history and texts, examining the author’s craft and learning how to use the structure of language to effectively communicate our ideas,” shares Mr. Betcher.

Speaking about his decision to join BASIS Independent Fremont, Mr. Betcher says: “I chose BASIS Independent Fremont because the school promotes true learning communities. Students feel responsible for their own education, grappling with meaningful questions throughout their educational day. Students push each other to excel. I love being part of a community that grows together, my passion is helping students find theirs. Children are often underestimated, but BASIS Independent Fremont is a school that believes students are all capable of greatness.”

“My teaching philosophy is simple. I want to teach students to read, think, and express themselves. When I say ‘read’, I mean a very specific thing. I want students to engage in a conversation with the text. Students often leave elementary school with the habit of reading for an answer rather than reading for an experience. They often do not know how to push and pull the text because they have never been asked to do so. When I say ‘think’, I want students to critically engage with information. Many intelligent students I have worked with were experts at avoiding any real thought. When asked about what they thought of a story or character or math problem, they would shout out responses they thought I would want to hear, jumping from one answer to another until they realized I wasn’t going to give them the ‘right’ response. I create an English class where students have to try. I want a classroom where students get used to using their brains–thinking deeply about problems, interpretations, and themselves. When I say ‘express themselves’, I mean just that. Students must practice finding their voice and sharing their ideas in speech, writing, and creative interpretation. I want them to think analytically, persuasively, and creatively. I want them to create for themselves, their peers, their teachers, and the larger community,” says Mr. Betcher.

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.

Mr. Bosley

Music

Mr. Bosley

Subject Expert Teacher Music

Mr. Bosley earned his Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from the University of Evansville in Evansville, Indiana, and his Master of Music degree in Woodwind Performance from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. He is currently completing his Doctor of Arts degree in Saxophone Performance from Ball State University.

Before joining BASIS Independent Fremont, he spent a year teaching elementary general music with Music for Minors. Prior to living in the Bay Area, he taught middle school band and elementary general music in Webster County, Kentucky. Mr. Bosley always tries to create an inspirational and positive learning atmosphere. He enjoys motivating students through transparency of short-term progress. Student awareness of success helps maintain a continued interest in long-term goals.

Mr. Bosley chose BASIS Independent Fremont because of its terrific reputation, outstanding administration, and ambitious student body. By exploring music through visual, aural, and kinesthetic activities, Mr. Bosley is able to make class both fun and engaging for students of all learning types. Freedom to create music in a supportive environment is what Mr. Bosley loves about BASIS Independent Fremont.

Mr. Bosley’s music experience includes playing bassoon with San Francisco’s M2M Orchestra, oboe with the Civic Strings Orchestra, and saxophone in his duet, Violet Duo. He has had the opportunity to perform in many places with various musical ensembles. Some of his most notable musical experiences have taken place in Wroclaw, Poland; Prague, Czech Republic; and the Chautauqua Institute in Chautauqua, New York.

Outside the classroom, Mr. Bosley enjoys listening to music, spending time with his two cats (Romy and Michele), and composing music.

Mr. Brown

Learning Expert Teacher

Mr. Brown received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, where he was a member of both the international Psychology Honor Society and the National Society of Leadership and Success. He is excited to be joining the BASIS Independent Fremont faculty as a Learning Expert Teacher, as it will allow him to do what he loves best, empowering students to reach their full potential.

Mr. Brown believes that “any student can enjoy and love learning if in the right environment and with the right teacher.” He knows that learning is not a “one size fits all experience,” and is looking forward to being able to work with his individual students to ensure they are fully supported while at school. Mr. Brown values collaborative classroom experiences that allow his students to “explore possibilities and test different methods,” which makes him a great fit for a BASIS Independent school.

When not teaching, Mr. Brown enjoys reading science fiction and fantasy books, watching TV comedies, and playing board games with his friends and brothers.

Ms. Burley

Performing Arts

Ms. Burley

Subject Expert Teacher Performing Arts

Ms. Burley received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre and a Master of Education degree in Teaching and Learning from Ohio State University. Ms. Burley possesses a Pre-Kindergarten through Twelfth Grade Drama/Theatre teaching license.

Her goal as an educator is to use drama as a vehicle to help students excel academically and artistically. Ms. Burley’s integrated approach to teaching drama motivates students to reach their highest potential. She provides a supportive learning environment that inspires a love of learning within each student. Ms. Burley is passionate about teaching drama and provides challenging curriculum that is both fun and engaging.

Ms. Burley’s own philosophy is a perfect match to the BASIS Independent approach to education. She loves developing drama lessons within the framework of a STEM-focused, liberal arts curriculum. She believes strongly in building the connection between the arts and STEM subjects, preparing students to engage in critical and creative thinking as well as collaborative inquiry.

“The core of my teaching philosophy is to enhance students’ understanding of academic curriculum and to build social skills through drama exploration. My lessons artfully integrate drama with academics which investigate global perspectives on topics. I create a classroom environment that fosters collaboration and encourages students to work as a community of learners. I invite my students to recognize how their unique skillsets and interests contribute to the classroom as a whole. I create a safe space where students feel empowerment through their learning, sparking creativity that will shape our future,” says Ms. Burley.

Ms. Burley enjoys teaching and practicing yoga. She has participated in training workshops with Marcel Marceau and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

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 15 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. Castilla

Humanities

Ms. Castilla

Subject Expert Teacher Humanities

Ms. Castilla earned her Bachelor of Arts in the History of Religion and Sociology from Oberlin College in 2006. She then went on to earn her Master of Arts in Teaching – Early Childhood Education from National Louis University in 2012.

Ms. Castilla joined BASIS Independent Fremont after working at BASIS Tucson for 4 years. Before that, Ms. Castilla taught in numerous settings including preschool, kindergarten, first grade, and third grade.

“I am excited to be part of BASIS Independent Fremont because we provide children with the ultimate educational experience. BASIS Independent students receive an academically challenging and well-rounded education. Not only are students challenged with their academic courses, they also receive

instruction in language, physical education, and the arts on a daily basis. I could not imagine teaching anywhere else,” says Ms. Castilla. Reflecting on her student engagement techniques, Ms. Castilla shares, “students learn the best when they are given challenging, engaging, and meaningful work with high expectations. I like to do hands-on projects and collaborative work.”

“My favorite class at BASIS Independent is Connections. During this class, we are provided the opportunity to integrate various concepts and skills learned in different classes into hands-on, project-based lessons for the students. This class affords the teacher freedom to design lessons based on the interests of the students. At BASIS Tucson, for example, my students showed a great interest in making their own books. Students were being taught about the water cycle in their science class and different features of fiction and non-fiction text in other classes. During Connections, they were given the freedom to demonstrate their knowledge within the framework of the individually-created books. These books were eventually turned into a class lending library where students were able to read and enjoy the work of their classmates.”

Speaking about the BASIS Schools’ Learning Expert Teacher (LET) and Subject Expert Teacher (SET) model, Ms. Castilla shared, “With the creation of the dual teaching positions, it has been my experience that teachers are able to narrow in their focus and concentrate on their specialties. For me, the SET is able to focus on creating strong and focused lessons in their field, while the LET is the ‘glue that holds everything together.’ My favorite part of working as a LET is the collaboration with my colleagues and creating an intricate balance of the roles. It is a situation where the role of the teacher is split into two stronger parts, which creates a ‘1+1=3’ situation. It is so nice to bounce ideas off the teachers and work as a large, knowledgeable team to best help our students.”

Ms. Castilla is an avid salsa dancer and vegan!

Ms. Dalton

Music

Ms. Dalton

Subject Expert Teacher Music

Ms. Dalton comes to BASIS Independent Fremont from BASIS Prescott where she taught K through Fourth Grade Music, First through Third Grade Performing Arts, and Fifth Grade Latin. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Music with her emphasis on Vocal Performance from University of La Verne and a Master of Music in Commercial Vocal Performance from Cal State Los Angeles. Prior to teaching for BASIS Curriculum Schools, she spent fourteen years teaching within the parochial school system in Los Angeles and is an expert at Liturgical Coordination. Ms. Dalton is also a certified Powerline Reading Instructor.

“My music teaching philosophy is to promote an intrinsic love of music,” says Ms. Dalton. “I believe all children have the capability to learn and appreciate music. I believe music is a social experiment in the classroom and we are all constantly learning, myself included.”

Prior to teaching music, Ms. Dalton spent twenty years as a professional make-up artist. She is a published songwriter and poet and loves writing children’s books. Ms. Dalton is an avid reader and would much rather read a good book than watch television. She loves animals and is an accomplished equestrienne. She has one daughter who is a biologist.

Ms. Gousia

Math & Science

Ms. Gousia

Subject Expert Teacher Math & Science

Ms. Gousia received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Riverside. Initially pursuing a degree in genetics, Ms. Gousia realized that her passion was in teaching. She went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Education with an emphasis in Instruction Delivery and Curriculum Design. She also earned her Multiple Subject Teaching Credentials at UCR. Ms. Gousia has taught across a variety of grade levels at Bay Area private and charter schools.

As a math/science Subject Expert Teacher, Ms. Gousia’s goal is to empower students with experiences that build factual knowledge and establish a classroom culture that fosters grit and a growth mindset. Her classroom is student centric and she always evolves her teaching strategies to incorporate every child’s needs. In the process of enabling children to reach their highest potential, her goal is to ensure that students develop a high self-concept and grow into individuals who make life-enhancing choices – for themselves and for their communities.

BASIS Independent Fremont appealed to Ms. Gousia because the network of BASIS Curriculum schools unifies learners all over the world with one goal – attaining knowledge that improves lives. It is a 21st century institution in every sense. It trusts the experts with delivering content to diverse learners and in the process establishes communities that thrive on making life-enhancing, rational choices.

When not in class, Ms. Gousia enjoy cutting through the wind while running.

Mr. Grzeskowiak

Humanities

Mr. Grzeskowiak

Subject Expert Teacher Humanities

Mr. Grzeskowiak earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Concordia Teachers University in Seward, Nebraska, in 1970. While teaching in Kern County in the San Joaquin Valley, he completed his Master of Arts in English Language and Literature at California State University, Bakersfield in 1983. Mr. Grzeskowiak has been teaching for 25 years.

“I regard knowledge as a gift whose value is open to those who seek it with avid discipline,” says Mr. Grzeskowiak. “When I help students identify and achieve their goals while I also learn from colleagues, these are sources of continuing joy.”

“I want my classroom to be a safe place where students ask questions, helping them increase their fluency in written, spoken, and other forms of expression; and invent with them a positive, success-oriented environment. My goal for them is, as a book title once put it, Let Them Be Themselves, although I’d change the last word to Their Best Selves.”

Outside the classroom, Mr. Grzeskowiak enjoys several activities. One is chess, studying the games of the great masters. Another is taking bicycle rides. He also enjoys cooking, especially baking, watching movies, and, of course, reading. Fun fact: While going to high school in southern California, the choir Mr. Grzeskowiak was in filmed a concert at the television studio in Burbank. A small group of them accidentally encountered Bob Hope, who insisted on taking a picture with them. Mr. Grzekowiak later realized he was left out of this photo!

Ms. Han

Mandarin

Ms. Han

Subject Expert Teacher Mandarin

Ms. Han is a Subject Expert Teacher for Mandarin. She received a Masters degree in Education in 2011 from Michigan State University. In 2009, she received a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Science and Technology in Beijing.

“As a BASIS Independent Fremont educator,” says Ms. Han, “my goal is to see each of my students learn and appreciate the Mandarin language and Chinese culture with passion. My vision is to see all children actively engaged in solving problems where they will be supported socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually.”

Ms. Han lives with her husband and 16-month-old daughter in Fremont. As a family, they enjoy reading stories and playing together. Decorating their house and watching movies also brings Ms. Han lots of joy!

Dr. Harrell

Classics

Dr. Harrell

Subject Expert Teacher Classics

Dr. Harrell graduated from Wellesley College with a Bachelor of Arts in Greek and Latin in 1991 and earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Classics at Princeton University in 1998. She has taught Latin and Classics at the middle school, high school, and college levels. She enjoys teaching students of all ages.

Dr. Harrell is the 5^th Grade Latin and Classics Subject Expert Teacher.

“I want students to gain an understanding of the ancient world and to experience the excitement of learning a new language,” she says. “I felt from my first introduction to the school that BASIS Independent Fremont offered a supportive community where both students and teachers thrive. The fact that great value is placed on teachers’ subject expertise also appeals to me, because I have dedicated so much energy and time to gaining that expertise. It is a great feeling to be appreciated for that.”

When Dr. Harrell is not in the classroom, she loves to swim, read, and take walks with her husband. They also enjoy spending time with their lovely cat, Hector. Dr. Harrell loves to travel, and while she has been to Greece and Italy several times she has also been to Iceland twice (once on her honeymoon)!

Ms. Hewitt

Learning Expert Teacher

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. Lopez

Science

Ms. Lopez

Subject Expert Teacher Science

Ms. Lopez received her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies and Earth Science degree in 2013 from the University of California, Santa Cruz. After receiving her degree she went to work for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. “I worked with their education department where I taught students in kindergarten through college earth science, biology and environmental studies. I loved seeing students spark an interest in the sciences in our microscope lab and through outdoor exploration,” says Ms. Lopez.

As a Teaching Fellow at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, she had the opportunity to teach 5th grade Physical Geography. Her goal at BASIS Independent is “to help create an environment where students can reach and exceed academic goals through an understanding and interest of the material,” she says.

“The reason why I choose to work at BASIS Independent Fremont is that we offer students an education where they grow as learners and are able to gain a deep understanding and excel in the liberal arts fields,” Ms. Lopez says.

“I enjoy spending my time outdoors, and as an animal lover, I seek out any opportunity I can to come across wildlife.” Ms. Lopez loves to hike, bird watch, craft, visit nature reserves, and occasionally make ice cream from scratch.

Mr. Miller

Math

Mr. Miller

Subject Expert Teacher Math

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. Nichols

Art

Ms. Nichols

Subject Expert Teacher Art

Ms. Nichols received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. She has over 15 years of experience teaching both in academic settings and as a horseback riding instructor. Ms. Nichols worked exclusively with kindergarten students and their families as an Early Education Teacher at BASIS Independent Fremont from 2015-2018. She is excited to be sharing her love of art with a broader grade range as a Subject Expert Teacher.

As a Subject Expert Teacher at BASIS Independent Fremont, her goal is to enable each of her students to reach their academic, social and emotional goals through strong partnerships with each child and their family.

She chose BASIS Independent for the “educational structure that allows me to meet more of my students’ needs in the classroom.”

Says Ms. Nichols, “I strive to create a learning environment that is predictable, respectful and engaging so that each of my students have an opportunity to work up to their potential. I also highly value the insight my students’ parents have on how I can better motivate and encourage their child.”

In her free time, she enjoys drawing, photography and camping.

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. Sutherlin

Learning Expert Teacher

In 2014, Ms. Sutherlin graduated from Humboldt State University, earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. In 2015, she received a certificate for Teaching English as a Foreign Language. In January 2016, Ms. Sutherlin traveled to Moscow, Russia and taught English to Kindergarten students.

As a Learning Expert Teacher, Ms. Sutherlin’s goal as an educator is to provide students with a safe and fun environment in which to learn and thrive. Ms. Sutherlin chose to work at BASIS Independent Fremont because of the unique curriculum and environment where students can grow and become independent learners.

“I know that I am preparing students for the challenges that will happen in the real world. I look forward to creating a teaching environment that incorporates different teaching methods. I believe in creating a multicultural community environment and integrating creativity in a variety of subjects.”

“A classroom is a small community and that is how it should be run; students should learn how to act as, and support, a community. I hope to create a learning environment that is helpful and creative,” says Ms. Sutherlin.

When Ms. Sutherlin is not in the classroom, you can find her visiting art museums, cooking, reading a good book, or exploring different parts of the Bay Area.

Ms. Thomas

Engineering

Ms. Thomas

Subject Expert Teacher Engineering

Ms. Thomas has a background in technology and early childhood education. Early in her career, she started a pre-school and developed it into an elementary school in South Africa. In Silicon Valley, she has worked at companies such as Nivida and Apple. Ms. Thomas earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Information System from Rhodes University in South Africa in 2002. She graduated with honors in Computer Science and received Accenture’s (South Africa) merit scholarship.

“My goal as a BASIS Independent educator is to offer an educationally enriching environment and numerous learning opportunities for the students,” says Ms. Thomas. “The confidence and energy that we have when we are validated as individuals, fuels our natural curiosity and help us explore beyond our comfort zones. As a lifelong learner, I know this remains true no matter what the person’s age is. As an educator, I have the privilege of joining my students on their journey and being a guide to them.”

Ms. Thomas enjoys travelling and exploring with her family. She loves experiencing the world through travel to new places and through service projects. Her children are avid travelers and are always ready in a snap to jet set with Mom and Dad to another adventure!

Mr. Tucker

Art, Physical Education

Mr. Tucker

Subject Expert Teacher Art, Physical Education

In 2010, Mr. Tucker received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of California, Davis with a minor in African American Studies. During his undergraduate years, Mr. Tucker was a proud member of the UCD football team. Further, Mr. Tucker founded an annual art exhibition, still existing today, called “Art of Athletes”. Bridging the gap between his passion for art and sports, Mr. Tucker provided a space to display collegiate athletes’ artwork. Mr. Tucker moved on to receive his Master of Fine Arts from Laguna College of Art & Design.

Mr. Tucker’s experience includes time with the Boys and Girls Club of America, directing after-school art programs for schools who do not offer Visual Arts, as well as, leading student mural projects.

Mr. Tucker has been part of the BASIS Independent community for four years, recently transferred from BASIS Independent Silicon Valley. Throughout his education and career, Mr. Tucker believes BASIS Curriculum students bring more curiosity and motivation to the classroom. “Students have the questions and the determination, I just bring the energy and the encouraging support”. Mr. Tucker has a tremendous passion for Art and Physical Education and he promotes creativity inside and outside of the classroom.

“My teaching philosophy centers on students learning a language—the language of visual forms and a healthy life style. My responsibility as an educator is to provide an accessible concept with room for exploration and experimentation. To make a safe learning environment that allows for a diverse learning style is what is most important.”

When he’s not at school, Mr. Tucker is in his studio production artwork, at the gym burning calories, or out hiking with his family and family dog.

Ms. Villanueva

English

Ms. Villanueva

Subject Expert Teacher English

Ms. Villanueva graduated from San Francisco State University in January 2016, earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in English Education. During her undergraduate career, she volunteered in the San Francisco Unified School District as an English tutor with the non-profit organization 826 Valencia. In addition to being a full-time student, she also worked part-time as a writing instructor at an after-school learning center for two years. She is pleased to have experience working with students of all twelve grade levels.

Ms. Villanueva has taught at BASIS Independent Fremont since its founding. Ms. Villanueva has taught as a Learning Expert Teacher and a Humanities/English Subject Expert Teacher. She currently teaches 4^th grade and 6^th grade English. Her favorite part as an English teacher is reading and critiquing student writing.

“Last year when I read my 6^th graders’ journals, I learned more about who my students were as individuals. I learned that I had artists and poets in the classroom that I would have never met if I only taught essay writing. In my opinion, a successful writer is someone who is well rounded with the ability to express themselves creatively and who understands literary analysis. My goal as a teacher is for my students to find this balance and learn that English class is a space where they can voice their ideas and opinions in a respectful manner,” Ms. Villanueva says.

In addition to teaching students how to strengthen their reading and writing skills, Ms. Villanueva creates lessons that are engaging and dynamic. “One of my favorite memories from last school year was having Socratic seminars after completing our English novels. Seeing my students lead discussions independently and challenge each other with questions was an exciting moment! I believe that developing verbal communication skills are equally as important as written communication, which is why I provide my students several opportunities to collaborate amongst their peers.”

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Villanueva enjoys watching movies, relaxing at home with her dog named Chunky, and exercising. One fun fact that most people are surprised to learn is that Ms. Villanueva enjoys weightlifting at CrossFit!

Mr. Wagoner

Learning Expert Teacher

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!

Ms. Yu

Mandarin

Ms. Yu

Subject Expert Teacher Mandarin

Born and raised in China, Ms. Yue Yu earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English Language and Literature from Sichuan University, located in Wuhou, Chengdu, Sichuan, China. Upon completion of her undergraduate education, she came to the United States to pursue her graduate studies; in 2016, she earned her Master of Arts degree in Dual Language Education from San Diego State University.

As a Mandarin Subject Expert Teacher, Ms. Yu was attracted to BASIS Independent Fremont because of the advanced curriculum and the high expectations that are very similar to the schools she attended in China. Her teaching philosophy is greatly impacted by her own personal experiences, and she firmly believes that motivation and hard work will make students life-long language learners.

Ms. Yu’s main priority is to make her class “a place where students can stay motivated and inspired.” Her class provides students an opportunity to immerse themselves in a language learning environment by listening, speaking, reading, and writing through a variety of engaging activities. Last year, she witnessed students’ tremendous improvement in Mandarin learning and their interest in making the language a part of their lives. The students practiced so much and were able to progress from saying “Ni Hao” in a small voice to confident, daily Mandarin conversations about their family, hobbies and even dreams!

Besides basic language learning, Ms. Yu also plans weekly culture classes that allow students to learn more about Chinese culture, from films, to festivals, history, and art. For many students, culture class is their favorite part of Mandarin!

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Yu enjoys cooking, watching movies, and traveling. She also likes to explore good food in the Bay Area, and her homemade Sichuan dishes are always popular on the table!

Meet TheTeachers

Mr. Amerman

Mr. Amerman

Mr. Betcher

Mr. Betcher

Ms. Bhandare

Ms. Bhandare

Mr. Bosley

Mr. Bosley

Mr. Brown

Mr. Brown

Ms. Burley

Ms. Burley

Ms. Burton

Ms. Burton

Ms. Castilla

Ms. Castilla

Ms. Dalton

Ms. Dalton

Ms. Gousia

Ms. Gousia

Mr. Grzeskowiak

Mr. Grzeskowiak

Ms. Han

Ms. Han

Dr. Harrell

Dr. Harrell

Ms. Hewitt

Ms. Hewitt

Ms. Hong

Ms. Hong

Ms. Lopez

Ms. Lopez

Mr. Miller

Mr. Miller

Ms. Nichols

Ms. Nichols

Ms. Smith

Ms. Smith

Ms. Sutherlin

Ms. Sutherlin

Ms. Thomas

Ms. Thomas

Mr. Tucker

Mr. Tucker

Ms. Villanueva

Ms. Villanueva

Mr. Wagoner

Mr. Wagoner

Ms. Yu

Ms. Yu

Primary School (Grades 1-4) Information SessionSeptember 23, 11 AM

Meet The
Teachers

Primary School (Grades 1-4) Information Session
September 23, 11 AM