Karen Lobos is excited to give back to the community in which she grew up and to share the unique educational opportunities Rainier Prep has to offer with prospective families.  As a Cohort II Alumna of Rainier Scholars, a First-Generation graduate of Scripps College, and daughter of Latino immigrants, Ms. Lobos understands first-hand the impact a supportive yet challenging academic community can have in the lives of students who face a number of barriers to achieving higher education. The most inspiring part of her job is working alongside families and teachers to support students in their academic journeys.  

When not working, she likes spending time with family or in nature.  She would like to learn more languages! 

Karen attended Scripps College (BA) and the University of Washington (MPA).

Morgan Fernandez works at Rainier Prep to be a part of a different option for students and families that provides a supportive and rigorous learning environment based on our community’s needs.  The most inspiring part of her job is seeing the small light bulbs of learning that take place each day for each student, and bearing witness to major growth in students over time here. When not working, she enjoys teaching her dog new tricks, cooking, and reading mystery novels.

She grew up in Portland, OR, although her favorite place that she’s lived is Cape Town, South Africa.  She began her career teaching 3rd and 4th grade in DC, and then moved to Seattle as Rainier Prep’s founding 5th grade math teacher.  She would like to learn how to speak Spanish to communicate with more families at school as well as with her husband’s family.

Morgan attended Colgate University (BA), Trinity University (MA), and Seattle University (SpEd endorsement).  

Kamille Dye works at Rainier Prep because "this school makes a difference in the lives of people in my community.”  She is inspired by watching future generations find out how to claim their place as leaders in their communities through education. When not working, she enjoys spending time with family and friends (usually around a good meal), spending time in her home state (Montana), and advocating for wider inclusion of all people in our communities and school systems.  

Previously, she worked in early education, on political campaigns, and was a founding staff member at Rainier Prep (along with helping to start our drama program).  She is continually trying to learn how to best help others reach their goals and claim their own pathways in life.  Someday, she would love to learn to bake strawberry rhubarb pie and oatmeal raisin cookies as perfectly as her grandmother.

Kamille attended University of Montana (BA). 

Gisela Mella was born and raised in West Seattle/White Center. She works at Rainier Prep to give back to the community she grew up in. Being a daughter of Mexican immigrant parents she understands firsthand the barriers and challenges parents encounter. The most inspiring part of her job is helping parents and eliminating language barriers so that they can be part of their student's education.  Creating strong bonds with students and striving daily to help and make an impact on tomorrow's leaders!

When not working, she likes traveling, photography, spending time with loved ones, and exploring Seattle. She has traveled to Chile and Cuba for service trips, and she would like to learn how to speak multiple languages.  

Gisela has multiple years of office management and has been a part of Rainier Prep's Operation Team since 2016.

Seth Armenta works at Rainier Prep because he values its emphasis on community building and outreach. It is important to him that students can feel like this is their home.  “Rainier Prep is a place that encourages all of us to reach our highest potential beyond middle school, and I believe the only way we can do this is by starting with a feeling of belonging.”  The most inspiring part of his job is meeting future leaders -- of our government, in health care, in education, and in their communities.  When not working, and after having lived in Colorado his whole life, Seth loves to be outside in nature -- whether short day hikes with friends and family, or overnight backpacking trips in the woods. 

Previously, Seth student-taught a semester of 9th and 10th grade at his home high school, Bear Creek High School. He would like to learn how to fly an airplane, alongside with perfecting his Spanish fluency.  He has studied abroad in Seville, Spain for one semester but Portugal was his absolute favorite!

Seth attended Regis University (BA).

Jess Barrett works at Rainier Prep so that they can provide technical knowledge and support in a way that matters.  They love meeting so many people who are passionate about education and learning. When not working, Jess enjoys storytelling through tabletop roleplaying games, reading, and writing; designing STEM projects; learning new things by reading thrifted textbooks; baking and cooking; and watching videos about chemistry since she doesn't have the safety equipment to try it at home.

Previously, Jess worked for a print shop for a long time, and learned a lot about communicating difficult ideas between people through print, email, and in speech.  She would like to learn magic!  One of their favorite places is in Bend, Oregon, where there are so many interesting people to talk to and cool small businesses to visit.

Jess attended the University of Washington at Bothell (BS).

Rachel Berner-Hays is grateful to work at Rainier Prep “where we see value in our students and their communities and work to empower young leaders.”  She is inspired when students take ownership of their education and are able to advocate for what they need and want.  Rachel likes to cook and eat yummy food. She loves getting to share foods with students, especially when students teach her how to make their favorite foods. She also likes to spend as much time either on or near water.

Previously, Rachel served as an AmeriCorps College Coach with College Access Now for two years, working with 11th and 12th grade students at Nathan Hale High School.

Rachel attended Scripps College (BA) and the University of Washington (MA).

Quierra Bradford works at Rainier Prep because she believes in our mission and values!  “I admire that Rainier Prep invests in students’ futures and creates opportunities for students to explore and grow in their own community.”   She is inspired by the relationship-building that happens here, the opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of others, and soaking in the life lessons that others share.  When not working, she enjoys spending time with family and writing poetry. 

Previously, Quierra served as an Education Specialist for an Americorps program in Atlanta, GA.  She returned to WA in 2019 where she began working in SPS Charter schools supporting in Special Education. She would like to learn how to play a saxophone.  She is from Seattle, but spent  7 years in the south in Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  Her favorite place she’s lived has been Atlanta, GA.  

Quierra attended Pensacola State College (AA) and Hampton University (BA). 

Reanna Cain works at Rainier Prep because of the school's commitment to community and equity for all students.  The most inspiring part of her job is seeing students grow to love Social Studies!  When not working, she enjoys cooking, crocheting, and playing with her Great Dane, Giuseppe.  

Previously, Reanna worked as a Reading Specialist for elementary school and as a Social Studies teacher for grades 7-12/.  She would like to learn to play the piano and guitar.  She has lived in California, Utah, and Arizona.  

Reanna attended Utah Tech University (BS) and Grand Canyon University (MA).

Anna Casey works at Rainier Prep because teachers, administrators, and all staff embody the persona of the “warm demander,” an adult who develops strong relationships with each student while holding them to high expectations.  The most inspiring part of her job is seeing student growth and celebrating with students and families as they meet their goals. When not working, she enjoys reading, walking around Green Lake, and playing video games.

She grew up on the foggy coast of California, in a little town with the world’s only Taco Bell that’s right on the beach.  Previously, she was a Licensed Nuclear Reactor Operator. She would like to learn enough Spanish to present assessment results to Spanish-speaking parents.

Anna attended Reed College (BA) and UC Berkeley (PhD).

Dinorah Flores works at Rainier Prep to create sustainable change that will impact our communities in a positive way: “My core values align with the vision of Rainier Prep to prepare a path for students to access higher education and become leaders in their communities.”  She is inspired getting to know the families that make up our school, since everyone brings something unique that adds to our community in enriching ways. When not working, she enjoys reading, writing poetry, daydreaming, exploring different parks in her neighborhood, and talking with people about interesting or funny topics.

She previously lived in Navajo, NM, where she taught an amazing group of 2nd grade kids.  She has also done community advocacy work in South Seattle.

Dinorah attended University of Washington (BA) and the University of New Mexico.

Jarod works at Rainier Prep because of the mission of the school and what it stands for.  He is also here because of the collaborative teamwork and how Rainier Prep operates. The most inspiring part of his job is working towards the mission of the school.

Before joining Rainier Prep Jarod worked as an experienced Human Resources & Payroll professional.  If Jarod could learn how to do anything, he would learn how to play the piano.  When he is not working he enjoys fitness and anything PC related.

Jarod attended Highline College (AA) and Central Washington University (BS).

Raymond Gallo chooses to work at Rainier Prep specifically because he wants to work with a community of educators and family that share a common goal and inspiration -- and he is inspired by watching students lead!  When not working, he enjoys cooking new foods, going to concerts, and enjoying the outdoors.  

Before becoming a teacher, Raymond worked in an archive organizing historical documents for research.  If he could learn to do anything, he would like to learn how to speak with animals. He has lived in New York City, Charlotte, New Orleans, Fort Mill, and now Seattle.  

Raymond attended Tulane University (BA).

Renn Gutierrez chooses to work at Rainier Prep because he believes that we are changing outcomes for students in south King County: “Our students are expected to work hard, and the rigor that we set is pretty challenging for a lot of students to meet.  However, because of the way we hold kids accountable, they are consistently encouraged to rise to high standards.” The most inspiring part of his job is having students start the year not enjoying math, and ending the year excited to learn more about math in 6th grade.  

Previously, he served with City Year Seattle/King County as an AmeriCorps member and as a Program Manager.  His number one goal in life is to beat Indika Ekanayake at ping pong.  

Renn attended UCLA (BA) and UW (MIT).  

Tania Guzman Zavaleta works at Rainier Prep because she believes that teaming with families and teachers is the best way to empower our students' education in today's challenging environment.  “They are our present, and today is when we all must do our part to help them to achieve the best for each one.”  She is inspired by getting to know all the people, staff, teachers, students, and parents at Rainier Prep.  She is a people person, and enjoys getting to understand their different points of view on anything.  When not working, Tania enjoys watching a movie with her son and husband, calling back home to Mexico, or swimming indoors.  

Previously, Tania worked for 17 years teaching English as a Foreign Language in Mexico, and one year as a Spanish Language Assistant in Glasgow, Scotland (and she visited Paris many weekends during her year in Scotland).  She would like to learn French or Korean, skiing, or how to ride a bike.  She loves dogs, and would love to have a golden retriever or labrador, as well as a pomeranian for her son. 

Tania attended the University of Texas at Austin (BA), Dartmouth College at Hanover, and UNAM at San Antonio (MEd).

Scott Hicke works at Rainier Prep because he enjoys starting new initiatives and collaborating with smart, dedicated change-agents for meaningful social justice.  He is inspired by how the staff, students, and families have created a community school where the emphasis on building students’ confident, powerful voices is so strong.  When not working, he loves hiking and exploring mountains, listening to KEXP, and following through on book recommendations.

Previously, he has taught neuroscience, evolution, and aerospace science in DC and Seattle, and he has also worked as a musician, ghostwriter, and curriculum developer when not traveling.  He would like to learn how to fly a plane and skydive.

Scott attended Saint Joseph's University (BS), Duke University (MTS), and Fordham University (MA).

Van Ho chooses to work at Rainier Prep specifically because he gets to work with a diverse group of students and to support them in their growth.  The most inspiring part of his job is making an impact on future generations.  When not working, he enjoys playing sports and board games.   

Van has worked in education for 9 years.  If he could learn to do anything, he would learn how to code.  He has lived in Houston, Texas and has traveled to Japan and various countries in Europe. 

Van attended Houston Christian University (BA, MA).

Erin Jedlicka works at Rainier Prep because she believes in supporting environments that strive for equity and access, especially in STEM education. She loves learning with and from students as they bring their own voices and experiences into the classroom. Erin is excited to work with an organization that values and encourages identity and authenticity in the classroom. The most inspiring part of her job is watching students grow and discover more about themselves as they learn about the world around them.

Previously she has worked as a teacher and tutor with UW STEMsubs, which works with potential first-generation college students during their rising junior and senior year of high school to help them navigate college applications, expectations, and financial aid. When not working Erin enjoys paddleboarding, hiking, and spending time with her family.  If she could learn to do anything she would learn to speak another language. During her time in the Navy, Erin was able to explore parts of Egypt, Bahrain,  and Japan.

Erin attended the United States Naval Academy (BS) and the University of Washington (PhD).

Marcus Johnson works at Rainier Prep because he believes in the mission and the model of the school.  “It is a place where all students can thrive because they are given the proper tools to do so. They are set up for success while here and as they move into high school and post-secondary spaces.”  He is inspired by working hand in hand with students and families to fulfill the visions they have for their lives and supporting them along the way.  When not working, he enjoys singing, reading and writing.  Music and books are his favorite pastimes, and he also enjoys playing amateur softball. 

Previously, Marcus worked as an Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal, and Principal in Washington, DC and Philadelphia.  He recently served as a Principal and Central Office Director in the Greater Seattle Area. He would like to learn to play a few more instruments and  to learn American Sign Language.  He’s traveled to Venice and Verona, Italy, and performed a concert in Westminster Abbey Cathedral.   

Marcus attended Mississippi College (BS) and Grand Canyon University (M.Ed).

Maria Juarez works at Rainier Prep because she likes the cultural diversity and the great opportunity that is offered to each student.  She is inspired by how each student receives adequate food, and that they feel happy when taking their food.  Maria coordinates parents and volunteers to help with food prep, service, and clean-up, bringing even more attention and joy to the students' time away from their academic classes.  When not working, she loves spending time with her family (including one of our alums from the Class of 2019), especially walking, playing cards, or going shopping.  

Previously, Maria worked in restaurant service.  She would like to learn to play the guitar and the piano. 

Mel Galarneau works at Rainier Prep because “I am committed to an equitable and rigorous education for all students.”   She is inspired by the a-ha moment students have when a concept clicks for them.  When not working, she enjoys spending time with her dog, Radley, reading, rollerblading, taking care of her plants.  

Previously, Mel worked in Phuket, Thailand as an English language teacher.  She would like to learn to speak more languages.  She has previously lived in Paris, France and Phuket, Thailand, and she has traveled throughout Europe and Southeast Asia.  

Mel attended University of Hawaii at Manoa (BA), Western Governors University (BA), and the University of Washington (MA in progress).

Heather McKey works at Rainier Prep because “I want to work at a school with a strong mission that ties to social justice.”  The most inspiring part of her job is that the teachers she supports are fantastic educators. When not working, she enjoys time with her children exploring local parks, rivers, beaches, and mountains. 

She previously lived in VeraCruz, Mexico on a Fulbright Teacher Exchange.  Heather taught middle school English in Prague, Czech Republic, as well as Multilingual Language Learners in public and private schools in the Seattle area and in several foreign countries.

Heather attended Princeton University (BA).   

Logan Parr works at Rainier Prep because he values the intentionality in building community, fostering young leadership and student excellence.  He is inspired by working with students and staff that strive to be the best version of themselves every day.  When not working, he enjoys spending time in the outdoors, playing basketball, playing music, dancing, and visiting his three wonderful nieces. 

Previously, Logan directed an outdoor education center in Colorado for five years and taught abroad in South Korea for one year.  He would like to learn to become a master chef.   He has traveled to South Korea, Central America, and Europe, and can't wait to explore more in the future.  

Logan attended Eastern Kentucky University (BA) and the University of Washington (MiT in progress).

Shannon Smith Moe loves working at Rainier Prep because “I collaborate daily with a community of talented educators in our shared goal of improving our craft and offering the best education possible to our students.  Our flexibility as a small charter school allows us to work closely with families to quickly adapt to the ever-changing strengths and needs of our students.” The most inspiring part of her job is watching our students develop a strong sense of agency and seeing the meaningful leadership roles they take on in their community and high schools.  

When not working, she likes traveling, relaxing, or exploring the outdoors with her young son and husband.  Before joining Rainier Prep, Shannon served 2 years as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Paraguay, South America and 6 years teaching Biology and AVID at Federal Way High School.  She would like to learn how to play the violin!

Shannon attended University of Washington (BS, BA) and Harvard (M.Ed.).

Michael Moya works at Rainier Prep because he wants to make a positive impact on the lives and futures of tomorrow's leaders. The most inspiring part of his job is being a positive influence.

Before joining Rainier Prep Michael worked in the classroom for four years in Florida and served as a college advisor. When not working he enjoys playing sports. If he could learn how to do anything he would learn to sing like a pro! Michael has coached college soccer and has worked with athletes from the youth level to the professional level.  As the Director of Athletics at Rainier Prep Michael is excited about the role of athletics in youth development and is proud to support students and families through sports and academics.  Go Owls!

Michael attended Coker University (BA, MS).

Allison Robbins works at Rainier Prep because of our commitment to meeting the needs of each individual student and family, and the collaborative spirit in pursuit of educational equity and opportunity.  The most inspiring part of her job is the mindfulness, drive, and enthusiasm of our students and families. When not working, she likes running, trying out new restaurants, time with friends and family, and watching old movies.  

She has lived in Brooklyn, NY; Charlotte, NC; Los Angeles, CA; and Park City, UT.  Previously, she taught Social Studies and English Language Arts at the middle school level in Charlotte and Brooklyn.  She would like to learn how to fold a fitted sheet properly.

Allison attended University of Southern California (BA) and the Relay Graduate School of Education (MA).    

Tim Tran is excited to move back to the Pacific Northwest where he grew up to work at Rainier Prep.  He is a proud Vietnamese American and loved growing up with his huge Vietnamese family, including over 30 cousins.  Tim loves working with students and helping them grow and experience success.  When not working, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors, and traveling to new places.  

Previously, Tim spent the last 10 years as a secondary math instructor and Dean of Students at YES Prep Southwest in Houston, Texas.  He would like to learn to be fluent in more languages.  He was born in Texas, was raised in Seattle, moved back to Texas after college, and is now returning to his Seattle roots.

Tim attended University of Washington-Seattle (BA) and Rice University (MBA). 

Tina Trinh works at Rainier Prep because of the strong vision for educational equity as a means of liberation.  They are inspired by working in mission-aligned partnerships to support our student leaders in learning the skills to enact the change they want to see in their communities.  When not working, she is coddling her cats, playing Nancy Drew or Tetris, and trying new recipes from TikTok. 

While in high school, Tina began mentoring and tutoring future first-generation college students with college readiness in mind, and then they carried this work into college, where they worked with the Dream Project, Mentor Power for Success, and the Together Program.  She would like to learn how to keep her plants alive.  They are a proud Washingtonian -- born and raised in Bellingham and moved far enough away that they could move out (but still see family) for college in Seattle. 

Tina attended the University of Washington-Seattle (BS, MiT). 

Annika van Leynseele works at Rainier Prep because it is a school where students and families are valued as individuals with valuable skills, knowledge, and expertise. She wholeheartedly shares Rainier Prep's values of academic excellence, collaboration, and curiosity, and feels honored to be a part of this community.  She is inspired by her students, and cherishes the relationships with her students individually and as a community.  “I learn so much from my students every day. Their energy and authenticity keeps me showing up!”  When not working, she enjoys cooking for her partner, friends, and family, and snuggling with her very large, very fluffy orange cat, Franklin.

Previously, Annika completed a six-month culinary program and worked as a cook at a restaurant in Napa, CA. In 2018, she moved home to Seattle and worked for a local nonprofit teaching cooking and nutrition classes for folks living on a limited income.  This job is where she fell in love with teaching! 

Annika attended Santa Clara University (BS) and the University of Washington (MA).

Nora White works at Rainier Prep because growth made in middle school can have a huge impact on outcomes.  In her previous work with high school students, she saw students build their success on a strong foundation from middle school.   She is constantly inspired by the dedication of both students and staff to the ability to grow and improve:  “Just because something isn't working for you one day, it won’t be that way forever. Just because you're doing something well, does not mean you can't make it better. I love working at a place where everyone is seeking to improve themselves.”  

She previously spent a semester studying mathematics while living in Budapest, Hungary.   As an AmeriCorps Member, she worked with students at Como Park Senior High in St. Paul, MN on college and scholarship applications.  

Nora attended Carleton College (BA) and the University of Washington (M.Ed.).