A Note From Our Founder & Instructor

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Dear fellow parents,

I am the founder of Monterey Bay Scholars Academy, a micro private school in Monterey County created from a deep commitment to supporting children in a safe, thoughtful, and nurturing environment. I believe every child deserves to feel secure, seen, and inspired—both academically and emotionally—and I have built this school with that vision at its core.

My background is rooted in understanding people, care, and advocacy. I hold a Bachelor's degree in sociology, with an emphasis in feminist studies, which shaped my perspective on equity, community, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where all children can thrive. I have found immeasurable inspiration in my two amazing young daughters, and in my experiences in helping to raise two brilliant, resilient, kind-hearted stepdaughters.

My career of nearly 20 years as a professional of veterinary medicine, as a Fear-Free Certified Registered Veterinary Technician in the state of California, has been formative and foundational. My work in this field has strengthened my attention to detail, my compassion, adaptability, and ability to remain calm and responsive in high-stakes situations.  I absolutely love teaching young people about animals, science, biology, and nurturing living beings.

In addition, I am a former state-certified domestic violence victims advocate and youth advocate. These roles deepened my commitment to protecting and uplifting vulnerable populations, and they continue to inform the way I approach education—with empathy, awareness, and a focus on emotional safety.  Both of my younger children completed the preschool co-op program at Prunedale Elementary school, where I have spent many dozens of hours volunteering and assisting in the classroom, and where I have found joy in teaching young children.

I founded Monterey Bay Scholars Academy with a desire to offer families an alternative to traditional education—one that prioritizes small class sizes, individualized learning, and a whole-child approach, as well as one which moves away from expectations of conformity and standardization. I am especially passionate about fostering environments where children can build confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and experience a sense of stability, and belonging.

My goal is to create a learning community where children feel supported, families feel connected, and every student is empowered to grow into a capable, resilient, and compassionate individual.  I look forward to the privilege of working with and supporting your family.

Yours sincerely,

Gianna