Faculty/Staff
Faculty/Staff
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Sierra Frank
Transitional Kinder/KindergartenHi, I’m Sierra! I received my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and my Master’s Degree in Teaching from San Diego State University. In addition, I hold a Transitional Kindergarten authorization. Before working at Barona Charter School, I taught 6th grade and kindergarten in La Mesa Spring Valley for four years. In my classroom, I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where each student can achieve their unique potential. When I am not at school, you can find me camping, knitting, or spending time with my friends or nephew!
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Michelle Lincoln
1st Grade
mlincoln@mybics.orgThis is my 8th year teaching. I have taught 1st grade and kindergarten in the past. I received my BA and teaching credential from San Diego State. I believe that all students are special and learn in unique ways. I will do what it takes for them to succeed. I have lived in San Diego my entire life and you can often find me doing something outside with my husband and two boys. I love playing soccer, spending time in the sunshine, and being around friends and family.
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Sarah Johnson
2nd Grade
sjohnson@mybics.orgMy name is Sarah, and this is my fourth year teaching. Before I moved to California, I taught first grade for two years at a dual language school in Alexandria, VA. This is my second year teaching second grade. I graduated from UVA with my Master’s in Elementary Education and attended William and Mary for my undergraduate degree. I’m originally from Richmond, VA. When I’m not in the classroom, you can find me thrifting for children’s books, trying out new restaurants, or spending time with family and friends. I'm excited about this new adventure!
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Madison Kelly
3rd - 4th Grades
mkelly@mybics.orgHi, I'm Madison! I recently earned my undergraduate degree and multiple subject teaching credential from San Diego State University this past May. I am thrilled to start my teaching journey at BICS. My teaching philosophy revolves around student-centered learning, where I strive to develop engaging and interactive lessons tailored to diverse learning styles. I am dedicated to cultivating a classroom atmosphere that promotes curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for learning. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy exploring San Diego with my friends, family, and puppy, Cooper. I eagerly anticipate the exciting year ahead!"
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Valerie Sandoval
5th - 6th Grades
vsandoval@mybics.orgHi! My name is Valerie. I earned my bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University in 2023 and went on to complete my teaching credential and master’s degree the following year. While this is my first year teaching 5th grade, I’ve had the opportunity to work with students from TK through 5th grade in my previous role, which has helped shape my approach in the classroom. I’m passionate about creating a welcoming, student-led learning environment where every child feels valued and empowered. I enjoy finding interactive and relatable ways for students to demonstrate their learning and engage with content in meaningful ways. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy catching a Padres game, relaxing by the bay, and spending time with family and friends. I’m thrilled to be a part of the BCS community and excited to continue my teaching journey here
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Krystal Hoffmann
7th - 8th Grades
khoffmann@mybics.orgI earned my general and special education degrees from Northern Arizona University. I currently hold a Clear CA credential for K-8 General Education and a Clear CA credential for K-12 Mild/Moderate Special Education. I spent over a decade teaching middle school, including 4 years as the 7th/8th grade combo teacher at
BCS. I took over as the Special Education Director in Fall 2022 and haven’t looked back. I enjoy working with our students with special needs and helping them reach their goals. You can find me at home, on an adventure with my husband and our two kids, or watching baseball with my family when I am not teaching. I grew up in East County and graduated from El Capitan High School in Lakeside. I'm deeply grateful for the chance to live, raise my children, and see them educated in the very community that shaped my own childhood.
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America Diaz
On-site Substitute Teacher
I have worked for three years with the Lakeside Union School District, supporting all grades and classroom environments. I graduated from San Diego State University in 2025 with my BA in Liberal Studies in Elementary Education. I am now pursuing my MA in Education and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at Point Loma Nazarene University, which I will complete in just one year! I love being active through workouts, Pilates, lifting, and running. I also enjoy spending quality time with family, being outdoors, and experimenting in the kitchen with new recipes. I’m thrilled to support students and help them grow in their learning and confidence!
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Michela Mosconi
School Psychologist
Hello! My name is Michela and I recently moved from Chicago to the San Diego area! I majored in Psychology and minored in Studio Art at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I then attended graduate school to study Educational Psychology at the University of Loyola-Chicago. I spent my first year as a licensed psychologist working at a dual language school for grades 3-8 in the Chicago suburbs. I am so excited to be the School Psychologist this year at Barona!
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Julie Cushman
Principal/Director
I'm thrilled to be serving as Principal and Director at BCS, a place I've called home as a teacher for the past 15 years. My journey here was paved with a BA, teaching credential, and administrative services credential from National University. As a longtime Lakeside resident, I cherish moments with my family, friends, and two furry companions. When I'm not at BCS, you'll find me traveling, enjoying music, or working in my garden.
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Lisa Hanouka
Registrar (Attendance/Health)
I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Studies Elementary Education from San Diego State University in 2018. I’ve always had a passion for working with kids. I am happy and proud to serve the BCS community. I enjoy working with kids, staff, and families. I enjoy traveling and discovering new places. I speak 3 languages and have lived in 3 different countries.
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Kristi Johnson
Admin Assistant
I am an East Coast transplant. I received my BA in Anthropology/Archeology from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. I have been a California girl since 1993. I have had a variety of experience including working as an archeologist, owning businesses, and working with our students here at BICS. I am in my 19th year here. I have been an Instructional Aide and have led a Hands-on Science program for nearly 12 years. Currently my main duties are in the office as Admin Support, as well as serving as a substitute teacher. I am a mom of two kids that attended BICS many years ago! I feel so fortunate to work at a place I love!
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Debbie Aguiar
Campus Food Coordinator
I am Debbie Aguiar. I have worked at Barona Indian Charter School for almost 18 years. I have worn many hats, including Campus Supervisor and art instruction. For the past three years I have been an instructional aide for our amazing kindergarten class. This year, I am working as our Campus Food Coordinator. I love being the “Lunch Lady”. I get to see all our students everyday!
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Raina Morse
Paraeducator
Hi! My name is Raina, and I’m excited to be working as a paraeducator here at BCS. I previously worked in a Moderate/Severe program, where I gained valuable experience supporting students with diverse learning needs. I’m passionate about helping every student feel seen, supported, and successful in the classroom. Outside of school, I spend my weekends at the racetrack assisting my boyfriend with his racing or enjoying quality time exploring the mountains with him and our dog, Maverick!
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Sahil Alami
Paraeducator
The students at BCS refer to me as "Coach A" and I am also the Head Varsity Basketball Coach at El Capitan High School. My ultimate career aspiration is to become a college basketball coach! I recently received my BS in Sport Management at Southern Hampshire University, and I am enrolled at Concordia University Irvine in pursuit of obtaining a master's degree in Coaching and Athletics Administration. Going into my 5th year at BCS, I am excited for my new role as a Paraeducator in which I will be helping the students at the school grow academically. Let's have another great year!
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Lindsay Spadafino
Instructional Aide
lspadafino@yahoo.com
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Carolyn Nunes
SPED Consultant
cnunes@mybics.org