administration
dr. marasco: principal
Hello students, family, friends and all of those who are interested in Santa Clara High School. My name is Dr. Cori Marasco, and it is with enthusiasm that I begin my third year as Principal of Santa Clara High School. For a little about myself: I grew up in Burbank, and attended Saint Finbar School followed by Notre Dame high school (Sherman Oaks, CA). I’ve played various sports throughout my life and went to college on a full softball and academic scholarship at the Division 1 level. I have a Bachelors in History, a Masters' Degree and credential in Science Education, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice from LMU. This is my 11th year in Catholic education, where I began my vocation at Ramona Convent Secondary School in Alhambra followed by Our Lady of Lourdes School in East Los Angeles.
My educational philosophy resembles an inverted pyramid. In this model the administrator (the smallest group) are on the bottom supporting the entire school community with the students being the most important (and largest) group on top. It is also very important that the students are surrounded by Catholic role models thus the importance of building a Faith Community among the staff. Our teachers and staff recognize that by encountering the Lord through prayer, the Eucharist, and Christian Service, they in turn are able to model Jesus to the students. I believe that Catholic Schools flourish when they are viewed as a ministry of the larger community, and not some isolated entity. The community should feel proud of, and support their school regardless of whether they have children in attendance. Personally, my family is very important to me, especially since I have two younger sisters that I am very involved with. I am married to Michael, who is a Catholic elementary school principal. I enjoy traveling, reading, athletics, fishing, hiking, and anything that has to do with the outdoors; not to mention my love for country music. Mr. Ranney: Director of Marketing & Admissions
Roger spent his formative years in Indiana. He attended the University of Central Florida where he also played football for the Knights. He graduated with a bachelors degree in history. For the past 15 years, Roger has owned and operated an event planning business with a clientele that included CBS, Disney and Paramount Studios to name a few.
Most recently Roger taught PE and was the Athletic Director at Saint Finbar School in Burbank. He was also an assistant basketball and football coach at Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks. Roger is married to Laura and has two wonderful children. He enjoys music, being outdoors and spending time with his family. Mrs. Barahona: Academic Counselor & Dean of Curriculum & Instruction
Olga Barahona has been a Math and Science Middle and High School teacher for over 15 years. She is a graduate of California State University, Northridge where she was also a member of the Women’s Volleyball Team. She was the Math and Science Department Chair at her previous institution, where she has enjoyed watching her students grow, mature and become more knowledgeable individuals bound for college success. She demands the best of her students, but does it in a very nurturing manner. She focuses on having her students develop an interest and love for Math and Science. “I want all my students to feel empowered and never feel the need to give up. I want them to leave my class knowing that Math and Science is something they can learn, conquer and master. Their knowledge of these subjects will open many doors.”
Olga is married to Ivan, the current El Salvador Men’s National Basketball coach and a current assistant coach at California State University, Los Angeles. Olga has three children; Ivan Jr. and Eva who attend Our Lady of Grace School where she is an active parent volunteer and a member of the Parish’s Eucharistic Ministry. Olga enjoys working out and watching all kinds of sports. She is very excited to be a part of the Santa Clara community. Dr. Miranda:
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Mr. Guzman: Vice Principal
I am honored to be at Santa Clara High School and thankful for the wonderful opportunity to serve your son/daughter’s educational needs. I want to welcome you to a great school with over 100 years of history, tradition and faith. I feel very fortunate to be a part of this history and an outstanding community.
I earned my Associate of Arts degree from Oxnard College and transferred to California State University Northridge. I majored in Kinesiology and earned my Bachelor of Science degree with Honors. I continued my education and earned my teaching credential at Michael D. Eisner, College of Education at California State University Northridge. I completed my teaching credential program , earned my Master of Arts Degree in Educational Leadership and earned my Administrative Services Credential from Azusa Pacific University. I taught at Monroe High School, Winnetka Middle School, Isabell Middle School and Santa Paula High School before arriving at Santa Clara High School. I grew up locally in the beautiful city of Santa Paula, California. My family is my number one priority. We have been blessed with two beautiful children who keep me busy during my spare time. I enjoy coaching basketball, traveling and spending time outdoors. My goals as a teacher/mentor/coach/administrator is to make a difference in my community and especially, with my student’s, to help them achieve their goals while promoting sportsmanship, discipline and self-respect. In Hoc Signo Vinces! Ms. Palmisano: DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
Ms. Teresa Palmisano is in her 6th year at Santa Clara High School. She is the Athletic Director, Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach, and Teacher. A Ventura native, Palmisano, a student-athlete (basketball, tennis and track) in high school and an All American in basketball, graduated from Buena High School with an athletic scholarship to the University of California, Berkeley. A four year starter and two time All American at Cal, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications. After pursuing a professional basketball career (1992-2006) and winning championships along the way, in Europe and the United States, she earned her master’s degree in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University.
Prior to joining Santa Clara’s staff, Palmisano was the Director of Women’s Basketball Operations at Gonzaga University from 2009-2011. She was the 1st Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach at California Lutheran University during the 2008-2009 season. Employed by the Ventura County Community College District from 2006-2010, Teresa taught in the Physical Education & Athletic Department at Moorpark College. Teresa Palmisano, inducted into the Ventura County Sports Hall of Fame in 2006 and the University of California Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010. Her hobbies are spending time with family, fitness and going to the beach with her husband, Timothy. Mrs. mack: Director of Campus ministry
Ms. Kathy Mack is in her 2nd year at Santa Clara High School as the Campus Minister and Religion Teacher. She graduated from Cal State University Northridge earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Psychology from Cal State University, Los Angeles. She obtained a Catechesis Certification from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Ms. Mack has 25 years of experience in Catholic Education. She began her career at Pinecrest Elementary School (1985-1987), St. Bridget of Sweden (1987-1992), St. Bonaventure High School (1992-2011) and Crespi High School (2011-2013). Ms. Mack educational philosophy is to respect each individual and know that everyone has something to give. She is here at Santa Clara to do God’s work.
Ms. Mack enjoys watching movies and gardening. Mr. Barahona: Dean of Students
Ivan Barahona has been an educator for 17 years. Mr. Barahona has taught middle and high school science. He was the dean of students at Pacific Hills school for the past 5 years. He is a graduate of California Lutheran University where he was a member of the men's basketball team. Mr. Barahona also coached basketball at Pacific Hills guiding the team to 4 CIF championships and a state title in 2013. He is currently the Head Coach of the El Salvador Men's National team leading them to a silver medal in the Central American Olympics in 2013.
Ivan is married to Olga Barahona, Academic Counselor and Dean of Curriculum and Instruction. They have 3 children; Ivan Jr.(13), Eva (11) and Marcus(1). Mr. Barahona enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf and basketball. Mrs. eileen huber: College guidance counselor
Mrs. Eileen Huber brings over 11 years of experience in college counseling working with high school students through their college planning and application process as well as with community college students planning for transfer to four-year universities. She has presented numerous college planning programs for organizations in Ventura County – from local parent groups to private schools groups and lunchtime workforce presentations at the county government center. She completed the College Counseling Certificate Program at UC San Diego and is a member of both the National and Western Associations of College Admission Counseling – professional collaborations of high school college counselors and college admission officers.
Mrs. Huber graduated from Cal State Hayward (East Bay) with a BS in Nursing. She served in the US Naval Nurse Corps for 20 years of active and reserve time. She and her husband, who retired from the Naval Surface Warfare Center at Port Hueneme, enjoy traveling to visit their four children who live around the country. Mrs. Huber enjoys getting to know the students and parents at Santa Clara High School and helping them prepare for the next step in their education. |
Faculty
Ms. alcala: science
Ms. Alcala is starting her 8th year at Santa Clara High School. She graduated from Cal State University, Northridge earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Master’s degree in Teaching with an emphasis on Instruction and Curriculum from the University of Saint Mary. She is currently teaching Biology, Chemistry and Physics along with being, Senior Class Moderator, and SADD moderator. Ms. Alcala believes that everyone can succeed, it’s what you do with your success that matters. Both Ms. Alcala and her husband Coach David “Torta” meant while attending Santa Clara. She enjoys teaching at her alma mater because she is committed to giving back to her community. She enjoys the small school atmosphere and truly believes that Santa Clara provides the best environment to the students.
Ms. Alcala enjoys spending all her time with her son Mickey whom is the highlight of her life. She aspires for Mickey to become a Saint! Ms. Benoun: Eld
Ms. Leila Benoun is enthusiastic about joining the team at Santa Clara High School as the English Language Development teacher! She has been teaching English as a second or foreign language for five years in the United States and Thailand. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, with a minor in Linguistics, from University of California, Irvine and a Master of Arts degree in Teaching of English as a Second Language from California State University, Northridge.
While an undergraduate at UCI, Ms. Benoun spent a semester studying at University of Padova in northern Italy. She also lived and taught English in Thailand for a total of two years, and has traveled to over 20 countries. Having worked with students of various backgrounds and experienced living abroad herself, she is sensitive to cultural differences and the importance of being part of a supportive community in order to thrive. She is dedicated to academically and socially guiding the students to ensure their and SCHS’s success. In addition to her passion for languages and travel, Ms. Benoun enjoys being in nature, taking care of animals, and spending time with her friends and family. mrs. dekker: art
Ms. Rie Dekker is a graduate from California State University, Channel Islands with a B.A. in Art. She has taught art both as a private tutor and as a classroom instructor at Ojai Christian Academy. She has painted commissions for private parties, for churches and for charity auctions.
Rie has traveled extensively throughout Europe to see countless first-hand works of art by renowned masters, including the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museum and Cathedral, the Doumo in Florence and the Prado in Spain. She has also studied the art of East Los Angeles’ painter George Yepes, who painted his interpretation of the Pieta on the exterior of St. Lucy’s Cathedral in Los Angeles. Ms. Dekker admires and honors the historic and timeless span of works of art generated by a wide-spectrum of artists. Due to her travels and research she is able to bring to her students, no matter their level of expertise, inspiring lesson plans of drawing, designing, painting, and much more. This mindset translates to her core belief in teacher effectiveness: meet each student at their level of learning and encourage their personal growth. Ms. Dekker sets the guidelines and expectations and from there encourages her students to love and appreciate all forms of art. Mr. Jackson: english
Mr. Jackson is excited to be joining the SCHS community! He is originally from Salt Lake City where he attended The University of Utah for college and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and in International Studies. After college, he taught in Quito, Ecuador, a place still very dear to him today. For the past four years, Mr. Jackson has taught middle school English and literature at Blessed Sacrament School in Hollywood, California. He was also a member of Loyola Marymount’s PLACE Corps (Partners in Los Angeles Catholic Education), where he earned his California Clear Credential and a Master’s degree in Secondary English Teaching.
Mr. Jackson’s wife, Elizabeth, is a fellow Catholic educator. They both believe in the value of a quality, Catholic education as important for nurturing integrity and educating the whole person. Mr. Lanza: Math
After studying mathematics at CSUN, Alex Lanza traversed the treacherous 126 highway and discovered Santa Clara High School. With a knowledge and interest of math, he aspires to assist the school in any way possible.
While this is his first year at Santa Clara, Alex has instructed students in mathematics for over five years, in settings ranging from private institutions to his university’s mathematics lab. He looks forward to becoming a part of the Santa Clara community. In his spare time, Alex enjoys music, reading, and of course, more math. Ms. Mullen: Math
Being an alumna of Santa Clara High School, I am excited to return as a teacher and have the opportunity to give back that which was given to me. During my years and Santa Clara High School, I was a student-athlete playing volleyball, basketball, and softball. I went on to play basketball and softball at Ventura College.
I received my Bachelor's of Arts degree in Liberal Studies from Cal State Channel Islands. I then went on to receive my credential and Master's degree in Education from Azusa Pacific University. I have been teaching for the past eleven years in the Junior High Department at Santa Clara Elementary School. I taught Language Arts for seven years and then Math/Science for the past four years. I was also the Math Department Chair and Science Fair Coordinator. I look forward to my years here at Santa Clara High School. Ms. Carranza: Choir Director
Ms. Lea Carranza is very excited to join the Santa Clara High School team as the new Choir Director and looks forward to working with our students on enhancing their musical talent. A Catholic school alumna, she believes in the power of a Catholic education in shaping the hearts and minds of our students.
Ms. Carranza began singing at the age of 8 years old and has been performing ever since--ranging from her church choirs to a variety of theatre performances. She has become a recording artist and exemplifies the magnitude of not only vocal talent but songwriting as well, which she hopes to inspire in her students. Ms. Carranza enjoys volunteering in her community, writing, going to the beach, and sports. She loves spending time with her family. |
Mr. Allison: English
Mr. Allison is thrilled to be joining the Santa Clara High School team. He is proud to have attended Saint Mary's College of California, where he received his B.A. in Philosophy. He currently is completing his M.A. in Education at California Lutheran University. Mr. Allison also has the honor of serving in the California Army National Guard as a field artillery officer.
A love of learning has always been at the heart of Mr. Allison's life, and very few things excite him more than sharing this love with others. Additionally, as a convert to the Catholic Faith, he sees the Christian life as an education in and of itself. Outside of teaching and learning, Mr. Allison has passion for the outdoors. He enjoys running, hiking, backpacking, and many other outdoor sports Mr. dekker: Social science
Mr. Tim Dekker is starting his 1st year at Santa Clara High School in the Social Studies Department. He graduated from Cal Poly University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science. He earned his M.Ed degree in Accelerated Learning. Before joining the staff at Santa Clara he taught History, Economics and Government courses in Riverside, Ojai and Santa Barbara schools. His teaching experience spans over thirty years. He was honored as one of the Outstanding Secondary Teachers of the Inland Empire by Inland Empire Magazine. Mr. Dekker is currently teaching World HIstory and US History. He believes every student can learn, period! He teaching at Santa Clara because he wanted to teach at a school where Christian principles and Catholic values are at the core of student education. Mr. Dekker enjoys cycling, hiking, camping, travel, playing historical strategy simulations and reading history.
Mrs. McCarthy: English
Mrs. Katie McCarthy is starting her first year at Santa Clara High School teaching English and Home Economics. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Arts degree in both Political Science and International Area Studies. She then earned her Masters of Arts degree in International Human Rights from the University of Denver, where her primary focus was on refugee resettlement.
Mrs. McCarthy served as a teaching assistant and a research fellow for the University of Oklahoma, where her research in international affairs was peer reviewed and published. She went on to work in refugee resettlement and worked with unaccompanied refugee minors from Central America. A dedication to the pursuit of knowledge is at the core of Mrs. McCarthy's background. She looks forward to sharing this dedication with the Santa Clara community. In her spare time, she enjoys reading works of fiction and non-fiction, exploring our national parks, volunteering, and spending time with her family . mr. Connolly: SpanishMs. Panapa: Religion
First and foremost, I am so excited to be here at Santa Clara High School and be a vessel of Christ to our students! I was born and raised in Ventura, Ca and am a proud local. I earned my Bachelors in Youth Ministry at Azusa Pacific University. I have also extended my education by interning and getting hands on experience at Immaculate Conception in Monrovia, Ca, as well as Our Lady of the Assumption in Ventura, Ca. In total, I have spent seven years in private school, four of which was at a Catholic high school.
Throughout my college career, I was a student-athlete participating in track and field. By the grace of God, I was given a full-ride scholarship and ended my track career as a 3-time All-American. I was a track captain as well as the president of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a club dedicated to ministering to athletes. In my free-time, I volunteer with youth ministry at my church. I also spend a lot of time with loved ones, something I have always enjoyed, coming from a big family. Mrs. Schock: Sports med & science
Suzy Schock, the Certified Athletic Trainer and Sports Medicine and Science Instructor, is in her first year at Santa Clara High School as an allied healthcare provider specializing in sports medicine. She moved to Ventura in January of 2016 with her fiance. At the University of Florida, Schock received her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training. While there, she worked with the 2009 Sugar Bowl Football team along with the Volleyball team. She became a Certified Athletic Trainer in May of 2010. In May of 2012, Schock received her Master of Science in Kinesiology from Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi where she worked with the softball team and the Cheer and Dance squads. She then headed to Fairfax, Virginia where she worked and taught as a full-time faculty member for the School of Dance at George Mason University from 2012 to 2016.
In my spare time, I enjoy exercising, being outdoors, especially at the beach, traveling, spending time with family and friends, and watching college football! I am excited to promote health and wellness for all and to create responsible habits for the active students at Santa Clara High School. Mr. Laubacher: Social Science & english
As an alumnus of Santa Clara High School, Mr. Laubacher is excited to return as a teacher and give back to the community. During his time as a student he participated in multiple sports, was a National Honor Society Member, and served on his senior Associated Student Body board.
He is a proud graduate of Saint Mary’s College of California, where he was the first student to earn his B.S. degree in Global Business Administration. Having gone through sixteen years of catholic schooling he understands the inherit value that a catholic education provides its students. Mr. Laubacher’s goal as a teacher is to spark the students’ imaginations about the wonders of learning. He will provide a classroom environment conducive to conversation that will challenge the students to grow as intellectuals and individuals. Mr. Laubacher enjoys spending his free time reading, travelling, listening to music, and playing golf…terribly. To be a Saint is a way of life! |
Staff
Ms. Luna: Registrar & Attendance
Ms Montserrat Luna is very excited to join the Santa Clara High School team as the new Administrative Assistant and looks forward to welcoming everyone who walks into our school with a warm smile! A Pepperdine alumna, she graduated Cum Laude and was awarded a Commendation from Ventura County for her outstanding academic and civil performance.
Ms Luna enjoys reading, writing, visiting museums, cross stitching and fencing (the sport, she unfortunately cannot help you with an actual fence). She loves having the traditional carnes asadas Regias on the weekends with family and friends, and is always happy to share her recipes. Ms. Ellis: School secretary
An Alumna of Santa Clara High School, Ms. Ellis is excited to become part of the Administrative Team and working to support future Alumni of SCHS. An Oxnard native, Ms. Ellis received an Associate Arts Degree in Liberal Studies from Moorpark College and then pursued at 30 year career in mortgage lending while raising her two children.
“I am truly blessed and I will be forever grateful to my parents, who instilled strong family values and who provided a Catholic education for their five children from K-12 grades.” All were graduates of Santa Clara High School. Ms. Ellis has been active on the SCHS Alumni Executive Board beginning in 2013 and is currently serving as Board Secretary. She is also a member of the Santa Clara Parish Choir since 2014. She enjoys live theatre, spending time with family and close friends, cheering for the Saints at athletic events and a good mystery novel. “In Hoc Signo Vinces" Mr. hutchinson "hutch": Plant manager
More to come... |
Mrs. Mullen: development director
As an Alumna of Santa Clara High School, it is a privilege and honor to be back at SCHS. I believe in the Tradition and Academic Excellence at Santa Clara High so much so that my 3 daughters attended and graduated from here and now my grandson (3rd generation) will be attending this fall as a freshman. I have been in Development and Marketing for over 25 years. I also have experience in finance and athletics. I am now serving my 2nd year as President of the SCHS Alumni Association. I truly believe the quote “Once a SAINT, Always a SAINT.”
I look forward to building relationships with the past, present and future generations. Mrs. Luna: Accounts Receivable & Tuition
Mrs. Luna is celebrating her 4th year employed at Santa Clara High School. She studied abroad and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Commerce at Universidad Internacional, S.C. at Monterrey, Mexico. Before coming to Santa Clara High School, Mrs. Luna worked for the private sector in the divisions of business and administration.
Mrs. Luna was born and raised in the San Joaquin Valley. Of humble background, Mrs. Luna grew up in the farm working community. She believes that no matter what hurdle life throws at you; if you are true to yourself and focused you will thrive. Mrs. Luna and her husband, Rogelio, are the proud parents of Montserrat and Liam. Both of her children received a Catholic education that started in kindergarten up to secondary school while living abroad. Montserrat is an Alumni of Pepperdine University, and her son is a graduate of the Class of 2014 from Santa Clara High School and is presently enrolled at CSUCI. Mrs. Luna enjoys going to the movies, the theater and museums with her family. |
