Gary Davis is the Executive Director of the California Republic Leadership Academy. He has been part of the California charter school movement for the better part of twenty years. During that time, he has fulfilled numerous roles relating to education policy, advocacy, and operations. Mr. Davis has served in the elected positions of School Board Member, City Council Member, and Mayor. Additionally, he has started and consulted with numerous community-based nonprofit organizations and also led the launch of two small businesses. Most recently, he led the startup of the Orange County Classical Academy (“OCCA”). Mr. Davis’ responsibilities encompassed a wide range of tasks, such as petition drafting, securing facilities, hiring over 30 staff members, outfitting the school, policy development, and student recruitment. He also handled various aspects of school systems and operations, among many other duties. OCCA successfully launched in the midst of the pandemic and developed a waiting list of over 1000 students. It is his vision to rebuild the California Dream by educating the next generation of California’s leaders that lead to the founding of the California Republic Leadership Academy. Gary loves California.

Mr. Davis’ favorite book is The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey!

Mr. Davis loves this book because, after reading it in college, The Seven Habits has guided much of Gary’s personal and professional life. It also led to the use of Franklin Covey’s “Leader in Me” curriculum at CRLA as the major leadership development aspect of the school.

Mrs. Helen Suhr is the Principal of California Republic Leadership Academy, Capistrano. She holds a Bachelor of Science from UC Irvine and a Master of Science from Columbia University. After completing her graduate studies, Mrs. Suhr embarked on her professional journey as a social worker, dedicating her efforts to supporting the young children in East Brooklyn. Subsequently, she made a career transition into the field of education, embarking on a new path as an educator within independent schools. She worked at The Collegiate School in Manhattan, which is an all-boys private school. She then returned to her home state of California to work at La Jolla Country Day School. Following a hiatus from the classroom to focus on raising her three children, Mrs. Suhr resumed her teaching career at Grace Classical Academy. It was within this esteemed institution that she had the unique privilege of serving as her own children's third-grade teacher. For the next several years, she grew in her understanding and appreciation for classical education. When Mrs. Suhr joined Orange County Classical Academy as a founding administrator, she was prepared to create a classical school culture from its foundation. As the Assistant Headmaster, her passion was to provide a robust curriculum, coach teachers, and inspire a love for classical education. Mrs. Suhr wrote the school chant and established the mascot for the school. She was the coordinator for SSTs, 504 Plans, and ELPAC/CAASPP assessments. She also had the privilege of going back into the classroom to teach first-year Latin to sixth-grade students. Mrs. Suhr loves children and has a deep commitment to educating them with excellence. Her goal is to inspire children to be curious and find wonder in learning. She is committed to providing an education that inspires students to seek the truth, and to love the good and beautiful.

Mrs. Suhr’s favorite book is The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien!

Mrs. Suhr loves this book because of its beautiful writing, its ability to transport the reader to an exquisitely detailed and imaginary world, and its timeless ability to confront the reader with unchanging truths about the world, the human heart, and good and evil.

Erin Bartaluzzi is the Assistant Principal of California Republic Leadership Academy, Capistrano. After serving as a campus monitor and instructional assistant in the Newport Mesa School district during college, she decided to pursue a career in education. She attained a bachelor's degree and teaching credential from Vanguard University. For eleven years, Mrs. Bartaluzzi served as an elementary school teacher in Orange County, fostering the growth of students and equipping them with the essential skills for assuming leadership roles within their communities. Transitioning into a mentorship role as a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA), she adeptly steered fellow educators towards excellence in curriculum development, pedagogical practices, and the establishment of caring classroom environments. For the past six years, she has continued serving in education by offering support to teachers and school personnel in various administrative capacities, including assistant principal and principal of her previous school. During this time, she completed her master's degree in educational administration at Concordia University. She is dedicated to empowering children to discover their natural leadership qualities and nurturing these attributes to bring forth goodness and virtue within their community. Erin Bartaluzzi is excited to participate in CRLA's mission to educate our future leaders through a virtue-based education.

Mrs. Bartaluzzi's favorite book is Little Women by Louisa May Alcott.

This cherished book has held a special place in her heart since elementary school. Within the pages of this timeless classic, she finds the characters with diverse personalities and inherent imperfections relatable today. She is inspired by their unwavering commitment to integrity and love. They triumph over adversity with resolute grace and gratitude.

Dr. Sagui Doering is the Director of Compliance and Outreach at California Republic Leadership Academy. She is a twenty-four year seasoned educator who has taught students of all ages and has led schools in traditional and non-traditional private, public and charter school settings. She holds a doctorate degree and a master’s degree from Pepperdine University, California administrative services and teaching credentials, and a bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly Pomona. 

Of those twenty-four years as an educator, fifteen have been dedicated to serving as a school leader and administrator in various positions including assistant principal at Acaciawood Preparatory Academy, dean of students/student development coordinator at Samueli Academy, founding principal at Palm Lane Elementary Charter, head of academics at Port View Preparatory and most recently as head of school/campus director at Fusion Academy Aliso Viejo. Her knowledge and experience has been enriched through her endeavors which include opening a new charter elementary school, serving in various founding leadership positions, and in leading schools to obtain the highest levels of WASC accreditations.She is trained in policy development, regulatory compliance, educational research, data analysis, curriculum development, teacher mentoring, pedagogical differentiation, special education, standardized assessments, charter development, community outreach, and educational business practices.  

Dr. Doering loves empowering children and adults through effective teaching and mentoring practices which nurture and unleash the incredible potential hidden within the soul, mind and body. As one who also loves the United States of America, she is excited to be a part of the CRLA team working towards preparing “the next generation of California’s leaders to excel academically, to be proud Americans, proud Californians, and to impact the world with excellence derived from an education like that which produced the inspired servant leaders who founded our great nation.”

Dr. Doering’s favorite book is the Fred Factor by Marc Sanborn

Dr. Doering loves this book because it tells the story of an ordinary postal worker who genuinely cared about the people he served and always went the extra mile to serve them in an extraordinary way. This book serves as a reminder that we all have daily opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of those whom we serve. 

Carrie Wyckoff is the Office Manager at the California Republic Leadership Academy. She joins our team with extensive management and supervisory experience. She began her career as a General Manager for The Old Spaghetti Factory, where she managed over 200 employees. Most recently, she was the Office Manager for a world-renowned physical therapy clinic. She recently decided to make the jump to the California Republic Leadership Academy because she is driven by a deep conviction that our children deserve an education grounded in truth Carrie is a California native and she raised her two children within the Capistrano Valley Unified School District. She is excited to work on our team because she believes in our Vision and Mission statements and finds them refreshing and pertinent.

Mrs. Wyckoff’s favorite book is Animal Farm by George Orwell!

Mrs. Wyckoff loves this book because the parallels that it draws between the animals and the human world is astounding to her. We learn lessons that we can and should apply to our own society. For instance, we learn that all power can contain an element of corruption and that rewriting history can lead to our own downfall. The book is both frightening and entertaining at the same time.”

Chris Zeif is the Campus Operations Manager at the California Republic Leadership Academy. He began his career in Los Angeles by working for the Boys & Girls Club of America as an Athletic Director, teaching young children how to have fun while playing sports and work together as a team. Mr. Zeif then pursued an Associates degree in Criminal Justice and was a volunteer police officer for the EL Monte Police Department for over 8 years. After graduating from college, he moved to Orange County where he took a job as a Security Agent for Ikea. He was quickly promoted to Safety and Security Manager. As the Safety and Security Manager, Mr. Zeif oversaw the safety and security of 300 employees and all of the customers who entered the store. He has also conducted several safety trainings for all staff, from active shooter, fire/evacuation drills, and accident prevention. Once Mr. Zeif’s eldest child started school, he started researching what safety protocols were in place at his school, and he began volunteering. He soon realized how much he enjoyed working with school staff to help them maintain safety protocols on the school campus. He knew that this is what he loved to do and wanted to keep going. Mr. Zeif is a father of two, who enjoys coaching his son's little league baseball team. He is a huge basketball fan, and plays basketball in his free time.

Mr. Zeif’s favorite book is Kobe Bryant the Mamba Mentality.

Mr. Zeif loves this book becuase it talks about how important it is to practice your craft to become a master at it. This is something he has carried with him everywhere he goes.

Breanne Larson is the Office Assistant at the California Republic Leadership Academy. She brings a wealth of experience from her background in education and healthcare administration. Breanne worked in education as an Elementary School Supervisor, where she was instrumental in supporting students and staff in a dynamic school environment. Most recently, she served as a Dental Front Desk Receptionist and Treatment Coordinator, where she managed patient interactions and assisted with treatment planning. Driven by a passion for providing high-quality education and fostering a supportive community for students, Breanne is excited to contribute to our team. A California native, she is enthusiastic about our Vision and Mission statements and looks forward to supporting our mission of delivering an education grounded in truth.

Mrs. Larson's Favorite Book is Matilda by Roald Dahl.

Mrs. Larson loves this book because it teaches the power of kindness. Even though Matilda had her own troubles, she demonstrated kindness and empathy towards others. Mrs. Larson believes that empathy and kindness can contribute to a culture of respect, inclusion, and understanding.

Mr. Nick Nordstrom is the Dean of Students at California Republic Leadership Academy, Capistrano. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Marine Science from California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, and a master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in Critical Thinking from National University. While attending Cal Poly, Mr. Nordstrom spent four years working in a research lab that focused on marine ecology, but also worked extensively with local schools in the community to offer educational science opportunities in collegiate labs. Through this experience, Mr. Nordstrom fell in love with education and decided to pursue a career as a lifelong learner and educator. Mr. Nordstrom has taught both high school and middle school age groups and has experience in both private and public school settings. During his time in the classroom, he completed graduate studies, which became a turning point in his professional journey, deepening his commitment to teaching students how to engage with information thoughtfully, question assumptions, and develop independent, critical thinking skills.

At his most recent school, he transitioned into a Secondary Teaching Assistant Principal position, where he received extensive training in behavior management, multi-tiered systems of support, and the development of campus culture and climate. Through this training, he worked on developing systems for his fellow teachers to use to better optimize their classroom environments and focus on the prevention of unexpected behaviors. This, in turn, allowed the classroom environment to center more fully on educational content.

Mr. Nordstrom’s favorite book is The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss.

He became completely enthralled with Rothfuss’ writing style upon first reading his work, drawn in by the beautiful prose and impeccable world-building. Along with captivating character arcs and an elegant magic system, the book has remained a favorite and a consistent reread for Mr. Nordstrom.

Kelly Keefe is a TK teacher at the California Republic Leadership Academy. Being a proud American and Californian, Ms. Keefe holds utmost reverence for freedom and those who protect it. The California Republic Leadership Academy resonates with her beliefs. With five years of experience in teaching Kindergarten/Transitional Kindergarten, Ms. Keefe finds joy in shaping the next generation into positive and productive global citizens. She eagerly anticipates teaching Transitional Kindergarten and collaborating with both students and their families at California Leadership Academy.

Ms. Keefe’s favorite book is Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White!

Ms. Keefe loves this book because it beautifully conveys life lessons through the friendship between a pig and a spider. E.B. White's quote, "Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder," resonates with Ms. Keefe, as she witnesses it daily in her classroom as a teacher.

Kimberly Prowten is a kindergarten teacher at the California Republic Leadership Academy, and has always found fulfillment in working with students. Ms. Prowten pursued a teaching credential at Biola University and furthered her education by enrolling in a Master of Education program at Concordia University. In the previous year, Ms. Prowten served as an Instructional Aid in a Transitional Kindergarten classroom, supporting the lead teacher with various responsibilities such as lesson preparation, classroom management, social-emotional learning, and occasionally substituting when required. Thrilled to be part of CRLA, Ms. Prowten is enthusiastic about nurturing the next generation of leaders, emphasizing truth, virtue, and wisdom.

Ms. Prowten’s favorite book is You Are Special by Max Lucado!

Ms. Prowten loves this book because it resonates with her. It instills in students the notion that each person is unique and worthy of celebration.

Emma Nordstrom is a 1st Grade Teacher at the California Republic Leadership Academy. A native of Orange County, she holds a deep affection for her hometown. With two years of experience as a substitute teacher in public schools within Orange County, Ms. Nordstrom successfully completed her credential and student teaching program at CSULB. During her undergraduate studies at Westmont College, Mrs. Nordstrom actively participated in the Augustinian Honors Program, providing her with firsthand exposure to the advantages of classical education. Mrs. Nordstrom firmly believes in instilling a love for learning for learning's sake among students and finds a true sense of belonging at CRLA. Mrs. Nordstrom eagerly anticipates guiding the next generation of servant leaders and catalysts for positive change within their classroom, united in the pursuit of truth and wisdom.

Mrs. Nordstrom’s favorite book is East of Eden by John Steinbeck!

Mrs. Nordstorm loves this book because she appreciates its exquisite allegorical portrayal of life's intricacies as it traces a family's journey across multiple generations in California's Central Valley.

Shanaye Sherman is the 2nd Grade Teacher at the California Republic Leadership Academy. As a passionate advocate for education, she has traversed various roles in the academic sphere. Her journey began as a dedicated para-educator, where she cultivated a profound understanding of student needs and honed her skills in providing targeted support. Transitioning to the dynamic realm of substitute teaching, Ms. Sherman embraced diverse classroom environments, adapting swiftly to ensure continuity in learning and fostering an atmosphere of growth and curiosity among students. Ms. Sherman’s aspiration to make a more profound impact led her to pursue a teaching credential at Concordia University, Irvine. There, she immersed herself in pedagogical theories and practical methodologies, harnessing the knowledge necessary to empower future generations. Now, standing at the threshold of a new chapter, Ms. Sherman is thrilled to be a part of the esteemed team at CRLA Capistrano. Ms. Sherman is eager to support and guide the next generation of servant leaders to wisdom, truth, and friendship.

Ms. Sherman’s favorite book is If You Take A Mouse To School by Laura Numeroff.

Ms. Sherman loves this book because it reminds her of her childhood and the numerous tools she would stuff her backpack with. This captivating story brings alive the world of education and reminds young individuals how exciting learning can be, especially with a buddy.

Evan Lovette is the 4th grade teacher at California Republic Leadership Academy. He is a born and raised Southern California native who has been teaching full-time in Orange County since 2018. As a father, he has an extra investment in the next generation. Mr. Lovette completed his student teaching with 1st graders at Valencia Elementary, followed by 5th and 3rd grade at Fairmont Schools
He is honored to be able to join this team of amazing individuals, and devote himself to cultivating academic success and to strive to inspire growth in character and virtue in his classroom. Mr.Lovette believes strongly that without integrity, wisdom, and kindness, academic success will only take someone so far. He also really enjoys making learning fun by integrating his nerdy passions and love for cats  into his lesson planning.

Mr. Lovette received his B.A. at UCI, majoring in History. His love for ancient studies and philosophy had him eager to learn more about the mind, body, and spirit connection. After completing his M.A. in Psychology, he felt like he wasn’t on the  career path he was made for. During this journey, he obtained firsthand science experience in a real lab, taught history through Renaissance presentations, was a college counselor, and (unexpectedly) performed in his first musical . It wasn’t until Mr. Lovette became a father that he decided to invest in his son’s education, and found his passion in teaching. 

He  is so grateful for a career path that has allowed him to view the world through different lenses. Having a son of his own, he understands how complicated and wonderfully complex parenting can be. As a teacher, he also knows how important parent, teacher, and community involvement is in a child’s success. Mr. Lovette’s goal is to constantly cultivate a team mentality with parents and fellow staff members towards each child’s future together.

Mr. Lovette’s favorite book is Till We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis

The spinning of the Cupid and Psyche myth combined with deep theological ideas is what makes this Mr. Lovette’s favorite book. Multiple reads inspire the reader to discover new aspects of wisdom and what it means to have true unconditional love.

Ari Kochan is a 6th Grade Teacher at the California Republic Leadership Academy. Her motto for education is to “learn for the sake of learning”. This philosophy resonates deeply with her belief in the intrinsic motivation to learn for the empowerment of knowledge to create wise, character-formed leaders. Having grown up homeschooled, Ms. Kochan places a high value on taking initiative in the learning process. She obtained a bachelor’s degree and a teaching credential from Vanguard University of Southern California. This is Ms. Kochan’s first year of teaching after completing her student teaching at Esencia K-8 in the Capistrano Unified School District. Ms. Kochan is eager to cultivate a community of care and character in her classroom as she strives to unite her students in virtue and wisdom.

Ms. Kochan’s favorite book is The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis.

Ms. Kochan loves this book because it beautifully showcases the raw human struggle for morality and emphasizes pillars of character such as honesty, integrity, forgiveness, and self-sacrifice when faced with good versus evil.

Sara Feliciano is the PE Teacher at the California Republic Leadership Academy. She is driven to empower the next generation of sincere and dedicated learners. She firmly believes in instilling the principles of moral virtue, truth, and wisdom in her students, fostering their holistic character development. In 2020, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Health Professions. Recently, in May 2023, she completed her master's degree and Single Subject Credential in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University. Ms. Feliciano has gained valuable experience working as an instructional assistant for 3rd and 4th grade students for one year. During the Fall of 2022, she served as an itinerant PE student-teacher, engaging with Kindergarteners through 5th graders across three schools within the Capistrano Unified School District. Additionally, Ms. Feliciano possesses significant experience substituting for PE classes, catering to 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. With eager anticipation, she looks forward to personal and professional growth while serving at the California Republic Leadership Academy in the upcoming school year.

Ms. Feliciano’s favorite book is Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe!

Ms. Feliciano loves this book because it holds a special place in her heart! It is a classic and nostalgic childhood favorite that highlights the themes of repentance, overcoming challenges, and thrilling adventures.

Robin Davis is an accomplished educator, musician, songwriter, producer, and artist with a passion for all musical genres and forms. He holds an Associate of Science degree in Recording Arts from Full Sail University, a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education, and a Master’s degree in Education from California Baptist University, where he concentrated on piano and studied Classical, Jazz, and Salsa. Currently, Robin is pursuing another Master's degree in interdisciplinary music from Berklee School of Music.

With over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Robin is dedicated to teaching and inspiring his students. He brings three years of experience teaching in the elementary and middle school public school system, complemented by five years of private instruction. His educational philosophy is centered on helping students become the best versions of themselves while fostering a lifelong love of music. He aims to create an effective learning environment where students can grow musically, personally, and professionally.

Mr. Davis’s favorite book is “The Creative Act” by Rick Rubin.

Mr. Davis loves this book because it offers valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiration that can help anyone unlock their creative potential and navigate their creative journey.

Jonathan Shier is the Education Specialist at the California Leadership Academy. He received his Bachelors of Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and his Masters of Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Jonathan’s passion for teaching was fostered during his time in Nevada, while he served for two years with the Teach for America Corp working as a Middle School Special Education Teacher. Returning to California, Jonathan integrated back into the school system, working at a Public Charter School while transferring his Education Specialist Credential and earning his Registered Behavior Technician certification. Jonathan is excited to bring his passion for students’ academic and emotional growth to the CRLA student body.

Mr. Shier’s favorite book is “The Way of Kings” by Brandon Sanderson.

Mr. Shier loves this book because it shares a great message on the power of perseverance and hard work, and how it is not about where you are going, but the journey you take to get there.

Joanna Martindale is the School Psychologist at the California Leadership Academy. She received her Bachelors of Psychology from Pitzer College, Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, and her Education Specialist degree from Brandman University, earning her Pupil Personnel Services credential in School Psychology. Joanna has had a lifelong passion for working with children, beginning her career at an Autism clinic on her college campus and continuing to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst while supervising behavioral therapy programs in the Autism community.  Joanna is excited to work with all students on campus and bring social emotional learning to life in the classrooms.

Mrs. Martindale’s favorite book is “Oh the Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss.

Mrs. Martindale loves this book because of the endless possibilities for the future, and the help and support of loved ones along the way.