Hola! I’m Mrs. Ortiz, a Transitional Kindergarten teacher who loves soaking up the sun at the beach, is obsessed with dark chocolate, and adores our family beagle, Charlie. I started teaching in 1987, I know, a long time ago! For ten years, I taught in San Diego, CA. Then, I decided to pursuit a Master’s degree from the School of Education at Stanford University. After obtaining it, stayed in the Bay Area, got married to my husband Rol, and have a wonderful daughter, Amelia. I have taught many grade levels from elementary, middle school, to college. Over the years as an educator, I have also held positions such as director of a bilingual program, dean of students, and teacher in charge. My passion, though, is teaching little ones. I believe play is a child’s most important work, and strive to create and maintain an environment where they can grow and thrive while exploring the world around them. I am committed to providing students a loving and developmentally sound foundation for a lifetime of learning. I can’t wait to start another exciting school year!