MAESTRO STARS ACADEMY

Dr. Stephanie is a renowned ocean environmental scientist and STEM educator with over 15 years of experience in teaching and academic mentorship in a wide variety of subjects. She holds B.Sc., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in science and sustainability, as well as an MBA specializing in leadership and strategy. As Academic Programs Manager and After-School Curriculum Lead at Maestro Stars, Dr. Stephanie designs rigorous, hands-on STEAM programs. She has also guided students to success in IB/AP coursework, national science competitions, and customized research projects.​ ​With experience as a Science Fair Judge & Mentor, she supports students in high-level research and competitions. As a classically trained pianist (RCM-certified), she bridges STEM and the arts, fostering a well-rounded, interdisciplinary approach to learning.

Ms. Liz is a dynamic creative arts educator with a decade of experience inspiring students through hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. She holds a B.S. in Psychology and an Associate of Applied Science in Parks and Recreation, bringing a deep understanding of child development, experiential learning, and STEAM education to her teaching. With a strong background in creative arts, sciences, and wilderness therapy, Ms. Liz specializes in designing immersive project-based experiences that ignite curiosity and foster self-expression. Her approach encourages students to find their artistic voices while engaging in meaningful learning experiences that bridge visual arts, science, and technology. She also holds First Aid, Childcare, and CPR certifications, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all learners.

Ms. Allison is a highly accomplished educator with expertise in English Language Arts (ELA), instructional coaching, and curriculum development. She holds a M.A. in K-12 Administration and B.A. in French & Foreign Languages, providing a strong foundation in language instruction. As an AP English Teacher, she specializes in rigorous, standards-aligned instruction, enhancing writing skills, literacy programs, and data-driven learning. At Maestro Stars, she integrates listening, speaking, reading, and writing into a comprehensive language curriculum, developing public speaking skills through monologues and weekly book reports. With deep expertise in curriculum design, cross-curricular projects, and differentiated instruction, Allison fosters critical thinking and engagement, empowering students to excel in both academics and performance.

Ms. Sneha brings a thoughtful and analytical approach to mathematics instruction, cultivating students’ problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills. She holds an M.S. in Computer Science and spent nearly a decade in the IT industry before transitioning to education. She has worked with the Cupertino School District and has built strong expertise in teaching advanced Singapore Math as well as preparing students for international competitions such as Kangaroo Math. Known for breaking down complex concepts with clarity, she meets students at their level and helps them gain both accuracy and speed. Her lessons make math—often perceived as intimidating—more accessible, engaging, and enjoyable, while inspiring students to approach challenges with confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Mr. Jason is a highly accomplished basketball coach and athletic program director with a proven track record in high school and college coaching. He has transformed teams from zero wins to championship contenders and successfully recruited top-tier talent from Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and California. Since 2010, Jason has worked as a Basketball Skills Coach, helping players nationwide reach elite competitive levels. He has coached teams to national championships and played a key role in college recruitment, ensuring athletes succeed both on and off the court. Beyond basketball, Jason has served as an After-School Programs Director, developing programs that support students’ academic, emotional, and physical growth. His athletic career is equally impressive, having excelled in basketball, football, soccer, lacrosse, and track and field.

Ms. Jilli is a passionate performer and educator with a Bachelor’s degree in Musical Theatre and Psychology, and she is currently pursuing a Master’s in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University. She has appeared in a wide range of productions, from classic Broadway hits to contemporary plays, honing her skills in acting, vocal performance, and movement. For over eight years, Jilli has directed and coached children’s theatre productions, helping students discover their unique artistic voices and thrive both on and off stage.

At Maestro Stars, Jilli teaches musical theatre, acting, and monologues with energy and precision, guiding students to refine technique, build confidence, and deliver captivating performances. Her psychology-informed approach supports social-emotional growth while giving students a competitive edge in auditions and competitions.

Ms. Syd is a dedicated mathematics educator specializing in curriculum development and teacher training. She holds a B.A. in Mathematics and Education and a Master of Education in K-12 Math Education, bringing a strong foundation in both pedagogy and instructional design. With experience across elementary, middle, and community college levels, Syd has worked with both gifted and high-need students, designing engaging, high-impact math programs that build strong foundational skills. She has led teacher training and curriculum development initiatives, equipping educators with innovative instructional strategies. At Maestro Stars, she has developed the math curriculum, selecting advanced test books, exercises, and enrichment materials to challenge and support students at every level.

Carollyn is a credentialed teacher with 25 years of classroom experience, teaching kindergarten through eighth grade and implementing The Core Curriculum from its inception. She holds a degree from San Jose State University and has previously worked with various Bay Area schools. In addition to her classroom experience, Carollyn has extensive experience tutoring kids of all ages and designing engaging lesson plans that help students thrive. Her expertise includes selecting language arts textbooks for three different school districts, including Milpitas Union School District. She has also attended numerous prestigious language arts workshops nationwide, including those led by Lucy Calkins, whose state-of-the-art reading and writing programs are integrated into her teaching. As a dedicated English language arts instructor, Carollynn specializes in project-based writing programs that make learning both fun and productive. With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, she guides students through projects that not only enhance their writing skills but also leave lasting memories. Carollynn’s approach transforms traditional lessons into engaging, hands-on activities that foster creativity and a love for language arts in every student.