Principal's Greeting!
As an educator trained at leading institutions in both the U.S. and China, with experience across K–12 education, university teaching, and world-renowned opera houses, I bring over 20 years of experience in education. Having run a music school for more than a decade and guided university applications, I believe students must excel academically while also discovering their unique voice through the arts.
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I founded Maestro Stars Academy in Cupertino, California, in 2013 to build a school that fully aligned with this vision. Maestro Stars was created as a multidisciplinary educational platform that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and innovation while fostering a lifelong love of learning in a supportive environment.
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Our After-School and Summer Programs offer a dynamic blend of English language arts, creative arts, sciences, math, and music. These programs encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and personal growth while supporting each student’s individual learning journey through engaging, well-rounded experiences.
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Our Music Program focuses on developing strong, confident musicians through individualized instruction, consistent training, and frequent performance opportunities. With private and group classes and globally recognized curricula such as RCM and ABRSM, students build a solid foundation while preparing for advanced study and future careers in music.
- Ms. Lin
Our mission
At Maestro Stars Academy, we inspire and empower young minds through creative, multidisciplinary programs that ignite
curiosity, foster innovation, and cultivate a lifelong love for learning.
We are dedicated to nurturing each student's unique journey, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and passion to excel and thrive in all areas of life.
Maestro Stars Academy, formerly known as Colorful Universe, was founded in Cupertino, California in 2010. Over the years, we've grown into a vibrant educational community focused on inspiring and empowering young minds. Our programs blend academic excellence with creativity and innovation, and our mission is to instill a lifelong love for learning through a dynamic STEAM-based curriculum. Whether students are passionate about science, technology, engineering, math, music, or the arts, Maestro Stars provides the supportive and stimulating environment they need to thrive.
Our Story
Meet The Team
Administrative Staff
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Ms. Lin
Founder & Director
Dr. Stephanie
Academic Programs Manager
Ms. Elizabeth
​Administration
Ms. Mahsheed
Program Development Manager
Academic Staff
Science & STEAM
Dr. Stephanie
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.
Creative Arts & STEAM
Ms. Elizabeth
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.
​English Language Arts
Ms. Allison
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.
​Math
Ms. Sneha
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.
​PE & Sports
​Mr. Jason
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.
Musical Theatre & Speaking
Ms. Jilli
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.
English Language Arts
Ms. Carollynn
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.
Music Program Staff
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Piano & Musicianship
Ms. Lin
Ms. Lin is a visionary leader in education, integrating arts and STEM into a world-class curriculum. As the Founder of Maestro Stars Academy, She transformed her elite conservatory training and music portfolio program into a leading STEAM academy dedicated to developing well-rounded students. Accepted as the top-ranked pianist at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, she graduated at the top of her class and won the National Pearl River Piano Competition. She later joined the Conservatory and Opera Center as faculty and was invited to The Juilliard School as a visiting scholar. She holds dual master’s degrees in Piano Performance, Collaborative Piano, and Curriculum Design & Educational Management. With over 25 years of teaching experience across K–12 and higher education, Ms. Lin has mentored award-winning students and helped many gain admission to top universities. She is dedicated to advancing arts education through visionary leadership and academic excellence. As an international event organizer, she has led concert tours in collaboration with Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford, and produced a landmark event at SAP Center featuring President Bill Clinton for an audience of 20,000. Her leadership continues to position Maestro Stars Academy at the forefront of global education.
Voice & Musical Theatre
Ms. Natalie
Soprano Ms. Natalie holds a Master of Music in Vocal Arts from USC’s Thornton School of Music. A finalist in major international competitions, she has received awards from the Metropolitan Opera Council Auditions, Lauritz Melchior International Wagner Competition, and Meistersinger von Nürnberg. An accomplished performer, Ms. Natalie has appeared in leading operatic roles and recently created and performed St. Martin in The Garden by Matthew Owens with Goat Hall Chamber Opera. As a vocal performance coach in Silicon Valley, Natalie prepares students for competitions, auditions, and charity concerts. Her students have earned Gold and Excellence Awards at the Berkeley Junior Bach Festival, Protégé Competition, and Disney Heritage Festival.
Voice & Musical Theatre
Mr. Eugene
Tony Award-winning baritone Mr. Eugene has starred in leading roles in Die Fledermaus, Hansel and Gretel, Il Trovatore, The Marriage of Figaro, Carmen, and Falstaff as a Resident Artist with Opera San José. Named Resident Artist Emeritus in 2024, his collaboration with Michael Tilson Thomas led to national tours, a PBS recording, and releases on DVD by EMI Classics and Netflix. As head coach of Maestro Stars' musical theatre team, Mr. Eugene has led students to top U.S. competitions, earning awards in solo, duet, and monologue categories. Under his mentorship, performers thrive on national and international stages, showcasing exceptional artistry and technique.
Voice
Ms. Olga
Ms. Olga has captivated audiences across renowned opera houses, including the Bolshoi Opera, Stanislavsky Opera Theater, Hawaii Opera Theater, San Francisco Lyric Opera, West Bay Opera, and Illinois Opera Theater. A dedicated educator, Ms. Olga has guided students to top awards in national and international competitions. As a member of the Music Teachers’ Association of California (MTAC) and National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), she provides students with access to the testing system and extensive performance opportunities. At Maestro Stars, she teaches Level 7-8 vocal, preparing students from early-advanced to advanced levels and coaching them for solo and duet competitions, instilling both technical excellence and a love for performance.
Voice & Monologue
Dr. Annie
Dr. Annie has led students to top national awards in musical theatre competitions, excelling in solo singing and acting/monologues. A dynamic performer & educator, she empowers students with expertise in vocal performance, music direction, and stagecraft, fostering both technical excellence and expressive depth. A National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) finalist, Dr. Annie has directed young performers in vibrant, collaborative showcases. Her academic background further refines her approach—an M.S. from UC Santa Cruz honed her skills in musical storytelling and performance direction, while a Ph.D. in Pathology deepened her expertise in vocal health and physiology. She is deeply committed to guiding more students to success in national-level competitions and professional stages.
Voice
Ms. Mahsheed
Ms. Mahsheed is an accomplished mezzo-soprano and dedicated voice educator, recognized for her artistry in opera and musical theatre. She holds a Master of Music in Voice Performance and Opera from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM). Ms. Mahsheed has performed with renowned opera companies on prestigious stages and is a recipient of multiple honors, including the Graduate Scholarship Award and SFCM’s professional development grants. As a voice instructor at Maestro Stars, she is passionate about nurturing young vocalists, focusing on classical technique, musical storytelling, and stage confidence. Balancing performance and teaching, Ms. Mahsheed brings professional artistry and vocal excellence to the next generation of singers.
Monologue & Musical Theatre
Ms. Jilli
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.
Voice & Beginner Piano
Ms. Samantha
Ms. Samantha is a vocalist, writer, and composer with a B.A. in Music / Composition from the University of California, Berkeley, where she specialized in vocal performance. She is the 2024–25 recipient of the Eisner Prize in Music and the Musical Theater Prize, recognized for her excellence in vocal artistry and musicianship. At UC Berkeley, Samantha performed both original and classical works, where she was commended for her expressive voice and powerful stage presence.
As an instructor, Ms. Samantha is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of singers. She fosters a supportive, inspiring, and engaging learning environment where students can develop strong vocal technique, explore musical theatre repertoire, and discover their own artistic voice.
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Piano
Ms. Heyao
Ms. Heyao holds both a B.A. and a Master’s degree in Piano Performance, graduating from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music with the prestigious Edgar and Don Jones Memorial Scholarship.
She began piano studies at the age of six and, by twelve, won first place in the Palatino Piano Competition, establishing herself as a rising young talent. Since then, she has appeared at renowned festivals and venues including the Atlantic Music Festival, Cleveland Summer Sonata, and the Steinway Society.
Alongside her performance career, Ms. Heyao has extensive experience preparing students for ABRSM and RCM examinations and guiding them to excel in competitions. She is dedicated to nurturing each student with artistry and discipline, helping them develop strong technique, expressive musicianship, and lasting confidence at the piano.
College Admissions Counseling
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College Music Portfolio Coach
Ms. Lin
Ms. Lin is a visionary leader in education, integrating arts and STEM into a world-class curriculum. As the Founder of Maestro Stars Academy, She transformed her elite conservatory training and music portfolio program into a leading STEAM academy dedicated to developing well-rounded students. Accepted as the top-ranked pianist at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, she graduated at the top of her class and won the National Pearl River Piano Competition. She later joined the Conservatory and Opera Center as faculty and was invited to The Juilliard School as a visiting scholar. She holds dual master’s degrees in Piano Performance, Collaborative Piano, and Curriculum Design & Educational Management. With over 25 years of teaching experience across K–12 and higher education, Ms. Lin has mentored award-winning students and helped many gain admission to top universities. She is dedicated to advancing arts education through visionary leadership and academic excellence. As an international event organizer, she has led concert tours in collaboration with Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford, and produced a landmark event at SAP Center featuring President Bill Clinton for an audience of 20,000. Her leadership continues to position Maestro Stars Academy at the forefront of global education.
College Admissions Counselling
Dr. Stephanie
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.