Teachers /
Maestras

Mrs. Nese

My name is Deanna Nese and I have been teaching at Mupu since 2008. I have been teaching full time and part time since 1997.  I have a BA from CSU Northridge and an MA and teaching credential from CSU Dominguez Hills.

My goal as a teacher is to inspire a love of reading in my students and to help them become excellent communicators and writers. I am a dedicated reader myself and enjoy all genres.  As for writing, I've been a published author since 2014. I'm currently working on a cozy mystery series, with book four coming out this year. You can check out my projects here:

www.deannanese.com

I've been happily married for many years to Sam Nese, also a teacher. I have two adult children. I enjoy  my family, the beach, hiking, and all things nature related. I look forward to a productive year.

Mrs. Escobar

My name is Megan Escobar and I have been teaching at Mupu since 2010. I grew up in Ventura so my heart lies here in Southern California. I love to garden, bake, and spend time with my husband, three kids, and puppy. We are big Disney and Dodger fans.

I attended CSU Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and earned my bachelor's degree and teaching credential in 2009. 

My goal as a teacher is to help my scholars see the beauty within themselves, instill a love of academics, and to help them develop a growth mindset. I believe every scholar has the ability to improve and achieve anything they put their mind to.

Ms. Borgstedte

My name is Samantha Borgstedte and I have been teaching at Mupu since 2018.  I grew up in Reno, Nevada and attended Chapman University in Orange County.  I earned my BA in Integrated Educational Studies with minors in English, Spanish, and Language & Literacy, then went on to complete my Masters in Teaching, also at Chapman.

My goal as a teacher is to encourage critical thought and help scholars to feel comfortable taking responsible risks.  I value hard work and perseverance.

I believe that school should strengthen scholars academically as well as socially and l look forward to seeing this growth throughout the school year.

I enjoy spending time outside, especially camping and taking my dog for walks and hikes.  I love to read and play board games.

Mrs. Hutchinson

My name is Samantha Mellinger Hutchinson and I have been teaching at Mupu since 2022. I have been teaching in California since 2018 and also had the opportunity to teach abroad in Peru in 2014. I earned my bachelor's degree from Hawaii Pacific University, completed my teaching credential program at Cal State University Bakersfield, and am currently attending Western Governors University to obtain my master's degree in educational leadership.

My goal as an educator is to make learning fun and foster perseverance when learning feels difficult. I also strive to ensure that each student feels valued, encouraged, and that they are an important part of the Mupu community. 

I enjoy spending time with my family. We love camping, hiking, and going to the beach together. My personal hobbies include sailing, photography, gardening, jewelry-making, and thrifting.