Leanna Leslie

My name is Leanna Leslie. I am currently a nursing student at Nightingale College. I also have a bachelors degree in Child Development with a concentration in Education from Sonoma State University. My dream is to be a pediatric nurse after I graduate. 

Outside of my nursing studies, you can usually find me staying active at F45 or unwinding during a slow morning. I'm a huge Disney fan living by the motto - 

"If you can dream it, you can do it."

-Walt Disney.

Alondra Novelo

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Mexico and am bilingual, with a passion for learning new languages whenever possible.

I am excited to begin my third year with the San Carlos School District as a member of the TKELP team. In my free time, I enjoy painting and spending quality moments with my family.

Ana Carrasco

I have been working with the San Carlos School District for nearly five years, and during this time, I have developed a strong passion for early childhood education. I am eager to pursue further education in this field to enhance my professional growth and deepen my understanding of children's psychology. I believe that gaining this insight will enable me to support our students more effectively.

In my free time, you can often find me listening to music or enjoying a peaceful walk. I find that these activities help me recharge and inspire my work with children. I look forward to connecting with the kids daily, fostering their emotional and physical development, and creating a nurturing environment where they can thrive. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and the positive impact we can make together!

Miriam Marquez

I have worked with children in East Palo Alto, Davis, and San Carlos for the past six years. I began my journey with SMARTE aftercare and am currently serving as the District Office Secretary in the mornings while also working with TKELP in the afternoons. My favorite part of working with children is witnessing their bright smiles early in the morning and discovering the adventures that await us each day.

In my free time, I enjoy spending quality moments with my two cats, catching up on my favorite shows, and exploring new places. I also love discovering new hobbies, particularly those that involve arts and crafts. I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of our students!

Christina Turner

I am a passionate early childhood educator with a degree in Child Development and over 15 years of experience working with young children. I joined the San Carlos School District in August 2025 and currently support a TK classroom during the school day and TKELP in the afternoon.

I am dedicated to nurturing young minds and hearts and enjoy supporting children’s energy, curiosity, and creativity. Each day brings new opportunities for exploration, discovery, and learning.

Outside of school, I enjoy riding my horse, Luna, and spending quality time with my family and friends.

Will Torres

I’m really excited to be part of the TKELP team! I recently earned my Project Management certification through Mission College and Year Up United. I’ve spent the past 10 years working with students in a variety of roles—PE instructor, volleyball coach, camp counselor, babysitter, and now a TKELP aide.

I love staying active and enjoy playing volleyball and basketball with my cousins and friends. I’m looking forward to getting to know the students and families in the TKELP community and helping create a fun, supportive environment for everyone.

Numalani (Lani) Toelupe

My name is Numalani (Lani) Toelupe, and I also go by Ms.Lani ! I am a second year student at College of San Mateo and currently majoring in Pre-Law, but am also interested in other Law Administration fields in the future. I am of Polynesian descent and have always loved growing up with large numbers of kids and taking care of them, whether it was family or friends. My goals are to connect with kids, making them feel safe and comfortable in learning environments. 

Gabrielle Rountree

My name is Gabrielle Rountree, and I have a bachelor’s degree in English with a focus in psychology. I love inspiring creativity and helping students feel seen, heard, and valued. I’m excited to begin my first year as a TKELP Aide!

Violette Atalla

I have over 17 years of experience working in educational settings, and this is my second year with the San Carlos School District and the TKELP Program. I find working with children to be incredibly rewarding, and I truly enjoy witnessing and being part of their growth. My goal is to foster a supportive and enriching environment that encourages each child to reach their full potential. 

In my free time, I love going on walks and immersing myself in a good book. I also believe that continuous learning is essential, which is why I regularly engage in professional development to further enhance my skills.

Hailey Jennings

Hi, my name is Hailey. and I am excited to work with your children! I am currently studying at CSM as a communications major with a goal to be a teacher. Hopefully here in San Carlos!

Outside of school and work youcan always find me at the gym, with family or friends, or outside in nature.

I am thrilled to be at TKELP again this year!

Donovan Rickson

I’m Donovan, a musician and SCSD alumnus. I’ve been working with the San Carlos School District since 2022 as a Custodial Sub, and through my frequent interactions with students, I developed an interest in childcare. Outside of work, I greatly enjoy music and play in a few bands across the Bay Area. I’ve really enjoyed my time as a TKELP Aide and look forward to continuing to work with the kids!

Mari Callahan

My name is Mari, and I am excited to be joining the TKELP team at Arundel. I grew up locally and hope to continue teaching in the Bay Area in the future. I am passionate about early childhood education and plan to pursue my teaching credential to teach Kindergarten through 2nd grade.

I attended Sonoma State University, where I majored in Liberal Studies and minored in Early Childhood Studies. I am committed to supporting every student by helping them build strong foundational skills and grow as confident young learners. I look forward to getting to know your children and being part of their learning journey.

Ann Kamensky

Hello! I began my journey as a paraeducator in the LEAP preschool program on Halloween last year. With 25 years of experience in both large and small non-profits within the disability and education sectors, I bring a wealth of knowledge to my role. Teaching has always been my aspiration, though various circumstances have shaped my path along the way.

In my spare time, I enjoy relaxing at home and traveling with my husband of 33 years, my two daughters, and our two dogs. I am truly hopeful that my time in the San Carlos School District will make a lasting impact, helping young children reach their full potential and thrive in their educational journeys.

Emeline Taumalolo

Hello! My name is Emeline, but I also go by Ms.Em, or just Em for short. I am currently working on my psychology at CSM with the goal of going into Early Childhood Development.

I am Tongan-American and have a background in babysitting children from the ages of 6 months to 9 years old.

This year marks my second year with TKELP! I look forward to creating a safe and loving environment for your students.

Emily Scannell

Hello! I am excited to be returning to TKELP for a second-year educator. I have a deep passion for working with young children and am committed to fostering a positive and nurturing learning environment. In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and playing with my dog. I look forward to building meaningful connections with the students and contributing to their growth and development throughout the year.

Debbie Samayoa

I am truly excited to be in the TKELP program here at White Oaks. I have previously worked in the TKELP program at Arundel and enjoyed it immensely. Working with young children and helping them learn and be successful is a passion for me. Seeing their growth in just one year is very satisfying and rewarding.

I love staying active and enjoy going on long walks with my husband, and occasional hikes. Day trips to Northern California's Redwoods and Coastlines allow me to relax and enjoy nature in all of its beauty.

Jess Tacorda

Hi! I’m Jess. I have been a Special Education Paraeducator with the San Carlos School District for 10 years and have over 15 years of experience working in education. I have been part of TKELP since the program began, and it has been wonderful watching it grow over the years.

I love building meaningful connections with students and creating an environment where they feel supported, encouraged, and free to be themselves.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, going to the gym, shopping, and taking myself on little adventures. I am grateful to continue being part of the TKELP community and helping make it a fun, welcoming, and memorable place for our students!

Alma Lopez

Hello! My name is Alma. I am a positive, caring, and hardworking person who truly enjoys helping others. I love working with children, teaching sports, and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable and included.

Education is very important to me, and I enjoy continuing to learn and grow through my classes. I am also very proud of my Guatemalan culture. I love traveling, spending time with my family, and sharing our traditional foods and customs with others.

Patty Murphy

I grew up in the Bay Area and have called San Carlos home for the past 28 years. This is where I raised my two daughters, who both attended schools in the San Carlos School District and had wonderful experiences.

I love working with children and look forward to continuing to be an active part of the San Carlos community!

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