Faculty & Staff

A native of Monterey County, Elizabeth, and her family relocated to Redding in 2003. Her two children were among the first batch of students to attend U-Prep (in 2005 and 2007, respectively) and Elizabeth became a Panther herself, initially as a school board member, followed by a move into the front office in 2010. She has occupied the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent position since 2014. Elizabeth adores her job and looks forward to every day at U-Prep, as each brings novel and unexpected experiences. She is grateful for the opportunity to work in one of the most beautiful buildings in Redding, with the best families and staff the North state has to offer.

Away from the office, Elizabeth enjoys cooking, gardening, kayaking, and spending time outdoors with her dog, Lulu.

Sandy Lanzi joined the University Preparatory School Staff in 2006 as the School Registrar. Sandy truly enjoys working with the parents and students through the registration process, and is always excited to welcome them to the U-Prep family. Sandy moved from Humboldt County to Shasta County in 1997, where she now calls Palo Cedro her home. Sandy is married to her husband, Mark. They have four children, Erin, Austin, Ashley and Colby, and 1 grandson, Rhett. Sandy is a volunteer 4-H Leader for Shasta County, and is often seen volunteering at 4-H related events throughout the community. Mostly, Sandy enjoys spending time with family and friends, gardening, and when time allows, she enjoys a relaxing day playing golf.

Kari Reed and her family moved from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, to Redding, California, in 2006. She worked for nine years as an instructional aide and speech aide for the Columbia School District before joining the U-Prep staff in 2015.

Kari is thrilled to be working with the students, parents, and staff of University Preparatory School. She has been a part of the U-Prep family as a parent since 2007. She is very proud of her daughters, Victoria, Alexandra, and Jacqueline, all U-Prep Alumni.

When not at work, you can find Kari helping her husband, Tim, and many other wonderful parent volunteers, building and painting the sets for U-Prep's amazing Fall Musicals. Her other interests include spending time with her family and friends, reading, kayaking, and biking along the river trail.

Steven Schuster is entering his eleventh year as part of the U-Prep community and will continue to teach Basketball Specific P.E. for both junior high and high school students. In addition to his teaching duties, Steven will continue to serve as the Athletic Director as well as the Varsity Girls’ Basketball Head Coach. Before joining U-Prep Steven spent five years working at La Mirada High School, working as a substitute teacher while also assisting the Boys Varsity Basketball team for four years before becoming the Head Coach in 2010.

Steven graduated from Foothill High School in 2002. After attending Shasta College for two years, he transferred to Biola University where he earned a degree in Physical Education. Steven also holds a Masters in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University, Irvine.

Steven is married to his wife Stefanie, and has three children, Kaylee, Easton, and Kassi. In his free time he enjoys playing sports, wakeboarding, and traveling.

Vicki Aday moved to Redding when she was just five years old and has called it home ever since. Vicki attended Nova for 9th grade when it was located in the historical building where U-Prep is today and then went on to graduate from Shasta High School. After high school, she attended Shasta College and then graduated from Simpson University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Human Resources. After many years of working in payroll and accounting, Vicki is very happy to have found a home at U-Prep as the ASB Finance Clerk.

Outside of work, Mrs. Aday enjoys spending time with her husband Kevin and her daughter Kaylie; who is in High School at U-Prep. One of the things they most enjoy is spending time at the beach; especially along the Oregon coast. Mrs. Aday is an avid reader, who also loves to scrapbook, craft and decorate her home.

Nathan Gaddy, a Redding native, fondly remembers walking the halls of U-Prep when it was once Nova. The beautiful campus is one he is excited to be a part of as the Media Center Supervisor. Nathan has a background in Recreation Therapy from CSU, Chico and has been the Information Specialist/Librarian for RSD.

Mr. Gaddy loves the outdoors and all that the Redding area has to offer. You can always find him riding, running, or hiking on the beautiful trails. He keeps busy mountain biking, running, watching sports, and supporting his three children in their athletic and academic endeavors. His children, Grace, Emma, and Noah are former and current Panthers, and his wife teaches 6th grade Core on campus. Mr. Gaddy is thrilled to be part of a warm and welcoming environment such as U-Prep.

Becky Houston is U-Prep’s Counseling Secretary. Mrs. Houston grew up in Redding and graduated from Foothill High School. After high school, she attended Shasta College and then went on to graduate from Simpson University with a Bachelors’ Degree in Psychology. Mrs. Houston worked with college students as an Academic Advisor at Simpson University and then with pre-school students at Country Christian School. She is happy to have found a place to serve at U-Prep.

Outside of work, Mrs. Houston loves spending time with her husband Matt and her two daughters Bryanna and Addison. Together they enjoy traveling, outdoor activities, and home-cooked meals. Mrs. Houston also enjoys coaching her daughters’ softball team.

Mrs. Adams grew up in McKinleyville and graduated from Humboldt State University. She has a Multiple Subjects degree, a minor in Computer Information Systems, a Supplementary Authorization in English from Humboldt State University and recently earned a Masters in Applied School Leadership from National University. She began her teaching career in her hometown, then transferred to Redding several years ago. This year she is teaching four sections of 9th Grade Honors English I and two sections of 10th Grade Honors English II. Additionally, she is the JH Cheer Advisor and the High School Football, Basketball Cheer & STUNT Coach.

Mrs. Adams lives at home with her husband, Keith, along with their three beautiful children: Payton, Caden, and Josie. It is a busy place at the Adams’ household! In her spare time she enjoys riding her horses, reading, and gathering with her friends. The Adams family likes to spend time traveling, fishing, riding horses, and just enjoying life together.

Happiness depends upon ourselves.

Nicole is a Red Bluff High School Graduate. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing, with a minor in Spanish, from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), San Luis Obispo, in December 2002. In 2006 she earned her Spanish major and teaching credential from Chico State. She taught Spanish at Red Bluff High School for two years and is starting her eleventh year at U Prep. Nicole has studied in Spain, and has attended several language conferences that focused on comprehension based teaching methods. She is extremely passionate about the Spanish language and culture AND about teaching it!

Nicole was born and raised in Northern California, and currently lives in Palo Cedro with her husband AJ, daughters Ryanne and Reese, and her three boys Jack, Jesse and Joe.

As a former high school and college athlete, Nicole enjoys athletics, fitness, yoga, health and nutrition, DIY home projects, and supporting her kids in their activities. She also believes in the importance of personal growth and development, and encourages continuous growth, improvement, and learning with her own children, as well as with her students.

Taylor Angley is entering his fifth year as part of the U-Prep staff. He is a Geometry teacher, as well as the Boys Varsity Basketball Head Coach, and the Varsity Football Offensive Coordinator. Before joining the U-Prep community, Taylor served as the Assistant Coach for the Shasta College Men’s Basketball team in 2018-19.

Taylor graduated from Enterprise High School in 2013. He then spent three years playing Junior College baseball at Shasta College and American River College before heading to Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tennessee on a baseball scholarship. In 2018, he graduated from Christian Brothers University with a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Sports Management.

In his free time, Taylor enjoys spending time with family and friends, coaching and mentoring young athletes, golfing, and traveling.

Brad Baker teaches Physics and Physical Education at University Preparatory School and coaches football and baseball. Prior to U-Prep, he spent nine years at a boarding school on the North Shore of Long Island, New York, where he was a teacher, coach, and a head house parent for 40 high school boys. Brad graduated from Wheaton College in Illinois with a B.A. in Kinesiology and earned his M.A. in Education from Stony Brook University in New York. He relocated to Redding and began teaching at U-Prep in August of 2008. During his time off Brad enjoys the strength and beauty of the outdoors. He and his wife Rebecca take pleasure in travelling with their family and friends and experiencing new places and cultures.

Mrs. Bird grew up in the Redding area. She graduated summa cum laude from The Master's College in Santa Clarita and received her multiple subject teaching credential from Simpson University in 2001. Mrs. Bird then earned her Education Specialist teaching credential from Chico State University in 2004. After teaching special education for 9 years she moved into the classroom to teach her favorite subject, MATH!

When not at school Mrs. Bird can be found running the trails or working in her yard. Mrs. Bird also enjoys spending time with her three boys: Luke, Samuel, and her husband Mr. Bird, who also teaches here at U-Prep.

Sean Bird graduated from Simpson University in 2003 with a degree in English, and holds two Masters Degrees: one in Education, and one in English Rhetoric. At U-Prep he teaches Dual Enrollment English 1A, AP Language & Composition, and is the Panthera Yearbook Advisor.

In the classroom, students often comment that Mr. Bird's love for Star Wars is almost as cringy as his infamously bad jokes. When not in the classroom, Sean can often be found hitting the trails on his mountain bike or blasting metal music at a problematic volume. Mr. Bird thinks Juniors are the best students on earth; he is very proud to be a part of the U-Prep family, and he can't wait to see you in his class. Go Panthers!

Shannon Bright was born and raised in Northern California. She is a third-generation Humboldt State alum who graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor of Arts with a Multiple Subjects degree, with a supplement in English. She received her credential through Humboldt the following year. Mrs. Bright spent the first eleven years of her career teaching middle school in the Bay Area. The Bright family then searched for a town where the kids could ride their bikes out in the front yard. They found that here in Redding and now can’t imagine living anywhere else. Mrs. Bright has two sons; Simon, a 2019 U-Prep graduate, and Jackson, a current high student. Mrs. Bright teaches 8th grade English and is also the organizer and head chaperone of the annual 8th grade DC trip.

John Cabral has lived in the Redding area all of his life. Prior to his teaching career, he worked in industry for 13 years as a mechanical designer. Mr. Cabral enjoys spending time with his two kids, Dylan and Kaitlyn, and wife Monica. He is an avid snowboarder and enjoys playing golf and watching the Raiders and Dodgers.

Mr. Cabral graduated from CSU Chico with a degree in Social Science in 2004 and received his teaching credential in 2005. At U-Prep he is the Senior Class Advisor.

Mrs. Carey is a Redding native. She graduated with a Bachelor’s in Mathematics from Simpson University in 2007. She received her single subject teaching credential as well as a master’s in education from National University. After teaching middle school for 5 years in Redding, Mrs. Carey taught in Pasadena, working with both middle school and high school students. She joined the U-Prep family in 2017 and teaches AP Statistics and Honors Math 8.

Mrs. Carey has a son, Zeke, who was born in October of 2021 and he is an absolute joy bubble. In her free time, Mrs. Carey enjoys long distance running, spending time with family, reading and spending as much time outdoors as possible.

Mr. Cheng has never left schools. He received his bachelor degree in English language and literature in China. After he had taught at the same university for several years, Mr. Cheng came to the United States and earned his Master's degree and a Ph.D. in Education, both from Brigham Young University (BYU), Provo, UT.

Mr. Cheng began teaching at University Preparatory School in 2006. Currently he is teaching Chinese I-IV, AP Chinese, Step-Up Chinese for Junior High students and ROTA. In the past ten years, Mr. Cheng attended many national, state and regional academic conferences and networked with teachers from all over the nation. In summers, he has taken his students to China and enjoyed seeing them experience Chinese culture with their own eyes. Mr. Cheng also helped his students visit China under the sponsorship of various organizations.

Mr. Cheng and his wife Hong have two lovely daughters. Annie graduated from U-Prep in 2021 and is attending UCLA majoring in Applied Mathematics. Angie is currently a 9th grader at U-Prep.

Romney Clements grew up in Redding and graced the halls of "Nova'' in 1981-82. After high school Miss Clements moved to Chico where she attended CSUC as a Vocal Performance major. With a close circle of friends she founded Chico City Light Opera at the Eaton Road Opera House in Chico.

Ms Clements moved back to Redding to finish school at Simpson College, after spending two exciting years in New York. Ms Clements is thrilled to be a part of the U-Prep family, and to give students the opportunity to perform on the same stage where she first performed.

Over the past 18 years at U-Prep she has directed the musical each year, and is looking forward to this year’s musical, Disney’s Descendants. Ms. Clements is currently teaching 7th grade Core. She has also taken on the new position of Cultural Director, and hopes to help make the best school in the area even better for staff and students. At home, she likes to spend time with her poodles, Cruz and Coco.

Jeanne Crawford grew up in Redding and graduated from Shasta High School. She earned a BA in Math and a minor in History from UC Santa Barbara. Mrs. Crawford earned her single subject teaching credential from CSU, Chico. She LOVES math and LOVES teaching at U-Prep. Mrs. Crawford teaches Algebra 1 and Honors Accelerated Math 7/8. She is also the JH Math Department Chair, helps with JH Cross Country and facilitates JH Odyssey of the Mind.

Besides teaching, Mrs. Crawford keeps busy enjoying her wonderful family which includes her husband, Toby, and 4 daughters. Her 2 youngest attend school here at U-Prep. Madelyn is in 10th grade, and Kayla is in 8th grade. Mrs. Crawford's older daughters, Annie and Olivia, graduated from U-Prep in recent years and now both attend college at Brigham Young University in Utah. In her free time Mrs. Crawford enjoys spending time with her family, exercising, and relaxing.

Mr. Dean teaches two subjects at U-Prep: Latin and English. Born and raised in the area, he graduated from Central Valley High School and has returned to the campus as a Nova alumnus. Michael earned his Baccalaureate from UC Davis with a major in English Literature and a minor in Latin.

Michael spends his free time playing and coaching as many sports as he can. He especially enjoys exploring the backcountry with his two boys and wife.

Mrs. Dempsey is a U-Prep alumni and is honored to be back a part of the U-Prep community. After she graduated U-Prep in 2010, she went on to Santa Clara University where she majored in Environmental Studies. Since then, she has taught in California, South Korea and most recently, in Egypt.

She enjoys traveling and loves working with students to inspire a love of the environment. In her spare time, she enjoys reading fantasy and sci-fi books, hiking, cooking, and spending time with her husband and their Australian Shepard.

“The good thing about science is that it's true whether or not you believe in it.”
- Neil deGrasse Tyson

Rochelle Deter is a Redding native who graduated from Anderson High School in 1994 and began teaching at U-Prep in 2005. She received her bachelor's degree in mathematics from Simpson College, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2003. Subsequently, Rochelle received her teaching credential through Simpson University and received her Master’s degree in Education from the University of Phoenix in August 2010.

This year, Rochelle will be teaching Dual Enrolled Trig/Precalculus and Algebra 2. She is the high school adviser for the California Scholarship Federation, LGBT Club, and the high school math department chair.

When not at school, Rochelle loves to read, cook, and garden. She also enjoys hiking and camping with her husband, children, and dogs.

Dustin Fortenberry is entering his second year as part of the U-Prep teaching staff and will be teaching AP United States History and Senior Life Skills . Dustin is entering his 13th year teaching. He will be entering his third season as the Varsity Football Head Coach where the University Prep Football Program are coming off record breaking 13-1 season in 2021, where they were NAL champions and CIF Section champions and runner up in the NorCal State championship.

Dustin graduated from Enterprise High School in 2002. He then spent three years playing junior college football at Shasta College, before heading to Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California on a football scholarship. In 2008, he graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a bachelor's degree in Social Science. Dustin also earned a master's degree in school counseling from National University in 2017.

Dustin has been married to his wife Nicole since 2010 and they have two sons (Cooper 6 and Caleb 5). When he is not on campus, Dustin enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, exercising, and watching sporting events in person or on TV.

Mr. Fowers has been teaching music at University Preparatory School since 2004 where he has continued to expand both instrumental and choral components of the music department. He holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Music Education from Brigham Young University and Boston University, and looks to continue his educational and musical growth in the future. On a personal note, Mr. Fowers would like acknowledge the existence of his beautiful wife and editor, Betsy. Along with their wonderful children (Dawson, Jane, Emerson, and Darcy), the Fowers family is happy to be a part of the U-Prep family and Redding community.

Mr. Fowers teaches the following classes:

• ✔ Prep Band
• ✔ Concert Band
• ✔ Symphonic Orchestra
• ✔ Jazz Band
• ✔ Mixed Choir
• ✔ Choraliers
• ✔ Concert Choir

Jaspal Gaddy was born and raised in the small town of Gridley, CA. She went on to California State University, Chico where she earned her BA and teaching credential in Liberal Studies in 2000. She has been teaching ever since and has had the privilege of being a Panther since the Fall of 2007. Mrs. Gaddy is the 6th grade Language Arts/History Core teacher, the Junior High Student Government Advisor, and is the Junior High Cross Country Coach and Assistant Track Coach at U-Prep.

Jaspal has been married to Nathan, an amazing husband and father since 2001. They have three awesome children who are former and current Panthers (Grace, Emma, and Noah). She enjoys playing Ultimate Frisbee, running, hiking, biking, traveling, taking pictures, and above all spending time with her family. Teaching at U-Prep is a dream come true for Mrs. Gaddy and she thoroughly enjoys all the excitement and energy that go along with junior high.

Mr. Garwood is entering his fourth year of teaching and beginning his first year of teaching at U-Prep! He is elated to be a part of such an elite team and powerhouse of an education establishment in the community. Mr. Garwood is ecstatic to be teaching 7th grade CORE with an amazing team and amazing group of students.

Mr. Garwood grew up in Sonoma County and graduated from Chico State in 2015 with a Bachelors in Liberal Studies and a minor in Creative Writing. After graduating from Chico State Mr. Garwood earned a Masters Degree in Legal Studies. After receiving his Masters Degree he decided that he missed the classroom and began attending Sonoma State’s Teaching Credential Program where he graduated in 2019.

When not at school you can find him at home spending time with twin sons Miller and Bowen and wife Blaire. Mr. Garwood’s favorite hobbies are playing guitar, golfing, and going on family walks around the community.

Mr. Garwood believes that working as a team with the students and families leads to the most successful learning environments. His personal goal is to make sure that his students feel like they are an important part of my classroom and the school. He looks forward to creating a positive relationship with each and every student.

Joe Groves earned his B.A. from the University of Washington, and his Ph.D. in Classical Studies from the University of Michigan. He also studied at the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, spending a year traveling across Greece, Turkey, and Sicily, visiting as many archaeological sites as possible. He has taught at the University of Michigan, Hillsdale College, and Gustavus Adolphus College, as well as eight summers of intensive introductions to Latin and Greek for 7-10th graders through the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth. Outside of the classroom he enjoys science fiction, playing the oboe, and pestering his cat, Tauntaun.

Connie (Cogle) Hurley was born and raised in Old Shasta, California. Connie graduated from Shasta High School and then continued on to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from California State University Sacramento, concentrating in Physiology. While earning her Single Subject Credential in Biological Sciences, Connie started her teaching career in Lodi, CA and taught CP Biology at Tokay High School. Since moving to Redding, Connie has taught a variety of sciences at the high school level which include CP Biology, Conceptual Physics, Anatomy Physiology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Medical Biology. She’s also taught Physical Science, Earth Science, and Life Science at the junior high level.

Connie loves a variety of activities outside such as camping, hiking, and jogging. She plans on continuing her pursuit of checking off bucket list items with family and friends in tow. In the past few years she has checked off skydiving, completing a marathon, climbing Mt. Shasta, traveling to New York, seeing a Broadway show, and other exciting events. Her most treasured bucket list item would be having the privilege of being a mother to her son, Hank and her daughter, Winnie. The Hurley family are all active in their church and spend their time together with their friends and family.

Christi grew up in Sacramento, California, and graduated from St. Leo University. She earned her teaching credential from California State University of Chico in 2009 with a multiple subject credential. She first began her teaching career in Shasta Lake, California where she taught both 4th and then 5th grade. Her career at U-Prep began in 2014 teaching 6th Grade Core and Prep Latin and then JH Computer Apps. At U-Prep she enjoys running with the JH Cross Country team helping out as the caboose and advising our avid student world travelers participating in our SEPA Club.

She moved to Redding in 2004 with her husband, Loren who has spent many years at UPrep coaching, and her three children Bond, Alex, and Sami who all attended UPrep all 7 years. Sami is our recent U-Prep graduate of 2020, and she is attending CSU Long Beach focusing on graphic design.

In her free time Christi is currently spoiling Appa the fur baby who is the only one home now.. She enjoys traveling to new places and getting to know the local culture whether domestic or international. She also enjoys hiking with friends and family, reading a great book or cheering on her favorite sports teams.

Elizabeth Johnson is U-Prep’s strings, drum corps and music appreciation teacher. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Fresno State University and her Single Subject Music Credential from National University. Her extensive musical background includes classical violin, fiddle, marching band and choir.

Mrs. Johnson taught with Redding School District’s string program for seven years before coming to U-Prep in 2006 to found the strings program. In addition to developing a program that gives students the opportunity to begin a strings career from scratch and grow musically through their entire high school experience, she founded U-Prep’s Drum Corps in 2008. In 2013, Mrs. Johnson and Mr. Fowers established U-Prep’s full Symphonic Orchestra.

Through music, theater and all things art, Mrs. Johnson seeks to enrich the lives and experiences of students and bring to them a heightened awareness of their world.

Gina began her teaching career in 2008 at a small charter school in Red Bluff. She joined the U-Prep family in 2009 and currently teaches AP Biology and Anatomy/Physiology. Gina is a coach of the U-Prep varsity Ski & Snowboard Race Team as well as the Pre-Med club advisor.

Gina earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Davis and her teaching credential through National University. Before her teaching career began, Gina worked as an environmental chemist for six years at a Redding analytical laboratory. Desiring to find a more rewarding and community-minded career, Gina decided to enter into education and has loved it ever since.

Gina has spent most of her life in northern California and loves the area for its outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and dramatic geological history. Gina loves spending time with her husband, family, and pets. Gina’s interests include running, photography, art, snow skiing, wake boarding, gardening, and stargazing. This coming fall, Gina will be completing her first ultramarathon and is looking forward to meeting a new and challenging goal!

Michelle Johnson moved from Connecticut to the Bay Area when she was three years old. Mrs. Johnson graduated from Washington State University with a Bachelor's in Science: Kinesiology with a Minor in Health and Wellness. Mrs. Johnson moved back to the Bay Area after graduation where she met her husband. They have two daughters. She received her teaching credentials in Physical Education and Health Science as well as her Master's degree in Education from National University.

Mrs. Johnson has been the head coach of the junior high track and field team since 2009. She was the assistant high school swim coach from 2010-2013. She has been the head coach of swimming since 2014. Since taking over the swim team she has won the girls division (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2021), and girls league (2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, & 2021), the boys league (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021) and boys division (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2021 ). Coach Johnson was awarded Swimming Female Coach of the Year in 2016. As of 2017, she is the NAL rep for swimming.

In March 2016 Mrs. Johnson attended the annual CAHPERD conference for the 5th time. She learns new games, skills, and ways to bring energy, learning and fun into the classroom. She will be attending again in 2023. Mrs. Johnson will be starting her 18th year at University Preparatory School. She is the Physical Education Department Chair.

This will be Mrs. Johnson’s 10th year of Fitness class. She is very excited to share her passion for health and activity with the students.

Mrs. Johnson comes to the U-Prep family with a Bachelor’s Degree from Chico State University where she majored in Liberal Studies and minored in Child Development. She completed her post graduate work locally at Simpson University. Mrs. Johnson has worn many hats for the U-Prep in previous years being; an Athletic Secretary, Counseling Secretary, High School and Junior High Athletic Director, ASB Advisor, teaching in 7th Grade Core and 6th Grade math. She has currently found her spot in 8th Grade US History and 6th Grade Rota Geography.

In addition to Mrs. Johnson’s love for the classroom, she also enjoys all sports! Coaching a variety of sports over her years as a panther including; volleyball, basketball, softball, and track. It is her hobby to be on a court or field whether that be coaching or on the sidelines cheering athletes along.

Mrs. Johnson values the importance of family and is happily married to her husband of 10 years. Her husband is a City of Redding Firefighter and they two have two daughters, Journey Jules (3 years old) and Jersey June (born this past July). Mrs. Johnson and her family enjoy being active, taking trips, creating memories to fill the many frames she decorates her house with and spending time with friends and family.

Paul Kaukonen has been a part of the community at University Preparatory School since 2005. In his first year, he taught 7th grade ELA and World History before moving to Prep Latin and Honors English II. After a brief stint with AP Language and Composition and English 1A, Mr. Kaukonen is excited to teach AP Literature and Composition and English 1B. Mr. Kaukonen enjoys working with young adults and is looking forward to helping them figure out what is rotten in the state of Denmark.

When not in the classroom, Coach Kaukonen can be found on the west side of campus training athletes and coaching basketball. Some might say that coaching has combined two of Mr. K’s loves: preparing athletes for difficult challenges and using a whistle.

Paul married his high school sweetheart, Sarah, and they are in the process of living happily ever after. Their happiness has continued to expand with the addition of each of their four boys. The Kaukonens are reminded daily of the joys and challenges of parenthood.

Marissa grew up in Redding, graduating from Shasta High School in 1995. She then attended the University of California at Irvine, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and Sociology. Marissa moved back to Redding and immediately began teaching dance at Redding Dance Centre and choreographing for Kids Unlimited, Shasta College, and a traveling competitive dance team. During this time, she earned a teaching credential from Simpson University. Marissa went on to teach fourth grade for 5 years at Verde Vale Elementary School in Anderson. Marissa was a part of The Dance Project for 5 years where she was a dancer, dance captain, and choreographer for the company.

Marissa is very excited to start her 16th year teaching dance at U-Prep. She enjoys choreographing U-Prep’s musicals and the 2 dance shows the department puts on each year. Marissa stays current with her teaching by attending numerous workshops and conventions throughout the year. Marissa started a dance team here at U-Prep, allowing the dancers to perform at football and basketball halftimes. The dance team also attends competitions around the state, earning numerous recognitions including many overalls awards, placements awards, Judge’s Choice, and Outstanding Leadership just to name a few. This year, the team consists of 27 dancers ranging from 9th-12th grade.

In her free time, Marissa enjoys spending time with her two sons. Cayden graduated from Uprep this past year and is headed to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to study construction management. Colton is a junior here at Uprep, and fills his time playing sports. Marissa also enjoys hiking and spending time at the beach.

Currently, there are over 120 students enrolled in the dance department at U-Prep. This year, Marissa will be teaching 6 classes of dance ranging from Dance I-Dance VI. Shelby Stuckey, an alumni of Uprep, will be teaching alongside Marissa this year.

Tawni Kramer is returning for her eleventh year at UPREP. She loves being a part of the UPREP family! She teaches 10th grade Honors English, AP Psychology and coaches Varsity Volleyball.

Tawni Kramer spent her childhood years not far from Yosemite National Park, in Groveland, CA., and then in the late 90s her family relocated to Susanville, CA. Tawni attended California State University, Chico where she earned a bachelor’s degree and went on to complete Simpson University’s California teaching credential program. She later completed her Masters in Education.

When not in her classroom, Ms. Kramer can be found reading novels, coaching volleyball, sipping coffee and working on a new project. She enjoys spending time with her husband, Bradd, and their daughters Rozzi and Adara.

Mr. Lefler is the resource teacher at University Preparatory School. He moved to Redding when he was a toddler and has lived in the area ever since, save for the time period he attended Chico State University. He graduated from CSU with a degree in Geography and received his teaching credential from Simpson University.

Mr. Lefler has officiated numerous basketball and football games over the years. In his free time, he enjoys seeing the sights that the state of California has to offer, especially backpacking throughout the Sierra Nevadas. He plays an inconsistent game of golf, likes to get outdoors to hike or run, and is an anomaly in Northern California for cheering on the Los Angeles Dodgers and Lakers.

This is Matthew Love’s 9th year here at U-Prep. This year he will be teaching our Honors Chemistry, and AP Environmental Science.

Matthew moved to Redding 10 years ago and has found a community to call home. Matthew attended California State Chico graduating with a degree in Biological Science but with a passion for all sciences. After completing his credential program he received a teaching position at Rodriguez High School in Fairfield CA. There he spent five years teaching Integrated Science, Biology, and Environmental Science. Matthew is an enthusiastic and passionate teacher who likes to get his students active in their studies with interactive lessons. He also likes to bring professional community members into the classroom, and students out into the community to learn about science.

When Matthew is not engaged with his students you might find him at Whiskeytown Lake sailing his boat or up at McCloud or Hat Creek fly fishing.

Noah Mock joined U-Prep in the spring of 2013 as a member of the 6th Grade Core Team. He previously taught for five years in Belmont, CA. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Music and Recording Arts from Chico State, and after a few years of working in the Music Industry, he decided to pursue a more fulfilling career in teaching. He went on to earn his Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential from Notre Dame de Namur University. Mr. Mock is excited for another year of teaching at U-Prep. Along with 6th grade Core Language Arts and History, Mr. Mock will be teaching Guitar and Music Production.

In his freetime Noah enjoys spending time with his family getting outside on the lake or a trail. When not watching his children Landon (12) and Harper (10) pursue their interests in sports and the arts, he can be found cooking in the kitchen or working on projects around the house. Noah looks forward to coming to work everyday and sharing his love of life and learning with his students. He feels lucky to be a part of the U-Prep community and is excited to have his son Landon join him in 6th grade this year. Go Panthers!

Mr. Nichols is in his tenth year of teaching at U-Prep and has taught: 6th grade - English, History, Math and Science, Pre-Algebra, Algebra I and now is taking on the challenge of seeing each 9th grader as they participate in his Human Geography class. Having grown up in the area Mr. Nichols is able to bring a perspective on the needs and issues of the Redding area and how U-Prep can best meet those needs. An avid athlete in his younger days, now Mr. Nichols enjoys coaching and inspiring young athletes to meet their potential. He has coached at U-Prep for all 10 years in a wide range of sports: Jr. High Soccer, Track, and basketball as well as High School Soccer and Basketball. This year he will be coaching the Jr. High Soccer "B" team, 7th grade girls basketball and Varsity Boys soccer.

Eric was born and raised in Redding, CA. After high school he joined the Air Force and has served as a firefighter for over a decade. While enlisted, he lived in Italy, traveled to over a dozen countries and was deployed to Iraq, twice.

In 2020, Eric graduated from Simpson University with a Masters in Education. This will be Eric’s first year at UPrep. He is excited to be teaching AP Modern World History, US History, and Physical Education. For the last two years, Eric has been an Assistant Varsity Baseball Coach in the Shasta Union High School District and he looks forward to being an Assistant JV Football Coach at UPrep this coming season.

In his spare time, he enjoys being with family, traveling, and being outdoors. Eric is married to a Registered Nurse who also works in Redding. Together, they have two young boys and can often be found at their games, practices, and other extracurricular activities.

Ally Nwobi was born and raised in Northern California and is a local graduate of Foothill High School. Following high school, Ally received her AA from Shasta College in 2014 where she continued her passion for softball. Mrs. Nwobi then pursued her education and softball career even further, when she accepted an academic and athletic scholarship to Azusa Pacific University. After graduating from APU in 2016 with her BA in Mathematics, Mrs. Nwobi was accepted into CSU Chico’s Credential program where she received her Single Subject Credential in Mathematics in spring 2017.

This is Ally’s fifth year at U-Prep. She loves being a part of the U-Prep family. This year, Mrs. Nwobi will be teaching Honors Math 7, Honors Math 8 and Math 7/8 Accelerated, as well as coaching 8th grade volleyball in the fall and Varsity softball in the spring.

Ally enjoys spending her free time drinking coffee, coaching and mentoring young athletes in softball and volleyball, going for long runs, lifting weights, hanging out with family and friends.

Michelle Oberlander was raised in Shasta County, graduating from Anderson Union High School with a healthy interest in mathematics. She attended Shasta College and continued on to Simpson University where she earned her degree in Mathematics for Teachers, and her single subject teaching credential. Since graduation she has participated in the Math Project (CSU Chico), North State NSTIR (CSU Chico), and SCMP2 professional development projects as well attending conferences and TI-Nspire training.

While working at U-Prep, Ms. Oberlander has taught Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Algebra II, Trig/Precalculus, Integrated Math 1, Honors Integrated I, Honors Integrated II, Honors Math 8, Math Lab, Computer Applications, and AP Computer Science Principles as well as advised the Robotics, Gardening, and MATHCOUNTS clubs. In 2009 the Robotics club team became a finalist (in top 8 of 27 teams) at the Botball competition and earned the KISS award. Many of the MATHCOUNTS teams have won first place and had the opportunity to participate in the state competitions held at University of the Pacific, Stanford, and (during the pandemic) online.

The best way to contact Ms. Oberlander is by e-mail.

Mrs. Patel is a native of Galicia, Spain: a green, mountainous area that is considered the Celtic region of the country, well known for the Hercules Tower in La Coruña and the capital city of Santiago de Compostela dating back to the 4th century. She earned her Bachelors in French at Eastern Michigan University and soon after moved to sunny California to raise her family. Wanting to go back to her original career plans, she completed her California Single Subject Teaching Credential from National University in 2008 (for both French and Spanish). She has been teaching in Shasta County since then, most recently in Anderson. She loves teaching languages so much that she went back to school during the summers to earn a Masters in French through Southern Oregon University in 2021 (in partnership with Université Catholique de L’Ouest in Angers, France).

Along with her teaching duties, Mrs. Patel enjoys travelling, hiking, swimming, creating delicious meals and overall enjoying life. She is married and has 3 sons. Her husband is a local physician who has been serving the Redding community for over 26 years. Her eldest is in an MD/PhD program at UC San Diego, while her middle son is finishing up a Computer Sciences degree at UC Berkeley. Her youngest just graduated from high school and has starting a Philosophy/Pre-Law degree at UC Berkeley. The lives of her entire family are made richer at home with the company of their wonderful Bichon Frisé dog, Thor.

She is excited to be teaching French and Spanish at U-Prep starting this year, and ready to instill excitement in her students about the world around them.

Mr. Peck was raised and educated in San Jose, CA. He has a B.S. in Earth Science from UC Santa Cruz, and an M.A. in Education from the University of Phoenix. He has taught at a variety of schools in Northern California from the Bay Area to Redding. His work experience includes 9th grade Earth Science in Brentwood, CA, Santa Clara, CA and Hayward, CA (2 years), 7th and 8th grade Science in San Jose, CA and Magalia, CA (1 semester), and 6th grade Earth Science in Concord, CA (1 semester). Mr. Peck’s primary focus is on Field Geology, but he has a passion for all of the physical sciences. He has a strong background in Physics and the applied mathematics that accompanies it.

This is Mr. Peck’s tenth year at U-Prep. He is very excited to be back working at such a great school with such an exceptional student population.

Mr. Peck is currently living in Redding, CA, with his wife Dr. Calista Vinyard, D.O. and their dog: Squiggy.

Cory Poole grew up in Oak Run, California and went to Foothill High School when it was housed in U-Prep's current building. He attended Shasta College, and earned a B.S. from California State University, Chico with a double major in Physics and Applied Mathematics. After graduating from Chico State, he moved to Maryland to attend the University of Maryland College Park, where he received his Master of Science in Physics. While at UMD, Cory conducted research in non-linear dynamics and chaos, with a specific focus on biophysics and cellular motility, as a member of the UMD Chaos Group. He also taught discussion and laboratory physics sections, which led to an interest in teaching. Cory taught Mathematics in Baltimore for two years, and was very happy to be able to come home to Shasta County in 2008 to teach at U-Prep. He currently teaches Calculus, Physics, Astronomy (sometimes), and coaches U-Prep’s Science Bowl team.

When not at school, Cory spends time on several hobbies and interests, including photography, astronomy, hiking, and traveling with his family. Cory and his wife Liz live in Redding with their two sons and their dog, a bulldog-poodle mix named Luna.

David Rickey has taught at University Preparatory School since 2004. He teaches 7th grade life science. In the past, he has taught freshman biology, and anatomy and physiology to juniors and seniors. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences from California State University, Chico and his teaching credential at Simpson University. Prior to coming to U-Prep Mr. Rickey taught for four years at Cascade School, a college prep boarding school in Whitmore, CA, where he also coached boys soccer, girls volleyball, and boy's baseball. He is currently the head freshman volleyball coach. His favorite sports are tennis, soccer, and baseball. His hobbies include birding and camping at the ocean.

Debbie Shipman, a graduate of Shasta High School, Shasta College and CSU, Chico, joined the staff at U-Prep in 2004. In addition Mrs. Shipman earned a master's degree from the University of San Francisco. She taught for 16 years at Quincy High School in Quincy, California. A California mentor teacher for three years, Mrs. Shipman was also a PAR Consulting Teacher and a BTSA Coach. She was an instructor at Feather River College, creating the texts for her Spanish classes. At the inception of U Prep’s World Languages Department Mrs. Shipman was instrumental in establishing comprehensible input as the key curriculum component for all language teaching. At U Prep Mrs. Shipman teaches several levels of advanced Spanish.

Bobby Shufelberger teaches 8th grade U.S. History, ROTA-Geography, and Sustainable Living. Mr. Shufelberger began teaching in 2001 and came to U-Prep in 2004 when the school began. He currently coaches Junior High softball.

Kent Smith enjoys working with Sophomores teaching AP Modern World History as well as coaching soccer at U-Prep, which he views as a natural compliment to his teaching role.

Mr. Smith grew up in Kenya and also worked with young people in Rwanda for 15 years prior to moving to Redding. He draws much of his identity and perspective from his years of international life, and is purposeful about broadening the worldview of all his students.

When not teaching or coaching, Mr. Smith most loves to be with his wife, Michelle, and their three children; Wesley, Cory, and Katia. Michelle is a Registered Nurse working with the County of Shasta. Together the Smiths enjoy exploring the outdoor beauty of Northern California whenever given the chance.

Lonett Sowles will be entering her tenth year of teaching. This is her sixth year as a U-Prep Panther! She is looking forward to an amazing year in 7th Grade Core not only with her students, but also with the dynamic 7th grade teaching team!

Lonett grew up in Northern California. She graduated from CSU, Chico in 1995. Her love of studying a foreign language led her to participate in a Spanish immersion program in Costa Rica. This experience cemented her desire to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Spanish as well as single subject and multiple subject credentials.

When Lonett is not in the classroom, you can find her spending time with her family. Her husband, Tim, is an instructor at Shasta College. Abigail, their daughter, graduated from U-Prep in 2014 and is a graduate of California State University, Channel Island. Nathaniel will begin his studies this year at Shasta College. One of her favorite hobbies is running. She looks forward to her early morning weekend runs on the Sacramento River Trail where she is continually awed by the beauty of the area in which we live!

Lonett believes that teaching is a calling and a privilege. She is honored to partner with entire U-Prep team to make this a phenomenal year!

Shelby Stuckey is a 2016 U-Prep alum and is very excited to now be a part of the teaching staff. While attending U-Prep she was involved in the dance department for seven years, as well as being a member of the competitive dance team, and performing in several musical productions with the school. She was raised in Redding and has been dancing here her entire life, continuing her education in the Shasta College dance department and receiving her Associate’s Degree in Humanities. She has been teaching dance at Dance Depot since the age of 15, and has also been working as a retail associate at Dance Closet Redding since 2016. Shelby also choreographs for both the U-Prep Dance Team and the Dance Depot Elite Dance Team and loves to travel with the teams to their competitions and conventions throughout the year. She feels very lucky to be able to continue working alongside Marissa Kinneavy in the U-Prep dance department this year!

Mrs. Trueblood is very excited to be teaching 7th grade English and History, as well as 8th grade English, at Uprep this year. Mrs. Trueblood grew up in Red Bluff and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from California State University, Chico. After graduation she worked as a newspaper reporter and photographer, earning awards in writing and editing.

Mrs. Trueblood moved to Redding 20 years ago with her husband, Darren. They have three children: Zack, Madisen, and Trevor. After her move, she knew education was to become her next career and earned her teaching credential at Simpson University. This is her 15th year teaching. The past two years, she has also been involved with a service organization that provides clean water filtration systems to people in Africa. When she is not in her classroom, Mrs. Trueblood loves hiking, traveling, reading, and traveling the United States.

Ms. Lura Wilhelm is the art teacher at University Preparatory School. It is her philosophy that art is a subject that allows students to innovatively explore artistic perception and creative expression. She believes through art, students are able to be creative and explore solutions to a wide variety of challenges. She feels art is a means to allow an individual to explore the world as a life-long learner in any field.

In May of 2014, Ms. Wilhelm attained her Master's Degree (MA) in Art from Boston University. Prior to her MA, Ms. Wilhelm received her Bachelor's Degree (BA) in Art Education with an Emphasis in Studio Practice as well as her teaching credential from San Jose State University (SJSU) in San Jose, Ca. Before SJSU, Ms. Wilhelm attained an Associates Degree (AA) in Art and General Education from Modesto Junior College (MJC) in Modesto, Ca.

Ms. Wilhelm began her career in art education by teaching part time as a K-12 traveling Art teacher in the Silicon Valley. In 2009 she began teaching art full time at Del Mar High School in San Jose, Ca. There she taught high school art for 2 years. Currently Ms. Wilhelm has 14 year of experience teaching art full time and 12 of those years have been at University Preparatory School. She teaches 6th-12th grade art with all levels, from beginning to Advanced Placement Studio Art. She focuses on giving students the ability to create meaningful works through various media. Within each year students have the ability to draw, sculpt, paint and printmake. Supplementing arts program, Ms. Wilhelm is the advisor for the U-Prep High School Art Club during lunch on Thursdays and Junior High School Art Club on Tuesdays after school.

Along with art, swimming is one of Ms. Wilhelm’s passions. She was a competitive age group swimmer, a high school swimmer and she swam collegiately at MJC and SJSU. At SJSU she received a full ride swimming scholarship and during her senior year she was voted Team Captain. During her time on the team she held the 200 IM school record and received the award for Most Valuable Swimmer. In 2010 Ms. Wilhelm accepted the honor of being inducted into Downey High School Athletic Hall of Fame and in 2014 she was inducted into MJC’s Athletic Hall of Fame for swimming and water polo. Currently Ms. Wilhelm is an open water marathon swimmer swimming in lakes, rivers and oceans around the world.

Ms. Wilhelm is an active artist and arts advocate in the community. She shows her works and works of her students in various art shows in the community. Ms. Wilhelm creates art in her free time and in August of 2022 completed a mural commissioned work by the City of Redding on Pump House #1 along the River Trail. In the summer 2020 Turtle Bay Exploration Park commissioned Ms. Wilhelm for a mural installation in the animal section at Turtle Bay. You may check out these murals anytime but please stay posted throughout the year for any of Ms. Wilhelm’s or U-Prep Art art shows on our school calendar.