Meet Our 2024-25 Team!

claudia@francophoneschool.org

Claudia Lee is a Fulbright Scholar who began her career in education as the founder of a school for 57 homeless children in Bogotá, Colombia. Over the years, she has served in various roles, including elementary and middle school teacher, language immersion coordinator, curriculum and content specialist, professional developer, teacher coach, and school principal. For the past six years, Claudia has worked as the Site Director at Downtown Charter Academy, where she and her team earned the California Department of Education’s Distinguished School Award in both 2021 and 2023. She holds a Master’s degree in Writing from the City College of New York, an M.Ed. in Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology from Temple University, and a Master’s degree in School Leadership from Arcadia University. As a published writer and translator, Claudia received an Honorary Mention from the Book of the Americas Award for Messengers of the Rain and Other Poems from Latin America. She also served as CEO of ASI, SAS, an environmental consulting company, where she gained experience in environmental laws and practices. Outside of school, Claudia enjoys hiking and cooking with her husband, as well as reading, writing, gardening, and listening to music. But what she loves most is traveling and relaxing with her now-grown children.

mglynn@francophoneschool.org

kchai@francophoneschool.org

Kailly Chai is new to the Francophone team this year! Originally from Singapore, she was a high school Chemistry and Math teacher for six years before moving to New York City nearly 20 years ago. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Materials Engineering from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. In 2011, Kailly and her family moved to the Bay Area, and she returned to the workforce as a Registrar at Downtown Charter Academy. She has also worked as a Secretary in the Albany Unified School District. Both roles equipped her with valuable school operations experience, including managing enrollment, finances, and understanding school compliance. Kailly grew up bilingual (Mandarin and English) and is a strong advocate for bilingual education. She raised her three daughters to be fully biliterate and hopes they will go on to speak other languages as well. She is excited to be part of the Francophone team and looks forward to getting to know the wonderful families in this diverse community.

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cviret@francophoneschool.org

Christophe Viret is excited to be the Director of the Lower School at FCSO this year. He is French-American and grew up in the Bay Area. After earning his BA from Duke University, Christophe taught Grades 1, 2, and 3 for nine years. During this time, he had the opportunity to teach at an international school in Lebanon while completing his Master’s degree in Education Administration at the American University of Beirut. The experience of immersing himself in a brand-new cultural environment—where his perspectives, experiences, and beliefs often differed from those of others—deepened his interest in working across lines of difference in the field of international education. After four wonderful years abroad, Christophe returned to California to teach Grade 1 at FCSO. He is now looking forward to supporting Lower Campus teachers and students in his new role this year.

awebster@francophoneschool.org

Alex Webster was born in the Bay Area and attended Reed College and UC Santa Cruz, where she graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Sociology and became a member of Phi Beta Kappa. In 2007, she moved to New York City, where she earned an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from The New School and an M.Ed. in Special Education from City College of New York. As a NYC Teaching Fellow, Alex taught for four years in Spanish Harlem. In 2012, she returned to California and became the director of an inclusive developmental preschool program. She earned her California teaching credential in 2014 and began teaching at Oakland High School in 2015. After eight more years in the classroom working with students with disabilities, she earned her Administrative Credential from Arkansas State University and became an administrator at a small charter school in deep East Oakland in 2022. Alex joined Francophone Charter as the Director of Upper Campus in 2024.

rcampa@francophoneschool.org

Reinel is happy to serve as the Operations Manager for Francophone for the 2024–2025 school year. Her journey with the school began in 2021 with the BASC program, where she led art projects. For the past two years, she served as the Office Manager at the Lower Campus. It has been a joy for her to find her place in this community and contribute her unique skills to the school. Reinel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Production and a Master’s degree in Organizational Management, both earned in the greater Los Angeles area. She loves creating art and experiences, playing music, and floating on the lake at Chabot.

kenisha@francophoneschool.org

mchau@francophoneschool.org

Michelle Chau is the new Office Administrative Assistant at Francophone. She recently graduated from UC Irvine with two bachelor’s degrees in Public Health Policy and Social Ecology. Over the past two years, she worked in her university’s administrative office and also gained experience at a legal law firm on a temporary assignment. Michelle’s goal is to ensure that every student feels supported and inspired in a positive environment that fosters growth, creativity, and success. She looks forward to meeting all the parents and students at Francophone!

janay@francophoneschool.org

ocalderon@francophoneschool.org

Omar has been working in education for a little over a year and enjoys building community and meaningful relationships with students, especially through sports. After working at the Upper Campus with the BASC program, he is now joining the Francophone team at the Lower Campus, where he will be supporting lunch/food services and continuing his work with BASC. Omar is committed to creating a supportive and engaging environment for students and looks forward to another great year with the Francophone community. In his free time, he enjoys watching baseball or football, playing games, and learning new things. He can often be found looking at car parts or working to improve his car. His hobbies include playing volleyball, voice acting, and drawing or doing quick sketches.

frosillette@francophoneschool.org

Flora Rosillette comes from France, where she obtained her Master’s degree in Primary Education and taught for three years in Nantes. After that experience, she spent two years traveling through Central America before embarking on a new adventure in California. Since 2019, Flora has been teaching 1st grade and TK at Francophone—her favorite grade! This past year, she also pursued her passion for learning by beginning Montessori training to become certified. In her free time, Flora enjoys practicing yoga, traveling, reading, and dancing to live music. These passions fuel her energy and enthusiasm for teaching and giving back to her students.

rbutler@francophoneschool.org

cpotie@francophoneschool.org

Bonjour, my name is Charlotte. I am from Belgium. I grew up in Binche, a city that is known for its Carnival. I got my teaching degree in Belgium in 2008. I worked 2 years in elementary school, in Brussels. After that, I moved to China, in Beijing for seven years. I have taught at the French International School of Beijing, in the 3 grades of Kindergarten. China was a great experience for my professional and personal development. I learned Chinese language and culture. I am excited to start my seventh year living in Oakland and working at Francophone as a Kindergarten teacher. I spend my free time doing outdoor activities: hiking, kayaking. Yoga is part of my life. I also take time to meet my friends and discover together new places and new restaurants. And I love reading books.

sbana@francophoneschool.org

dpayopay@francophoneschool.org

fcombe@francophoneschool.org

ekezoh@francophoneschool.org

Hello! I am Eric Kezoh. I am from Cameroon. I obtained a Bachelor of Education degree in Curriculum Studies and Teaching from the University of Buea, Cameroon, in 2009. I started teaching in Les Champions Bilingual Institute in Yaounde Cameroon. In 2012 I move to South East Asia where I taught Kindergarten, elementary and College students in Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. After five years I moved back to Cameroon where I continued teaching at Rousseau International Bilingual School. This is my second year teaching in FCSO. Last year I was a long term substitute teacher for second grade and assistant teacher in Kindergarten. Teaching is my passion and I also like spending my free time playing soccer, swimming, dancing, cooking and meditating.

dtine@francophoneschool.org

Bonjour! My full name is Daouda TINE and I am from Senegal. I graduated from Cheikh Anta DIOP University of Dakar with a Master degree in Bilingual Ed and American and Caribbean Studies in 2019. I received certifications from Pennsylvania University in assessment of English Language Learners (Feb 2022) and from the British Council in Teaching Pathways : how to teach speaking (Feb 2022).
I had served two years as an ESL lead teacher in College Jean de la Fontaine (Medina/Dakar 2018-2020) and I also was in charge of sport instruction (self-defense, kung-fu and gymnastic) and bilingual teaching in Institution Bilingue Montessori (Les Almadies/Dakar 2017-2022).
In the West African Research Center (2018-2020), I worked as a translator and interpreter.
This is my third exciting year in Francophone Charter School of Oakland where I taught kindergarten (Aug 2022-23) and now I am teaching 1st grade (2023-2024-25).

sboitel@francophoneschool.org

sreberac@francophoneschool.org

My name is Sarah, I am from Saint Malo (Brittany), on the north west coast of France. I began my academic journey in the United States, in South Carolina, where I successfully balanced my studies with a career as a tennis student-athlete. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology before returning to France to continue my education. Back in France, I obtained a Master’s degree in Teaching French as a Foreign Language (FLE), which enabled me to teach for four years in middle school, working primarily with non-native speakers. I helped these students adapt to their new linguistic and cultural environment, an experience I found incredibly rewarding. Three years ago, I decided to move back to the United States, in the Bay Area. Since then, I have taught 1st grade, and this year marks my second year teaching 2nd grade. Outside of school, I spend time with my family, caring for our little daughter, whom we welcomed in October 2023. I love visiting amusement parks and enjoying thrilling rides, as well as attending sporting events. I’m already looking forward to the LA 2028 Olympics!

jana.willcock@francophoneschool.org

apowell@francophoneschool.org

ajohnson@francophoneschool.org

gdekon@francophoneschool.org

Hi hi everyone! My name is Gwendolyne, and I am excited to bring my experience and passion for teaching to your school. Originally from French Guiana, I have spent eight years teaching middle and high school students in France. My experience includes organizing events like Christmas markets, International Language Day, and carnivals, as well as leading cultural dance classes and coordinating international trips and Erasmus+ projects.
I am eager to teach in the U.S. for its strong education system and rich diversity, which offer great opportunities for personal and professional growth. Immersing myself in this new world and culture will fuel my passion for challenges and further enhance my teaching skills. I look forward to making a meaningful impact and fostering cross-cultural understanding through education in the U.S.

mcombe@francophoneschool.org

My name is Melanie. I’m from France, from the Lyon region. I’m teacher since 10 years in France. I taught all levels from kindergarten to 5th. I also taught for a year with students with disabilities. I’m very excited to join Francophone this year (in 3rd grade), to have a new teaching experience and to share my knowledge. I want every child to feel good and be happy to come to school to learn new things every day. I studied Spanish and Educational Sciences, so I speak French, Spanish and English (but not very well yet). I love traveling, hiking, reading, animals. I’m so happy to be here for discover the Bay area!

aabanda@francophoneschool.org

I am Angele Abanda, born and raised in Cameroon. After my bachelor degree, I studied the art and teaching method at “High teacher school training college” of the University of Yaounde 1 Cameroon. I taught in Cameroon for 15 years, from middle school to college. This year is my second year in Francophone where I teach 3rd grade. I am happy to be able to discover elementary classes, learn other teaching methods, and share my knowledge. To share with my students values like respect, responsibility, and the desire to progress and improve, has always been my goal.

phirault@francophoneschool.org

My name is Pauline. I was born in Reims, Champagne, in the North East of France. After High School I studied History and Law and worked in France as a Museum Curator. I moved to the U.S. in November 2013 and lived in Arizona (Tucson where I taught High school Art and History) and Ohio (Columbus where I taught 4th grade) for 18 months each. I moved to the bay in 2017 and I’ve worked at Francophone since 2020. I was a 2nd grade teacher for 3 years and I am now very excited about teaching 4th grade. I love hiking, trail running, taking film photography, going to metal/punk concerts and visiting Museums. I am very proud to be part of that great Francophone community.

nbenachour@francophoneschool.org

obardou@francophoneschool.org

Hello! I am Olivier Bardou, one of the new teachers at FSCO. My teaching career spans several countries including Switzerland, France and Australia. I really enjoy traveling and I’m delighted to be able to discover California and the Bay Area. I am passionate about animals and philosophy. I am looking forward to learning about and sharing memorable moments with students at this great school!

chamard@francophoneschool.org

Bonjour! My name is Claire, I just joined the Francophone middle school team. I come from Rouen, Normandy, and have spent the last five years teaching French at the Lycee Francais of San Francisco, so I know the Bay Area pretty well already. Outside of school, I play music in a metal band and go to lots of concerts. I also love animals, cycling, writing and going on road trips. I’m very excited about this new adventure!

smane@francophoneschool.org

My name is Silaty MANÉ and I come from Senegal. I studied Mathematics and Computer Science at the Gaston Berger University of Saint-Louis (UGB), then Mathematical Sciences at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS-SENEGAL). I specialized in the field of Education by obtaining the Certificate of Aptitude for Secondary Education (CAES) in Mathematics at Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD) in Dakar. I am a middle and high school Mathematics teacher and I taught for 6 years at the Sadel High School (Matam). Since I was very young, I joined the PEPINIERE SUD soccer school in Kolda (Senegal) and I climbed the ranks, playing at all levels up to university. I play several sports but I love Soccer. It is a pleasure for me to be a part of the French-speaking team and to know this diverse, very warm and very kind community.

hcreasman@francophoneschool.org

I grew up in San Francisco and earned my bachelors in Education and English from Regis University in Denver, Colorado. I’ve loved getting to teach at Francophone the last few years, as our students continue to grow as critical scholars and empathetic readers.

ebotea@francophoneschool.org

I hold a BA and a MA in English. My teaching experience extends over a span of more than twenty years. Prior to working as an English and ESL instructor at Quarry Lane School for six years, I taught English Composition, Developmental English, and English as a Second Language course at Ohlone College, Las Positas College, and Los Medanos College. In addition to English, I speak Romanian, Spanish, and some French. I am very passionate about teaching and I get a great deal of satisfaction from watching my students grow into avid readers and skillful writers.   When I don’t teach, I love to read, go to theater, hike, shop, get together with friends, and travel. I have a Bichon Frise, Daisy, who is my best friend and companion. I truly adore her!

dbernstein@francophoneschool.org

Hello! My name is Daniela Bernstein (they/them) and I am excited to join FCSO as the school counselor for the ’24-’25 school year. I bring a background in education to the role, having previously worked as an educator at Downtown Charter Academy in Oakland for nearly five years. I earned my M.S.W. at Smith College School for Social Work and received my B.A. from Stanford University. The school-wide goal of fostering a sense of belonging for everyone is particularly galvanizing to me- I believe in collective liberation and that none of us are free until all of us are free, and aim to work towards that in all ways. I look forward to supporting our students, promoting social-emotional learning, and getting to know all FCSO learners, families, and staff. When I’m not at school, I like to take long neighborhood walks, attempt elaborate baking projects, and cook for loved ones. I’d love to hear about your favorite dessert spot in the Bay!

eknox@francophoneschool.org

Hi all! My name is Ella and I am the Special Education Teacher at FCSO. I grew up in the South Bay Area and spent a lot of time during my childhood in Canada where my family lives. I currently live in San Francisco, where I received my BA in Psychology at the University of San Francisco. I am now working towards my MA in Special Education, which I will complete this spring! This is my third year teaching at FCSO, and I’m thrilled to continue supporting the growth and success of our community and students.

jzuno@francophoneschool.org

Jose Zuno is a dedicated educator bringing over five years of experience working with after-school programs. Passionate about helping students overcome obstacles and achieve their goals, Jose has a strong commitment to supporting young learners. Having lived in Oakland all his life, Jose is excited to begin his first year at Francophone as a paraeducator, and looks forward to collaborating with the staff to create a positive and enriching environment for all students.

nrowland@francophoneschool.org

nsanchez@francophoneschool.org

cyaghi@francophoneschool.org

Hi all! My name is Cathy Yaghi (she/her). This is my fourth school year working with Francophone, my 7th school year working in Speech Therapy, and my 20th year in education. I have spent most of that time tailoring individual supports to students ranging from children as young as 3 to high schoolers. I am a mother of one. My daughter is currently going to school at San Jose State. Outside of school, I enjoy playing board games with friends, attending theatre or music events and traveling with my family.

mmaceda@francophoneschool.org

ecardona@francophoneschool.org

I have over 20 years of experience working with children. Throughout my career, I have dedicated my time and efforts to setting children up for success both in and out of school. I am passionate about creating an environment that fosters the learning, growth, and development of young people. I believe that After School Programs can help children find their purpose, realize their potential, and make a positive impact on the world. My goal is to help children reach their full potential by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. I am deeply committed to creating a better future for the next generation and ensuring that these programs are available to as many young people as possible. I truly believe that these initiatives have the power to change lives and create a brighter tomorrow. In my free time, I love to immerse myself in books, spend time with my family, and donate produce to Oakland’s unsheltered community.

bbustamante@francophoneschool.org

cmunoz@francophoneschool.org

Ms. Claudia is a dedicated professional with over 12 years of experience working with children. She finds joy in the carefree nature of kids and appreciates how each interaction teaches her something new. Outside of her work, Ms. Claudia loves spending quality time with her family, enjoying the outdoors and creating lasting memories together. She also has a great passion for dance and reading.

leslie@francophoneschool.org

I have lived in East Oakland for majority of my life. I attended Oakland public schools for my primary education and went on to UC Santa Cruz for some of my secondary education. I am a new face that will be joining Francophone this year. This will be my third year working in the educational field and I will be at the upper campus assisting with BASC. As someone who grew up being part of after school programs, I know how important it is for students to have additional support outside of regular school hours, whether is be social-emotional or academic help. I’m a creative individual who is eager to collaborate with my colleagues and also very excited to be a part of this new community. Can’t wait to create fun long-lasting memories with the students!

acardona@francophoneschool.org

I am a BASC instructor who also assists with lunch supervision here at the lower campus. I’m passionate about building strong relationships with the students and families that we serve in our community. Raised in the Bay Area and now living in Oakland, I take pride in my Salvadorian and American heritage. In my free time, I enjoy music, creativity, and spending weekends with family and friends. I look forward to connecting with all the kids and families this year!