Adrian Araiza Percussion Caption Head
Born and raised in San Diego, Adrian has been involved in the marching arts since 2011. He is an alumnus of the Spartan Legion, and has worked with the ensemble since his graduation. He spent the summer of 2014 on tour with the Mandarins, a world class drum and bugle corps from Sacramento, California. In 2018, Adrian was part of the staff that taught and designed the gold-medalist CV Indoor Drumline. In addition to teaching at CVHS, he is also the Percussion Caption Head at Serra High School.
Born and raised in San Diego, Adrian has been involved in the marching arts since 2011. He is an alumnus of the Spartan Legion, and has worked with the ensemble since his graduation. He spent the summer of 2014 on tour with the Mandarins, a world class drum and bugle corps from Sacramento, California. In 2018, Adrian was part of the staff that taught and designed the gold-medalist CV Indoor Drumline. In addition to teaching at CVHS, he is also the Percussion Caption Head at Serra High School.
Charles Batchman Stage Techology
Dr. Conrad Bruderer Orchestras
Dr. Conrad D. Bruderer is currently the Director of Orchestras for the Chula Vista School for the Creative and Performing Arts in the Sweetwater Union High School District and the String Specialists for National School District. Under the direction of Dr. Bruderer, his ensembles have earned numerous excellent and superior awards at adjudicated festivals throughout Southern California. Several of his students have continued at the university level, pursuing music careers of their own. Dr. Bruderer was honored as the recipient of the 2010 Profiles in Music Education Award by the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory. Conrad D. Bruderer holds the Ph.D. degree from the University of California, San Diego, having earned Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in Viola Performance from San Diego State University and The Wichita State University, respectively. He has previously served on the music faculties of Southwestern College, Children’s Creative and Performing Arts Academy, and Bethel College in Newton, Kansas. As a violinist, Dr. Bruderer has performed with Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Opera Pacific, Wichita Symphony Orchestra, and as a soloist with the San Dieguito Chamber Orchestra.
Dr. Conrad D. Bruderer is currently the Director of Orchestras for the Chula Vista School for the Creative and Performing Arts in the Sweetwater Union High School District and the String Specialists for National School District. Under the direction of Dr. Bruderer, his ensembles have earned numerous excellent and superior awards at adjudicated festivals throughout Southern California. Several of his students have continued at the university level, pursuing music careers of their own. Dr. Bruderer was honored as the recipient of the 2010 Profiles in Music Education Award by the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory. Conrad D. Bruderer holds the Ph.D. degree from the University of California, San Diego, having earned Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in Viola Performance from San Diego State University and The Wichita State University, respectively. He has previously served on the music faculties of Southwestern College, Children’s Creative and Performing Arts Academy, and Bethel College in Newton, Kansas. As a violinist, Dr. Bruderer has performed with Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Opera Pacific, Wichita Symphony Orchestra, and as a soloist with the San Dieguito Chamber Orchestra.
Patrick Doerr Director of Bands, Music Theory
Patrick Doerr grew up in Riverside, California and attended Rubidoux High School. While in High School he developed a passion for music, which led to his decision to major in music. He received a Bachelor’s in Music, K-12 Instruction from San Diego State University in 2003, and a Single Subject Credential in Music Instruction in 2004. Mr. Doerr began teaching in the Sweetwater Union High School District in 2004 at Southwest High School. In 2006, he moved to Sweetwater High School, where his bands saw success both in the concert hall, on the field, and on the street. In 2010, Mr. Doerr received his Master's Degree in Conducting from the American Band College through Sam Houston State University. Over the course of his education, Mr. Doerr has studied under some of the band world's best: Harold Warman, Charles Friedrichs, Max McKee, Col. Mike Bankhead, Robert W. Smith, Ralph Hultgren, Robert Ponto, Anthony Maiello, Col. Lowell Graham, Eugene Rouseau, Alan Keown, Winston Morris, Jim Walker, Jan Vander Roost, Robert Spring, Al and Gladys Wright, Bobby Shew, Alan Vizzutti, Pat Sheridan, Sam Pilafian, Ray Chapa, Paula Crider, Frank Wickes, and Johan De Meij (to name a few!)
Mr. Doerr came to Chula Vista Middle and High Schools in the summer of 2011, and introduced the high school band to competitive field shows, as well as hosting festivals. In 2012, the high school hosted its first ever Field Tournament. In 2017 the band qualified for SCSBOA Field Championships for the first time in the school's history, and finished 7th Place in the 3A division. In 2018, Mr. Doerr moved to Chula Vista High School full time.
Mr. Doerr is a strong advocate for the Sweetwater Union High School District band programs, having successfully run of the District Band Pageant, District Color Guard Showcase, District Honor Bands, and the District Summer Arts Academy. While at Chula Vista, Mr. Doerr started and runs the Chula Vista Invitational Field Tournament in November, the SCPA Chamber Ensembles Festival in February, and the SCPA Band/Orchestra Festival in March. He has served as the Chair of Instrumental Festivals for the California Music Educators Association, Southern Border Section. Mr. Doerr has been a presenter at the SCSBOA Winter Conference, and is an active adjudicator and head judge with the CMEA Southern Border Section Band/Orchestra Festivals.
When not doing Band related activities, Mr. Doerr enjoys spending time with his wife Tiffany, daughter Juliet, and son Liam.
Patrick Doerr grew up in Riverside, California and attended Rubidoux High School. While in High School he developed a passion for music, which led to his decision to major in music. He received a Bachelor’s in Music, K-12 Instruction from San Diego State University in 2003, and a Single Subject Credential in Music Instruction in 2004. Mr. Doerr began teaching in the Sweetwater Union High School District in 2004 at Southwest High School. In 2006, he moved to Sweetwater High School, where his bands saw success both in the concert hall, on the field, and on the street. In 2010, Mr. Doerr received his Master's Degree in Conducting from the American Band College through Sam Houston State University. Over the course of his education, Mr. Doerr has studied under some of the band world's best: Harold Warman, Charles Friedrichs, Max McKee, Col. Mike Bankhead, Robert W. Smith, Ralph Hultgren, Robert Ponto, Anthony Maiello, Col. Lowell Graham, Eugene Rouseau, Alan Keown, Winston Morris, Jim Walker, Jan Vander Roost, Robert Spring, Al and Gladys Wright, Bobby Shew, Alan Vizzutti, Pat Sheridan, Sam Pilafian, Ray Chapa, Paula Crider, Frank Wickes, and Johan De Meij (to name a few!)
Mr. Doerr came to Chula Vista Middle and High Schools in the summer of 2011, and introduced the high school band to competitive field shows, as well as hosting festivals. In 2012, the high school hosted its first ever Field Tournament. In 2017 the band qualified for SCSBOA Field Championships for the first time in the school's history, and finished 7th Place in the 3A division. In 2018, Mr. Doerr moved to Chula Vista High School full time.
Mr. Doerr is a strong advocate for the Sweetwater Union High School District band programs, having successfully run of the District Band Pageant, District Color Guard Showcase, District Honor Bands, and the District Summer Arts Academy. While at Chula Vista, Mr. Doerr started and runs the Chula Vista Invitational Field Tournament in November, the SCPA Chamber Ensembles Festival in February, and the SCPA Band/Orchestra Festival in March. He has served as the Chair of Instrumental Festivals for the California Music Educators Association, Southern Border Section. Mr. Doerr has been a presenter at the SCSBOA Winter Conference, and is an active adjudicator and head judge with the CMEA Southern Border Section Band/Orchestra Festivals.
When not doing Band related activities, Mr. Doerr enjoys spending time with his wife Tiffany, daughter Juliet, and son Liam.
Lucas Dominguez Guitar, Music Theory, Piano
Lucas Dominguez is a gifted local artist and educator. He began studying piano at the age of 8 and began playing at his local church at the age of 12. Enamored with jazz and gospel music, he continued accompanying choirs and theater productions while still in high school. He later was accepted into the Jazz Program at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music where he studied under world-class instructors Bill Cunliffe, Milchel Leviev, and David Arnay. He attained his Bachelors Degree in Music with an emphasis in Jazz Studies and a minor in Music Industry. Throughout his college career he was the music director for the renowned Gospel Choir “Soldiers on Soul Patrol” - winners of the prestigious McDonald’s GospelFest. Lucas was also the music director for their debut album, produced by world famous percussionist Sheila E. He went on to perform with Sheila E at several events throughout the West Coast. He has also performed with Shirley Caesar, Gentleman for Christ, and local jazz artists Jenn Renee Cruz and Jason Brown. He performs regularly with several jazz groups, ensembles, and corporate bands. He currently teaches piano, guitar, and AP music theory. He has also taught traditional choir, gospel choir, music appreciation, and vocal production. He has musically directed several productions for the Sweetwater Summer Theater Institute and is a teaching artist at the La Jolla Playhouse Young Performer’s Workshop. Lucas is an ordained elder at “The Experience Church” and is the traditional choir director at Torrey Pines Church.
Lucas Dominguez is a gifted local artist and educator. He began studying piano at the age of 8 and began playing at his local church at the age of 12. Enamored with jazz and gospel music, he continued accompanying choirs and theater productions while still in high school. He later was accepted into the Jazz Program at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music where he studied under world-class instructors Bill Cunliffe, Milchel Leviev, and David Arnay. He attained his Bachelors Degree in Music with an emphasis in Jazz Studies and a minor in Music Industry. Throughout his college career he was the music director for the renowned Gospel Choir “Soldiers on Soul Patrol” - winners of the prestigious McDonald’s GospelFest. Lucas was also the music director for their debut album, produced by world famous percussionist Sheila E. He went on to perform with Sheila E at several events throughout the West Coast. He has also performed with Shirley Caesar, Gentleman for Christ, and local jazz artists Jenn Renee Cruz and Jason Brown. He performs regularly with several jazz groups, ensembles, and corporate bands. He currently teaches piano, guitar, and AP music theory. He has also taught traditional choir, gospel choir, music appreciation, and vocal production. He has musically directed several productions for the Sweetwater Summer Theater Institute and is a teaching artist at the La Jolla Playhouse Young Performer’s Workshop. Lucas is an ordained elder at “The Experience Church” and is the traditional choir director at Torrey Pines Church.
Jeff Frank Film, Video Production, Comedy Improv
Jeff Frank worked in television production for 8 years at KUSI News as a director and technical director for the
morning news program Good Morning San Diego. He has also worked freelance video production at sports venues around
San Diego as well as other multimedia work. Jeff has also been a mainstage cast member of the National Comedy Theatre since 2005, performing improvisational comedy and teaching improv through the NCT High School League Program. Jeff Frank is a San Diego native, growing up in Ramona and completing a Bachelor's Degree in Visual Art at the University of California San Diego.
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Paul Gallegos Photography
Paul Gallegos is a Graduate of Mesa Junior College AA English Lit., Graduate of SDSU BA English Lit. (Poetry Major), National University teaching credential, UCSD Certification, USD Certification, Vanguard University Certification and a few other institutions.
Surfer, photographer, fisherman, adventurer, world traveler.
Paul Gallegos is a Graduate of Mesa Junior College AA English Lit., Graduate of SDSU BA English Lit. (Poetry Major), National University teaching credential, UCSD Certification, USD Certification, Vanguard University Certification and a few other institutions.
Surfer, photographer, fisherman, adventurer, world traveler.
Dale Griepenstroh AP Art History
From the town of Santa Claus, Indiana, Mr. Griepenstroh has always loved studying cultural history and art. His family moved 3 times around the US and as an adult he has traveled to many countries on 5 continents to view architecture, other visual arts and experience various foods and customs. He has a BA from Indiana University, MS from National University and achieved his National Board certification in 2006. He has taught AP World and Art Histories at Chula Vista High for 16 years, 9 years in San Diego Unified, and has taught Social Science theory at SDSU. Currently Mr. Griepenstroh offers an extracurricular club in Comparative Film and oversees a sister school relationship with a school in China.
From the town of Santa Claus, Indiana, Mr. Griepenstroh has always loved studying cultural history and art. His family moved 3 times around the US and as an adult he has traveled to many countries on 5 continents to view architecture, other visual arts and experience various foods and customs. He has a BA from Indiana University, MS from National University and achieved his National Board certification in 2006. He has taught AP World and Art Histories at Chula Vista High for 16 years, 9 years in San Diego Unified, and has taught Social Science theory at SDSU. Currently Mr. Griepenstroh offers an extracurricular club in Comparative Film and oversees a sister school relationship with a school in China.
Valerie Ingram Dance, Dance Force, Choreographer
Valerie Ingram has been employed at the School for the Creative and Performing Arts at Chula Vista High School since the 2003/2004 school year. As a staff member of the dance department, she has taught tap, ballet, and jazz to 9th through 12th graders in levels 1-12, and is currently director of the advanced dance ensemble Dance Force. She has choreographed multiple school musicals here at Chula Vista: Mary Poppins, 2018; The Music Man, 2016; Bye Bye Birdie, 2015; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat, 2014; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, 2013; Fiddler on the Roof, 2012; and co-choreographed Anything Goes in 2008 and High School Musical in 2007. She has also choreographed for the districts musical theater program, Sweetwater Summer Theatre Institute: The Addams Family, 2018; Children of Eden, 2017; Legally Blonde, 2016; In the Heights, 2015; co-choreographer for Pippin, 2014; and Miss Saigon, 2013. Over her lifetime she has been a competitive dancer in jazz, tap, modern, ballet, lyrical, hip hop, contemporary, both ballroom and Latin styles of social dance and gymnastics. Additionally she has taught and choreographed for competition level studio students. As a performer, she was the rug in Starlight Theatre’s production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, a can-can dancer in Lyric at the Birch’s production of Gigi, and has been a member of multiple dance companies and teams throughout San Diego.
Valerie Ingram has been employed at the School for the Creative and Performing Arts at Chula Vista High School since the 2003/2004 school year. As a staff member of the dance department, she has taught tap, ballet, and jazz to 9th through 12th graders in levels 1-12, and is currently director of the advanced dance ensemble Dance Force. She has choreographed multiple school musicals here at Chula Vista: Mary Poppins, 2018; The Music Man, 2016; Bye Bye Birdie, 2015; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat, 2014; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, 2013; Fiddler on the Roof, 2012; and co-choreographed Anything Goes in 2008 and High School Musical in 2007. She has also choreographed for the districts musical theater program, Sweetwater Summer Theatre Institute: The Addams Family, 2018; Children of Eden, 2017; Legally Blonde, 2016; In the Heights, 2015; co-choreographer for Pippin, 2014; and Miss Saigon, 2013. Over her lifetime she has been a competitive dancer in jazz, tap, modern, ballet, lyrical, hip hop, contemporary, both ballroom and Latin styles of social dance and gymnastics. Additionally she has taught and choreographed for competition level studio students. As a performer, she was the rug in Starlight Theatre’s production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, a can-can dancer in Lyric at the Birch’s production of Gigi, and has been a member of multiple dance companies and teams throughout San Diego.
Sonja Garcia Jaime Dance, Choreographer
Sonja Garcia Jaime is a native San Diegan. She has been married for 35 years and has two sons. Her performing career was with the company of Dancemania and Gretchen productions. Over the past forty years she has taught in San Diego at several private dance studios and taught at the United States International University in San Diego, before coming to the Chula Vista Middle and Chula Vista High, School for the Creative and Performing Arts. Sonja has been teaching dance at CVM and CVH for almost 35 years and is currently dance department chair at Chula Vista High School. Sonja Jaime was owner/director of the East County School of Dance in La Mesa for twenty years.
Brady Giard Battery Percussion Instructor
Brady Giard is a San Diego Native and is excited to continue his work at Chula Vista High School.
His teaching experience includes Valhalla High School, Chula Vista High School, and Gold Drum Corps. His marching experience includes Pulse Percussion and Blue Stars Drum Corps.
He likes long walks on the beach and a good burrito.
Brady Giard is a San Diego Native and is excited to continue his work at Chula Vista High School.
His teaching experience includes Valhalla High School, Chula Vista High School, and Gold Drum Corps. His marching experience includes Pulse Percussion and Blue Stars Drum Corps.
He likes long walks on the beach and a good burrito.
James Llamas Bands, Vocal Music, CVM
James Llamas, an alumnus of Mt. Carmel High School’s Grammy Award-winning music program, joined the Chula Vista Middle School staff in the summer of 2018. He graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a bachelor’s in Music Education in 2008 and holds a Master’s Degree in Education from National University. Mr. Llamas began his teaching career at Mesa Verde Middle School.
Mr. Llamas is an avid Bass Clarinetist and performs regularly with the San Diego Concert Band. He is a Brother of Kappa Kappa Psi, National Honorary Band Fraternity as well as an Honorary Sister of Tau Beta Sigma, National Honorary Band Sorority. He has been taught by a super-star list of music educators including Jeri Webb, Warren Torns, Garry McPherson, Randy McCray, Robert Williams, Darrell Downs, Dr. Thomas Lee, Gordon Henderson, Jennifer Judkins, Frank Heuser, Jay Posteraro, Dr. Travis Cross and Roy Anthony Jr. Mr. Llamas is excited to be at Chula Vista Middle School and the SCPA!
James Llamas, an alumnus of Mt. Carmel High School’s Grammy Award-winning music program, joined the Chula Vista Middle School staff in the summer of 2018. He graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a bachelor’s in Music Education in 2008 and holds a Master’s Degree in Education from National University. Mr. Llamas began his teaching career at Mesa Verde Middle School.
Mr. Llamas is an avid Bass Clarinetist and performs regularly with the San Diego Concert Band. He is a Brother of Kappa Kappa Psi, National Honorary Band Fraternity as well as an Honorary Sister of Tau Beta Sigma, National Honorary Band Sorority. He has been taught by a super-star list of music educators including Jeri Webb, Warren Torns, Garry McPherson, Randy McCray, Robert Williams, Darrell Downs, Dr. Thomas Lee, Gordon Henderson, Jennifer Judkins, Frank Heuser, Jay Posteraro, Dr. Travis Cross and Roy Anthony Jr. Mr. Llamas is excited to be at Chula Vista Middle School and the SCPA!
Miguel Lopez Marching Instructor
Born and raised in San Diego, Miguel Lopez has been involved with the marching arts since high school and has been teaching at multiple schools since 2013 including Chula Vista High School and Serra High School. He has experience marching with multiple drum and bugle corps including Gold(2012-2013), the Academy (2014-2015) and the Madison Scouts (2016). He is also a Chula Vista High school alumni.
Outside of teaching Miguel enjoys traveling, hiking and playing video games.
Born and raised in San Diego, Miguel Lopez has been involved with the marching arts since high school and has been teaching at multiple schools since 2013 including Chula Vista High School and Serra High School. He has experience marching with multiple drum and bugle corps including Gold(2012-2013), the Academy (2014-2015) and the Madison Scouts (2016). He is also a Chula Vista High school alumni.
Outside of teaching Miguel enjoys traveling, hiking and playing video games.
Thomas E. Lynn Visual Arts
Tom Lynn is a proud graduate of Montgomery High School in the South Bay. He studied art there with Barry Parr who would later be one of his colleagues. Mr Lynn has been in the industry of the Visual Arts since receiving his Bachelors in Visual Arts and has continued his education in the arts through graduate school at California State University Long Beach with a Master of Fine Arts degree. Mr. Lynn has been actively teaching in the visual arts department at Chula Vista High School/SCPA for the past 24 years. He continues to read about art, travel to see art, paint, and participate in the visual arts for the past 30 years. He strives to stay on top of the latest technologies associated with the visual arts in today’s ever changing vocational world.
Tom Lynn is a proud graduate of Montgomery High School in the South Bay. He studied art there with Barry Parr who would later be one of his colleagues. Mr Lynn has been in the industry of the Visual Arts since receiving his Bachelors in Visual Arts and has continued his education in the arts through graduate school at California State University Long Beach with a Master of Fine Arts degree. Mr. Lynn has been actively teaching in the visual arts department at Chula Vista High School/SCPA for the past 24 years. He continues to read about art, travel to see art, paint, and participate in the visual arts for the past 30 years. He strives to stay on top of the latest technologies associated with the visual arts in today’s ever changing vocational world.
Sharon Maley Dramatic Arts
Sharon Maley graduated with a degree in Theater from U.C.L.A. She has over 30 years’ experience in professional theater, as an actor, stage manager and director. She has focused her career on educational theater, working at Lamb’s Players Theatre, the San Diego Symphony, Walnut Creek Civic Arts Repertory Theater, and San Diego TheatreSports Improvisation Troupe, among others. She has also taught her own Improvisation Program: StageWorks! for the Chula Vista Elementary School District, College For Kids, and CYT. She is very proud to be a Spartan, and has found her “dream job” as the Drama Teacher at Chula Vista High School, where this is her sixth year. Sharon’s greatest role, however, is as a wife and mother. She met her husband of 29 years, Paul Maley, in the U.C.L.A. Theater Department. They have two children: Ellen, a graduate of Point Loma Nazarene University, and Ben, a student at Biola University, both graduates of the Chula Vista School for the Creative and Performing Arts.
Sharon Maley graduated with a degree in Theater from U.C.L.A. She has over 30 years’ experience in professional theater, as an actor, stage manager and director. She has focused her career on educational theater, working at Lamb’s Players Theatre, the San Diego Symphony, Walnut Creek Civic Arts Repertory Theater, and San Diego TheatreSports Improvisation Troupe, among others. She has also taught her own Improvisation Program: StageWorks! for the Chula Vista Elementary School District, College For Kids, and CYT. She is very proud to be a Spartan, and has found her “dream job” as the Drama Teacher at Chula Vista High School, where this is her sixth year. Sharon’s greatest role, however, is as a wife and mother. She met her husband of 29 years, Paul Maley, in the U.C.L.A. Theater Department. They have two children: Ellen, a graduate of Point Loma Nazarene University, and Ben, a student at Biola University, both graduates of the Chula Vista School for the Creative and Performing Arts.
Deborah Nevin-Armstrong Arts Facilitator
Ms. Nevin-Armstrong became the Arts Facilitator of the School for the Creative and Performing Arts in 2011. She has been a music and arts educator for more than 35 years. In addition to her duties as Arts Facilitator she conducts the band at Southwestern Community College and recently began teaching a music education class to future educators at the University of San Diego. Ms. Nevin-Armstrong earned her Bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Arizona and her Master’s degree from the American Band College in Ashland Oregon. She has been voted teacher of the year numerous times and was named Instrumental Music Teacher of the Year in San Diego in 2006. She is actively involved In the San Diego County Arts Leadership group Arts Empower, as well as several arts and arts education organizations. She is dedicated to Arts Education and is sought after as an adjudicator and clinician.
Ms. Nevin-Armstrong became the Arts Facilitator of the School for the Creative and Performing Arts in 2011. She has been a music and arts educator for more than 35 years. In addition to her duties as Arts Facilitator she conducts the band at Southwestern Community College and recently began teaching a music education class to future educators at the University of San Diego. Ms. Nevin-Armstrong earned her Bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Arizona and her Master’s degree from the American Band College in Ashland Oregon. She has been voted teacher of the year numerous times and was named Instrumental Music Teacher of the Year in San Diego in 2006. She is actively involved In the San Diego County Arts Leadership group Arts Empower, as well as several arts and arts education organizations. She is dedicated to Arts Education and is sought after as an adjudicator and clinician.
Jorge Noriega Print Shoppe
Jorge Noriega studied Music and Art at California State University in San Bernadino. He pursued his passion for creativity, design, and screen printing and started his own signage company in 2008. He continued to work independently until he began to teach printmaking at Chula Vista High School in 2016. When Mr. Noriega is not teaching at CVHS or working on projects for his own company, he enjoys spending time outdoors playing sports, biking, and fishing.
Jorge Noriega studied Music and Art at California State University in San Bernadino. He pursued his passion for creativity, design, and screen printing and started his own signage company in 2008. He continued to work independently until he began to teach printmaking at Chula Vista High School in 2016. When Mr. Noriega is not teaching at CVHS or working on projects for his own company, he enjoys spending time outdoors playing sports, biking, and fishing.
Beverly Norriss Dance, Choreographer, CVM
A native of Louisiana, Ms. Norriss has an extensive background in dance and visual art. She attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana, Baruch College, a Division of CUNY, and graduated from the University of New Mexico with a Bachelor of University Studies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Additional graduate studies were obtained at Northwestern State University. While in residence in New York City, Ms. Norriss studied ballet under David Howard and Melissa Hayden, and jazz extensively,with Phil Black, Luigi, and Gus Giordano. A jazz dance specialist, Ms. Norriss became the first recognized Dance Master of America in Jazz by the Dance Masters of America organization, eventually sitting on their examining board for teacher certification. As a performer, she has danced with such greats as the Temptations, Bob Hope, Charles Neville and international star Olga Brinskin throughout the United States. As a choreographer, she has staged shows ranging from Off Broadway in New York to Skagway, Alaska to Jemcz Indian Pueblo to El Grand Circo de Luis Leon in Mexico. Ms. Norris has taught at numerous private studios, both nationally and internationally. She is on the Board of Directors for the San Diego Ballet and also tours annually with the ballet’s Nutcracker Tour. In her 15th year with the district, she chairs the district dance council for SUHSD coordinating their workshop and concerts. She is a member of the California Arts Project, part of 1st collaborative design institute, and she currently serves as a director of the middle school dance program for the School for the Creative and Performing Arts in the South Bay.
A native of Louisiana, Ms. Norriss has an extensive background in dance and visual art. She attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana, Baruch College, a Division of CUNY, and graduated from the University of New Mexico with a Bachelor of University Studies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Additional graduate studies were obtained at Northwestern State University. While in residence in New York City, Ms. Norriss studied ballet under David Howard and Melissa Hayden, and jazz extensively,with Phil Black, Luigi, and Gus Giordano. A jazz dance specialist, Ms. Norriss became the first recognized Dance Master of America in Jazz by the Dance Masters of America organization, eventually sitting on their examining board for teacher certification. As a performer, she has danced with such greats as the Temptations, Bob Hope, Charles Neville and international star Olga Brinskin throughout the United States. As a choreographer, she has staged shows ranging from Off Broadway in New York to Skagway, Alaska to Jemcz Indian Pueblo to El Grand Circo de Luis Leon in Mexico. Ms. Norris has taught at numerous private studios, both nationally and internationally. She is on the Board of Directors for the San Diego Ballet and also tours annually with the ballet’s Nutcracker Tour. In her 15th year with the district, she chairs the district dance council for SUHSD coordinating their workshop and concerts. She is a member of the California Arts Project, part of 1st collaborative design institute, and she currently serves as a director of the middle school dance program for the School for the Creative and Performing Arts in the South Bay.
Jessica Plascencia Visual Arts CVM
Jessica Plascencia has lived in San Diego for the past 18 years. Originally from Baja California, she discovered her passion for art and ceramics at an early age, and started entering Art contests around her hometown when she was six years old.
She earned her bachelors in Applied Arts and Education from the San Diego State University and received her teaching credential from the university’s Generation Global Credentialing Program. Mrs. Plascencia also taught freelance painting for private events and fundraisers before joining the Sweetwater Union High School District as the Arts & Crafts teacher for the Chula Vista Middle School.
On her free time, Mrs. Plascencia enjoys spending time with her two children and husband and their three dogs. She also enjoys painting and creating ceramic art in her home studio.
Jessica Plascencia has lived in San Diego for the past 18 years. Originally from Baja California, she discovered her passion for art and ceramics at an early age, and started entering Art contests around her hometown when she was six years old.
She earned her bachelors in Applied Arts and Education from the San Diego State University and received her teaching credential from the university’s Generation Global Credentialing Program. Mrs. Plascencia also taught freelance painting for private events and fundraisers before joining the Sweetwater Union High School District as the Arts & Crafts teacher for the Chula Vista Middle School.
On her free time, Mrs. Plascencia enjoys spending time with her two children and husband and their three dogs. She also enjoys painting and creating ceramic art in her home studio.
Paul Plunk Accompanist
Paul Plunk has lived in San Diego for 28 years. He has served as a Music Minister a two different churches here in the San Diego area. The last 15 years Paul has been one of the VAPA Accompanist here in Sweetwater District. For 12 of those years he has accompanied various groups at Chula Vista High School including Main Attraction, Silhouettes, and Spartan Choir. He has also accompanied at other schools in the district including Rancho Del Rey Middle, Olympian High, Mar Vista High, and San Ysidro High. In previous years Mr. Plunk accompanied CYT here in the South Bay also. He has enjoyed working with youth and the teachers here in the Sweetwater Union District.
Paul Plunk has lived in San Diego for 28 years. He has served as a Music Minister a two different churches here in the San Diego area. The last 15 years Paul has been one of the VAPA Accompanist here in Sweetwater District. For 12 of those years he has accompanied various groups at Chula Vista High School including Main Attraction, Silhouettes, and Spartan Choir. He has also accompanied at other schools in the district including Rancho Del Rey Middle, Olympian High, Mar Vista High, and San Ysidro High. In previous years Mr. Plunk accompanied CYT here in the South Bay also. He has enjoyed working with youth and the teachers here in the Sweetwater Union District.
Eduardo Romero Baile Folklorico, Choreographer
Eduardo Romero, Mexican folk dancer and choreographer, is the current director of the Ballet Folklorico program at Chula Vista High School (CVHS). As a graduate of Chula Vista High School and the folklorico program, he has been an avid folklorico dancer ever since! Over the years, he developed extensive knowledge of the creative arts and expanded his teaching techniques with costume design and choreographic skills that captures the authentic style and essence of Mexican folk dance. In 2011, he began as a folklorico instructor for the beginning and advanced classes at CVHS and the performing group “Ballet Folklorico Chula Vista” from CVHS. Under his direction, this performing group continues to promote the performing arts throughout San Diego county and Chula Vista community. In 2014, he founded the “Ballet Folklorico Coreografico Ti-Pai” in San Diego County, where he showcases traditional Mexican dances across the Tijuana-San Diego region. His passion and pursuit of excellence, combined with the diligence of his students, has awarded this group first place at the well-known “Fiesta de Reyes” competition in 2017.
With an extensive folklorico dance repertoire, which includes over 30 regions of Mexico, his classes are full of excitement and instill a stimulating learning environment.
His extensive training experience makes him an invaluable asset to the School of Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA), having taught many different folklorico classes at CVHS as well as other schools in the district.
Running a successful folklorico program is Mr. Romero’s passion. He supplements his teaching experience with ongoing training courses at the “Escuela Especial de Bellas Artes”, a school for folkloric dance teachers, in Tijuana, Mexico.
Mr. Romero is dedicated to the promotion of the fine arts through Mexican folk dancing, both at the local, national and international level.
Eduardo Romero, Mexican folk dancer and choreographer, is the current director of the Ballet Folklorico program at Chula Vista High School (CVHS). As a graduate of Chula Vista High School and the folklorico program, he has been an avid folklorico dancer ever since! Over the years, he developed extensive knowledge of the creative arts and expanded his teaching techniques with costume design and choreographic skills that captures the authentic style and essence of Mexican folk dance. In 2011, he began as a folklorico instructor for the beginning and advanced classes at CVHS and the performing group “Ballet Folklorico Chula Vista” from CVHS. Under his direction, this performing group continues to promote the performing arts throughout San Diego county and Chula Vista community. In 2014, he founded the “Ballet Folklorico Coreografico Ti-Pai” in San Diego County, where he showcases traditional Mexican dances across the Tijuana-San Diego region. His passion and pursuit of excellence, combined with the diligence of his students, has awarded this group first place at the well-known “Fiesta de Reyes” competition in 2017.
With an extensive folklorico dance repertoire, which includes over 30 regions of Mexico, his classes are full of excitement and instill a stimulating learning environment.
His extensive training experience makes him an invaluable asset to the School of Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA), having taught many different folklorico classes at CVHS as well as other schools in the district.
Running a successful folklorico program is Mr. Romero’s passion. He supplements his teaching experience with ongoing training courses at the “Escuela Especial de Bellas Artes”, a school for folkloric dance teachers, in Tijuana, Mexico.
Mr. Romero is dedicated to the promotion of the fine arts through Mexican folk dancing, both at the local, national and international level.
Jonathan Ross Choreographer
Jonathan is a native of San Diego and an alumnus of San Diego State University, with a Bachelors of Science in Foods and Nutrition. He attended Chula Vista High School, where he graduated in Vocal Music through their School of Creative and Performing Arts program. In 2011, Jonathan began training in hip hop at studios all over San Diego County. Since then, he has been a part of several different professional hip hop dance companies, including: Urban FX, Culture Shock San Diego, and Super Galactic Beat Manipulators (SGBM). Jonathan has also worked for Seaworld San Diego since 2013, in their Entertainment Department, performing as a costume character and dancer. Jonathan currently helps direct the hip hop dance team Intrinsic and still dances competitively with SGBM.
Jonathan is a native of San Diego and an alumnus of San Diego State University, with a Bachelors of Science in Foods and Nutrition. He attended Chula Vista High School, where he graduated in Vocal Music through their School of Creative and Performing Arts program. In 2011, Jonathan began training in hip hop at studios all over San Diego County. Since then, he has been a part of several different professional hip hop dance companies, including: Urban FX, Culture Shock San Diego, and Super Galactic Beat Manipulators (SGBM). Jonathan has also worked for Seaworld San Diego since 2013, in their Entertainment Department, performing as a costume character and dancer. Jonathan currently helps direct the hip hop dance team Intrinsic and still dances competitively with SGBM.
Michael Sakell Director of Vocal Music, Main Attraction, Silhouettes, Spartan Choir
Mike Sakell holds a bachelor's degree in music education from James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, VA. Before moving to California, Sakell spent four years teaching choral music at Dixon-Smith Middle School in Stafford, VA. Mr. Sakell has performed as both a soloist and professional choral member in performances around the United States and is in high demand as a tenor and alto. He has extensive knowledge and experience of many styles of singing including choral, theater, pop, jazz, and opera (classical). He has been involved in 6 choral CD recordings that have been sold internationally. Mr. Sakell is currently an artistic director for the San Diego Children's Chorus and sings frequently with St. Paul's Cathedral, San Diego Master Chorale, and Bach Collegium San Diego. Sakell has been a clinician and conductor for several Middle School and High School choral festivals as well as All-District and All-County events. He has also adjudicated All-County, All-District, and All-State auditions at the middle school and high school levels. This is Mr. Sakell's second year as director of choirs at Chula Vista High School.
Mike Sakell holds a bachelor's degree in music education from James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, VA. Before moving to California, Sakell spent four years teaching choral music at Dixon-Smith Middle School in Stafford, VA. Mr. Sakell has performed as both a soloist and professional choral member in performances around the United States and is in high demand as a tenor and alto. He has extensive knowledge and experience of many styles of singing including choral, theater, pop, jazz, and opera (classical). He has been involved in 6 choral CD recordings that have been sold internationally. Mr. Sakell is currently an artistic director for the San Diego Children's Chorus and sings frequently with St. Paul's Cathedral, San Diego Master Chorale, and Bach Collegium San Diego. Sakell has been a clinician and conductor for several Middle School and High School choral festivals as well as All-District and All-County events. He has also adjudicated All-County, All-District, and All-State auditions at the middle school and high school levels. This is Mr. Sakell's second year as director of choirs at Chula Vista High School.
Barbara Schroeder Accompanist
Barbara Schroeder is a graduate of Texas Christian University where she earned a Bachelors degree and K-12 teaching credential in vocal music education. For 25 years she worked as the CVHS SCPA staff accompanist/choir director and now she is happy to be back, part time, helping out where she can. Mrs. Schroeder has also held accompanist positions at SDSU and PLNU and is currently the staff accompanist for the Concert Choir at SWC. In addition, she has accompanied and/or music directed over 60 musical theater productions for many of San Diego’s theater companies, including Lamb’s Players, La Jolla Stage Company, San Diego Repertory Theater, Junior Theater, and Starlight Musical Theater, as well as SWC, CVHS and SUHSD.
Barbara Schroeder is a graduate of Texas Christian University where she earned a Bachelors degree and K-12 teaching credential in vocal music education. For 25 years she worked as the CVHS SCPA staff accompanist/choir director and now she is happy to be back, part time, helping out where she can. Mrs. Schroeder has also held accompanist positions at SDSU and PLNU and is currently the staff accompanist for the Concert Choir at SWC. In addition, she has accompanied and/or music directed over 60 musical theater productions for many of San Diego’s theater companies, including Lamb’s Players, La Jolla Stage Company, San Diego Repertory Theater, Junior Theater, and Starlight Musical Theater, as well as SWC, CVHS and SUHSD.
Linda Scott Piano
Linda Scott has been the head of the piano program at the School for Creative and Performing Arts at Chula Vista High School since 1987. She is active as a chamber musician and accompanist in the San Diego area, is a coach at the University of San Diego Summer Chamber Music Festival, and maintains a private teaching studio. While teaching at Chula Vista High, Ms. Scott was also a Lecturer in Piano at the University of San Diego from 1993-2010 and has performed with the San Diego Symphony, Grossmont Pops Orchestra and Salina Symphony in Salina, Kansas. She graduated with honors from the Eastman School of Music with a Bachelor of Music degree and subsequently earned a Master of Music degree from San Diego State University.
Linda Scott has been the head of the piano program at the School for Creative and Performing Arts at Chula Vista High School since 1987. She is active as a chamber musician and accompanist in the San Diego area, is a coach at the University of San Diego Summer Chamber Music Festival, and maintains a private teaching studio. While teaching at Chula Vista High, Ms. Scott was also a Lecturer in Piano at the University of San Diego from 1993-2010 and has performed with the San Diego Symphony, Grossmont Pops Orchestra and Salina Symphony in Salina, Kansas. She graduated with honors from the Eastman School of Music with a Bachelor of Music degree and subsequently earned a Master of Music degree from San Diego State University.
Kyle Sorensen Dance, MPulse, Choreographer
Kyle Sorensen has been making dances for over 12 years. Known for creating work that emphasizes collaborative processes, dynamic physicality, and embodied presence, his choreography has been exhibited and awarded special honors in both national and international venues, including the Tanzsommer Festival in Austria. Most recently, Kyle was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to study contemporary dance and choreographic processes in Israel for 2013-14. He is the Co-Artistic Director of somebodies dance theater with his wife, Gina Bolles Sorensen, and he has danced professionally in Los Angeles, Oregon, Washington, and San Diego for choreographers including Yolande Snaith, Joe Alter, Jean Isaacs, Elfi Schaefer-Schafroth, and Alicia Peterson Baskel, as well as performed in works by Tere O’Connor, Susan Marshall, and Gabe Masson. Kyle has studied the Gaga technique developed by Ohad Naharin of the Batsheva Dance Company, as well as choreographic practices with Bebe Miller, K.J. Holmes, and dance-for-the-camera with Ellen Bromberg. Kyle has taught full courses in Contemporary Dance and Hip Hop Dance at the University of California San Diego and San Diego City College, as well as master classes at Winthrop University (Rock Hill, SC), Johnson C. Smith University (Charlotte, NC), and Southwestern College (Chula Vista, CA). He served as the Assistant Choreographer to Yolande Snaith for the University of California San Diego’s devised theater work, “Sexual Selection: Darwin and Shakespeare Ponder Love.” Kyle has a MFA in Dance Theatre from the University of California San Diego, where he was awarded the Achievement Award in Teaching, and a BA in Dance at the University of Oregon, where he was recognized with the Dance Achievement Award in Recognition of Undergraduate Excellence as a Developing Artist. Kyle also currently teaches dance at San Diego City College.
Kyle Sorensen has been making dances for over 12 years. Known for creating work that emphasizes collaborative processes, dynamic physicality, and embodied presence, his choreography has been exhibited and awarded special honors in both national and international venues, including the Tanzsommer Festival in Austria. Most recently, Kyle was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to study contemporary dance and choreographic processes in Israel for 2013-14. He is the Co-Artistic Director of somebodies dance theater with his wife, Gina Bolles Sorensen, and he has danced professionally in Los Angeles, Oregon, Washington, and San Diego for choreographers including Yolande Snaith, Joe Alter, Jean Isaacs, Elfi Schaefer-Schafroth, and Alicia Peterson Baskel, as well as performed in works by Tere O’Connor, Susan Marshall, and Gabe Masson. Kyle has studied the Gaga technique developed by Ohad Naharin of the Batsheva Dance Company, as well as choreographic practices with Bebe Miller, K.J. Holmes, and dance-for-the-camera with Ellen Bromberg. Kyle has taught full courses in Contemporary Dance and Hip Hop Dance at the University of California San Diego and San Diego City College, as well as master classes at Winthrop University (Rock Hill, SC), Johnson C. Smith University (Charlotte, NC), and Southwestern College (Chula Vista, CA). He served as the Assistant Choreographer to Yolande Snaith for the University of California San Diego’s devised theater work, “Sexual Selection: Darwin and Shakespeare Ponder Love.” Kyle has a MFA in Dance Theatre from the University of California San Diego, where he was awarded the Achievement Award in Teaching, and a BA in Dance at the University of Oregon, where he was recognized with the Dance Achievement Award in Recognition of Undergraduate Excellence as a Developing Artist. Kyle also currently teaches dance at San Diego City College.
Michelle Blanchard Spielman Visual Arts
Michelle Blanchard Spielman is a visual artist and art teacher at Chula Vista High/SCPA since 1999. A San Diego local, grad of El Capitan High School, she earned a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz (go Banana Slugs!) and a Professional Clear teaching credential in Fine Art from National University. She teaches all levels of visual art, from beginning to A. P. Studio Art ; digital (Computer Art), as well as traditional 2-dimensional, drawing and painting media (Design Studio 1/2 and 5/6.)
Her enduring goal as an arts educator is to help guide students to develop their artistic and creative skills, and ultimately to see the world through an artistic lens and appreciate all of the art, design and natural beauty that surrounds us in our world.
Michelle Blanchard Spielman is a visual artist and art teacher at Chula Vista High/SCPA since 1999. A San Diego local, grad of El Capitan High School, she earned a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz (go Banana Slugs!) and a Professional Clear teaching credential in Fine Art from National University. She teaches all levels of visual art, from beginning to A. P. Studio Art ; digital (Computer Art), as well as traditional 2-dimensional, drawing and painting media (Design Studio 1/2 and 5/6.)
Her enduring goal as an arts educator is to help guide students to develop their artistic and creative skills, and ultimately to see the world through an artistic lens and appreciate all of the art, design and natural beauty that surrounds us in our world.
Bobby Starboard Band Front Ensemble
Bobby is our newest addition to the instructional staff, recently graduating from Bonita Vista High in 2016. He is currently studying music education at Southwestern College where he plays bassoon. His marching experience includes Watchmen Drum & Bugle Corps, Odyssey Indoor Percussion, Riverside City College’s Marching Band, and most recently, POW Percussion and the Oregon Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corps.
Bobby is our newest addition to the instructional staff, recently graduating from Bonita Vista High in 2016. He is currently studying music education at Southwestern College where he plays bassoon. His marching experience includes Watchmen Drum & Bugle Corps, Odyssey Indoor Percussion, Riverside City College’s Marching Band, and most recently, POW Percussion and the Oregon Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corps.
Suriya Stewart Visual Arts, 3D Design , Costume and Fashion Design
Suriya Stewart is a native San Diegan and a graduate of Valhalla High School in East County. Having been “In love with Art” from an early age, she pursued Art in High School. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art (visual) from UCLA, and also studied Costume Design at the MFA level while at UCLA. She later earned a Masters degree in Education from National University.Before pursuing her teaching credential. Suriya worked for UCSD and the La Jolla Playhouse for 4 years as the Head Costume Crafts person for all of their professional and student productions. In her free time, she still enjoys painting almost everyday, and has shown work in the San Diego County Fair’s adult exhibition many times. You can catch Suriya doing any number of Art related hobbies at any given time, from sewing, sculpture, jewelry making, drawing or photography. She enjoys all types of Art media.
Suriya Stewart is a native San Diegan and a graduate of Valhalla High School in East County. Having been “In love with Art” from an early age, she pursued Art in High School. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art (visual) from UCLA, and also studied Costume Design at the MFA level while at UCLA. She later earned a Masters degree in Education from National University.Before pursuing her teaching credential. Suriya worked for UCSD and the La Jolla Playhouse for 4 years as the Head Costume Crafts person for all of their professional and student productions. In her free time, she still enjoys painting almost everyday, and has shown work in the San Diego County Fair’s adult exhibition many times. You can catch Suriya doing any number of Art related hobbies at any given time, from sewing, sculpture, jewelry making, drawing or photography. She enjoys all types of Art media.
Jeff Williams Guitar, H.O.G. House of Guitars
Jeff Williams started playing music in jr. high, playing bass guitar and singing Beatles tunes in a friend’s garage in a small town in upstate New York. From that point on, he was into playing any kind of music on any kind of instrument—and still is! After playing around upstate New York for a few years he headed west to the University of Arizona, earning a Bachelor of Music degree as a Jazz Studies major. After graduating from the U of A, he came to San Diego where he found studio work and performed live in various groups. Jeff earned his teaching credential from San Diego State and began teaching in 1989. His "reign of terror" as band director at Chula Vista Jr. High lasted from 1991 through 2001, during which time his bands won hundreds of awards, including superior ratings at festivals, sweepstakes at Maytime Band Review and top honors at Fullerton Jazz Festival.
Now Jeff enjoys teaching guitar full-time, dividing his time between the middle school and the high school, where he is the director of the "House of Guitars", a unique, one-of-a-kind Guitar Ensemble. He wrote the musical score for "Cyrano and Roxana", which was the Sweetwater District summer musical production in 2004. He also continues to perform regularly around San Diego with the Coolrays, the Jackstraws and the Windsurfers. Jeff lives in Chula Vista with his wife (whom he met in jr. high!) and their two children.
Jeff Williams started playing music in jr. high, playing bass guitar and singing Beatles tunes in a friend’s garage in a small town in upstate New York. From that point on, he was into playing any kind of music on any kind of instrument—and still is! After playing around upstate New York for a few years he headed west to the University of Arizona, earning a Bachelor of Music degree as a Jazz Studies major. After graduating from the U of A, he came to San Diego where he found studio work and performed live in various groups. Jeff earned his teaching credential from San Diego State and began teaching in 1989. His "reign of terror" as band director at Chula Vista Jr. High lasted from 1991 through 2001, during which time his bands won hundreds of awards, including superior ratings at festivals, sweepstakes at Maytime Band Review and top honors at Fullerton Jazz Festival.
Now Jeff enjoys teaching guitar full-time, dividing his time between the middle school and the high school, where he is the director of the "House of Guitars", a unique, one-of-a-kind Guitar Ensemble. He wrote the musical score for "Cyrano and Roxana", which was the Sweetwater District summer musical production in 2004. He also continues to perform regularly around San Diego with the Coolrays, the Jackstraws and the Windsurfers. Jeff lives in Chula Vista with his wife (whom he met in jr. high!) and their two children.
