James Barton Color Guard / Marching Arts
Director/Designer/Choreographer
With 35 years of teaching experience, James has flourished as both a Color Guard Choreographer, Designer, and Director. He has had the privilege of teaching and performing with many prestigious groups at the Southern California Color Guard Circuit. James has currently coached three WGI classification levels and has had a finalist group at WGI Championships. James has performed with such groups as, Out of the Blue. James is the Artistic Director of Prado Performing Arts which produced Prado Independent Performance Ensemble from 2010 to 2015.
Currently, James is the Color Guard Designer for Del Norte High School, Olympian High School and Junipero Serra High School. James is also the Director/Designer/Choreographer at Chula Vista Visual and Performing Arts High School, and Eastlake High School.
James is the president of West Coast Winter Guard and is the founding member of the Winter Guard Circuit. In 2014 James was inducted into the Southern California Winter Guard Hall of Fame.
For the last 20 years James has been a full time marching arts educator in Southern California. James loves spending time with his wife, three children their families and his new granddaughter. Disney is their go to place and it’s the best place to just get away.
Director/Designer/Choreographer
With 35 years of teaching experience, James has flourished as both a Color Guard Choreographer, Designer, and Director. He has had the privilege of teaching and performing with many prestigious groups at the Southern California Color Guard Circuit. James has currently coached three WGI classification levels and has had a finalist group at WGI Championships. James has performed with such groups as, Out of the Blue. James is the Artistic Director of Prado Performing Arts which produced Prado Independent Performance Ensemble from 2010 to 2015.
Currently, James is the Color Guard Designer for Del Norte High School, Olympian High School and Junipero Serra High School. James is also the Director/Designer/Choreographer at Chula Vista Visual and Performing Arts High School, and Eastlake High School.
James is the president of West Coast Winter Guard and is the founding member of the Winter Guard Circuit. In 2014 James was inducted into the Southern California Winter Guard Hall of Fame.
For the last 20 years James has been a full time marching arts educator in Southern California. James loves spending time with his wife, three children their families and his new granddaughter. Disney is their go to place and it’s the best place to just get away.
Melissa Barton - Color Guard Director/Choreographer
With 6 years of performance experience and 21 years of teaching experience, Melissa has flourished as both a color guard choreographer and designer. She has had the privilege of teaching and performing with many prestigious groups at the DCI Open Class Level, and three WGI classification levels and has had a finalist group at WGI Championships. Melissa has performed with such groups as, Earthquake Drum and Bugle Corps and Think About It Winter Guard and Orange Glen High School. Melissa has worked with such groups as Prado Independent Performance Ensemble.
Currently, Melissa is the Color Guard Caption Head for the Del Norte High School and Junipero Serra High School. Melissa is also the Assistant Director at Mira Mesa High School, Chula Vista Visual and Performing Arts High School, and Eastlake High School.
When you love this activity, as much as I do and love the students you work with and always have an amazing staff around you... what’s not to love.
I cherish each moment and look forward to each new day.
With 6 years of performance experience and 21 years of teaching experience, Melissa has flourished as both a color guard choreographer and designer. She has had the privilege of teaching and performing with many prestigious groups at the DCI Open Class Level, and three WGI classification levels and has had a finalist group at WGI Championships. Melissa has performed with such groups as, Earthquake Drum and Bugle Corps and Think About It Winter Guard and Orange Glen High School. Melissa has worked with such groups as Prado Independent Performance Ensemble.
Currently, Melissa is the Color Guard Caption Head for the Del Norte High School and Junipero Serra High School. Melissa is also the Assistant Director at Mira Mesa High School, Chula Vista Visual and Performing Arts High School, and Eastlake High School.
When you love this activity, as much as I do and love the students you work with and always have an amazing staff around you... what’s not to love.
I cherish each moment and look forward to each new day.
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 violist, 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 violist, Dr. Bruderer has performed with Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Opera Pacific, Wichita Symphony Orchestra, and as a soloist with the San Dieguito Chamber Orchestra.
Magdalena Castro Baile Folklorico
Magdalena Castro graduated from UCSC with her BA in Sociology. She helped teach and direct the Folklorico class at UCSC and often revisits as an alumna to be a guest instructor. She has been dancing Folklorico for over 25 years and teaching Folklorico for over 10. Magdalena is very passionate about dancing and education. She has had dozens of dance teachers from all over Mexico. Magdalena strongly believes in teaching life skills through dance such as practice, cooperation, discipline, and responsibility.
Magdalena Castro graduated from UCSC with her BA in Sociology. She helped teach and direct the Folklorico class at UCSC and often revisits as an alumna to be a guest instructor. She has been dancing Folklorico for over 25 years and teaching Folklorico for over 10. Magdalena is very passionate about dancing and education. She has had dozens of dance teachers from all over Mexico. Magdalena strongly believes in teaching life skills through dance such as practice, cooperation, discipline, and responsibility.
Patrick Doerr Director of Bands, Symphonic Orchestra
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, HOG (House of Guitars)
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 Bachelor’s Degree in Music with an emphasis in Jazz Studies and a minor in Music Industry. He went on to earn his teaching credential from Chapman University and is currently studying for his Master’s in Education from the University of Massachusetts. Throughout his college career in Los Angeles 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 across the West Coast. He has also performed with Shirley Caesar, Gentleman for Christ, and local jazz artists Jenn Renee Cruz and Jason Brown. He currently performs with the “Republic of Music” a high-end wedding and corporate band . He is currently the head of the guitar programs at the SCPA. He teaches all levels and is the director of the one and only House of Guitars (H.O.G.). He has also taught piano, traditional choir, gospel choir, music appreciation, vocal production, music theory, and AP music theory. His musical theater experience includes productions for the Sweetwater Summer Theater Institute and several summers as a teaching artist at the La Jolla Playhouse Young Performer’s Workshop. Lucas currently serves as the Traditional Worship Pastor at Torrey Pines Church; part of the Community Network of Churches.
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 Bachelor’s Degree in Music with an emphasis in Jazz Studies and a minor in Music Industry. He went on to earn his teaching credential from Chapman University and is currently studying for his Master’s in Education from the University of Massachusetts. Throughout his college career in Los Angeles 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 across the West Coast. He has also performed with Shirley Caesar, Gentleman for Christ, and local jazz artists Jenn Renee Cruz and Jason Brown. He currently performs with the “Republic of Music” a high-end wedding and corporate band . He is currently the head of the guitar programs at the SCPA. He teaches all levels and is the director of the one and only House of Guitars (H.O.G.). He has also taught piano, traditional choir, gospel choir, music appreciation, vocal production, music theory, and AP music theory. His musical theater experience includes productions for the Sweetwater Summer Theater Institute and several summers as a teaching artist at the La Jolla Playhouse Young Performer’s Workshop. Lucas currently serves as the Traditional Worship Pastor at Torrey Pines Church; part of the Community Network of Churches.
Jeff Frank Film, Video Production, Comedy Improv, Behind the Scenes Academy
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, MPulse, 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.
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 40 years. In addition to her duties as Arts Facilitator she conducts the band at Southwestern Community College and teaches 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. In 2019 Ms. Nevin Armstrong was named Arts Administrator of the year by the California Music Educator's Association. In 2022 she was awarded the Arts Empower Ovation Award for Creative Leader in San Diego County.
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 40 years. In addition to her duties as Arts Facilitator she conducts the band at Southwestern Community College and teaches 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. In 2019 Ms. Nevin Armstrong was named Arts Administrator of the year by the California Music Educator's Association. In 2022 she was awarded the Arts Empower Ovation Award for Creative Leader in San Diego County.
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.
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 and Masters Degree in Music Education from the University of Georgia. 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 sings frequently with Sacra/Profana, 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 sixth 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 and Masters Degree in Music Education from the University of Georgia. 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 sings frequently with Sacra/Profana, 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 sixth 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. She has worked in the SCPA since 1990, serving primarily as the staff accompanist, working with all of the choral groups. In addition, she has accompanied/music directed over 65 musical theater productions , many here at CVH and for the SUHSD, as well as 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. Mrs. Schroeder has also held accompanist positions at SDSU, PLNU and SWC, and keeps busy as a private piano teacher and freelance accompanist in San Diego.
Barbara Schroeder is a graduate of Texas Christian University where she earned a Bachelors degree and K-12 teaching credential in vocal music education. She has worked in the SCPA since 1990, serving primarily as the staff accompanist, working with all of the choral groups. In addition, she has accompanied/music directed over 65 musical theater productions , many here at CVH and for the SUHSD, as well as 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. Mrs. Schroeder has also held accompanist positions at SDSU, PLNU and SWC, and keeps busy as a private piano teacher and freelance accompanist in San Diego.
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.
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.
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.
Jessica Barragan Tejada, Mariachi, Guitar
Jessica Barragan is a San Diego native that studied Music and Mariachi Specialization at Southwestern College and Chacala Mariachi Institute in Nayarit, Mexico. She graduated from Montgomery High of Sweetwater Union High School District. She has been performing music for over 25 years, and teaching mariachi for over 13 years. Before working at Chula Vista High, Jessica worked at Chula Vista Middle, Bonita Vista High, Southwest Middle, Montgomery Middle, Where Music Begins Academy of Music, Circle of Education, and International Mariachi and Folklorico Festival in Rosarito. She has performed and worked alongside Mariachis: Vargas de Tecalitlan, Sol de Mexico, Reinas de los Angeles, Divas and Expectacular (Disneyland), Flor de Toloache, Champana de Nevin; artists: Vicente Fernandez, Olga Breeskin, Placido Domingo, Monica Abrego; and Symphony Orchestras (including San Diego, San Francisco, Colorado, and Texas). Jessica has also performed for high ranking officials such as President Clinton, President Bush, Mayor of Chula Vista Mary Salas, Council Members of Chula Vista, and Arnold Schwartzenegger. As a Pacific Islander and Native American, Jessica views mariachi as music for everyone and anyone with the willingness to learn the beautiful rhythms and culture of Mexico. When she is not teaching, performing, or working at her own automotive maintenance center, she enjoys spending time with her family outdoors off-roading, fishing, and kayaking.
Jessica Barragan is a San Diego native that studied Music and Mariachi Specialization at Southwestern College and Chacala Mariachi Institute in Nayarit, Mexico. She graduated from Montgomery High of Sweetwater Union High School District. She has been performing music for over 25 years, and teaching mariachi for over 13 years. Before working at Chula Vista High, Jessica worked at Chula Vista Middle, Bonita Vista High, Southwest Middle, Montgomery Middle, Where Music Begins Academy of Music, Circle of Education, and International Mariachi and Folklorico Festival in Rosarito. She has performed and worked alongside Mariachis: Vargas de Tecalitlan, Sol de Mexico, Reinas de los Angeles, Divas and Expectacular (Disneyland), Flor de Toloache, Champana de Nevin; artists: Vicente Fernandez, Olga Breeskin, Placido Domingo, Monica Abrego; and Symphony Orchestras (including San Diego, San Francisco, Colorado, and Texas). Jessica has also performed for high ranking officials such as President Clinton, President Bush, Mayor of Chula Vista Mary Salas, Council Members of Chula Vista, and Arnold Schwartzenegger. As a Pacific Islander and Native American, Jessica views mariachi as music for everyone and anyone with the willingness to learn the beautiful rhythms and culture of Mexico. When she is not teaching, performing, or working at her own automotive maintenance center, she enjoys spending time with her family outdoors off-roading, fishing, and kayaking.
