Meet the Beyond New School Team

Our Inspiring Team & Guides of Enlightenment

At Beyond New School, our educators are more than just teachers—they are mentors, guides, and passionate advocates for holistic learning. Each member of our team brings a unique set of skills and a dedication to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit of every student. Get to know the inspiring individuals who make Beyond New School a vibrant learning community.

Ashley Skrzypek

Founder of Beyond New School

Ashley Skrzypek, the visionary founder of Beyond New School, is a successful entrepreneur with a passion for transforming education. Ashley’s journey began with a deep commitment to providing her children and others with a holistic, individualized learning experience that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and personal growth. Ashley has worked to create an innovative educational environment that prepares students for real-world success while nurturing their unique strengths and passions. Her unwavering dedication to redefining education ensures that Beyond New School is a place where every child can thrive.

Marisa Bruyneel

Beyond New School Director

Marisa Bruyneel brings her lifelong passion for transformative education to Beyond New School.  She has served as the Founder and Director of Integra Development Center, Executive Director of SOUL Charter School, College Readiness Counselor and high school english teacher.  With a Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master’s in Education from Columbia University, Marisa has over a decade of experience as a progressive educator. Marisa is dedicated to guiding students towards a deeper sense of self, connecting them to their passions and purpose, and equipping them with the tools to thrive in all aspects of life.

Aya Chabayta

Expressive Arts Guide, CEO of Aya Art Co.

Aya Art Co. serves over 1500 students, uses art to teach individuality, self-expression, and confidence. Her classes at Beyond New School develop motivated, compassionate young adults who appreciate the diverse colors of life. Aya’s goal is to empower students to create, innovate, and share their unique magic with the world, making it a better place.

Patrick Hamilton

Acrylic Painting Guide

Patrick Hamilton, a professional painter with over 25 years of experience, brings his expertise to Beyond New School as an Acrylic Painting Guide. Specializing in realist oil paintings, Patrick has produced over 500 commissioned portraits and sold over 100,000 prints and paintings. His passion for teaching art helps students explore individuality and self-expression through painting.

Consuelo Fleming

Spanish Language Guide

Consuelo Fleming brings over 30 years of experience teaching Spanish to Beyond New School. Her extensive expertise and passion for language education have inspired countless students to achieve fluency and a deep appreciation for Spanish culture. Consuelo’s engaging teaching style and commitment to student success ensure that every child develops strong language skills and cultural awareness.

Alexandra Hauffen

Alexandra Hauffen

Alexandra Hauffen represents the Alliance Française and brings her passion for French culture and education to Beyond New School. With a background in teaching French to children aged 1 to 12 yrs, Alexandra uses her expertise to inspire a love for the French language and culture in her students.

Suni Gargaro

Yoga & Meditation Guide, CEO of Sunia Yoga

Suni Gargaro, CEO of Sunia Yoga, brings her passion for holistic well-being to Beyond New School. She teaches mindfulness, breath work, and deeper concepts like the law of attraction, chakras, and energy, making these ideas fun for kids. By living her ikigai, Suni ensures students develop both physically and emotionally for a fulfilling life.

Matthew Becker

Jiu-Jitsu Guide, CEO of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu

Matthew Becker, a Level 4 Certified Black Belt and CEO of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in La Jolla, empowers students with Jiu-Jitsu skills and life lessons. He embodies ikigai by doing what he loves and adding value to the world. His passion for Jiu-Jitsu and dedication to teaching make him an inspiring mentor, helping students develop confidence and resilience.

Nancy Ross

Music & Theatre Arts Guide

Nancy Ross, our Music & Theatre Arts Guide, brings a wealth of experience and passion for the performing arts to Beyond New School. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre, Nancy has been a professional actor and educator, inspiring students through voice, acting, and piano lessons to cultivate creativity and confidence. Nancy’s dedication to her craft and her students ensures a vibrant and engaging learning experience.

Beth Besom

Marine Biology Guide

Beth Besom, an Ocean Educator and Science Communicator, brings her extensive field knowledge and passion for marine biology to Beyond New School. As a National Geographic Certified Educator and a graduate student at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in the MAS Marine Biodiversity and Conservation program, she is dedicated to inspiring students through engaging, hands-on marine biology lessons. Beth’s expertise ensures that students gain a deep understanding of marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

Aline Pampalon

Robotics & Coding Guide, Co-Founder of The Coder School La Jolla

Aline Pampalon, co-owner of theCoderSchool La Jolla, brings her extensive experience in education and a passion for coding and robotics to Beyond New School. As our Robotics & Coding Guide, she helps students develop creativity and logical thinking through hands-on projects. Aline is dedicated to equipping students with essential 21st-century skills, ensuring they are prepared for future success.

Alvaro Merida

Robotics & Coding Guide

Alvaro Merida holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from California State University San Marcos and multiple certificates in software development and computer programming fundamentals. With expertise in Python and data structures, Alvaro guides students through the exciting worlds of coding and robotics, helping them develop critical 21st-century skills.

Daria Miller

Robotics & Coding Guide

 Daria brings extensive expertise in programming and mathematics to Beyond New School. She holds two Bachelor’s degrees, one in Computer Science and another in Applied Mathematics; She is proficient in JavaScript, CSS, Python, Git, C++, React, Java, HTML, and JavaFX. Daria guides students through the exciting worlds of coding and robotics, helping them develop essential 21st-century skills.

Kylee Baze

Sewing Guide

Kylee Baze, our Sewing Guide at Beyond New School, brings a passion for creativity and hands-on learning to her classes. She helps students discover the joy of sewing while developing confidence, patience, and a sense of accomplishment. Kylee’s engaging teaching style ensures that children learn valuable skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Malia Carl

Art & Creative Expression Guide

Malia Carl, our Art & Creative Expression Guide at Beyond New School, is always smiling and full of enthusiasm. She teaches art and creative expression through real-world projects like candle making, soap making, and cultural art such as Japanese kokedama. Malia’s hands-on approach brings creativity and practical skills to our students, enhancing their learning experience in a fun way.

Our Teaching

Philosophy

Our educators embrace holistic development, project-based learning, and a creative environment where every child thrives. We foster a love of learning, encourage creativity, and develop critical thinking. Our mixed-age classrooms and dynamic curriculum meet each child’s needs, helping them grow into empowered, well-rounded individuals.

Our team and curriculum is ever evolving.

At Beyond New School, we are continuously expanding our team of dedicated educators and innovators to enhance the breadth of classes we teach. Our diverse and talented teachers bring a wealth of expertise to a broad array of classes, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of our community so that every child can thrive in a modern world.

keep exploring

about us

Delicately blending the wisdom of Waldorf, Montessori, and Ad Astra, the heart of the Beyond New School philosophy is to curate noteworthy educational journeys for students grades 1-6. Click here to learn more.

about us

Our high conscious educational philosophy is grounded in the belief that students thrive in an environment that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. Discover more about our philosophy here.

about us

Explore our state-of-the-art facilities, vibrant classrooms, and engaging learning spaces from the comfort of your home. The virtual tour is not just a glimpse into physical spaces; it’s an invitation to discover the heartbeat of our educational community.