Meet the GALS Team
Staff can be contacted through ParentSquare here
Executive leadership can be contacted at 818-389-1184 or info@galsla.org
Executive Leaders
Vanessa Garza, Executive Director and Founding Principal
Vanessa Garza expertly translates student potential into success of self and beyond. With her data-driven leadership, teachers elevate their classroom instruction to ensure student mastery with a holistic approach.
-
Ms. Garza's previous educational leadership roles include: Director of Teacher Development, at Partnership for Los Angeles Schools, where she served multiple LAUSD schools and as an Assistant Principal at Green Dot Public Schools and PUC Schools. In these roles, she collaborated with Principals and teacher leaders to support and coach the effectiveness of their instructional practices as measured by the district's teaching standards and teacher evaluations. Ms. Garza was born and raised in Los Angeles and proud of earning her Masters in Education from UCLA while serving as a middle school teacher in LAUSD. Ms. Garza earned her bachelor degree from Tulane University and her administrative credential at the Charter School Leadership Academy at Loyola Marymount University.
Erica Younan emphasizes the importance of educating the whole child and ensuring that students have skills necessary to be successful after graduation.
Erica Younan, Principal
-
Ms. Younan's previous educational leadership roles include serving as the Middle School Lead at iLEAD Pacoima and the Assistant Principal and ELA Department Head at GALS LA.Ms. Younan's previous educational leadership roles include serving as the Middle School Lead at iLEAD Pacoima and the Assistant Principal and ELA Department Head at GALS LA. In these roles, she collaborated with teacher leaders to support student achievement and growth, oversaw school activities and functions, created schoolwide systems to increase academic performance, and provided professional development for teachers and staff. Although Ms. Younan was born and raised in California, she left the state to attend college at the University of North Dakota upon receiving a full scholarship for athletics. Ms. Younan returned to her home state and has since spent her time working with students and families in the San Fernando Valley.
Office & Operations Staff
Mayra Olivarez, Director of School Culture and Safety
Mayra Olivarez has been part of the GALS LA community since its founding in 2016, first as a dedicated parent volunteer and now as the Director of School Culture and Safety.
-
In her role, she leads the school operations team and oversees student enrollment, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for every family. Mayra brings years of experience in charter schools, including her work as Food Program Manager at Alliance MIT with Revolution Foods.
Passionate about building strong connections, Mayra loves working with families and students—providing guidance, connecting them to resources, and encouraging students to be the best version of themselves. She chose GALS because of its genuine commitment to treating families like family, not just a number.
Outside of work, Mayra enjoys celebrating Halloween, collecting Starbucks cups, and embracing the GALS value of Power, which she believes fuels both mental and physical strength.
Lisa Burns has dedicated her career to creating supportive, well-organized school environments where students, staff, and families can thrive.
Lisa Burns, Office Manager
-
With an AA in Psychology, Lisa began working in schools right out of high school, starting in classrooms and after-school programs before advancing to manage after-school programs at multiple sites.
Since joining GALS LA in 2025, Lisa has loved engaging with students, staff, and parents to ensure the school is a safe, welcoming place for all. She was drawn to GALS’ mission of empowering young women, appreciating the unique, holistic support the school provides beyond a traditional academic setting.
Lisa aims to foster an organized, structured environment where staff can collaborate effectively and students are encouraged to participate fully in class while building confidence and positive behavior. Outside of work, she collects Hello Kitty items, enjoys graphic design and content creation, and is the proud “fur mom” of three cats and one dog. She connects most deeply with the GALS value of power, believing that everyone has the ability to shape their future through self-belief and confidence.
Isabel Sanchez, Office Support/In House Substitute
Isabel Sanchez brings a wealth of experience in student support and program leadership to her role at GALS LA. A graduate of UC Santa Barbara (BA, 2021), Isabel first joined GALS in 2021 as a paraprofessional when the campus reopened after COVID.
-
She later served as an instructional aide at a high school, leading small group Algebra 1 instruction, before becoming the school’s first after-school program coordinator—building the program from the ground up to create a safe, engaging space where students could lead their own clubs and grow as leaders.
Passionate about empowering young women, Isabel returned to GALS LA in July 2025, inspired by the school’s mission and by her own role as a mother to a daughter. She hopes to help students value themselves and their education, while fostering confidence and leadership skills. Outside of work, Isabel enjoys going on walks and reading with her two children. She especially connects with the GALS value of balance, believing it’s essential to find harmony in all aspects of life.
Teaching Staff
Ben Easton has been teaching Social Science at GALS LA since 2018, creating a classroom environment where deep thinking and lively discussion thrive. He holds a BA in Religious Studies from Azusa Pacific University, an MA in Philosophy from California State University Los Angeles, and is completing an MA in History from California State University Northridge.
Ben Easton • Certified Wellness Coach
Andrew Balcorta brings a passion for helping students see the beauty and possibilities in math to his role as a math teacher at GALS LA. He holds a B.A. in Liberal Studies from California State University, Northridge, and completed the Multiple Subject Program. Before joining GALS, Andrew worked as a paraprofessional in an elementary school and gained valuable experience through student teaching.
Andrew Balcorta • Certified Wellness Coach
-
Since joining GALS LA in 2024, Andrew has loved the opportunity to inspire students, foster curiosity, and build confidence in their mathematical skills. He especially enjoys starting the day with morning movement, encouraging alertness, health, and readiness to learn. Andrew embodies the GALS value of flexibility—always ready to adapt and support wherever needed to keep things running smoothly.
Outside the classroom, Andrew enjoys watching movies weekly and attending concerts, fueling his creativity and love for the arts.
Ginneh Lewis • Movement Director • Certified Wellness Coach
Ginneh Lewis has been inspiring students at GALS LA for nine years, bringing a unique blend of science expertise, movement, and wellness to the classroom. She holds a B.A. in Biology with a minor in Environmental Science and Policy from Hartwick College, along with teaching certifications from the University of Denver and Metro State University of Denver.
-
She is credentialed in California (Biological Sciences, ELA) and Colorado (Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and ESL), with additional certifications in Literacy and Language Development for Diverse Learners.
Since 2008, Ginneh has taught middle and high school science while serving in leadership roles such as team lead, garden program coordinator, mentor teacher, and outdoor science program director. At GALS, she is passionate about creating hands-on, joyful learning experiences that integrate science, movement, environmental awareness, and student wellness.
Her goal is to empower students to see themselves as curious scientists, confident leaders, and compassionate environmental stewards. Beyond school, Ginneh volunteers with animal rescue organizations and environmental nonprofits, and enjoys gardening, hiking, and exploring California’s natural beauty. She most connects with the GALS value of balance, believing that integrating academic success with physical, emotional, and social well-being is essential to lifelong growth.
Megan Ryan • Certified Wellness Coach
Megan Ryan is dedicated to creating a classroom where students feel safe, confident, and empowered to embrace their individuality. Her own all-girls school experience at Marymount High School in West Los Angeles, paired with her upbringing in the San Fernando Valley, inspired her to join GALS LA and contribute to its mission of empowering young women.
-
She holds a B.A. in English Literature from the College of the Holy Cross with concentrations in Creative Writing and Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies, as well as an M.A. in Education from Loyola Marymount University with an emphasis in Disability Studies.
Megan’s experience spans from teaching swim lessons at age 15 to leading Make-A-Wish fundraising initiatives in college, coordinating food justice projects, and mentoring new teachers as a Teach For America Corps Member Advisor. Since joining GALS LA in 2022, she has valued working in a community where every staff member is deeply committed to students’ well-being, academic success, and growth.
Her goal is to help GALS students develop confidence, self-love, and the skills they need to navigate life—whether that’s reading, writing, or emotional regulation. Outside of school, Megan enjoys crocheting, music, poetry, and exploring the outdoors with her dog. She lives by the GALS value of balance, focusing on maintaining joy and well-being both inside and outside of work.
Yulisa Becerra • 6th & 7th Grade Lead Teacher • Certified Wellness Coach
Yulisa Becerra has been part of the GALS LA community since 2019, teaching history through a lens of justice, identity, and community. She holds a Master’s Degree in Urban Education Policy and Administration from Loyola Marymount University,
Edrees Akram has been a dedicated member of the GALS LA team since joining in 2016, supporting students in achieving both academic and personal success. He holds an AA in Sociology from Pierce College, a BA in History–Teacher Preparation from Cal State LA, and a Special Education Mild/Moderate Credential and MA in Special Education Mild/Moderate from Cal State Northridge.
Edrees Akram • Certified Wellness Coach
-
where she focused on equity-driven leadership and language policy, as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Spanish from UCLA, building a strong foundation in civic engagement, research, and bilingual communication.
In addition to her classroom role, Yulisa has held leadership positions such as Content Facilitator with Teach For America, supporting new teachers and leading professional development. At GALS LA, she values building deep, meaningful relationships with students and creating a classroom where they feel seen, heard, and empowered. She was drawn to GALS for its commitment to movement-based learning, social-emotional development, and creating a safe, inclusive space for girls and gender-expansive youth.
Outside of teaching, Yulisa enjoys hiking, long bike rides, trying new fitness classes, and decorating and organizing spaces. She connects most with the GALS value of power, striving to help students recognize the strength they carry within themselves and their ability to make an impact.
Caroline Willis • 8th Grade Lead Teacher • Certified Wellness Coach
Caroline Willis brings a love of literature, a commitment to student growth, and a passion for holistic education to her role as 8th Grade English Language Arts Teacher and Grade Level Lead at GALS LA. She holds a B.A. in English from the University of Southern California, as well as Single Subject Teaching Credentials in both English Language Arts and Physical Education.
-
She also earned a Wellness Coach Certificate, which she integrates into her classroom to support students’ well-being alongside their academic development.
Before joining GALS LA in 2020, Caroline was a 2017 Teach for America Corps Member in Dallas–Fort Worth, where she honed her skills in building inclusive, supportive, and academically rigorous learning environments. At GALS, she values the school’s holistic approach to education and the strong sense of community that empowers both staff and students. Her goal is for every student to leave her class with a stronger command of reading, writing, and speaking skills, as well as the confidence to pursue their dreams.
Beyond the classroom, Caroline enjoys playing tennis, crocheting, and exploring new creative hobbies. Guided by the GALS value of Balance, she strives to model for students how finding equilibrium between mind, body, and heart is essential to a happy and healthy life.
Hannah Halter has been teaching 8th Grade Science at GALS LA since 2024, where she is passionate about inspiring young women to pursue STEM careers and interests. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Addiction Recovery Sciences from Texas Tech University and is currently earning her Master’s in Transformative Education from Loyola Marymount University..
Hannah Halter • Certified Wellness Coach
Cynthia Alvarez-Preciado • Certified Wellness Coach
Cynthia Alvarez-Preciado has been teaching 8th Grade Math at GALS LA since 2021, blending her passion for mathematics with her love of physical activity. She holds a B.S. in Computer Engineering with a minor in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and an M.A. in Education from Loyola Marymount University.
Special Education Staff & Specialists
Latrice Joyce, Director of Special Education & Academic Success • Certified Wellness Coach
LaTrice Joyce brings over seven years of experience in Special Education—five of those as a coordinator and director—along with a deep commitment to ensuring every student has the tools they need to thrive. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, an Education Specialist credential, and a master’s degree in urban education with an emphasis in educational technology.
Jennifer Smith has been part of the GALS LA community since 2025, supporting students in developing the skills they need to succeed academically and as leaders on campus. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with minors in English and Women’s Studies from California State University, Dominguez Hills, and is currently earning her Master’s in Special Education from Loyola Marymount University.
Jennifer Smith, Resource Specialist
Elaina Waddell, EL Coordinator
Elaina earned her Masters in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from ASU and her undergraduate degree in ESL Education at UW-Milwaukee.
-
Before joining GALS, Jennifer spent three years as a para-educator in a middle school in the Beach Cities, where she worked to meet the diverse educational needs of students and help them thrive in and beyond the classroom. She was drawn to GALS LA for its strong emphasis on social-emotional learning, which empowers students to build emotional awareness and overall well-being.
Jennifer’s goal is to help students take ownership of their learning and become confident self-advocates. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, trying new food spots, and spending time with family. She most identifies with the GALS value of balance, believing that a well-rounded academic and social life is essential for developing strong, capable leaders.escription text goes here