Faculty/Staff
Faculty/Staff
Julie Cushman
Principal/Director
jcushman@baronacharterschool.org
I'm thrilled to be serving as Principal and Director at BCS, a place I've called home as a teacher for the past 15 years. My journey here was paved with a BA, teaching credential, and administrative services credential from National University. As a longtime Lakeside resident, I cherish moments with my family, friends, and two furry companions. When I'm not at BCS, you'll find me traveling, enjoying music, or working in my garden.
Kristi Johnson
Admin Assistant
kjohnson@baronacharterschool.org
I am an East Coast transplant. I received my BA in Anthropology/Archeology from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. I have been a California girl since 1993. I have had a variety of experience including working as an archeologist, owning businesses, and working with our students here at BICS. I am in my 19th year here. I have been an Instructional Aide and have led a Hands-on Science program for nearly 12 years. Currently my main duties are in the office as Admin Support, as well as serving as a substitute teacher. I am a mom of two kids that attended BICS many years ago! I feel so fortunate to work at a place I love!
Lisa Hanouka
Registrar (Attendance/Health)
lhanouka@baronacharterschool.org
I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Studies Elementary Education from San Diego State University in 2018. I’ve always had a passion for working with kids. I am happy and proud to serve the BCS community. I enjoy working with kids, staff, and families. I enjoy traveling and discovering new places. I speak 3 languages and have lived in 3 different countries.
Sierra Frank
Transitional Kinder/Kindergarten
sfrank@baronacharterschool.org
Hi, I’m Sierra! I received my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and my Master’s Degree in Teaching from San Diego State University. In addition, I hold a Transitional Kindergarten authorization. Before working at Barona Charter School, I taught 6th grade and kindergarten in La Mesa Spring Valley for four years. In my classroom, I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where each student can achieve their unique potential. When I am not at school, you can find me camping, knitting, or spending time with my friends or nephew!
Michelle Lincoln
1st Grade
mlincoln@baronacharterschool.org
This is my 8th year teaching. I have taught 1st grade and kindergarten in the past. I received my BA and teaching credential from San Diego State. I believe that all students are special and learn in unique ways. I will do what it takes for them to succeed. I have lived in San Diego my entire life and you can often find me doing something outside with my husband and two boys. I love playing soccer, spending time in the sunshine, and being around friends and family.
Madison Kelly
2nd Grade
mkelly@baronacharterschool.org
Hi, I'm Madison! I earned my undergraduate degree and multiple subject teaching credential from San Diego State University. I am thrilled to continue my teaching journey at BCS. My teaching philosophy revolves around student-centered learning, where I strive to develop engaging and interactive lessons tailored to diverse learning styles. I am dedicated to cultivating a classroom atmosphere that promotes curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for learning. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy exploring San Diego with my friends, family, and puppy, Cooper. I eagerly anticipate the exciting year ahead!"
America Diaz
3rd/4th Teacher
I have worked for three years with the Lakeside Union School District, supporting all grades and classroom environments. I graduated from San Diego State University in 2025 with my BA in Liberal Studies in Elementary Education. I am now pursuing my MA in Education and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at Point Loma Nazarene University, which I will complete in just one year! I love being active through workouts, Pilates, lifting, and running. I also enjoy spending quality time with family, being outdoors, and experimenting in the kitchen with new recipes. I’m thrilled to support students and help them grow in their learning and confidence!
Valerie Sandoval
5th - 6th Grades
vsandoval@baronacharterschool.org
Hi! My name is Valerie. I earned my bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University in 2023 and went on to complete my teaching credential and master’s degree the following year. While this is my first year teaching 5th grade, I’ve had the opportunity to work with students from TK through 5th grade in my previous role, which has helped shape my approach in the classroom. I’m passionate about creating a welcoming, student-led learning environment where every child feels valued and empowered. I enjoy finding interactive and relatable ways for students to demonstrate their learning and engage with content in meaningful ways. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy catching a Padres game, relaxing by the bay, and spending time with family and friends. I’m thrilled to be a part of the BCS community and excited to continue my teaching journey here
Krystal Hoffmann
7th - 8th Grades
khoffmann@baronacharterschool.org
I earned my general and special education degrees from Northern Arizona University. I currently hold a Clear CA Credential for K-8 General Education and a Clear CA credential for K-12 Mild/Moderate Special Education. I have spent over a decade teaching middle school, including 5 years as the 7th/8th grade combo teacher here at BCS. I also spent some time as the Ed Specialist for our Special Education team here at BCS for two years. Currently, I am going into my 14th year of teaching as the 7th/8th grade combo teacher for the upcoming school year! If I am not here at BCS, you can find me at home reading on my Kindle, on an adventure with my husband and our son, or watching baseball! I grew up in East County and I am deeply grateful for the chance to live, raise my child, and have him be educated in the very community that shaped my own childhood!
Diana DeAugustine
SPED/Resources Teacher
ddeaugustine@baronacharterschool.org
Michela Mosconi
School Psychologist
mmosconi@baronacharterschool.org
Hello! My name is Michela and I recently moved from Chicago to the San Diego area! I majored in Psychology and minored in Studio Art at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I then attended graduate school to study Educational Psychology at the University of Loyola-Chicago. I spent my first year as a licensed psychologist working at a dual language school for grades 3-8 in the Chicago suburbs. I am so excited to be the School Psychologist this year at Barona!
Carolyn Nunes
SPED Consultant
cnunes@baronacharterschool.org
Debbie Aguiar
Campus Food Coordinator
daguiar@baronacharterschool.org
I am Debbie Aguiar. I have worked at Barona Indian Charter School for almost 18 years. I have worn many hats, including Campus Supervisor and art instruction. For the past three years I have been an instructional aide for our amazing kindergarten class. This year, I am working as our Campus Food Coordinator. I love being the “Lunch Lady”. I get to see all our students everyday!
Lindsay Spadafino
Instructional Aide
lspadafino@baronacharterschool.org
Katherine Robinson
Instructional Aide
krobinson@baronacharterschool.org
I'm so excited to be joining the BCS community! I earned my master's degree from The Ohio State University and my bachelor's degree from the University of Pittsburgh, where I also had the opportunity to play collegiate soccer. After completing my master's, I taught 2nd, 4th, and 5th grade at an international school in South Korea, where my passion for teaching truly flourished. Outside of school, I enjoy playing and coaching soccer, hiking, and traveling. I look forward to supporting our students, and making this a fantastic year together!
Chris Tinoco
Campus Support
ctinoco@baronacharterschool.org