About Us
Academic Academy
VEX Robotics Engineering & Coding, STEM, Healthy Cooking, Writing, Sports, Cake Decorating, Language &
Grade-Level Academic Enrichment Classes for Chaparral Students, Taught by Chaparral Teachers
Ms. Gerber
Ms Gerber is a first grade teacher at Chaparral, certified VEX Robotics instructor and former reading specialist with a Masters degree in education. She is proud mom to twin 20 year old boys, and a former Chaparral parent. She loves cooking, reading, her dogs Olive & Reggie, pickleball, Dodgers Baseball, and never turns down a good taco! Ms. Gerber started Academic Academy to bring engaging and innovative educational enrichment to the students at Chaparral. She loves to inspire a passion for reading and learning in her students and is excited to work with other Chaparral teachers through Academic Academy to bring fun and exciting enrichment opportunities to our community.
Ms. Gourley
Ms. Gourley is beginning the 19th year of her teaching career. She has a Masters degree in education and loves teaching kindergarten, which she has taught at Chaparral for going on 15 years. She is passionate about providing fun and enriching learning opportunities for students and helping kids grow academically, socially and emotionally. In her free time, Ms. Gourley likes to travel, read, go to Dodger games, and hike with her puppy Winnie.
Mrs. Nichwander
Mrs. Nichwander has been teaching for 19 years, and this is her 11th year at Chaparral Elementary. Her objective as an educator is to create a warm and inclusive learning environment where her students feel comfortable to be themselves, take risks and grow from their successes as well as their mistakes. She lives in Westlake Village with her husband and has 3 adult children, Evan, Avery and Brooke. In her leisure time, she enjoys hiking with her 2 dogs.
Ms. Van Dyke
Ms. Van Dyke is beginning her 11th year of teaching kindergarten at Chaparral. She has a Masters degree in education and loves teaching her students through fun, engaging and creative ways. Ms. Van Dyke lives in Westlake with her husband, Chris, and her two little girls, Lennon and Maggie. She is also a proud Chaparral parent! In her free time, Ms. Van Dyke enjoys spending time outside, especially at the beach, and loves hanging out with her family and friends.
Coach Rob
Coach Rob is an energetic and fun elementary P.E. coach, loved by Chaparral students! His passion for physical fitness and teamwork is a perfect addition to the Academic Academy family. With a focus on creating a positive and inclusive environment, he aims to inspire kids to stay active, develop their skills, and most importantly, have fun while doing it! Coach Rob is looking forward to fostering a love for sports and healthy habits in every child.
Mrs. Joukjian
Mrs. Joukjian is starting her 10th year at Chaparral Elementary School as a para educator. She is passionate about creating a warm and safe environment for the students and works with them in and out of the classroom. Mrs. Joukjian helps students with academic needs and ensures that every student can achieve their fullest potential. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Joukjian has a love for baking, crafting professional cakes and desserts. Her expertise in both flavor and aesthetics ensures that each creation is not only delicious but also a work of art. Mrs. Joukjian is looking forward to bringing her baking skills to the classroom by creating an engaging and hands-on opportunity for the students.
Mr. Betancourt
Mr. Betancourt is an Instructional Aide and Campus Supervisor. Prior to joining Chaparral last year, Mr. Betancourt worked as a Lead Campus Supervisor at California State University Northridge and the University of California for over a decade. Mr. Betancourt now works with elementary students both in and out of the classroom, helping students excel in a safe environment. Mr. Betancourt is especially excited for this school year as his own three children will be attending Chaparral. He loves BBQing, MLS soccer, the Lakers, camping and doing various outdoor activities with his family. Mr. Betancourt is enthusiastic about furthering children’s education and helping them thrive.
Mrs. Menschel
Mrs. Menschel is a certified VEX robotics instructor and has been at Chaparral for more than 17 years, joining the staff while her two sons were students there. She works with students at all grade levels, primarily in reading intervention, and with English learners. In her off time, she spends time with her three dogs, as well as volunteering at the Agoura animal shelter with all the dogs there. She also enjoys puzzles and Legos and is very proud of having just completed a 5’ tall Eiffel Tower this summer!
Mrs. Azadeh
Mrs. Azadeh is a TK instructional assistant at Chaparral Elementary School. She has a background in computer science and is beginning her 9th year at Chaparral, where she has supported various grade levels. She is passionate about creating engaging learning experiences and is dedicated to supporting students’ growth.
In her free time, she enjoys yoga, hiking, cooking, baking, arts and crafts, and photography. Mrs. Azadeh aims to inspire creativity, enthusiasm, and a love for learning in students by providing fun and enriching experiences.
Ms. Synthia
Ms. Synthia was born and raised in Paris, France. She has been teaching French since she arrived to California in 2003. She has 2 children who graduated from Calabasas High School and began teaching them Baby Sign Language when they were toddlers. A few years back Synthia started to learn American Sign Language to communicate with her stepson. Ever since, she has developed a passion for this beautiful language which led her to pursue an AA degree in Sign Language Interpretation. She is eager to teach her native language and ASL to your children in a fun and engaging way.