Who's Who at Virtual Academy

Born and raised in San Diego, Mr. Allen has maintained a deep interest in computers and technology since childhood. He started with programming languages like JAVA before progressing to Python, JavaScript, and web-based interests.  Mr. Allen has IT experience and possesses a CompTia A+ industry certification.
Mr. Allen holds a master’s degree in Education with a California teaching credential in Computer Applications and a CTE Information and Technology credential. He taught A+ Computer Repair at Abraxas High School in Poway, Networking Fundamentals at Remington College, and he was the robotics advisor at Northview High School in Covina, CA.  Mr. Allen currently teaches programming and hardware and operating system courses with Academies of the Antelope Valley and UCSD/UCLA Extension as an associate faculty.

Mr. Birden is a happily-married Husband and a Father of three sons. He is an ordained Minister, Young Adult Leader and President of the Mens Ministry for Living Faith Cathedral under the leadership of former City Councilman Bishop Darrell Dorris. He is the Virtual Academy Black Student Union [BSU] Advisor as well as CTE Business Teacher for the Antelope Valley Union High School District. Prior to becoming an Educator, Mr. Birden was Founder and Facilitator of Create Distribute Collect [CDC] Studios, which for 5 years served as the Antelope Valley’s premiere full-spectrum recording studio. 

Mr. Birden is a songwriter and recording artist who has toured with some of Hip Hop’s biggest acts, notably multi-platinum recording artist Lil Durk and Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group. He has had his music featured on the hit TV series Power produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, as well as MTV’s Real World vs Road Rules: The Challenge and additional ABC network programming. 

Mr. Birden also serves his community as a member of several committees for the City of Lancaster. Most notably, as Commissioner of the City Planning Commission.

My name is Christy Camarillo, and I'm excited about the opportunity to be your Body Systems and Disorders teacher. I have taught for the Virtual Academy since it opened, and I also teach Public Service/ Emergency Medicine at another school site in our district.  
I've spent 23 years working in Emergency Medicine and still maintain a paramedic License, which has given me a lot of real-world experience to share with you. I have dedicated my life to providing critical care and emergency medical services. In doing that I have been taught an array of skills and interesting medical facts, that I plan on tapping into when creating lesson plans.
I've been teaching for 13 years and love helping students learn about healthcare and public service. I will combine my practical experience and passion for education to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals. 
My commitment to saving lives and imparting knowledge underscores my passion for the medical field and education. I look forward to getting to know you and supporting your journey in this field.

Math & AVID

7th - 12th Grade

Mr. Gorman's life is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of knowledge. Born into the heart of the Baby Boomer generation, he embraced life's challenges with a tenacity that would shape his remarkable journey. 
Growing up in a modest neighborhood, Mr. Gorman learned the value of hard work and determination from an early age. After BARELY completing high school, he embarked on a career path that would take him through diverse experiences, each contributing to the rich tapestry of his life.
For 25 years, Mr. Gorman dedicated himself to the United States Postal Service, where he honed his work ethic and commitment to service. Yet, his adventurous spirit and a career altering injury beckoned him towards new horizons, leading him to pursue a passion that would merge his love for the ocean with craftsmanship - shaping surfboards. For four years, he immersed himself in the art of surfboard making, finding solace and fulfillment in the creative process while pursuing a new career path inspired by his wife’s belief in his abilities to help others.
At the age of 46, he made a pivotal decision to attend college, determined to earn his Bachelor's degree. Despite the challenges of balancing shaping surfboards, family, and academics, he persevered, fueled by a desire for personal growth and a commitment to setting an example for his family.
His journey didn't end with a Bachelor's degree; it was just the beginning. Driven by a passion for education and a belief in the transformative power of learning with the support of his wife and two sons, Mr. Gorman continued his studies, becoming a credentialed teacher in Social Science and earning a Master's degree. 
As an educator, Mr. Gorman draws upon the breadth of his life experiences to inspire and empower his students. His time at USPS instilled in him the importance of diligence and reliability, qualities he imparts to his students as they navigate the challenges of academia and beyond. His craftsmanship in surfboard making serves as a metaphor for the dedication and attention to detail required for success in any endeavor.
Perhaps most importantly, Mr. Gorman's journey serves as a beacon of hope for his students. Many of them come from backgrounds similar to his own, facing obstacles and doubts about their potential. Yet, through his own example, Mr. Gorman instills in them a sense of confidence and resilience, showing them that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
In Mr. Gorman, his students find not only a teacher but a mentor and a guide, whose life story reminds them that they, too, have the power to shape their destinies. As he continues to impart his wisdom and passion for learning.

Mrs. Green is the Virtual Academy’s art teacher. She holds an Associate of Arts in Interior Design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Digital Design, as well as teaching credentials in Arts, Media & Entertainment, and Fashion and Interior Design. Before embarking on her teaching career, she had the pleasure of working as a kitchen designer, where she assisted clients with remodels and custom home designs. This experience enriched her understanding of practical design applications and honed her skills in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces. She also gained experience in photography and advertising during her time as a kitchen designer.

Prior to joining Virtual Academy, Mrs. Green taught at Antelope Valley College and Palmdale High School. Her background in art, interior design, and digital design allows her to bring a unique perspective to teaching Visual Arts online, merging traditional art principles with modern design techniques. Her personal favorite art medium is watercolor, and she loves exploring its versatility. She is passionate about fostering creativity, encouraging self-expression, and helping all students develop their artistic talents and skills.

Spanish

­­­My philosophy of teaching has constantly evolved over the past 18 years of my educational teaching career.  What began as an in-between job between graduation and becoming an engineer became a catharsis that reflects more each year on my personal philosophy of life. 
I remember doing credential work while teaching at a challenging high school.  We were asked to write an essay on “I can teach all students.”  I took it personally.  Because I was dealing with students at the lower rungs of Maslow’s hierarchy, I instantly recognized that not all students want to learn math.  I can model and teach all students about life, humanity, comedy, honesty, and respect.  And by doing so, they may want to learn math.  I’ve grown to care about the individual. 
Understanding.  GPA seems to tower over mastery.  Grades do, after all, qualify; but they do not define.  I have taught too many courses at Antelope Valley College where I survey about students’ prior education: they graduate from high school with 4.0+ GPAs, get accepted to their dream universities, are unable to keep up, fall under academic probation, and come to the community college.  I know where our students come from having taught high school; and having taught for CSU Long Beach, I know where they are going.  I want students to gain the confidence of genuine success in their ability to understand.  I want students to know that once they understand the material, it’s theirs and no one can take that away from them. 
My teaching philosophy is driven by research-based methods.  Having taught multiple interrelated disciplines, I have especially found physics-education research a valuable cross-curricular training to better mathematics modeling.  I have also enjoyed researching and studying math education as found in other countries in the world, where open-ended problems and learning through constructive struggling results in deeper understanding.  I have done some formal studies into STEM education and conduct many informal inquiries as well.  Because of this, some students will find my class difficult or challenging, not because of the amount of work but because of the methods used and the focus on understanding that tends to reflect a more intrinsic approach to learning. 
Looking forward to working with you this year in helping you to gain and demonstrate understanding and to be better equipped for college and career.  

Education
·       M.A., Educational Administration, Administrative Service Credential / CSU, Dominguez Hills
·       M.S., Mechanical Engineering, Specialization in Aerospace Engineering / CSU, Northridge
·       Single Subject Teaching Credential, Mathematics / Physics / Biology / CSU, Bakersfield
·       B.S., Applied Mathematics / UC, Los Angeles
·       A.A., Letters in Arts and Science; A.S., Mathematics / Antelope Valley Community College 

Schools Taught
·       Eastside High School
·       Quartz Hill High School
·       SOAR High School
·       Virtual Academy
·       Antelope Valley College
·       CSU Long Beach

Ms. Payne, a multifaceted educator with a rich and diverse background, is from Littleton, Colorado, and is a proud alumna of Columbine High School, class of 2004. After high school, she spent the summer working as a head wrangler (cowgirl) and horse trainer in the mountains of Vail, Colorado. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Literature from Colorado Mesa University.Her journey before entering the teaching profession was equally impressive, marked by fifteen years of dedicated service in the nursing field. Ms. Payne provided compassionate in-home health care for patients with dementia and Alzheimer's and gained extensive experience in acute care, particularly enjoying her time in the Operating Room (OR) and Emergency Room (ER). In addition to her nursing career, Ms. Payne established two successful CrossFit gyms in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, and excelled as both an Olympic Weightlifting Coach and a CrossFit Instructor. At her gym, she also participated in Olympic weight lifting and she held the record for both the women’s clean and deadlift.In 2017, she sold her gyms and relocated to California, where she transitioned into education, a field where she could blend her love for literature with her extensive life experiences. Ms. Payne earned her teaching credential from California State University, Bakersfield, and furthered her education with a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University. She is currently pursuing an MFA in Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University. Throughout her crazy journey, Ms. Payne has been accompanied by her amazing 14-year-old daughter, Tehya, who has been a constant source of inspiration and joy. She now lives with her boyfriend, Will, and Tehya along with their mischievous cat Crookshanks and mini dachshund Oscar Meyer Weiner. 

Coach Pratt graduated from Antelope Valley High School in 1991, he went to The Master’s College at age 38 where he completed his Bachelor's degree and has been teaching for 10 years. He has taught our high school Physical Education, Health and our Junior High program for the past 5 years. He loves his students and teaches them to develop lifetime habits and how to develop leadership skills through the program Leadership Development Through Physical Education (L.D.T.P.E). In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, friends, playing golf and playing music. One of Coach’s favorite pastimes is being the Varsity Golf Coach at Quartz Hill High School.

Hello Dear Virtual Academy Families! 

My name is Jennifer Prewitt, and the 2024-2025 school year will be my sixth year as a Virtual Academy Tiger. As a proud Quartz Hill High School alumna, I am deeply honored to work for the community where I grew up. After graduating from high school, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science (Kinesiology) with an emphasis in Pre-Medicine from the University of Southern California, where I was a merit scholar with half of my tuition paid each year. 
At USC, my senior research focused on glucose uptake in the liver of rats. During the summers of my junior and senior years, I conducted organic chemistry research at Edwards Air Force Research Laboratory, where I worked on creating a high-energy, dense material for liquid and solid rocket propellant to enhance our country's space missions. My research led to the discovery of a new compound, which I was fortunate enough to have published—even if it was discovered by mistake! 
Back at USC, I achieved a high score on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and was set on attending medical school. However, life took an unexpected turn, leading me to a fulfilling career in teaching science. My passion for science and learning is something I strive to instill in your students as well. 
I am the advisor for the California Scholarship Federation (CSF), an esteemed service and honors academic organization. I encourage your students to join CSF from their sophomore to senior years, as it culminates in the honor of graduating in gold—a significant academic achievement, which I personally experienced during my time at Quartz Hill High School. As a lifetime Gold Seal member with CSF, graduating in gold from Quartz Hill High School, I understand the value of academic excellence and service. I am also the advisor for the Crochet Club, which is not only about crafting but also about giving back to the community. Our club has recently donated creations to the pediatrics department serving low-income and homeless populations in Lancaster, CA. 
In addition to my work in education, I have been giving back to our community as a Reserve Sheriff Deputy with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department for 24 years.  
Now, as the ASB Student Government teacher, I'm excited to invite students with leadership skills to join our student government, serving as officers to shape our school's activities. If you're eager to make a difference and help lead our school, reach out to me.  

Enthusiastically, 
Jennifer Prewitt

I began my career in Culinary Arts with an Associates degree in Culinary Arts from BYU Idaho. I worked in the school bakery and had an internship planning and carrying out daily menus for Recreational Management students. 
I furthered my career at Utah State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts and a minor in Business. I worked during my time at school at local restaurants and then as the head cook at the Skyroom restaurant, cooking for staff and visitors.
I ventured next into the hospitality industry working as a cook for many hotels and golf resorts. I began catering for friends and family and loved the challenge of large parties and freedom. I could stay home with my children and work when I wanted to on different projects.
I found that I loved to share my knowledge of cooking when I saw youth make something their very own for the first time and began volunteering at a local middle school teaching cooking basics a few times a month.
As my children grew, and my time did also. I decided to take a leap into teaching Culinary Arts to High School students. I love watching students grow through cooking and enjoying their food. I love to create new dishes and share them with others. When I’m not cooking,  I like to hike, read (especially Harry Potter), and travel the world to try new foods. 

Mrs. Watson is a dedicated educator with a passion for learning and teaching. After graduating from Lancaster High School, she continued her academic journey at Antelope Valley College before completing her studies at California State University, Bakersfield. Her educational accomplishments include a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Psychology, as well as a Master's degree in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction. Currently, Mrs. Watson is further expanding her knowledge base through her pursuit of a Master's degree in History through Southern New Hampshire University, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.

As an English teacher at the Virtual Academy, Mrs. Watson brings her enthusiasm for literature to her students, inviting them to explore the power of language and critical thinking. Her experience in both traditional and virtual classroom settings allows her to adapt her teaching methods to meet the unique needs of her online students. Mrs. Watson She strives to create a supportive and engaging learning environment that encourages her students to explore their own passions and reach their full potential.

Outside of her professional life, Mrs. Watson is a devoted wife and mother of two. She finds joy in spending time with her family and friends and serving her community through her involvement with Awana. In her free time, Mrs. Watson strives to make as many memories as possible for her kids. She embraces her love for adventure seeking out new experiences through travel and beach outings with her family.

I’m Dr. Andy Glatfelter, your principal! This is my 16th year as a school principal, and I LOVE my job! It’s truly a joy to work with teachers and staff who care so much about our students and who give them their all.

We live in an amazing place, the Aerospace Valley. It’s the world headquarters of flight test. The B-21, the B-2, the Space Shuttle, and so many more planes were designed, built, and tested right here.

We’re the home to the F-35 production site at Northrop Grumman, to Skunk Works, and the first breaking of Mach 1, Mach 2, Mach 3, Mach 4, Mach 5, and Mach 6.7 by Pete Knight, the father of our Knight Prep namesake Congressman Steve Knight. Our students have hundreds of options for very high paying STEM jobs right in our own backyard, and Academies of the Antelope Valley is setting students on a course for success. Not all will become engineers. Jalen Nailor, one of our AAV alumni, plays in the NFL for the Minnesota Vikings!

Knight Prep, SOAR Prep, and Virtual Academy are amazing campuses because of our amazing staff. Our teachers work diligently for our kids, and the results are borne out in our high academic achievement, our safe school environment, and our ability to help our students become creative problem solvers. Their ability to collaborate in teams, to speak in front of a group, to give a proper hand shake, and to think outside of the box will be valuable professional skills in whatever path they ultimately choose to take.

If you’re interested in learning more about our school, please give me a call. I’d be happy to talk with you, and if you’d like, to show you around. Our students will one day look back and say, “I’m so glad I had that as a kid.”

Best regards,

Dr. Andy Glatfelter

(661) 943-2091

aglatfelter@avhsd.org

I suppose a little biographical background might be interesting to share:

• Mission Viejo High School, IB full diploma.
• B.A., The Master’s University. Biblical Studies major with an emphasis in Missions and Biblical Languages.
• M.A., CSU Bakersfield. Master’s in Education: Curriculum and Instruction, core emphasis in educational technology.
• Ed.D., UCLA. Doctorate in Educational Leadership. 
• Certificate in School Management and Leadership, Harvard University.

Experience:

• Antelope Valley Christian School. 5th Grade. 1999-2000.
• Desert View Elementary. 4th Grade. 2000-2006.
• Assistant Principal. Piute Middle School. 2006-2009.
• Principal. Piute Middle School. 2009-2011.
• Principal. Discovery School. 2011-2016. Founding principal.
• Principal. Fulton & Alsbury Academy. 2016-2023. Founding principal.
• Principal. Academies of the Antelope Valley: Knight Prep, SOAR Prep, and Virtual Academy

I teach a course called Instructional Leadership for CSU Bakersfield’s master’s degree program in administration. I’ve also taught Educational Research and Educational Statistics at CSUB.

Other interesting things:

• I was an honorary commander at Edwards AFB for two years, assigned to the Electronic Warfare Group.
• I’ve climbed Mt. Whitney three times, once with my brother-in-law, once with my wife, and once with a group of teachers. 
• I crossed the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim in a day
• I rode my bicycle 137 miles in a day, from Seaport Village to the Santa Monica Pier.
• In 2021 I ran 5 marathons.
• I finished my first triathlon, Olympic distance, last summer.
• My mother’s cousin’s husband’s great-uncle is Ernest Hemmingway. True story.
• I’m known to run outside when I hear the rumble of unusual aircraft!
• I like to tell Dad jokes. Usually he laughs.
• And I’ve never been to Boston in the fall.

Tools are in my blood.

My great-grandfather was a ship’s carpenter back when boats were propelled by the wind and calls for help didn’t exist. When things went sideways on open ocean, it was my great-grandfather’s job to keep the whole shebang moving forward by creating solutions with nothing more than his tools and his brains. This was a mighty task, and other men’s lives relied upon his handiwork.

Great-grandpa eventually gave up the sea for a ranch, but his oaken toolchest saw no less action. It was passed down from generation to generation, filling with more tools for more projects. My dad climbed off the tractor to become a diesel mechanic, a remarkable welder, and a pretty doggone good woodworker. Out in my garage, I continue to shape steel and wood into my own creations, thanks to what my dad taught me in his garage.

Many of my tools used to belong to Dad, and a few objects from my great-grandfather’s toolchest can still be found on my workbench. One out-of-place looking vernier caliper belonged to my wife’s grandfather: after World War II, he was invited into this new scheme called The Skunk Works, and he used this caliper to build the A-12 spy plane for the CIA and, later, the SR-71 for the Air Force. 

Tools hold a potential for magic that folks no longer seem to understand. Too many generations have withered in front of TV screens, and then computer screens, and then smartphone screens to the point that we’ve now fostered a society of Lotus Eaters.  

I’d like folks to rediscover the potential of tools. Importantly, though, I want kids to understand that the tools themselves—things—are not the magic, and neither is simply “doing.” Anybody can do something: creation elicits pride. Thus, it is the act of creation that is the real magic, and this magic is the key to education.  

I can think of no better way to learn geometry than to design and build a piece of furniture that is actually used at home. Ever see a kid smiling ear-to-ear as he serves food to his friends after baking for the first time? That’s called chemistry in action. How else should we learn the strange voodoo of electricity than to successfully wire a circuit to perform the task of our choosing? And for those looking forward to the future, then why not learn coding by… well, actually coding?

The passion to create is what drives people to learn. My great-grandfather knew this. My wife’s grandfather knew this. My father knew this. His son was taught this. And, my son will know it.

At Knight and Soar Prep, we present kids with projects that we’re betting will inspire passion in them, we then provide them with the tools to do these things, and then we enjoy the privilege of watching them take home their creations.  

I welcome your child to join us so that the magic of creation may be a part of his or her future.

Thank you,

John Kleespies 

Vice Principal

jkleespies@avhsd.org

Vice Principal
Academies of the Antelope Valley

jnajar@avhsd.org