Meet the Educators Who Lead Our Programs
Our programs are guided by experienced language educators who bring their own teaching style, cultural background, and expertise to each class. Each instructor is selected for their dedication to student growth, encouragement, and meaningful communication.
Nuria Fortier
Director of ILSCA, Spanish teacher
Nuria Fortier
Director | Spanish Program Leader
Hello, I’m Nuria Fortier, Director of the International Language School for Children and Adults (ILSCA).
As a native Spanish speaker, I understand how transformative language can be — not just academically, but personally. Language builds confidence, connection, and belonging. My goal is to create programs where students of all ages feel comfortable speaking and expressing themselves, not just studying vocabulary.
I hold an ELE (Spanish as a Second Language) certification from UNAM and continue refining my approach to language acquisition so learning feels natural, supportive, and effective.
At ILSCA, I guide the development of structured language and cultural programs designed to help learners grow with confidence. Whether a child is discovering Spanish for the first time or an adult is reconnecting with it, our programs are built to feel welcoming, engaging, and meaningful.
Beyond our classes, I also facilitate Spanish Meetup groups for adults who want to practice in a relaxed and encouraging environment. I believe confidence grows through conversation — and community strengthens when we learn together.
It is an honor to continue ILSCA’s legacy of serving our community since 1991, and I look forward to welcoming you into a space where language learning feels joyful, supportive, and real.
Angela Landa
Spanish teacher
Ms. Angie
Spanish Instructor
Born and raised in Peru, Ms. Angie brings the warmth, traditions, and vibrant spirit of her heritage into every class she teaches. In her lessons, students don’t just study Spanish — they experience it through stories, movement, conversation, and laughter.
Language comes alive.
And students begin to see themselves as confident communicators in a bigger world.
Ms. Angie holds a degree in Education from the University of San Marcos in Lima, Peru. She blends strong academic preparation with creativity, encouragement, and heart.
Families often notice something beyond vocabulary and grammar — they see growth.
The shy student begins to speak.
The hesitant learner grows more confident.
The curious mind becomes braver each week.
Now living in California with her two children, Ms. Angie understands the beauty of bilingual homes and cultural connection. She partners with families to nurture not only language skills, but pride, identity, and global awareness.
In Ms. Angie’s classroom, students don’t just learn Spanish —
They build confidence.
They discover their voice.
They belong.
Miranda Sue
Chinese teacher
Meet Ms. Miranda
Chinese Instructor
Where Confidence Begins
In Ms. Miranda’s classroom, students feel supported from the very first hello.
She creates a calm, organized, and encouraging space where learners feel comfortable practicing, asking questions, and growing at their own pace. She believes confidence comes before fluency — and every student deserves both.
Language with Meaning
For Ms. Miranda, Chinese is more than characters and tones.
It is culture. It is identity. It is connection.
Her passion for teaching began in China, where she taught students in grades 1–4 and saw firsthand how language shapes young minds and builds bridges between cultures.
Since joining ILSCA in 2017, she has guided learners of all levels — from beginners learning their first words to advanced students refining their fluency. She is committed to helping students develop strong communication skills while growing in cultural awareness and global perspective.
Excellence with Heart
With a background in Education from Cal Poly Pomona, Ms. Miranda combines professional preparation with patience, clarity, and genuine care.
In her classes, students:
- Strengthen pronunciation and listening skills
- Deepen cultural understanding
- Build the confidence to use Chinese in real-life situations
Progress is celebrated. Effort is valued. Growth is intentional.
Outside the classroom, Ms. Miranda enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, reading, cooking, and spending time with her family — the same curiosity and warmth she brings into every lesson.
In Ms. Miranda’s classroom, students don’t just learn Chinese.
They build confidence.
They expand their perspective.
They prepare for a global future.
Audrey Campos
Spanish and English teacher
Meet Ms. Audrey Campos
Spanish & English Teacher
Experience You Can Feel. Care You Can Trust.
With over 31 years of teaching experience, Ms. Campos brings wisdom, warmth, and unwavering dedication to every classroom she leads.
A native Californian, she has devoted her career to helping students discover the power of both English and Spanish — not just as academic subjects, but as tools for confidence, connection, and lifelong opportunity.
Teaching Rooted in Expertise
Ms. Campos holds a Master’s degree in MFCC, a B.A. in Social Sciences, and a Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential. Her strong academic background allows her to understand not only how students learn, but how to support their emotional and developmental growth along the way.
She knows that language learning requires consistency, practice, and perseverance — and she thoughtfully provides structured opportunities for repetition, mastery, and meaningful progress.
A Classroom Where Every Student Belongs
What truly sets Ms. Campos apart is her heart for her students.
She creates a positive, inclusive environment where each child’s strengths are recognized and nurtured. Understanding that every learner is unique, she carefully differentiates instruction to ensure students feel supported, challenged, and capable.
In her classroom:
- Effort is celebrated
- Growth is intentional
- Confidence is built step by step
Students leave not only stronger in language skills, but also stronger in self-belief.
A Life Full of Joy
Outside the classroom, Ms. Campos enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family — including her two beloved dogs, Shakespeare and Ace. Whether exploring the outdoors or playing a lively game of Phase 10, she brings the same joy and energy to her life that she brings to her students each day.
In Ms. Campos’ Classroom…
Students don’t just learn English and Spanish.
They develop resilience.
They gain confidence.
They build skills that will serve them for a lifetime.
Latasha Dupar
American Sign Language teacher
Meet Ms. Latasha Dupar
American Sign Language (ASL) Instructor
Language. Identity. Connection.
Ms. Latasha Dupar is a proud Deaf educator and experienced American Sign Language (ASL) instructor with more than 20 years of dedication to ASL education.
Born and raised in Texas and now based in California, she brings authenticity, cultural depth, and lived experience into every class she teaches. For Ms. Dupar, ASL is more than a language — it is identity, community, and connection.
Teaching from Experience and Expertise
Fluent in ASL and English, and familiar with Mexican Sign Language (LSM) and Signed Exact English (SEE), Ms. Dupar offers students a well-rounded understanding of visual communication across contexts.
She holds an Associate of Arts degree in American Sign Language and a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Studies. Her professional background includes:
- Teaching ASL at the university level
- Providing engaging online instruction
- Supporting Deaf children of hearing parents
- Advocating for inclusive and accessible education
Her classroom is grounded in both academic excellence and real-world cultural understanding.
An Empowering Learning Environment
Ms. Dupar is passionate about empowering students to communicate with confidence and respect within the Deaf community.
She creates engaging, visually rich, and accessible learning experiences where students:
- Develop strong receptive and expressive signing skills
- Gain understanding of Deaf culture and community values
- Build confidence in visual communication
- Learn to engage respectfully and inclusively
Whether in person or online, her teaching is dynamic, supportive, and culturally meaningful.
In Ms. Dupar’s Classroom…
Students don’t just learn ASL.
They build bridges.
They gain cultural awareness.
They discover the power of visual language.
Marina Simonetti-Lutz
Italian and German teacher
Welcome to the world of Italian and German with Marina Simonetti-Lutz!
Meet Ms. Simonetti
Italian & German Teacher
Bringing Europe to the Classroom
As a native Italian speaker fluent in German, Ms. Simonetti brings authenticity, cultural richness, and joyful energy to every lesson she teaches.
For her, language is more than grammar and vocabulary — it is expression, connection, and discovery. She believes students learn best when they feel encouraged, supported, and genuinely excited to participate.
Learning Designed Around You
With over two decades of teaching experience since 2001, Ms. Simonetti tailors each lesson to meet the unique goals of her students.
Whether learning Italian or German for travel, professional advancement, academic exams, or personal enrichment, she provides a clear, structured path forward.
Her communicative teaching approach emphasizes:
- Speaking with confidence
- Engaging in real-life dialogues and discussions
- Expanding vocabulary naturally
- Strengthening listening comprehension
Students are not passive learners — they actively use the language from the very beginning.
A Global Teaching Perspective
Before joining ILSCA, Ms. Simonetti taught Italian at the Oxford Institute Italiani in Milan, Italy, where she refined her expertise in diverse teaching methods and international instruction.
She holds a B.A. in Linguistics and Literature from the Università degli Studi di Milano and earned her German certification from the Goethe Institut in Boppard am Rhein, Germany — combining academic excellence with cross-cultural fluency.
Her international background allows her to guide students not only in language acquisition, but in cultural understanding as well.
A Passion for Culture and Discovery
Outside the classroom, Ms. Simonetti enjoys exploring the outdoors, traveling, cooking, and photography — passions that reflect her love of culture, beauty, and new experiences.
She brings that same curiosity and enthusiasm into every class.
In Ms. Simonetti’s Classroom…
Students don’t just learn Italian or German.
They gain confidence in communication.
They experience European culture.
They open doors to the world.
Mariam Zaki
French teacher
Meet Ms. Mariam Zaki
French Teacher
Expanding Minds Through Language
Ms. Mariam Zaki believes that learning a second language doesn’t just change how we speak — it changes how we see the world.
With warmth, enthusiasm, and thoughtful intention, she creates a classroom environment where curiosity is encouraged and growth feels exciting. For Ms. Zaki, language learning is a journey of discovery — one that builds confidence, cultural awareness, and lifelong opportunity.
A Strong Foundation in Education
Ms. Zaki holds a Bachelor’s degree in French Language and Arts from Assiut University in Egypt and a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) from National Louis University in Chicago, Illinois.
Her academic training, combined with years of classroom experience, allows her to thoughtfully guide students at every stage of their language-learning journey.
She believes students thrive when they are both supported and challenged — and she creates lessons that balance structure with joy.
Learning That Comes Alive
Ms. Zaki tailors her teaching style to reflect her students’ interests, strengths, and goals. She encourages them to step outside their comfort zones while maintaining a positive and engaging atmosphere.
In her classroom:
- Questions are welcomed
- Effort is celebrated
- Smiles are contagious
- Growth is intentional
She finds deep fulfillment in seeing her students light up with excitement as they gain new skills and discover new perspectives.
Preparing Students for a Global World
In today’s interconnected world, Ms. Zaki believes language is a powerful bridge between cultures.
Through French, students broaden their horizons, develop intercultural understanding, and gain tools that open academic, professional, and personal doors for the future.
In Ms. Zaki’s Classroom…
Students don’t just learn a language.
They gain perspective.
They build confidence.
They expand their world.
Nohora Hernandez
Spanish and English teacher
Meet Dr. Nohora Hernandez
Bilingual Educator
A Lifetime of Inspiring Learners
With more than 35 years of dedication to education, Dr. Nohora Hernandez has devoted her life to igniting a love for learning in students of all ages.
From guiding kindergarteners through their first steps in literacy to mentoring graduate students as they prepare to become transformative educators, Dr. Hernandez brings wisdom, compassion, and purpose to every learning environment she leads.
Excellence in Bilingual Education
Fluent in both Spanish and English, Dr. Hernandez specializes in bilingual education and is deeply committed to serving diverse learners.
Her expertise allows her to build meaningful bridges between languages and cultures, fostering not only academic growth but also confidence and global awareness. She understands that language shapes identity — and she thoughtfully nurtures both.
Teaching with Heart and Vision
Dr. Hernandez holds a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.), reflecting her deep commitment to lifelong learning and educational leadership.
But what truly distinguishes her is the care she brings to each student. She creates engaging, supportive classrooms where learners feel seen, valued, and empowered to reach their highest academic and personal potential.
Her students benefit from:
- Strong literacy foundations
- Culturally responsive instruction
- Encouragement rooted in high expectations
- A belief that every learner can succeed
A Legacy of Impact
Throughout her career, Dr. Hernandez has witnessed countless student success stories — moments of growth that fuel her continued passion for teaching.
Her enthusiasm is contagious, her leadership is steady, and her dedication continues to inspire students, families, and fellow educators alike.
In Dr. Hernandez’s Classroom…
Students don’t just learn.
They grow in confidence.
They embrace their bilingual identity.
They prepare to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Misuzu Ueno
Japanese teacher
Meet Ms. Misuzu “Missy” Ueno
Japanese Teacher
Language That Connects
Ms. Misuzu “Missy” Ueno believes that learning Japanese is more than memorizing vocabulary — it is discovering a culture, building connection, and expanding the way we see the world.
As a native Japanese speaker with years of teaching experience, Ms. Missy brings authenticity, energy, and thoughtful structure to every class. Her approach is student-centered, engaging, and designed to help learners build both skill and confidence.
Culture Comes Alive
In Ms. Missy’s classroom, students don’t just study Japanese — they experience it.
She weaves the traditions, customs, and cultural richness of Japan into her lessons, allowing students to develop meaningful cultural understanding alongside language proficiency. Through conversation, interactive activities, and real-world application, students begin to see Japanese as a living, vibrant language.
Building Lifelong Learners
Ms. Missy’s long-term vision is to cultivate communities of independent, lifelong language learners.
She encourages her students to:
- Speak with courage
- Stay curious
- Embrace challenges
- Connect across cultures
Her classroom is a place where growth is celebrated, questions are welcomed, and students feel empowered to take ownership of their learning journey.
In Ms. Missy’s Classroom…
Students don’t just learn Japanese.
They build confidence.
They discover culture.
They create connections that extend beyond the classroom.
Ana Maria Rada
Spanish and Portuguese teacher
Meet Ms. Ana Maria Rada
Spanish & Portuguese Teacher
Language with Heart and Culture
Ms. Ana Maria Rada believes that learning a new language is more than acquiring words — it is stepping into a new world.
With warmth, enthusiasm, and cultural depth, she creates a classroom where students feel encouraged to take risks, express themselves, and grow in confidence. Her interactive and engaging teaching style transforms lessons into meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity and joy.
A Foundation in Culture and Connection
Ms. Rada holds a B.A. in Sociology from Universidad Central de Venezuela, a background that enriches her teaching with insight into culture, community, and human connection.
Since joining ILSCA in 2019, she has helped students discover the beauty of Spanish and Portuguese through dynamic lessons that combine language practice with cultural exploration.
In her classroom, students:
- Build confidence through role-playing and real-life conversations
- Experience the traditions and perspectives of Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries
- Strengthen their communication skills in practical, meaningful ways
Confidence Through Practice
Ms. Rada understands that learning a new language can feel intimidating at first. That’s why she creates an encouraging environment where effort is celebrated and progress is visible.
One of her favorite moments is watching students perform role-playing skits — seeing their confidence grow as they use their new language skills naturally and proudly.
Her goal is not only fluency, but empowerment.
A Creative Spirit
Outside the classroom, Ms. Rada enjoys traveling, reading, writing poetry, and photography — creative passions that reflect her appreciation for beauty, culture, and storytelling. She brings that same creative energy into every lesson she teaches.
In Ms. Rada’s Classroom…
Students don’t just learn Spanish or Portuguese.
They gain confidence.
They connect with culture.
They discover their voice in a new language.
Viviane Hanna
French teacher
Meet Ms. Viviane Hanna
French Teacher
Creating Joyful Language Journeys
Ms. Viviane Hanna is a certified French language teacher who believes that learning should be a joyful and inspiring experience.
Fluent in French and highly proficient in English, Arabic, and Spanish, she brings a truly global perspective into her classroom. Her multilingual background allows her to connect with students from diverse cultures and support them with empathy and understanding.
Learning in a Positive Environment
“Welcome to my class” is more than a greeting — it is an invitation into a warm, enthusiastic space where students feel encouraged to grow.
Ms. Hanna creates a polite, friendly, and motivating atmosphere where learners of all ages — from children to adults — feel comfortable participating and challenging themselves.
Her lessons are thoughtfully designed and incorporate modern technology and innovative tools to keep students engaged, curious, and confident in their progress.
Teaching with Purpose and Care
Ms. Hanna is passionate about crafting meaningful lesson plans that meet students’ goals while maintaining excitement and momentum. She believes that motivation is key to language acquisition, and she ensures that each class blends structure with creativity.
In her classroom, students:
- Develop strong communication skill
- Build confidence in speaking and comprehension
- Stay motivated through interactive and technology-enhanced learning
In Ms. Hanna’s Classroom…
Learning French becomes a happy journey.
Confidence grows naturally.
And every student feels supported along the way.
Florida Rojas Robayo
Spanish teacher
Meet Ms. Florida Rojas Robayo
Spanish Teacher
Bringing Language to Life
Ms. Florida Rojas Robayo believes that learning Spanish should be vibrant, engaging, and deeply connected to culture.
A native of Colombia, she brings authenticity, warmth, and enthusiasm into every class she teaches. For Ms. Florida, Spanish is more than grammar and vocabulary — it is expression, creativity, and connection.
A Strong Cultural Foundation
Ms. Florida earned her B.A. in Textile Design from the Universidad Autónoma de Colombia and is a certified instructor of Spanish as a Foreign Language through UNAM. Her artistic background and formal language training uniquely shape her teaching approach, blending creativity with structure.
At ILSCA, she has developed her own curriculum and teaching philosophy centered on project-based learning. She encourages students to begin speaking Spanish from the very first class, building confidence through real communication and hands-on experiences.
Learning Through Engagement
Ms. Florida creates interactive lessons that make language learning dynamic and meaningful for both children and adults. Within ILSCA’s supportive and structured environment, she helps students:
- Build a strong linguistic foundation
- Gain confidence through conversation
- Explore the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries
- Develop curiosity about the world
She believes that when students are actively engaged, learning becomes both joyful and lasting.
Creativity Beyond the Classroom
Outside of teaching, Ms. Florida enjoys traveling, reading, and exploring different art forms — passions that reflect her creative spirit and love for cultural discovery.
She brings that same energy and inspiration into her classroom each day.
In Ms. Florida’s Classroom…
Students don’t just learn Spanish.
They express themselves.
They connect with culture.
They expand their horizons.
Nancy Naranjo García
Spanish teacher
Meet Professor Nancy Naranjo García
Spanish Teacher
Academic Excellence with Heart
With over a decade of experience teaching Spanish to students of all ages, Professor Nancy Naranjo García brings both scholarly depth and genuine enthusiasm to her classroom.
From beginners taking their first steps in Spanish to heritage speakers strengthening their voice and adults refining their fluency, she thoughtfully guides each learner with clarity, encouragement, and high expectations.
A Scholar of Language and Literature
Professor Naranjo García earned her Bachelor’s degree in Literature from the University of Guadalajara, completed her Master’s in Languages, Literatures, and Cultures at the University of Delaware, and received her Ph.D. from the University of California, Riverside.
Her academic journey reflects her deep love of language — not only as a system of communication, but as a gateway to culture, identity, and human connection.
Learning That Opens Doors
Nancy believes that studying Spanish expands more than vocabulary — it broadens perspective.
Through meaningful, engaging lessons, she helps students:
- Develop strong linguistic and analytical skills
- Connect literature and language to real-world contexts
- Build confidence in both written and spoken Spanish
- Appreciate the cultural richness of the Spanish-speaking world
Her classes are structured, inspiring, and designed to challenge students while making them feel supported every step of the way.
A Lifelong Lover of Language
Outside the classroom, Professor Naranjo García enjoys reading poetry and novels, watching films, and exploring creative approaches to language instruction. Her love for literature and storytelling enriches the learning experience she provides her students.
In Professor Naranjo García’s Classroom…
Students don’t just study Spanish.
They engage with culture.
They sharpen their voice.
They expand their understanding of the world.
Do You Feel Called to Teach?
At ILSCA, we believe language changes lives — and so do the educators who guide students with heart.
Since 1991, we have served families through connection, culture, and confidence-building programs. The instructors who lead our programs are more than educators — they are mentors, role models, and community builders.
If you see teaching as a calling…
If you believe every student deserves to feel seen and supported…
If you value meaningful relationships and thoughtful instruction…
We would love to connect.
ILSCA partners with experienced language instructors who are passionate about guiding students with care, professionalism, and integrity.
If this feels aligned with you, please send your resume to hello@ilsca.com. We look forward to learning more about your experience and the heart you bring to your work. You may belong in our community.
Interested in Partnering with ILSCA?
Why Collaborate with ILSCA?
Not sure where to begin?
Every learner’s journey is unique — and we’re here to guide you.
Schedule a complimentary language assessment, and we’ll thoughtfully recommend the program that best supports your goals, experience, and comfort level.
At ILSCA, we believe confidence grows with the right fit. From your very first step, we’re committed to helping you or your child feel supported, prepared, and encouraged.
Begin with your complimentary assessment!