Denice Raphael is a native of California, where she spent 19 years teaching in the public and private school systems.  She has a BA in liberal Studies, an MA in Administration and Leadership and an MA in Curriculum and Development for Special Education.  Mrs. Raphael has recently added to her accomplishments a personal training certificate which she is now putting into action helping others become healthier and happier.  She enjoys teaching and is often greeted by children everyplace she goes.  She prefers teaching in the Adventist school system simply for the freedom to talk to children about God’s love for them and to help them become the best person they can in academics and physical, but most importantly spiritually.  She is passionate about community outreach activities.  In her free time, Mrs. Raphael enjoys traveling, cooking, exercising, and spending time with her family.  She and her husband have three adult children and 3 grandchildren.

Meet Our Teachers

Dacyl Galicia-Silveira

Pre-K and Kindergarten

Mrs. Galicia-Silveira went to Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she finished a bachelor degree in Elementary Education. She has a Masters Degree in Education with emphasis in Outdoor Education from Southern Adventist University and a Masters Degree in Education with emphasis in Spanish Language and Culture from the University of Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain. Currently she is persuing her Doctorate degree in Administration in Education.

Nicholas Ciminello

7th Grade

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  Coming soon!

Courtney Tooley

1st and 2nd Grades

 
 
Coming soon!

Anissa Johnson

8th Grade

Energetic and driven, Mrs. Johnson is always excited to take on the next challenge and push her class forward. Mrs. Johnson teaches math and Bible to grades 7-10. She spent two years at Oakwood University before graduating from California State University, Fresno with a BA in mathematics. She attended Andrews University for one year, where she earned a pilot’s license, and taught math in the school of technology. She has been teaching for 16 years; four years at Hillwood High School in Nashville, TN and 11 years in the Seventh-Day Adventist school system because she believes that helping children develop their character and a personal relationship with the Lord is one of the most important jobs there is. Mrs. Johnson also believes that is important for children to be in an environment that nurtures their morals, values, and beliefs and since learning is a life-long journey, it should be academic excellence, fun and enjoyable.

Melanie Contreras

3rd and 4th Grades

Miss Contreras is a born and raised Native Californian who enjoys reading, listening to music, spending time with her dog and playing volleyball. She also enjoys trying new foods and traveling. She earned a BA in Liberals Studies with an emphasis on Physical Science from La Sierra University. Miss Contreras has a passion for getting students involved in worship and encouraging students in their walk with Christ. 

Stephanie Woodson

9th and 10th  Grades

Miss Woodson has many roles, teaching Language Arts, Computer Tech, and Choir to grades 7-10. Even though she is still at the beginning of my teaching career, she has had experience in various areas of education and has worked with a variety of students ranging in age and ability. She graduated from La Sierra University with a Master of Arts in Teaching degree and obtained her Single-subject CA credential and North American Division certification. Prior to that, she received he rBachelor of Arts degree in Religion and Theology with minors in both Psychology and Sociology from Oakwood University. She has a great passion for young people with special and unique abilities. Her desire to be a positive role model and make a difference in lives of others, is strong. She believes God has prepared her for making an immediate contribution to this institution.

Meet Our Staff

Karla Rojo

Business Manager

Mrs. Rojo, the business manager is also a pleasant addition to the front office. Her smile and cheerful demeaner meets parents in a Christ like manner every day. Her enthusiasm and joy are appreciated by everyone she encounters. She is also a parent of two students at Vegas Valley Adventist Academy.  She is a valuable member of the Vegas

Valley team.

Eucaris L. Galicia

Administrative Assistant

Even tough her background is in Graphic Design, God is so good, Ms. Galicia now has the privilege of working at Vegas Valley Adventist Academy. She enjoys relating to students, parents and the faculty. She loves seeing how God works in our school.

Gladys La Porte

Teacher Assistant

Mrs. La Porte's goal is always to allow God first in keeping our children in a healthy environment but having fun. She has a Bachelors in Business Management and an Associate in Elementary Education. She asks God to bless Vegas Valley Adventist Academy in all that is set to do.

Debbie Griffin

Teacher Assistant