INSTRUCTORS

Anastacia Anzalone

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
aanzalone@ucmerced.edu

M.A. of Education Administration | California State University, Stanislaus 2005
B.A. Communicative Disorders, Speech & Language Pathology | California State University, Fresno 1993

Anastacia Anzalone has been an educator for 30 years. Her experience includes teaching, site and district administration, and higher education instruction and mentoring, including intern teacher coaching and support. Her career's research and work has centered around anti-racist, social justice, and equity-based education, along with Dr. Hattie's Visible Learning research, which supports the strong structure of collective teacher efficacy. "I love instruction when the 'aha' learning in my classroom is palpable: when I can sense it in the electric aura of a collaborative team discussion or in a student's sincere enthusiasm in using newly learned practices; when I can hear the pure delight in students' anecdotes about learning skills that will make a tremendous difference for their future students or theories that transformed their own practices and perspectives. I believe THIS is when my teaching is a success! Training teachers is important work, ultimately affecting generations of students and making differences in their lives for years to come," shares Anzalone.

Courses:
EDUC X404 Clinical Practice II: Field Experience
EDUC X306 Intern Field Experience Seminar

Katina Austin

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
katinaaustin@ucmerced.edu

Ed.D. Organizational Leadership | Grand Canyon University 2022
M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction | National University 2004
B.A. Psychology | University of Southern California 1995

Katina Austin has served as an educator for more than 25 years, with experience spanning elementary and secondary teaching, site and district administration, and higher education, where she provided both instruction and mentorship. She currently serves as a Program Administrator, overseeing Special Programs and Family Engagement. In this role, she supports multiple student populations, including foster youth, migrant education students, and those experiencing homelessness.

Her commitment to equity and access reflects her belief that all students can succeed when provided with the resources and support necessary to fully engage in their education. 

Courses:
EDUC X317 Single Subject Methods - Math

Rosanna Ayers

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
rayers@ucmerced.edu

M.A. of Education in Educational Leadership and School Development & Administrative Services Credential | Teachers College of San Joaquin 2018
B.S. International Business | California State University, Fresno 1999

Rosanna Ayers has nearly 20 years of experience as a classroom educator, a college instructor and a county office administrator for science. Rosanna holds a K-8 Teaching Credential along with a supplemental authorization for Business in Secondary education. 

Courses:
EDUC X410 Integrated Life Science, Mathematics and Health Literacy
EDUC X408 Integrated Physical Science, Mathematics and Scientific Literacy

Jessie Ceja

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
jceja13@ucmerced.edu

M.A. in History | California State University, Stanislaus 2009
B.A. in History | California State University, Stanislaus 1994

Jessie Ceja believes that all students if given the opportunity will be successful. He is a strong proponent of educational equity and instills a sense of student ownership in their learning. He believes that classes should provide the students with opportunities to explore new ideas and grow in their knowledge. He enjoys watching students marvel when they have learned something new and loves facilitating new learning for all students.

Courses:
EDUC X425, Integrated Humanities and Cultural Literacy

Simon Chima

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
schima3@ucmerced.edu

M.A. of Education in Curriculum and Instruction | California State University, Stanislaus 2025
B.S. Biological Sciences/Molecular and Cell Biology | University of California, Merced 2021

Simon Chima is a dedicated high school science teacher at El Capitan High School, bringing both passion and purpose to his classroom. As a Single Subject Science Instructor and UC Mentor, he believes education is not just a path to personal achievement but also a vital force for building a more informed and thriving society. Those who know Simon describe him as a mentor who sees every student as a future leader, innovator, or problem-solver. Through inquiry-based, real-world science instruction, he helps students think critically, ask meaningful questions, and develop the confidence to apply knowledge beyond the classroom. 

Simon fosters a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and resilience, encouraging students to learn from mistakes and tackle challenges as a team. He strives to make every lesson engaging, inclusive, and relevant—ensuring all students have access to a high-quality science education. To Simon, teaching is a responsibility and a calling: to empower the next generation to not only succeed, but to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world. 

Courses:
EDUC X318 Single Subject Methods: Science

Flor Corona Barajas

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
florcoronabarajas@ucmerced.edu

M.A. of Education in eLearning and New Media Design | California State University, Los Angeles 2022
B.A. Liberal Studies | California State University, Bakersfield 2015

Flor Corona Barajas is an educator with over a decade of experience in bilingual school settings. Currently serving as a Teacher on Special Assignment at Clovis Global Academy, she has previously taught Dual Language Spanish and English Language Development, integrating project-based learning and technology to boost student engagement and achievement. Flor holds a Master’s in Education with a focus on E-Learning and New Media Design from California State University, Los Angeles, BCLAD, Single Subject authorization in Spanish, and a UX/UI Design certification from the University of Texas. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she is passionate about instructional innovation, mentoring educators, and designing inclusive learning experiences that prepare students for success in diverse settings.

As a Teacher on Special Assignment in a Dual Immersion charter school, she supports teachers with instruction in curriculum focusing in biliteracy strategies. In her planning with teachers, she integrates the Depth of Knowledge (DOK) levels and applies Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to ensure accessibility for all learners. She believes that differentiation, collaboration, and the thoughtful use of technology motivate and empower students in the classroom. 

Courses:
EDUC X310 Bilingual and Bicultural Teaching in Spanish
EDUC X430 Sociocultural Overview of the Spanish Fluent World

Laura Hendrickson, M.Ed.

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
laurahendrickson@ucmerced.edu

M.Ed. Education, Reading and Language Arts
B.A.English
Reading Specialist Credentialed

With over 25 years in education, including 12 years as a middle school principal at a Title I school, Laura Hendrickson has dedicated her career to advancing literacy as a path to equity and opportunity. She has led K–12 initiatives focused on closing reading gaps and strengthening instruction. As a former Director of Professional Development, she designed systems to support students reading below grade level and helped launch a comprehensive dyslexia support framework for grades K–7. 

Now a national consultant specializing in literacy and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Laura works with schools and districts to build educator capacity and improve outcomes for all learners. She believes that reading is a civil right and that every student deserves access to high-quality, evidence-based instruction that fosters confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of reading. 

Courses:
EDUC X302 Teaching Practicum
EDUC X314 Secondary Reading for Understanding
EDUC X315 English Methods

Elle Honardoost

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
ehonardoost@ucmerced.edu

Psy.D. Organization Development | Alliant International University 2014
M.A. Education | Fresno Pacific University 2007
B.S. Biochemistry | University of California, Davis 1995

Dr. Ellie Honardoost is passionate about STEM education reform. She started her career as a biochemist and has been a science teacher in traditional and non-traditional (Project Based) systems. She developed and implemented a variety of STEM programs and pathways. As a social entrepreneur, she provides access to high-quality STEM learning to young minds and helping teachers and administrators bring 21st Century knowledge and skills to their classrooms. She is skilled at change management, and her process in working with teams is rooted in respect and inclusion, collaboration, authenticity, self-awareness, and empowerment. Through her work, she wishes to continue to help bring context and relevance to curriculum design and implementation, and ultimately enable students to discover their talents and passions, achieve their full potential, and become the next generation of innovators and critical thinkers of our society.

Courses:
EDUC X408 - Integrated Physical Science and Math Scientific Literacy
EDUC X318 - Single Subject Methods in Science
 

Julie Kim

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
juliekim@ucmerced.edu

M.A. of Education in Educational Leadership | Teachers College Columbia 2019
B.A. Liberal Arts | Univesity of California, Riverside 2008

Julie Kim has dedicated over 15 years to working in California public schools, teaching across multiple grade levels spanning elementary, middle school, and college. She began her career in education, first serving in the primary grades before moving into middle school mathematics. She now continues to teach in Northern California, where she is committed to supporting student growth and learning. She loves instructing future teachers of America. 

Julie is a lifelong learner who believes that teaching is an art form, much like music, dance, or the fine arts. While grounded in knowledge and pedagogy, effective teaching requires creativity, adaptability, and heart. Like any art, it can be refined through training, practice, and reflection. Teachers grow in their craft by being intentional in their work, embracing feedback, and engaging in coaching and mentoring. Julie believes that determination, grit, and creativity are essential qualities for mastering the art of teaching. At its core, teaching is about inspiring curiosity, building connections, and empowering students to reach their fullest potential. She is committed to fostering a supportive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment where both students and teachers continue to learn, grow, and thrive together. 

Courses:
EDUC X424 Integrated Humanities and Visual Literacy
EDUC X425 Integrated Humanities and Visual Literacy

Kurt Kollmann

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
kkollmann@ucmerced.edu

M.A. of Art and Educational Leadership | California State University, Stanislaus 2010
B.A. Liberal Studies | California State University, Fresno 1984

Kurt Kollmann has been in education for 38 years as a teacher, coach, administrator and instructor at UC Merced. "My philosophy in teaching is I believe Every Child Can Learn. Granted, it may be difficult at times, students do want to do well and want to participate. Set well established rules and guidelines. Set those expectations early on and follow through. Students want to establish relationships and trust with teachers, so build those relationships."

Courses:
EDUC X301 Integrated Life Science, Mathematics and Health Literacy
EDUC X410 Foundations in Education

Linda Lamerson

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
llamerson@ucmerced.edu

MA in Educational Leadership | California State University, Stanislaus 2019
Administrative Services Credential | California State University, Stanislaus 2014
BA in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Exceptional Children and Youth | California State University, Stanislaus 2002

Linda Lamerson holds an Education Specialist Credential for students with mild to moderate disabilities. She spent the first 11 years of her career as a Special Education teacher at the Junior High level.

From 2014 to 2018 she served the district as a site-level administrator. It was in July 2018 she took on the role of Special Education Coordinator and District Induction Coach. In this role, she provides ongoing guidance, instruction, and just-in-time support for new teachers. She enjoys supporting new teachers in adopting effective instructional practices and curriculum that meet the needs of exceptional learners.

Course:
EDUC X 401 Learning Cognition & Instruction

Stephanie Ludwig

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
sludwig6@ucmerced.edu

M.A. Education, Curriculum and. Instruction | Western Governors University 2022
B.A. Social Science | Chapman University 1998

Stephanie Ludwig began her teaching career as a reading clinician in 1998. Throughout her 25 years as an educator, she has obtained a wide variety of teaching experiences. In 2003, Stephanie participated in the Summer Institute for the UC Merced Writing Project which led to her six-year summer position as a teacher for the Atwater Migrant Writing Academy. From 2016 to 2020, she also taught English as a Second Language and Citizenship classes for the Merced Adult School. In 2019, she accepted a position as an Induction Mentor/Instructional Coach where she developed her passion for guiding and supporting new and future educators.

Course:
EDUC X425 Integrated Humanities and Cultural Literacy

Stephanie Magallon

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
stephaniemagallon@ucmerced.edu

Master of Arts Reading and Language | Fresno Pacific University  2024
RLAA Reading and Literacy Added Authorization | Fresno Pacific University

Stephanie Magallon has been in education for 10 years and believes in nurturing bilingualism, teaching the whole child, and cultivating a love of learning from the earliest years of schooling. 

Her teaching philosophy centers on translanguaging, student ownership, engaging instruction, and research-based practices, ensuring that students not only learn academic skills but also develop confidence. By mentoring teacher candidates and sharing practical, research-based strategies, she hopes to support the growth of future educators and contribute in small but meaningful ways to the broader community. 

Courses:
EDUC X424 Humanities in Visual Literacy

Kathlene Mesa

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
kathlenemesa@ucmerced.edu

Master of Arts Education in Curriculum and Design | California State University, Stanislaus  2015
B.A. English | California State University, Stanislaus 2008

Kathlene Mesa has been in education for 14 years as a teacher, coach, and mentor. She has spent the past 5 years with MUHSD teaching English and AVID at Merced High School. Prior to that she had taught middle school for the entirety of her career. She holds a Multiple Subject Credential with a supplemental authorization in English. 

Courses:
EDUC X315 English Methods

Shannon Owens

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
sowens3@ucmerced.edu 

M.A., Education, Curriculum and Instruction | Brandman University 2010
B.A., Art and Business | San Jose State University 1997

Shannon Owens has been a classroom teacher since 2002 and has enjoyed mentoring other teachers since 2009. She currently supports new teachers through TIP and as an EdTech team member at Planada Elementary school. She has most recently served as Cooperating Teacher, University Mentor, and Instructor for the TPP program here at UC Merced PACE. Shannon holds a Multiple Subject Credential and a Single Subject Credential in English, along with additional authorization for Art. She is a life-long learner and enjoys discovering innovative ways to make an impact on her students and loves to pass that same quality along to new teachers.

Courses:
EDUC X313 Technology Supported Project-Based Learning
EDUC X302 Teaching Practicum

Michael Salaz

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
msalaz@ucmerced.edu

M.Ed. Environmental Literacy | Teachers College of San Joaquin 2022
B.S. Biological Sciences | UC Merced 2018

Michael Salaz has been an educator for six years and is passionate about teaching students not only science, but the skills they'll need in their future. Michael focuses on providing engaging lessons and best practices for his students. He serves as an induction mentor, PBIS member, Environmental Club advisor, and is the Cross Country and Track & Field Coach. Michael looks forward to supporting new candidates to begin this rewarding career with the proper tools needed to provide students with a quality education.

Course:
EDUC X401 Learning Cognition & Instruction

Seth Simas

Instructor | UC Merced PACE
ssimas@ucmerced.edu

Ed.D Educational Leadership | California State University, Stanislaus 2020
M.Ed. School Administration | California State University, Stanislaus 2014 B.A. Social Sciences | California State University, Stanislaus 2010

Seth Simas began teaching in 2014 at a junior high school and moved to a high school with some of his newly promoted junior high students in 2016. Now in his 10th year of teaching, he has learned through observation and experience that teachers are lifelong learners. He also finds the concept of differentiation and providing appropriate scaffolds important to the older students as it is to younger students. He finds reflection important to the 21st century teacher. As a mentor to new teachers through the induction process, he continuously encourages new teachers to reflect on why a lesson worked well and how a lesson can improve. What may work for one year may not work in a few years. Dr. Simas takes his reflections to refine and expand his curriculum and strategies, and how he has his students demonstrate their knowledge to others. Equally important is keeping in mind that students are human beings, some of whom are looking for guidance for their future.

Course:
EDUC X400 Research Methods in Education