REDWOOD PREPARATORY CHARTER SCHOOL
MEET THE REDWOOD PREP STAFF...
Administrative Staff
Karissa Feierabend, Director
Hi! My name is Karissa, and I am the new Director at Redwood Prep. I have been a part of the Redwood Prep community for eight years. Prior to becoming the Director, I worked as the school's special education teacher. I received my BA in Psychology and my teaching credential from Cal Poly Humboldt. I graduated from Concordia University Irvine with my Master's in Educational Administration. I was born and raised in Fortuna and love our small community. I enjoy cooking, running, and biking when I am not working. On the weekends, my husband Dylan and I can be found fishing on the beach.
Cyndi Nixon, Business Manager
I was born here in Fortuna and grew up in a small town in eastern Humboldt. In 2017 my husband, William and I moved to Fortuna with our two kids, Wesley and Riley. Wesley will be starting 6th grade and Riley 4th grade here at Redwood Prep. I started working as a Business Manager in 2010 and have been with Redwood Prep since 2021.
Monica Holt (Moe), Operations Manager, Afterschool Director
Hi, I was born and raised in the Eel River Valley. After graduating form Ferndale High School I attended College of the Redwoods for my ECE certificate. My career in education started as a one-on-one aide at Ferndale Elementary, which lasted for 12 years. I became part of the Redwood Prep family in 2011 as an Afterschool Leader. Realizing my passion for Afterschool I soon became the Afterschool Coordinator. Taking on many other tasks in the school I have now stepped into the roll of Operations Manager. I enjoy spending time with my family, friends and puppy Winnie. I also enjoys being outdoors and spending time at her childhood cabin.
Becky Scales, Secretary
Becky was born and raised in Ferndale. She graduated from Ferndale Schools and College of the Redwoods. Becky worked as a banker for many years and spent 16 years at Ferndale Elementary School working in the office. She has two daughters. Shannon is a teacher at Cuddeback and Sadie works on the staff at Youth With a Mission in Honolulu. Becky enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She loves her job as secretary at Redwood Prep, supporting the students, staff and parents.
Teaching Staff
Krista Croteau, TK
With over 25 years of experience in education, I have dedicated my career to nurturing and inspiring young minds. Throughout my journey, I have embraced various roles as a teacher, administrator, and school founder, each allowing me to create meaningful connections with students, families, and communities. Currently, I have the joy of teaching Transitional Kindergarten (TK) in the morning and yoga in the afternoon at Redwood Prep, which has become one of my happy places.
Living on the beautiful north coast with my husband, Steve, and our two beloved dogs, I find fulfillment not only in my professional life but also in my personal adventures. In my free time, I cherish hiking, camping, and traveling, always seeking opportunities to connect with nature and spend quality moments with friends and family.
I believe that education is a journey filled with joy and connection, and I am grateful to share this journey with my students every day.
Morgan Drake, Kindergarten
Morgan was born and raised in Humboldt County. She is a graduate of Fortuna Union High School and earned her degree/credential through Western Governor's University. She has extensive training in early childhood education and is passionate about teaching our youngest Timberwolves. Morgan strives to bring creativity and ingenuity to all areas o the classroom. She can often be found designing and making, with the help of her husband, Adam. Morgan lives in Fortuna with her husband and two very spoiled dogs, Norman and Lola. Norman and Lola visit kindergarten regularly and are always happy to meet new people. Morgan is proud to be a part of the Redwood Prep family and is excited about the future of education here.
Dawn Carroll, 1st Grade
It's amazing to be starting another year at Redwood Prep! When I think back on where we started 14 years ago and what we have accomplished through all of our love, sweat and tears. I am beyond proud and grateful to be a part of the Redwood Prep family. I teach 1st grade and am also the athletic director...Go Timberwolves! I have been teaching for over 25 years and am thankful every day that I get to work at a school filled with staff, students and families that I love and who inspire me to be the best educator possible. I grew up in Arnold, a small town in the mountains outside of Sacramento. I moved to Humboldt County to play basketball and study at Humboldt State University. I graduated from HSU with degrees in liberal studies and Spanish and then received my teaching credentials from Sac State (multiple subjects) and HSU (special education). My family and I live in Fortuna. My husband Chris is a forester and we have two daughters, Kate and Charlotte. Kate and Charlotte started Redwood Prep as 4th and 5th graders when Redwood Prep opened in 2011. My family and I enjoy spending time together hiking, camping, snowboarding/skiing and travel.
_JPG.jpg)
Miranda Head, 2nd Grade
Starting a new school year is always an exciting time! Redwood Prep has a speicial place in my heart. I have been teaching at Redwood Prep since I graduated from Sonoma State in 2013 and was a brand new teacher. I taught 5th grade for 12 years and then transitioned to teaching 2nd grade in 2024. I grew up in Fortuna, went away for college and then moved back home to start my teaching career. My husband, Brandon, works for the Humboldt County Sherriff's Office and we have 3 children. Hudson is 8 and in 3rd grade, Bennett is 5 and in Kindergarten and Quinn is 2 and starting preschool. We enjoy spending time with our families, camping, working on projects around the house and traveling.
Faith Gittins, 3rd grade
Hi there! My name is Faith Gittins, and I’m thrilled to begin my 14th year of teaching here at Redwood Prep. This year is especially exciting as it marks my first year teaching 3rd grade! I grew up in Eureka and went to Humboldt State University, where I earned my degree in Elementary Education and my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. My teaching philosophy centers on building a classroom community where every student feels safe, valued, and inspired to learn and grow. I feel incredibly lucky to spend my days learning, laughing, and growing with such amazing students and an awesome team of teachers.
.jpeg)
Amy Eastman, 4th Grade
My name is Amy Eastman and I am the 4th grade teacher! I’m so excited to be starting another fabulous year at RPC! I started teaching in 2007 and started teaching 4th grade at Redwood Prep in 2014. When I’m not in my classroom I love spending time with my friends and family. I have a darling chihuahua fur baby, Magnolia, who keeps me busy! I love to craft and work on projects for my classroom.
Sarah Scarfone, 5th Grade
Sarah was born and raised in Humboldt County, and feels extremely fortunate to live on the beautiful North Coast with her wonderful husband Kai and 3 amazing children, Mahayla, Alexander and Isabella. She attended College of the Redwoods with a focus on Early Childhood Education and Sociology, earning her A.A. in Behavioral and Social Sciences. Sarah subsequently attended Cal Poly Humboldt where she earned her B.A. in Child Development and Family Relationships. She has been a part of the Redwood Prep community as a parent since 2016 and is overjoyed to begin teaching at RPC, as she resonates deeply with the school’s core values. Sarah’s goal as an educator is to create a classroom environment that is inclusive, safe, enriching and equitable. Her hobbies include baking, gardening, creating art & music and playing basketball with her kids.
Melanie Downing, 6th Grade
Melanie Downing is a mother, teacher, and a small business owner. As co-founder of Redwood Prep Charter School, she is passionate about building classroom communities that nurture the whole child though real-world experiences, mindfulness, and academic rigor. Melanie has been an educator since 2002 and taught nearly every grade K through 8th. She is actively involved in educational leadership and has served on a wide variety of school committees. Melanie loves being part of a forward thinking and compassionate team that embraces the unique gifts of every child.
Katie Dore, 7th Grade
Katie is a graduate of Humboldt State University with a Bachelors in Elementary Education and her teaching credential. Katie grew up in the Fortuna area and has been working in Fortuna schools since 2010. She and her husband Frank, have a full house with their two energetic kids, Avery and Amelia, and their pets Riley, Daisy, and Poppy. Katie enjoys reading, soaking up the sun, chasing her kiddos, and solving math problems (yes, that last part is true!) Katie's goal as an educator is to create lifelong learners through encouraging the excitement and enjoyment of learning and experiencing new concepts and ideas.
Kim Kendall, 8th Grade
Kim was invited to be part of the founding team of Redwood Prep in 2010 and she was so excited that she did! She started her time at Redwood Prep in the office and running the after school program. She started teaching 3rd grade in 2013 and moved to 7th/8th grade language arts and history in 2018. She loves watching kids learn and grow throughout their time at Redwood Prep. She has 3 amazing kiddos that have gone through or are currently attending Redwood Prep.
Taylor Murray, Resource Specialist/Special Education
Hello! My name is Taylor, and I am so excited to be the new resource teacher here at Redwood Prep. I have a one year old son, Romeo (a future Timberwolf)! In my free time, I enjoy reading, going on walks, and doing anything outdoors.
.
Lori Head, STEAM
Lori the STEAM teacher at Redwood Prep, She is passionate about hands-on learning and the elements of STEAM education. Her classroom is filled with color, collaboration, and critical thinking. She graduated with her credential from Humboldt State University. Lori has been teaching since 2004 and has taught at many grade levels. She has been with Redwood Prep since the beginning and enjoys working in a place that matched her educational philosophies. Lori lives in Fortuna with her husband, Tom. She enjoys spending time with her family, especially her eight grandchildren. Lori also enjoys gardening, reading, and baking,
Janay Neufeld, Intervention
Janay was born and raised in Humboldt County and is thrilled to have recently relocated back to the area to be closer to her family. She holds a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and a Master of Arts in Education. Janay is excited to join the Redwood Prep community and feels incredibly fortunate to be able to do what she loves every day.
For the past 12 years, Janay has run her own tutoring business, specializing in reading intervention for students worldwide. Most recently, she worked as the PE Specialist for K-8th grade at a private school in Santa Barbara, while continuing to tutor. Her diverse experience has deepened her passion for helping students thrive academically and personally. Outside of the classroom, Janay enjoys cooking, traveling, the beach, and spending time with her family. She has two daughters, Jada and June, and cherishes the time they spend together.
Emily Covington, 7/8th Art and Culinary arts
Hi! I’m Emily and I am so excited to be part of Redwood Prep. I’ve had three of my own kiddos graduate from RPC and still have one more working her way through. I have subbed for the last three years and started up with the 7/8th Art and Culinary arts class mid year last year. I am looking forward to another fantastic year with all the amazing staff and kiddos here at RPC.
Classroom Support Staff
Paige Morris
My name is Paige Morris. I'm 25, born and raised in Humboldt, and an Academy of the Redwoods alumni with an AA in Fine Art. This is my fifth year working at RPC, last year I helped in the 7th grade classroom and was happy to move along with them to the 8th grade. I also started working in after school! My younger brother is a RPC alumni and I spent vacations during highschool volunteering here. I love hiking, camping, going to the beach, and playing with my dogs Ipo and Kaika! I also have two cats Ozzy & Lucy, as well as a snake!
Heather Maynard
My name is Heather, and I’m so happy to be part of the amazing RPC team! We have a truly special school that cares wholeheartedly about each and every one of our kiddos. This will be my fourth year here, and I’m looking forward to another incredible year with our awesome pack of Timberwolves!
Cassie Naset
This will be my 10th year being a part of the RPC team. I love working in kindergarten. My daughter will be in 8th grade this year here at Redwood Prep, and my son was a fellow Timberwolf as well. I am excited for another great school year.
Jill Petricca, Music Teacher
Jill Petricca has brought music education and experiences to RPC learners since 2014; she possesses a growing desire to expand the impact of music making for every person.. Jill was born and raised in Eureka receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Music from HSU. A main driver that informs her teaching is her performing and directing experience which spans the region for thirty years, animating venues from Garberville to Trinidad through concerts and theatrical programs. RPC Band and Choir have both performed at local NCCMEA festivals in past years receiving Excellent marks. Jill is principal flutist in local classical woodwind quintet Wind Energy and Eureka Symphony . . Jill teaches general music in TK - 6 classes, Band, and values her role as a Speech Aide.
Chelsea Gibbs
Hello! My name is Chelsea and I am so excited to be working as the 3rd grade aide this year! I was born and raised in Southern Humboldt and graduated from South Fork High School. I moved to Fortuna to attend College of the Redwoods and there I received my dental assisting license. After 9 years in the dental field, I made the decision to open a daycare in our home. I still live in Fortuna with my wonderful husband and three daughters. Some of my favorite hobbies include cooking, good books, gardening and keeping a cozy home. I am so excited for this new chapter and feel so blessed to be a part of the RPC family.
Jenna Mendiburu
My name is Jenna Mendiburu. I was born and raised in Humboldt County until 2008 when I left for 4 years and attended Sonoma State University. There I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and met my husband. We moved back to Fortuna in 2012, got married and had 2 beautiful children. I ran a private day care for 6 years until my kids started school. Our kids now attend Redwood Prep and will be in Kindergarten and 3rd grade. I love baking, traveling, soaking up the sunshine and being creative!
Dawn Dokweiler
Hello, my name is Dawn Dokweiler. I was born and raised in Fortuna and am a Fortuna High Alumni. I spent most of my career in Law Enforcement. When it was my time to retire, I decided to pursue the education field. This is my 7th year with Redwood Prep and I love it! I am enjoying being an instructional aid in second grade. I have coached girls volleyball and girls basketball for Redwood Prep in the past. I am also the gym supervisor for Redwood Prep sports. I am married to my husband of 24 years and we have 2 kids. We have a son and a daughter who are both Redwood Prep and Fortuna High Alumni. In my off time, I am either volunteering at the Fortuna VFW, fishing or enjoying time with my family. I am looking forward to the 25/26 school year.
Meghan Richardson
Meghan was born and raised in the Eel River Valley. After graduation from Fortuna high. She attended college of the redwoods. While attending CR she worked at the after school program at Rio Dell school district. Even doing a 2 year stint as the director. When she was pregnant with her third child she decided to stop working and focus on being a mom. In 2019 with all her kids in school she decided to go back to work. She became the Social and Emotional Tech. She loves her job! She loves spending time with all the kids and having the freedom to see lots of kiddos each day!
When not in school she loves spending time with her family, traveling, swimming at the river and spending time at the beach!
Sidney Melendy
Hello everyone! My name is Sidney Melendy, and I am the first-grade aide and I work in the after-school program! I have worked at Redwood Prep for a few years now, and every day is more magical than the last! I have my Bachelor’s in Psychology with an Emphasis in Forensics from Grand Canyon University, and I am currently pursuing my Master's! When I am not having adventures and learning with the kids, you can find me reading at the library or thrifting for eccentric jewelry!
Halie Head
Hello! I'm Halie Head. I'm so excited for my first year at Redwood Prep! I have three young children, two of whom attend Redwood Prep. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the same school community as my children. After spending the past four years as a stay-at-home mom, I'm excited to return to working with children and supporting their growth and learning. Go Timberwolves!
Julio Esparza
Hi, my name is Julio Esparza, and I am the 8th-grade aide and work in the after-school program. My daughter has been attending Redwood Prep since kindergarten and is now in 3rd grade. I joined the team last school year and am excited to continue working alongside such wonderful people while helping our amazing kids grow and learn! In my spare time, I’m heavily involved in the local soccer community, and you can find me coaching, playing, or refereeing for our local youth leagues.
Cindy Miesner
Ms. Cindy lives in Fortuna with her husband, daughter and dog. She love to bike, hike and run. She especially loves to read. Cindy has been working at Redwood Prep for almost ten years. She is looking forward to another great year. We are going to have so much fun!
Stephanie Chipman
Hi, My name is Stephanie Chipman. I'm looking forward to being the TK aide this year. I have worked with children for many years and truly have a passion for child development and education. I have been with the school for 5 years. I live in Fortuna with my husband Bob and our 3 amazing boys. Our two oldest are RPC alumni and our youngest will be in 8th grade this year. In my spare time I enjoy boating, fishing, caring for our menagerie of critters and spending time with my family. I'm super excited for the new school year and can't wait to meet you!
Karina Matias
Hello! My name is Karina Matias. I’m the 5th grade aide, this is my 4th year at RPC! I previously worked for the Fortuna School District for 10 years. Born & raised in beautiful Humboldt County. I have two beautiful dogs who mean the world to me. Kyroh is a Chocolate Lab and Bruiser is a Chesapeake Bay Retriever. I enjoy spending my time with friends and family. I love to cook, get creative with woodwork and travel. I am so thankful to be a part of this incredible team and super excited for this new school year!
Angeles Lopez
Hi my name is Angeles I’m very excited to be starting my fifth year here at redwood prep. I’ll be working with the sixth grade class and am very excited to be joining the after school program this year as well. I have a two year old who will be joining the Timberwolf family soon, as well as a couple cats, a dog and some fish. As you can see I’m very used to a loud house full of laughter and lots of energy which you’ll also find here on campus.
laura Phelan-Shahin-Counselor
Hi, I’m Laura Phelan-Shahin, LMFT, REAT. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist and a registered expressive arts therapist, and I’ve been working in schools as a counselor since 2007. I love creating safe, caring spaces where students feel supported, valued, and heard. I use mindfulness, games, art, movement, poetry, storytelling, and music to help kids explore what matters most to them and to build skills they can use when life gets challenging. My goal is always to help students feel confident, capable, and connected. Outside of school, I’m an artist, therapist, mother, wife, auntie, and sister. You can usually find me making art, swimming, or hanging out with my kids and husband here in Arcata.