Samantha is dedicated to empowering students with the tools they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Originally from Vallejo, she earned her BA in Political Science from UC Berkeley and her MS in Counseling from Cal State East Bay, where she also completed her PPS Credential in School Counseling. She is a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT). She believes high school is a formative time as students begin defining who they are and who they hope to become, and she approaches her work with empathy, active listening, and deep respect for students’ lived experiences. Outside of school, she enjoys cycling, hiking, watching Cal football, and playing video games.