Dr. Amrik Singh 
​Principal

My name is Dr. Amrik Singh, principal for the 2022-2023 school year. It is my 12th year at Sacramento Valley Charter school. 
I came to SVCS in 2011 with 20 years of teaching experience both at primary school and the college level. I started my career in Elk Grove Unified School District in 2006. I earned my Teaching Credential and Administrative Services Credential from National University of San Diego.  In the same year, I was offered an Adjunct Professor position at Sacramento State University which afforded me the opportunity to work with college students that I continue to enjoy after all these years. I became excited to bring in my two decades of experience as a professor of English language and Linguistics in colleges of Panjab University Chandigarh (India).  
I earned a Masters in English and an M.Phil. in Anthropological Linguistics from Punjabi University Patiala, and a Ph.D. in English from Panjab University Chandigarh (India). Continuing my education in the US, I earned a Masters in Special Education from National University, California.
As your principal, I am committed to creating a positive school culture that promotes learning and engagement; that makes possible to provide a rigorous, standard-based curriculum for all SVCS scholars; and that creates a safe and compassionate environment for social, emotional, and intellectual growth of your child.
As administrator, I support an environment of high expectations, outstanding achievements, and good citizenship. I will spare no effort to create a spirit of mutual trust, productive collaboration, and continuous effort to make SVCS a premier institution in the region.

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Ms. Mathis
1st. Grade Teacher

Hello SVCS families! My name is Rebecca Mathis and I am excited to be teaching first grade this school year! I received my BA in liberal studies from California State University, East Bay in 2018 and recently completed my M.Ed in elementary education at Grand Canyon University. Last school year, I student taught in a first grade classroom and fell in love with teaching. 
 I grew up in Woodland and lived in the Bay Area while I attended CSU East Bay. I moved back home to Woodland after completing my BA and was the lead teacher for an after school program while I completed my M.Ed. I enjoy working with children and serving my community. In my free time I love to read and spend quality time with my loved ones. I am looking forward to building relationships with students and families as I become a part of the SVCS community! 
 
 

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Mrs. Cheema
2nd. Grade Teacher

Hello everyone,
My name is Preet Cheema. It has been a wonderful journey teaching at Sacramento Valley Charter School. I teach Second grade and this is my seventh year here.
​I bring along 22 years of teaching experience ranging from (k-8). I hold a clear California Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential and have completed The English Learner (EL) Authorization and Cross-cultural, Language, and Academic Development (CLAD) Certificate from Alliant International University, San Diego. I have earned my Bachelor's degree from Punjab University Chandigarh, and have completed my B.Ed with emphasis on the teaching of Language Arts and Social studies. I have also completed a diploma in Early Childhood Care. I have had an opportunity to study abroad in the United Kingdom which was an enriching experience overall.
I have taught at Delhi Public School and Mayor World School for a period of about 14 years in India. I taught in Roseville for a year before becoming a team member at SVCS 7 years ago. 
I am dedicated to promoting academic performance along with fostering creative, social, and character development skills in my students.
In my free time, I enjoy reading poetry, catching up with friends, baking, painting, and traveling with my family.
I am looking forward to the new session and hoping that the regular in-person classes will bring a sense of normalcy for the scholars.
Thank you for entrusting your child in my care and allowing me to be a part of their journey here at SVCS.

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Mrs. Phillips
​3rd. Grade Teacher

My name is Mrs. Teresa Phillips and I am excited to be returning to SVCS for my 7th year. I bring to SVCS over twenty years of experience working with students K-12 in multiple subjects.  For the 14 years prior to my work at SVCS, I also taught piano and guitar. I  hold a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Northern Illinois University, with multiple concentrations in Science, Math, Child Development and Language Arts,  as well as my California clear teaching credential. 
In my spare time I enjoy reading, creative writing, gardening, hiking and cycling among many other interests! I look forward to helping your students grow in citizenship as well as their scholarship over the next several months.  I believe every child is a treasure. Thank you for entrusting yours to me.

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Ms. Church 
5th Grade Teacher

Hello everyone! My name is Zowee Church and I am so excited to be returning for my
third year at SVCS. I graduated from CSU Sacramento with my bachelor’s degree in Health
Science, multiple subject credential, and my Master of Arts in Teaching. My thesis was centered
around growth mindset and goal setting and both concepts are an important part of my teaching
philosophy. I taught 4th grade during my first year at SVCS and 5th grade during my second
year. I am looking forward to teaching 5th grade again!
In my free time I enjoy reading, traveling with my husband, snuggling with our dogs, and eating delicious food! I look forward to meeting all of the new 5th grade students and making memories this school year.

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Mrs. Nijjar
​Punjabi Teacher (Elementary)

My name is Sarbjeet Kaur Nijjar and this is my eighth year at SVCS  as an elementary Punjabi teacher. After completing  my bachelor’s degree from Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar, I earned a Master’s degree in Economics. I joined the teaching profession after completing a  bachelor’s degree in Education. In addition, I hold a clear credential in world language Punjabi. During my seven years at SVCS,  I have enjoyed the company of my beautiful stars. My students not only learn to read, speak and write in Punjabi, but they also sing Punjabi poems, multiplication tables (ਪਹਾੜੇ) and make better ethical choices. To help my scholars become better ethical thinkers, I have concluded daily discussions on a topic for about 10 to 15 minutes. By learning multiplication tables, scholars were able to perform better in their math classes. For the incoming students, I have made the curriculum simple and easy enough for them to smoothly transition into. I embedded art in my classes and saw a very creative side of my scholars. 
I brought 24 years of teaching experience. Before joining SVCS, I taught multiple subjects for 16 years at many government schools in India. I also have one and half years of experience working as an instructional assistant with Elk Grove Unified School District. 
I love spending time with my family. We enjoy watching TV and going on long trips! My son just completed his Bachelor's of Science in Computer Engineering from Sac State and my daughter is currently a student at Sacramento State University. I am looking forward to having a wonderful time with my dazzling stars from Kindergarten to 4th grade!

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Dr. Boudreau
​Middle School Science Teacher

My name is Christine Boudreau and I am very excited to start my second year teaching middle school science here at SVCS, where my daughter is in third grade.
As an undergraduate at the University of San Francisco, I majored in biology. As a graduate student at the University of San Francisco, I majored in chemistry and
served as the teaching assistant for general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry. During my time at USF, I taught and tutored high school biology for the Upward Bound Project. After completing my master’s coursework, I worked as a research associate at UCSF designing and synthesizing compounds to treat asthma.
Just prior to attending medical school at UCLA, I spent a year teaching 7th grade math at a middle school in San Francisco. After graduating from medical school, I trained in general surgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston and then trained in neurological surgery at UC Davis Medical Center here in Sacramento. After having my daughter, I took a break from clinical medicine to spend time with my daughter. It is a great pleasure to join my daughter at SVCS and share my experiences in science and medicine with the students at SVCS!

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Mr. Mojica
Middle School Social Sciences Teacher

​"Hello! My name is Cesar Mojica, and this will be my first year teaching middle school social study and history at Sacramento Valley Charter. I graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with my bachelor's degree in history and minor in museum studies. After working in museum education for several years, I earned my teaching credential in social studies at California State University, Sacramento. I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with the students and parents of SVCS this upcoming school year. Going into the next year, I plan to make the lessons in my classroom fun, engaging, and meaningful. I will prioritize creating a comfortable classroom environment so that all of my students can learn best. I look forward to meeting you all soon!"

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Mrs. Lisa Pino
​Vice Principal

Hello my name is Lisa Pino, your vice principal for the 2022-2023 school year. I currently have a bachelor degree from Fresno State University, in psychology with a minor in mass communication and journalism. In addition, I have two master's degrees, one in Educational Technology and one in School Counseling from National University. I also have my PPS credential and my administrative service credential. I have taught k-12th graders in the past and worked in adult education as well. I have over 10 years of experience working in the educational sector. As an administrator I support a positive school climate and social and emotional growth for all. In my off time, I enjoy spending time with my family. I have three boys, a husband and a dog. I love interior design, shopping, being outdoors and traveling. 
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Ms. Zuberi 
School Secretary (Admin)
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​Hello SVCS community! My name is Shani Zuberi. I am delighted to be the school secretary here at Sacramento Valley Charter. I'm devoted to making sure all students, parents, and staff are content, informed, and safe. 
I graduated from California State University, Sacramento with a BA in Film and digital media Production. In my free time, I enjoy resting, reading, watching/editing movies, cooking, and traveling. I am looking forward to this academic year with all of our brilliant scholar's here at SVCS.

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Ms. Whiting

​Hello to the SVCS community! My name is Genora Whiting but you might know me around campus as Nora. I am very honored to join your incredible staff. I have always enjoyed working with younger students and I am very excited to get to know every scholar at SVCS!  I graduated from California State University, Sacramento with a Bachelor's Degree in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies. I currently live in Natomas with my boyfriend and cat (Wednesday). In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and taking the time to get outdoors to recharge my social battery. I also like to paint, read, and take drives to the ocean. I look forward to a great school year!

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Mrs. Kang
Kindergarten Teacher

Hello SVCS families.
My name is Sandip Kang. 2022-2023 school year will be my ninth year as the Kindergarten Teacher at SVCS.  I completed my Bachelors in Business Administration from CSU Fresno. I soon realized I was happier when I was working with children. I went back to school and earned my multiple subjects credential from Brandman University.
I am married and have two beautiful children. My daughter will be starting college this year. My son is in eighth grade.  My free time is spent with my family and friends.  My children are involved in sports, music and dancing so they keep me pretty busy.  I have enjoyed getting to know my students and their families over the last eight years. I’m really looked forward to meeting my students in person and getting to know them this year.

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Ms. Ramos
1st. Grade Teacher

​Hi! My name is Carra Ramos and I am so excited for the 2022-2023 school year! This will be my second year teaching first grade at SVCS. I received my bachelors degree in Liberal Studies from Sacramento State University in 2020. I also received my Masters of Education from Alder Graduate School of Education in 2021. During my free time I love soccer, yoga, and spending time with my boyfriend and family. ​

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Ms. Reis
2nd Grade Teacher 

Hi! My name is Melanie Reis. I am so happy to be teaching 2nd grade this year. I have worked as a preschool teacher for 15 yrs before moving up to an Elementary level teacher. I went to Brandman University and received a BA in Liberal Arts and an MA in Educational Leadership. I was a 5th grade teacher, 6th grade and 3rd grade teacher before joining SVCS .
Education was always important to my family and I am glad to impart this love of learning to my students. I received my AS degree when I was 18yrs old because my parents had a respect for learning  and encouraged my sisters and me to do our best. They also expected us to volunteer in our community while being focused on our studies. This has also led me as an adult to give back to my community. When I am not teaching, I am a foster parent to over 30 children over the years. I believe every child is capable of learning and needs positive support to fully meet their potential. 

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Ms. Olson
3rd. Grade Teacher​

Hello SVCS family!
My name is Courtney Olson. I am so excited to begin my fifth year teaching at SVCS! This will be my first year teaching 3rd grade, but I have taught Kindergarten and 4th grade here at SVCS. I grew up in Southern California and received a softball scholarship to continue my education at William Jessup University where I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. After two years as a behavior therapist and substitute teacher, I went on to earn my teaching credential and recently earned my Master’s Degree in Teaching at William Jessup University. I enjoy spending my free time with my son, Carson, playing and watching many different sports, and reading.  I love teaching and believe that every student can and will learn. I am looking forward to building relationships with students and watching them grow both academically and socially this upcoming year.

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Mrs. Henighan
​4th grade Teacher 

​Hello SVCS families! My name is Sarah Henighan and I am so excited to be working with your 4th grade scholars! I have previous experience in every grade between 2nd and 8th grade and 4th grade is my absolute favorite. I grew up in the Bay Area and attended San Francisco State University for my Bachelors Degree in Liberal Arts with a Minor in Theatre. I got my teaching credential through CalState TEACH with CSU Fresno and moved to the Sacramento area. I am married and have three dogs, and one son, Killian, who was born in May of 2020. I spend my free time with my family, love to travel, and enjoy crafting. I like to tackle lessons with humor and make learning relatable for all students of all skill levels, and truly believe that all students are entitled to a fabulous education. I am passionate about learning and think that no matter the level of expertise, no one is ever truly done learning. Thank you so much for your trust and  partnership in working with your scholar! I can't wait to get started!

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Mr. Nijjar 
​Punjabi Teacher Grade K-5th

Hello, My name is Amarjit Nijjar, and I am very excited to join SVCS team again for the 2021-2022 school year! This will be my third year at SVCS as a world language Punjabi teacher. I have earned my bachelors and masters degree in Mathematics Honors from Punjab University Chandigarh, India. It was my life’s wonderful experience While staying in dorms for six  years in such a profound University situated in the capital of Punjab. I have earned my teaching credentials in Punjabi from Alliant International University, San Diego.
I played volleyball as a sport for six years. I enjoy setting up the net in the park and playing it with my family and friends on occasions. I grew up playing traditional games and I enjoy teaching them to my kids and students. I also enjoy gardening and planting vegetables in my backyard. I enjoy teaching and I I am very blessed to have this opportunity in my life. I always loved teaching and tutoring kids and I am lucky to do this as a profession. I look forward to building new great relationships with my upcoming students and staff this upcoming year.
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  Mrs. Huff
  Middle School English Teacher
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My name is Ginny Huff, and I am excited to begin my 8th year as the 6-8 English Language Arts teacher at Sacramento Valley Charter School! I hold a bachelor's degree in English and education from Augustana College in Illinois, as well as my California clear teaching credential. My goal is to help students become lifelong readers, writers, and learners. I believe that it is my job to provide students with the tools and support they need to engage in a deep understanding of what they read and write. In my spare time I like to read (especially mysteries!), work on art projects, hike, and camp. I look forward to the new school year with your scholars!

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Mrs. Duhra
​Middle School Math Teacher

Hi! My name is Apparjit Kaur Duhra.  This will be my Sixth-year teaching middle school math at Sacramento Valley Charter School.  Math has always been my passion.   I hold a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from California State University of Northridge and worked as a communications engineer for the City of Los Angeles for 10 years before I decided to stay home with my two daughters. My interest in teaching began when I volunteered at my daughters’ school where I realized how much I enjoyed working with children. This experience taught me how important it is to give quality time to our children for their success in the future. I then went on to earn my teaching credentials in Mathematics from the National University.  Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, listening to music and participating in cultural and outdoor activities.  

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Mrs. Sekhon
​Punjabi Teacher Grade 6th-8th

Hello My name is Manjit Kaur Sekhon. I am so excited to begin my third year as a Middle School Punjabi teacher at SVCS. It has always been my dream career. I think If I get  another life, again I choose to go into the same career.
I hold a Master's degree in English and in Punjabi.I also completed a B.Ed, M.Ed and M.Phil. degrees to be eligible to teach in Public school. I believe that is helping me address the learning needs of my scholars coming from both Punjabi and Non-Punjabi backgrounds. My experience at City College W. Sacramento as an Adjunct Professor is another asset to innovate Punjabi courses for our Middle School scholars.
My motto in life is, Good-Better- Best, Let's never rest. Till good gets better and better- best. Let's join our hands together and as a team take our goals to the best.  Looking forward to meeting with my scholars shortly. Amen.

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