Birds of a Feather
Santa Cruz
About Kris
I became a licensed elementary school teacher in 2005. For 17 years I have been helping students develop their unique identities as learners. I have applied a student-centered approach to education across the curriculum as a classroom teacher, K-5 science specialist, and naturalist. I bring this passion for helping students learn about themselves as readers, writers, scientists and mathematicians to individualized sessions. The dream is to create a supportive space for students to discover who they are, what lights them up, and what they can contribute to the world.
I recognize that the lack of representation and reflection of LGBTQ+ students’ experiences inside and outside of school can impact their ability to thrive. With an awareness of the unique and complex experience of each student, I create a supportive learning environment where students can relax and learn while being completely themselves.
With all of this in mind, I have created Birds of a Feather to reach towards LGBTQ+ students who seek an academic space where their experience is seen and celebrated by another member of the LGBTQ+ community.
I identify as non-binary and love to be referred to as Kris. While preferring to use the pronouns kris/kris's, I also use they/them pronouns.
Tutoring by Bike
In the past two years, I've logged over 2,000 miles on my bike traveling from session to session. Biking is a lot like tutoring: it's a time to slow down and attune with yourself, your environment, and the creatures around you. From that present and curious place comes meaningful learning and discovery!
Fun fact: I once did a solo bike tour spanning 1,000 miles down the West Coast. With my trusty BOB trailer and a humble camp stove, I pedaled from the Washington state fog through the redwood forest all the way to the San Francisco Bay.
Proud to be a 2023 Nominee
of the QYLA Ally to Queer Youth Award
