My name is Stephanie Mehlman and I have been teaching at Dearborn for 24 years. Where some teachers tend to switch schools and/or grades as the years progress, I have had the most fortunate opportunity to have taught all 24 years here at Dearborn and in kindergarten! I moved from Northern CA thirty years ago where I received both my Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and teaching credential from CSUN. I am married with two daughters, who both previously attended Dearborn. In addition to my amazing family, we have 4 crazy cats โ Spots, Fizzgig, Daisy, and Poppy. When Iโm not working and have free time, we love going to Disneyland, Palm Desert, and going on cruises. An interesting fact about me is that I find that wrapping gifts, folding towels, or creating charcuterie boards to be very cathartic.
Hello, my name is Kathleen Rodriguez. I have been working at Dearborn as a Kindergarten / Transitional Kindergarten teacher for twenty years. Prior to working here, I worked at CSUN as a recruiter and data analyst.
Teaching has been a passion of the heart since I was a little girl. I grew up very poor in Canoga Park and I lost my father at the age of 10. A fabulous teacher, Mrs. Lord, was my saving grace; she took me under her wings. She spent hours with me, tutoring me, letting me do bulletin boards, grade papers, and keep my mind busy. Her compassion, time and dedication to me and my fellow students was inspirational and motivating. Thus, leading me to pursue a career in education.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, working out, hiking in the mountains around Castaic Lake with my dog, paddling on a competitive Chinese Dragon Boat team and working in my yard. I am also the mom of sixteen-year-old twin boys. Our busy schedules keep us on the go with sporting events and vacation adventures.
Iโm Mrs. Helineh Asatorian, and I teach the littles in room 12. I joined the Dearborn Family 6 years ago. Teaching this age group comes with its challenges and rewards. I so enjoy watching my littles grow and develop into little scholars. I am perpetually amused by their candor and fun personalities. I especially love hearing and seeing their reactions to my sarcasm. When Iโm not teaching or tying my studentsโ shoes, I am chasing my toddler around and enjoying watching him grow. I try to soak up every moment and milestone as we wait for the arrival of his brother. Before life got super busy, I enjoyed spending time at the beach or in nature, reading child psychology books and watching true crime documentaries. I am fascinated by people, the mind and learning about different cultures. A fun fact about me is that I am a certified gift basket maker.
My name is Lakeita Sharie Rodgers. I love words and people! Life happens in phases and stages. Look for the good. Focus on the good. Extend grace to yourself, then others. Everyone is facing a battle. Be the one to lighten their load; not make them crack.
My almost three-year-old toddler is my SONshine! And my husband is my rock. I love spending time with my two favorite guys. I enjoy the simple pleasures of life and live with gratitude. Each day is truly a blessing.
Fun Facts: I can say the alphabet backwards in under five seconds. Kindergarten is my absolute favorite grade to teach!
I am Miss. Martinez. As a former Instructional Aide, I am happy to be back on campus as a substitute teacher for Mrs. Roldan. Working with her students has been a wonderful experience. The students and I have been working diligently throughout the semester to prepare for first grade. We are also excited to welcome Mrs. Roldan back soon to show her how much weโve grown. Until then, I am enjoying getting to know each student as an individual and supporting their learning goals. When I am not in the classroom doing this amazing work, I enjoy baking, reading, and visiting the beach as often as I can.
