Admission

About

About Us

Faculty & Staff

Faculty & Staff

Erika Alvarado

Kindergarten Readiness Program Director

Mount St. Mary’s University 
B.A. in Child Development

Julie Amaya

Preschool Teacher

California State University, Los Angeles
A.S. in Early Childhood Education

Los Angeles Trade-Technical College
B.A. in Art

Certificates/Recognition

Early Childhood Education Commission on Teacher Credentialing

Child Development Teacher Permit

Sarah Godoy

Preschool Teacher

East Los Angeles College
A.A. in Child Development

Alenoosh Hartouni

Preschool Teacher

 Glendale Community College
A.S Early Childhood Education

Certificates/Recognition

Child Development Teacher Permit

Maria Mursalim

Preschool Teacher

University of Guelph & Christian University 
B.A. English Literature
B.S  Early Childhood Education

Pacific Oaks
Early Childhood Education

Rocheleen Rosel

Preschool Teacher

California State University, Northridge 
B.A. Child and Adolescent Development

Pacific Oaks
M.A. in Human Development specializing in Education and Social Service

Christine San-Cobb

Preschool Teacher

California State University, Los Angeles
B.A. in Child Development 
M.A. in Primary and Early Education 

Certificates/Recognition

Child Development Program Director Permit

Yesi Urrea Castro

Preschool Teacher

 California State University, Long Beach
B.A. in History
Minor in Classical Studies

Angela Zotea

Preschool Teacher

Santa Monica College
A.A. in Early Childhood Studies

Certificates/Recognition

Child Development Teacher permit/credential

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About St. James'

Admission

Our Values

Academics

Beyond School

Community

Giving

Laura petersen

Preschool Director

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
B.A. in Administration

Pasadena City College
Child Development 

Certificates/Recognition

Responsive Classroom, Child Care Center Application, Outdoor Classroom

Laura is an experienced educational leader with more than 20 years of experience in education. Throughout her career, Laura has worked with children and families across a variety of educational settings, with a particular passion for creating nurturing, engaging, and supportive environments where children can thrive. Prior to joining St. James’, Laura served as the Director of a private school in Pasadena serving children from infancy through sixth grade. She also spent 12 years at Saint Mark’s Episcopal School in Altadena, where she developed a deep understanding of the importance of strong relationships between educators, children, and families.

Laura holds a degree in Business Administration, but has always had a passion for early childhood education.  Laura believes children learn best when they feel safe, valued, encouraged, and genuinely known. Her approach to leadership centers on creating a warm and welcoming school community while supporting teachers in providing meaningful experiences for every child. Outside of her professional life, Laura is a proud mother of two children. She has also opened her home as a foster parent to multiple children, an experience that has strengthened her understanding of the individual needs, experiences, and strengths every child brings with them. Laura  is honored to serve as Preschool Director and looks forward to partnering with families to create a joyful, supportive, and enriching foundation for each child’s educational journey.