Administrative Staff
Joe Hogan
Head of School
Associate Pastor Cornerstone Church
BA Business Administration, Cal State University of Fullerton
------------------------------------------
Pastor Joe brings over 24 years of ministry experience to his role at ICS. He has been an integral part of the ICS community since the school first found its home at Cornerstone Church in 2010. Pastor Joe has dedicated his life to equipping the next generation, both in faith and in education. He and his wife, are proud parents of three children, two of whom graduated from Independence.
In addition to loving the outdoors, Pastor Joe is passionate about creating opportunities to bring others alongside him in ministry, whether it's through service, outreach, or fellowship. His heart for both students and families is evident in his daily interactions, and he is honored to support the spiritual & academic growth of the ICS community.
​
Natalie Cisneros
Principal
Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum & Instruction with ABA from Arizona State University
Bachelor of Arts in Human Development: Cal State University- Long Beach
-------------------------------------------
With over 17 years of experience in education, Mrs. Cisneros, affectionately known as Mrs. C., brings a wealth of knowledge and a true passion for special education to her role as Principal at ICS. She is dedicated to supporting students and families, drawing from her own experience as a parent of two children who received a private Christian education. This background allows her to deeply connect with families who choose a Christ-centered education and value the partnership between home and school.
Outside of her professional life, Mrs. C. enjoys spending time at the beach, where she loves watching the sunset—her happy place. She has been married for 27 years and is deeply honored to lead ICS, guiding our community toward continued growth and success.
Erin Compos
Assistant Principal of Administration
Bachelor of Arts in
Criminal Justice
California State University- Fullerton
--------------------------------------------
Mrs. Compos has been a dedicated member of the ICS family since 2008 and takes great pride in the fact that her own children were students here. While her title might be a bit lengthy, her role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities that are vital to the smooth operation of the school. Known for her love of “to-do lists,” Mrs. Compos keeps our school moving forward each day, checking off tasks while ensuring that everything runs efficiently in service to the Lord.
In addition to overseeing the administrative needs of ICS, Mrs. Compos is the creative force behind our Yearbooks and plays a key role in planning many of our fun events, including Spirit Days and Summer Day Camp. Outside of her work, Mrs. Compos has been married to her husband for 30 years and enjoys spending time reading and attending game nights with friends. She is committed to making ICS a vibrant and engaging place for students, staff, and families alike.
Kim Gauvain
Preschool Director
Early Childroon Education with Administration from
Fullerton College
------------------------------------------------------
Mrs. Kim's passion for early childhood education is driven by her belief that the work she does has the potential to make an eternal impact. With her warm and nurturing personality, Mrs. Kim has created a positive, loving environment for young learners at ICS. Her love for cooking, sewing, crafting, and gardening shines through as she incorporates these talents into creative activities that enhance the preschool experience.
Mrs. Kim’s journey in education began at the age of 16 when she first started working in a preschool, and she has since accumulated a wealth of experience. As Preschool Director, her goal is to ensure that each child feels valued and loved while laying a strong foundation for their future learning. Mrs. Kim is deeply committed to her students and their families, making her an invaluable part of the ICS team. She has been married for 35 years, and she and her husband are proud parents of three children, all of whom attended ICS. Her family’s connection to the school further fuels her dedication to making ICS a special place for all students.
Lyddiah Lasater
Administrative Assistant
______________________
With a loving attitude and a sweet spirit, Mrs. Lyddiah is a welcoming presence at ICS, greeting students and families with warmth and care. As the Administrative Assistant, she plays a key role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, from answering phones to assisting staff and parents with various needs. Mrs. Lyddiah is beloved by students and parents alike for her kindness and willingness to help wherever needed.
Mrs. Lyddiah and her husband are proud parents of six children. Outside of her work at ICS, she enjoys spending time with her husband, playing pickleball, and leading women’s Bible studies. Her heart for service and her joyful personality make her an essential and cherished part of the ICS community.
​
​
Christina Heraldez
Administrative Assistant &
Librarian
______________________
With a loving attitude and a sweet spirit
Mrs. Heraldez brings a wealth of experience to ICS, having worked for 19 years at another private Christian school before joining our team. In addition to her role as Librarian and Administrative Assistant, she has a deep passion for ministry, having spent 11 years alongside her husband pastoring, teaching, and counseling at their church. She now leads our volunteer program, connecting with families and helping them get involved in our school community.
Mrs. Heraldez loves working with students, encouraging them to make Jesus the center of their lives. She has a special gift for recognizing each student’s unique talents and motivating them to use the gifts God has blessed them with. Outside of her work at ICS, she enjoys crocheting, cooking, and shopping at thrift stores. Her heart for service, her dedication to students, and her love for nurturing both academic and spiritual growth make her a valuable member of the ICS family.
Jacob Monarres
Athletic Director & Middle School Math Instructor
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science for Cal Baptist University
______________________
Coach Jacob has been preparing for his role as Athletic Director at ICS for years, having grown up here as a student and played on all of our sports teams. His deep connection to ICS and his extensive background in athletics make him a perfect fit for leading our athletic programs. In addition to his experience at ICS, Coach Jacob brings valuable high school football coaching experience to the table, further enhancing the athletic opportunities for our students.
Affectionately known as "Mr. ICS," Coach Jacob also runs the soundboard for our weekly chapels and teaches math to our Middle School students. Outside of his responsibilities as Athletic Director, Jacob is passionate about sports, enjoys going to the gym, and is known for his great sense of humor, which helps create a positive and fun environment for all.
We are fortunate to have Coach Jacob leading our students in both athletics and personal work ethic here at ICS!
Elementary & Middle School Teachers
Alicia Hallerbach
Kindergarten Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies & Multi Subject Credential - Chapman University
-----------------------------------------------------
Mrs. Hallerbach has been a part of the ICS family since 2020, and she loves being able to share about Jesus and pray with her students each day. Her passion for both education and faith shines through as she creates a warm and nurturing classroom environment where young learners can grow spiritually and academically. Mrs. Hallerbach also loves being part of the amazing ICS staff, working alongside colleagues who share her commitment to fostering a Christ-centered learning community.
Before joining ICS, Mrs. Hallerbach homeschooled her own children, and she brings that same dedication and love for learning to her kindergarten class. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading and backpacking, and she is also honored to lead our worship team for weekly chapels, helping students connect with God through music and worship.
Mrs. Hallerbach’s heart for teaching and her love for the ICS community make her a cherished member of our team!
​
Lauren Bakuwel
1st Grade Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies - - Azusa Pacific
Multiple Subject Credential - Vanguard
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mrs. Bakuwel, affectionately known as Mrs. B, has been a valued member of the ICS team since 2016. She loves the close-knit, family-like atmosphere at ICS and is always working to make the school experience even better for both students and staff.
As part of the "Think Tank," Mrs. B is always coming up with new and exciting ways to make ICS not only a great place to learn but also a fun environment for everyone.
Outside of her work, Mrs. B cherishes spending time with her husband and three children. She’s also a big fan of Disneyland, donuts, and candy – a sweet combination that reflects her joyful and fun-loving personality.
Mrs. B’s creativity, enthusiasm, and love for the ICS community make her an essential part of our school!
​
Kendall Spathes
2nd Grade Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies and Masters Degree in Curriculum & Instruction from Western Governors University
--------------------------------------------------------------
​
Mrs. Spathes has been a part of the ICS family most of her life, attending ICS from 1st through 8th grade. She began coaching volleyball for our school during high school, taught for our preschool during college, and moved to the Elementary & Middle School side upon graduation.
What she loves most about teaching 2nd grade is connecting with her students and seeing the light come on when a new concepts clicks. She enjoys that 2nd graders are becoming more independent, while still needing and loving their teacher - it's a perfect mix!
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Spathes continues to coach our volleyball teams and stays active through Spin and Pilates classes. ICS holds a special place in her heart, as it is where she not only received a wonderful education, but also met her husband in 1st grade - beginning both her academic journey and her love story.
Her commitment to sharing the love of Jesus and creating an engaging, positive learning environment makes her a cherished part of the ICS team!
Ana Bautista
3rd Grade Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies - California State University -
Long Beach
California Teaching Credential - California State University -
Long Beach
______________________________
Miss Bautista brings a heart for nurturing young learners to her role as a 3rd grade teacher. Prior to joining our school, she taught kindergarten, where she developed a strong foundation in guiding students through their earliest academic experiences.
What she loves most about teaching is watching her students grow—not only academically and emotionally, but spiritually as well. She feels especially blessed to work in a Christian school, where she can walk alongside her students as they deepen their faith.
Outside of the classroom, Miss Bautista enjoys relaxing at the beach and going on “reading dates” at local boba shops!
Even as a child, she showed a passion for teaching—she would bring chalk home from school and write on her bedroom walls, pretending to be a teacher!
Her joy for teaching and her dedication to her students’ growth make her a wonderful part of our school community.
Melissa Miner
4th Grade Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Human Development - Cal State University, Long Beach
-----------------------------------------------------
Mrs. Miner finds great joy in helping her students overcome challenges and witnessing the moment when they finally understand something they’ve been struggling with. Her passion for teaching the next generation is evident in her dedication to creating an engaging and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Miner enjoys bowling, cheering for the Angels baseball team, and making trips to Disneyland. She is also fluent in American Sign Language, which allows her to connect with and support a diverse group of individuals.
Mrs. Miner's enthusiasm for teaching and her caring approach make her a wonderful and valuable member of the ICS family!
Raquel Jara
5th Grade Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Urban Learning- California State University,
Los Angeles
_______________________
Miss Jara loves teaching at a Christian school because she views education as a ministry. At ICS she is able to intentionally integrate faith into her classroom each day.
What she loves most about teaching is the opportunity to shape both the hearts and minds of her students. She is passionate about creating a classroom where faith and academics go hand in hand, encouraging students to grow in character as well as knowledge.
Outside of school, Miss Jara enjoys taking photos and videos, rollerblading, journaling, reading her Bible, and listening to Christian music.
She also loves visiting Disneyland, traveling, all things pink, and indulging in spicy and sour candy!
Her heart for ministry and dedication to her students make her a joyful and meaningful part of the ICS community!
Karen Monarres
Middle School Teacher
Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Studies - Cal State University, Fullerton
-------------------------------------------------------
Mrs. Monarres has been a dedicated member of the ICS teaching team since 2008. Known for her quick sense of humor and love for a organized environment, she is a perfect fit for working with middle school students. Her students value how she makes learning both enjoyable and structured, particularly in her favorite subject—science. Mrs. Monarres excels at creating a dynamic and engaging classroom atmosphere; building robots are one of her students' favorite projects!
Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Monarres is affectionately known as the "Cricut Queen," always ready to create something cute, lettered, and spray-painted for anyone in need. Her creative talents extend to sewing, cake decorating, and she enjoys visiting Disneyland and attending concerts with her husband.
A proud parent of children who attended ICS, Mrs. Monarres is deeply loyal to the school and loves the opportunity to teach in a private, Christian environment where she can share her faith with her students. Her passion for both education and creativity makes her an invaluable part of the ICS community.
Daycare Staff
Zeke Cisneros
PE Teacher/Daycare Staff
Currently attending Cal State University, Dominguez Hills majoring in Liberal Arts
-------------------------------------------------------
ICS has helped Coach Zeke discover his passion for teaching and inspiring the next generation. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in Elementary Special Education, where he can continue working with students to help them achieve their goals. He enjoys collaborating with others to accomplish shared objectives and finds fulfillment in seeing growth and progress in his students.
Raised with a strong foundation in Christ, Coach Zeke instills the values of commitment and endurance in his students. He loves fishing, going to the gym, and watching sports games in his free time.
Having attended Christian schools throughout his elementary and high school years, Coach Zeke cherishes his working at ICS. In fact, he has fond memories of playing basketball against ICS while in elementary school. His passion for teaching, faith, and sports makes him a great addition to the ICS team.
Paige Cunningham
Daycare & Yearbook Staff
Currently attending Fullerton College majoring in Early Childhood Education
-------------------------------------------------------
Miss Paige has always had a heart for working with children, having served in children's ministry during high school. She loves that her role at ICS allows her to not only work with but also share her faith with her students.
With a passion for creativity, Miss Paige enjoys drawing and painting, and she has used her artistic abilities to design several bulletin boards and yearbook pages for ICS. She studied ballet for 10 years and now helps guide dancers for the school musicals, combining her love for movement and music with her role at the school.
Known for her organization, reliability, patience, and calm demeanor, Miss Paige is currently attending college for Early Childhood Education. Working at ICS is a perfect fit, allowing her to nurture both her love for teaching and her passion for inspiring young minds.
Cathy Garcia
Julianne Heraldez
Musical Theater/Daycare Staff
40 years working in Youth/Children's Ministry & 23 years as a School Administrator
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With 40 years of experience working in youth and children's ministry, Mrs. Cathy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role at ICS. After retiring from her 23-year career as a Christian School Administrator, she quickly found that she missed working with students, prompting her to join the ICS team.
Mrs. Cathy's greatest desire is to lead young lives to Christ, demonstrating His love through her actions and setting a Godly example.
When she's not working with students, Mrs. Cathy enjoys spending time playing games, swimming, and camping. She also has a delightful collection of several hundred snowmen, which she proudly displays around her home each Christmas season.
​
​
Daycare Staff
Graduate of New Harvest
Christian School
-------------------------------------------------------
Miss Julianne has a deep love for working with students and finds joy in sharing the love of Jesus with them each day, helping create a nurturing and faith-filled environment.
Her favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 3:5–6, and she looks to it as a daily reminder to trust God to guide her steps as she works with and cares for students.
Outside of school, Miss Julianne enjoys spending time with family, thrifting, traveling, and going to the beach with friends. She also has a fun and energetic side—she is super competitive in sports, loves organizing, and sings on her church’s worship team.
Her warm heart and enthusiasm for children make her a joyful part of our school!
Stivaly Kepler
Daycare Staff
Bachelor of Arts, Bilingual Preschool Education at Universidad Hispanoamericana, Costa Rica
-------------------------------------------------------
Mrs. Stivaly is cherished part of our daycare staff and she brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles as a Sunday School Teacher, Youth Leader, and Dance Ministry Leader.
She loves being at ICS, where she can integrate academic training with strong spiritual values and help nurture children in a Christ-centered environment.
Her favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will also help you; I will also uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Outside of school, Mrs. Stivaly enjoys discovering new coffee shops, traveling, and watching TV series.
Her joyful spirit and heart for ministry make her a wonderful part of the ICS community!
Preschool Teachers and Staff
Erin Jones
Toddler Teacher
Early Childhood Education - Wilshire Community College
--------------------------------------------------------------------
With 40 years of teaching experience, Ms. Erin is a seasoned educator who has a true passion for working with young children. In 2016, she was honored with the Teacher of the Year award, a testament to her dedication and impact in the classroom. Ms. Erin finds great joy in watching children grow, learn, and experience new milestones every day.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys gardening, volunteering at church events, and, like many, shopping on Amazon. Her love for teaching and her commitment to nurturing the growth of young minds make her an invaluable part of our ICS family.
Gloria Carrazco
2 year old Teacher
Early Childhood Education -
North Orange County Community College
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ms. Gloria is our 2-year-old teacher and loves that teaching at a Christian school allows her to impart biblical values to her students without restriction, helping lay a foundation of faith at an early age.
Her personal philosophy is, “Let your faith be stronger than your fear,” a truth that guides both her life and her work with students each day.
Outside of school, Ms. Gloria enjoys hiking, exploring different coffee shops and restaurants, watching hockey and baseball, and cooking.
She also has a fun and adventurous side—while in college, she boxed and danced, and she is also a licensed esthetician.
Her joyful spirit and heart for young learners make her a wonderful part of the ICS community!
Deanna VanderSchaaf
Sarah Melton
3 year old Teacher
Early Childhood Education -
Cerritos College
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mrs. Deanna is a Preschool Teacher with 20 years of experience, including work in Sunday School and Nursery settings. She loves working in a Christian environment and values partnering with families who share the same mindset and values.
Her favorite verse is 1 Corinthians 16:14: “Let all that you do be done in love,” which she strives to live out each day as she teaches and cares for her students with patience, kindness, and encouragement.
Outside of school, Mrs. Deanna enjoys scrapbooking, craft painting, spending time at the lake or river, and hanging out with friends.
She is proudly known as the “Queen of Organization,” a gift that shines through in her beautifully decorated classroom, which she enjoys changing monthly to reflect the seasons.
Her creativity, experience, and heart for children make her a treasured part of the ICS community!
​
Pre-K Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Child Development - Union Institute & University
__________________________
Ms. Sarah is our Pre-K Teacher and brings 25 years of experience in early childhood education. Structured, organized, and creative, she creates a classroom where students thrive and feel supported as they learn and grow. She especially loves teaching Pre-K students about God’s love and the wonder of His creation, helping lay a strong foundation both academically and spiritually.
Outside of school, Ms. Sarah enjoys crafting, scrapbooking, and playing video games, activities that reflect the creativity she brings into her classroom.
She grew up on a family farm, where she developed a strong work ethic, learned the value of hard work, and cultivated a lifelong love for animals.
Her steady presence, creative spirit, and heart for young learners make her a blessing to our students and a valued part of the ICS family!
Yasbel Ortuno
Transitional Kindergarten Teacher​
Early Childhood Education from North Orange County Community College
-------------------------------------------------------
Mrs. Yasbel has been a valued member of the ICS community since 2015, bringing 15 years of experience in the classroom. She is motivated by her passion for Christian education, especially the opportunity to witness children grow in their faith and learn to love the Lord.
When she’s not in the classroom, Mrs. Yasbel enjoys spending time outdoors, taking nature walks, and camping with her husband and children. Her daughter also attends ICS, making their family’s connection to the school even more special. Back at home, Mrs. Yasbel loves to cook, and she’s especially known for making a delicious bowl of Pozole! Her warm heart and dedication to both her students and her family make her an incredible asset to the ICS team.
Terri Cook
Preschool Aide
Early Childhood Education
_______________________
Mrs. Terri is one of our valued preschool aides who joined us after retiring from owning her own business—though with too much energy to fully settle down! She brings a wealth of wisdom from her experience as a mother and grandmother and has become an amazing asset to our preschool team, especially as our number one potty trainer.
She loves volunteering at her church and even enjoys matching outfits with her husband, which says a lot about her fun-loving spirit.
Mrs. Terri brings excitement, laughter, and dedication to our staff each day, and her joyful energy is a gift to both our students and school community!
Karen Estabrook
Preschool Aide
Early Childhood Education
_______________________
Mrs. Karen is a Preschool Aide who loves that she said “yes” to God’s call to work in a Christian school. With prior experience in public schools, she feels right at home in our Christ-centered environment and considers it a joy to serve here.
Mrs. Karen certainly gets her steps in each day as she moves all over campus—preparing snacks, assisting in every preschool classroom, helping in the nap room, and caring for students on the playground. Wherever there is a need, Mrs. Karen is ready to help.
When she is not, as she says, “about her Father’s business” serving at school, she enjoys bike riding, reading, and walking her dog.
Known as our Prayer Warrior, Mrs. Karen faithfully encourages others through prayer and service. Her servant’s heart and unwavering faith make her a true blessing to the ICS family!
Kristy Gauvain
Toddler Aide
Early Childhood Education -
North Orange County Community College
_______________________
Miss Kristy is a Preschool Aide specializing in toddlers. She loves helping teachers and students alike and especially enjoys teaching students worship songs during our weekly chapel, sharing her love for Jesus through music.
Her favorite verse is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” a truth reflected in the many ways she has pursued her goals. In addition to her work at ICS, she is a Brown Belt and has earned her Coast Guard Boat Inspector Certificate.
Outside of school, Miss Kristy enjoys working with horses, dancing, and attending musicals.
Her joyful spirit, many talents, and heart for serving make her a wonderful addition to the ICS family!
Sheila Ienni
Preschool Aide
Associates Degree -
Gavilan College
-------------------------------------------------------
Miss Sheila is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in English at California State University, Fullerton and has a deep passion for sharing The Good News with the next generation.
Outside of the classroom, Miss Sheila enjoys journaling, thrifting, and playing the guitar. You’ll often find her playing and singing as a member of the church worship team, where she shares her love of music and faith.
Her enthusiasm and dedication to both her studies and her students make her a valued member of the ICS community.
Claudia Johnston
Afternoon Daycare/Aide
Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Cal State University, Fullerton
-------------------------------------------------------------------
​With 37 years of teaching experience, Ms. Claudia has been an integral part of the ICS community for the past 13 years. She is passionate about the freedom she has at ICS to share the love of Jesus with students and their families, and her warm, welcoming nature makes her a beloved member of our team.
A true "people person," Ms. Claudia enjoys connecting with others and has a love for travel. Outside of her work at ICS, she enjoys spending time with her beloved cats and adores her two grandchildren. Her dedication to both her students and her family makes her an invaluable part of the ICS family.
Maddy Laipple
Preschool Aide
Graduate of Esperanza High School
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Miss Maddy is a Preschool Aide currently attending Fullerton College majoring in education. She attended Independence Christian School herself from Preschool through 8th grade and began working with children in high school. She loves Christian education and is excited to serve at ICS, sharing the joy and love of God with students just as it was shared with her.
Her favorite verse is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength,” which she relies on daily while balancing college and work.
Outside of school, Miss Maddy enjoys painting, sewing, ceramics, crafting, and gardening. Her love for art began in childhood; in fact, she won first place in the ACSI Art Festival when she was a student at ICS. She now shares her creativity with our little ones by helping lead arts and crafts activities in the classroom.
Her heart for children and passion for Christian education make her a wonderful part of the ICS community!
.png)