Valley School for

Academic Achievement

19801 Nordhoff Pl Unit 106-A

Chatsworth, CA 91311

info@vsaala.org

(818) 453 - 1240

(818) 453 - 1240

info@vsaala.org

19801 Nordhoff Pl Unit 106-A

Chatsworth, CA 91311

Our Staff

Academics

Small class sizes of our school contribute to a focused and attentive experience for each student. Placement in each class is knowledge based without a specific grade level requirement.

Albert Fink
Biology, Chemistry

In addition to administrative duties, Albert Fink teaches Honors and AP Biology and Chemistry classes.

Shain Kulevich
Math, Physics

Mr. Kulevich has over 20 years experience in teaching math and physics. He is the coordinator of the AMC math competitions and coach of the Science Bowl team.

Roman Semenov
Math, Statistics

Roman Semenov earned a Masters of Science in Statistics from UCLA. He teaches mathematics sequence of Algebra, Geometry, Precalculus, Calculus AB and BC, and Statistics.

Tyler Derbin
English, History, Economics

Mr. Derbin graduated from Cal State Northridge with a B.A. degree in Philosophy. He is overseeing VSAA humanities curriculum and teaches classes in English Literature,  US and World History,  and Economics.

Jane Stewart
Chemistry, Biology

Jane received a B.A. degree in Anthropology with a minor in Chemistry from University of California, Santa Barbara. She is a Chemistry and Biology instructor.

Julia Johnson
English, Counselor

Julia Johnson is an experienced college counselor and school administrator. She earned Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Cal State Northridge and is tasked with assisting and advising students in their college application process. Julia also teaches English Literature and Composition.

Athletic Instructors

VSAA offers physical preparation and training in various individual sport disciplines. On site training facility is equipped for general strength and fitness exercises and has areas setup for individual sports. Off site affiliated club facility features Olympic size swimming pool, tennis courts, and a golf course.

Jenya Burlo
Gymnastics

Jenya Burlo is an experienced gymnastics and rhythmic gymnastics trainer. She earned Master of Sports - International Class (Elite Gymnast) and became a professional member of Belarus National Olympic Team in 2003.

Denis Knyazev
Swimming, Gymnastics, Conditioning

Denis has a Masters of Physical Education degree from Omsk State University. He competed internationally in powerlifting and weightlifting competitions. Denis is a fitness and strength conditioning coach. He also trains swimming and gymnastics.

Michael Kawata
Tennis, Golf, Wrestling

Michael Kawata has a Kinesiology degree from Cal State Fullerton. An accomplished athlete himself, he trains students in tennis, golf, wrestling and martial arts.

Partners

VSAA partners with leading experts in education.

Great Minds Robotics
Robotics, Computer Science

Great Minds Robotics provides Carnegie Mellon engineered course materials in Robotics and Computer Science.

Los Angeles Math Circle
Math

Los Angeles Math Circle is taught by UCLA Pf. Olga Radko.