Angela Andikyan

Interim Head of School

Angela has been a dedicated member of our founding team since our campus doors opened in 2016. Starting as an Office Administrator, she has steadily taken on increasing responsibilities as our school has expanded, and recently promoted to the role of Director of Upper School.  In her new role, Angela will work closely with our leadership team to build upon the success of our elementary program and continue to develop our middle school.  She looks forward to guiding students through their high school application process and is dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive environment for our students to thrive during these crucial years.

Angela earned her Bachelor’s in Child and Adolescent Development at CSU Northridge and her graduate degree in Psychology from the University of San Diego. She has over 15 years of experience working in mental health and education.  As the proud mother of two Stratford School Altadena students, she knows firsthand the significant impact a Stratford education can have on a child, and she is eager to ensure the vision is realized for all Stratford Altadena students.

Veronica Brenes

Director of Early Education- Early Preschool through Kindergarten

Veronica Brenes has over 21 years of experience in early childhood education, within both public and private school settings as a teacher and Site Supervisor. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. Throughout her career, Veronica has taken on various roles that reflect her versatility and dedication to the field.

For nearly the past decade, she has been a valued member of the Stratford community, where she began as a Pre-K teacher and later served as a Mandarin-English Bilingual Teacher, Transitional Kindergarten (TK) teacher, Summer Program Coordinator, and Substitute Director. The Stratford community holds a special place in her heart.  Teaching children in Pre-Kindergarten and watching them grow year after year has been a truly inspiring and rewarding experience for Veronica. It’s been equally meaningful to see her daughter, Lyla, become one of the first eighth‑grade graduates at Stratford Altadena. It’s truly a testament to the community’s nurturing environment and the value of a strong early foundation.

Veronica believes establishing a strong early foundation is essential for every child’s growth. “By creating a safe, nurturing environment, we teach fundamental values, respect, collaboration, and self‑confidence in a way that lets each child thrive on their terms. When children feel secure and encouraged to embrace their uniqueness, they develop the courage to share their ideas and explore freely. This sense of self‑assurance fosters an open‑ended learning atmosphere where creativity flourishes and children become eager to reach their full potential. As a teacher, I am responsible for remaining imaginative and inspiring, guiding each child toward a lifetime of curiosity and confidence.”

As a mother to a soon-to-be high schooler, Veronica knows firsthand the importance of finding a school that embodies the same sense of community she cherishes at Stratford. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is both excited and emotional about her daughter’s transition to high school. You’ll find Veronica on the soccer field each weekend, cheering Lyla on and creating cherished family memories.

Veronica looks forward to welcoming you to Stratford and sharing the warm, supportive community that means so much to her and her family.

Patrizia Ribaya

1st-8th Grade Principal

Ms. Ribaya is a founding teacher and a deeply committed member of the Altadena campus community. Throughout her journey, she has worn many hats starting as an elementary floater supporting the extended day program, then teaching kindergarten for three years and third grade for another three. She has also taught fifth and sixth grade science, math, and history, always stepping in wherever needed. Simply put, she’s been everywhere, bringing flexibility, heart, and dedication to every role she’s taken on.

Over time, Ms. Ribaya transitioned into school leadership, serving as Assistant Principal, then Lower School Director, and now proudly leads as Principal for grades 1 through 8. With over 20 years of experience in both early childhood and elementary education, she brings a wealth of insight and empathy to her work with students, staff, and families.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership, and has completed additional coursework in Preschool Administration and Special Education. Her academic foundation, combined with hands-on experience across age groups, allows her to support the whole child and lead with both vision and compassion.

Ms. Ribaya is a passionate educator who believes the best learning happens through experience by expanding one’s network, embracing different cultures, and engaging meaningfully with the world. She is committed to cultivating a school culture where every voice is heard, and where students, families, and staff feel happy, safe, and truly welcomed.

Outside of school, Ms. Ribaya is a proud foodie who loves to travel, explore the world, and make lasting memories with her family. She especially enjoys spending time with her boys: catching concerts and sharing new adventures together, whenever time allows.

Her commitment to lifelong learning, inclusive leadership, and nurturing student potential continues to leave a lasting impact on the community she serves.

Melanie Gordon

Regional Director

As Regional Director, Melanie Gordon joined Spring Education Group in 2019 and supports the Stratford Schools in Southern California as well as two campuses in Northern California.  An experienced multi-site leader in private education, she works directly with campus leaders in all areas of school operations.  Melanie has a Master’s in Educational Leadership and is most passionate about developing teams who provide excellent student outcomes along with creating a strong culture of care and community.