Preeti Chadha

Head of School

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”

— Maya Angelou

Mrs. Preeti Chadha has been part of the Stratford School family for over 17 years. She has taught several elementary grades. Mrs.Chadha currently serves as the Head of School for Stratford Los Gatos campus and Stratford Los Gatos Belgatos Park campus.

Mrs.Chadha believes her role as an educator is to stimulate the natural curiosity in her students and ignite the love for learning. As a leader, she is committed to creating a positive learning environment for her students and strives to create close partnerships with families to offer support and guidance.

Shanmugapriya Balachandran

Director of Lower School (2G-4G)

“All children are unique and must have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow mentally, emotionally, and socially.”

Ms. Balachandran has worked in education for 17 years and has been an essential part of our Stratford Los Gatos team for eight years. She is a dynamic educator who believes exceptional learning begins by nurturing curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. With a blend of passion for teaching and a culture of care, she has a comprehensive understanding of a well-rounded, future-focused curriculum that balances the mind, body, and spirit. Ms. Balachandran is dedicated to creating an inclusive school community where students and their families can thrive.

Michelle Lee

Director of ECE & Lower School (KG-1G)

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

– Nelson Mandela

Mrs. Michelle Lee brings genuine passion and thoughtful leadership to her role with 17 years of Stratford teaching experience, all of which have been at the Los Gatos campus! During that time, Mrs. Lee has taught Kindergarten and First grade, served as Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten floater, Kindergarten Curricular Lead and as a Kindergarten Specialist. With over 23 years of experience in education, encompassing early childhood and elementary age groups, Los Gatos is fortunate to have her with us as our ECE and Kindergarten Director.

Mrs.Lee believes that it is an educator’s job to instill a love of learning in her students.  This is best accomplished by inspiring and promoting a child’s natural curiosity for the world around them. When learning is fun, it leaves a lasting impact on the child’s academic journey. Mrs.Lee is excited to share this with the students at Stratford!

Mishell Pak

Assistant Director

” Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.”

– Aristotle

Mrs. Mishell Pak has taught several elementary grades with Special Education background.  Mrs.Pak currently serves as the Assistant Director at Stratford Los Gatos campus. She believes that Stratford community honors the humanity of each teacher and student. She also believes that the teamwork creates the environment of belonging and connection for LG families to engage and thrive with full potential.