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.

Stacy LaBrier

Vice Principal

Stacy LaBrier Mitchell brings over 16 years of experience in education to her role as Vice Principal at Stratford School Altadena. Since joining the Stratford community in 2020, she has taught a wide range of grade levels, including preschool, pre-K, first, fifth, and sixth grade. Her extensive range of classroom experience provides her with a unique and well-rounded perspective on academic development, social-emotional growth, and the various stages of a student’s educational journey.

Stacy holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, and a Child Development Associate Credential. Her background in psychology helps her connect with students, families, and staff with insight and empathy. At the same time, her design training fuels her creativity and attention to detail, whether she’s organizing a learning space or planning a school event. She believes that every student deserves an environment where they feel safe, inspired, and supported to become their best self.

In addition to her classroom experience, Stacy has taken on multiple leadership roles, including Tech Coach, Instructional Mentor, Leader-in-Training, and Acting Summer Coordinator. In these roles, she’s helped lead professional development, guided technology integration, supported summer operations, and mentored fellow educators. Recognized for her approachable style and calm presence, she leads with heart, listens with intention, and believes in building a school culture rooted in collaboration, joy, and purpose.

Stacy is passionate about nurturing strong relationships across campus because “when students feel seen, teachers feel supported, and families feel welcomed, incredible things happen.” She is deeply committed to fostering a school environment where learning is joyful, challenges are embraced, and everyone has a place to shine.

Outside of school, Stacy loves traveling with her husband Robert, diving into creative projects, and spending time with their two sweet dogs, Luna and Honey. She is honored to serve the Stratford Altadena community and excited to continue growing alongside the students, families, and staff she cares so deeply about.

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.

Katya Hochstrasser

Director of Admissions

Katya Hochstrasser brings over 12 years of experience in Early Childhood Education to Stratford School Altadena. Throughout her journey, she has served in multiple roles at Stratford, including Specialty Spanish and Science Teacher, Office Administrator, and now, Director of Admissions. Her well-rounded background allows her to connect with families, students, and staff with insight, compassion, and dedication.

Katya holds a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and Architecture, with a minor in Early Childhood Education. Her creative spirit has made a lasting impact on our campus, most notably through her leadership on the 8th-grade mural project, which continues to inspire our community.
Deeply involved in school life, Ms. Hochstrasser is committed to the growth of Stratford Altadena and her own professional development. She is known for her hardworking nature, hands-on experience, and determination to make a difference in every role she takes on.

Outside of work, Katya is recently married and enjoys exploring new restaurants, traveling, spending time at the beach, and paddle boarding. She’s also a coffee enthusiast! One of her favorite quotes, which reflects her positive outlook, is: “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

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.