This year marks Cheryl’s 29th year working as part of a private school team. She has worn many different hats on her journey. She has been a classroom teacher, and a principal, and has worked in a regional capacity. She has dedicated her career to guiding and supporting excellence in education for young children and is honored to be a part of the Stratford Laguna Niguel family. In her free time, Cheryl enjoys going to the beach, and spending time with her family and her dog Hachi.
With 17 years of experience in education, 13 of which have been spent at this school, Wendi has had the opportunity to teach a wide range of grades, including Kindergarten through 6th and 8th grade. Her time in the classroom has provided her with invaluable insights that have shaped her into a strong Elementary Director. Growing up in Chicago and living in Orange County for the past 30 years, Wendi has developed a deep appreciation for both diverse communities and the importance of fostering a positive learning environment. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and playing games.
Cibele Maia Alves is a dedicated educator with extensive experience in both classroom teaching and managing complex school operations. She brings a deep understanding of child development and excels at building strong relationships with students, families, and staff. Born in Brazil, Cibele is a licensed attorney and holds a degree in Early Childhood Studies from Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina in Florianópolis. She is fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Cibele feels honored to support the students, families, and staff at Stratford School. In her free time, she enjoys camping with family and friends, going to the beach, and walking her dog, Luna.
With a bachelor’s degree in Arabic literature and a Master’s in Business, Lin combines her strategic planning, customer service, and outreach expertise to create a seamless admissions experience. Lin’s approach to admissions is rooted in personalized engagement, data-driven decision-making, and a commitment to student success. In her free time, Lin enjoys hiking, walking on the beach, and spending time with family and friends. If you would like more information about availability, feel free to reach out to Lin directly via email.
Faculty and Staff
Our School Leaders
Cheryl Molenkamp
Head of School
This year marks Cheryl’s 29th year working as part of a private school team. She has worn many different hats on her journey. She has been a classroom teacher, and a principal, and has worked in a regional capacity. She has dedicated her career to guiding and supporting excellence in education for young children and is honored to be a part of the Stratford Laguna Niguel family. In her free time, Cheryl enjoys going to the beach, and spending time with her family and her dog Hachi.
EmailWendi Pufahl
Elementary School Director
With 17 years of experience in education, 13 of which have been spent at this school, Wendi has had the opportunity to teach a wide range of grades, including Kindergarten through 6th and 8th grade. Her time in the classroom has provided her with invaluable insights that have shaped her into a strong Elementary Director. Growing up in Chicago and living in Orange County for the past 30 years, Wendi has developed a deep appreciation for both diverse communities and the importance of fostering a positive learning environment. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and playing games.
EmailCibele Maia Alves
Preschool Director
Cibele Maia Alves is a dedicated educator with extensive experience in both classroom teaching and managing complex school operations. She brings a deep understanding of child development and excels at building strong relationships with students, families, and staff. Born in Brazil, Cibele is a licensed attorney and holds a degree in Early Childhood Studies from Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina in Florianópolis. She is fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Cibele feels honored to support the students, families, and staff at Stratford School. In her free time, she enjoys camping with family and friends, going to the beach, and walking her dog, Luna.
EmailLin Doughouz
Director of Admissions
With a bachelor’s degree in Arabic literature and a Master’s in Business, Lin combines her strategic planning, customer service, and outreach expertise to create a seamless admissions experience. Lin’s approach to admissions is rooted in personalized engagement, data-driven decision-making, and a commitment to student success. In her free time, Lin enjoys hiking, walking on the beach, and spending time with family and friends. If you would like more information about availability, feel free to reach out to Lin directly via email.
EmailOur Faculty
Amira Abdallah
PreK Teacher
Brenda Aguilera
Music Teacher - All Grades
Amber Botticello
4th Grade Teacher
Sarah French
3rd Grade Teacher
Natalie Frerreira
Preschool Teacher
Emmelyn Garcia
1st Grade Teacher
Elena Hedderig
Spanish - Grades EPS - 5G
Barb Herrmann
Computer Science - 1G - 5G
Mr. Daniel
Maintenance
Mr. Omar
Head of Security
Stella Murphy
Kindergarten Teacher
Scott Myers
P.E Teacher
Paige Nagano
Early Preschool Teacher
Courtney Potter
Transitional Kindergarten Teacher
Erika Rayo
Preschool Teacher
Sarah Swanson
Early Preschool Teacher
Taylor Montgomery
Office Administrator
Lorie Young
Science Teacher - EPS - TK