Maria Luna, Head of School
Maria Luna has been at KMS since 1983, and is the parent of a KMS Graduate. She is a qualified teacher with over 25 years of experience and a BA in Humanities. Maria has been teaching children from Preschool to 8th grade in public and private schools in the Bay Area, she’s a professional dancer with Ballet Folklorico Ensembles. Over the years, she has developed creative, innovative programs and curriculums that have reached a large number of students.
Mrs. Luna has collaborated with educational organizations such as World Arts Wests and Young Audiences of Northern California.
Shari Wiemer, Director of Admissions, Marketing and the Office
Shari Wiemer came to KMS August of 2023. She has more than 15 years of experience in education management. Most recently she was the Marketing & Communications Manager at Cambridge English for Life in Malaysia. She has been a Regional Sales Manager for personal development seminars, a Director of Career Services for colleges in Las Vegas and Long Beach and a Center Director for a Sylvan Learning. She began a round-the-world trip with her (then) 10 year old daughter in April 2015 and volunteered across 11 countries. She loved Malaysia so much that she made it her home for over seven years. She is happiest when she is among children, and she loves reading, travel and experiential learning. Shari has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of California at Santa Barbara, and attended the MBA program at the University of Southern California. She is thrilled to become a part of the KMS family.
Andrew Dean, Director of After School Program and Summer Camps (Copy)
Andrew Dean joined KMS April of 2023. He is joining KMS from the New York City area where he has served as a public school art teacher, community art and programming director, and professor of art and studio education for the past 9 years. Andrew is originally from Philadelphia and holds a Masters of Education in Art Education and Studio Practices from Boston University. Andrew is an artist, photographer, and a curious wanderer at heart. Andrew’s experiences, professional and personal, shaped his philosophy that all learners deserve the opportunity to find success, communicating their stories and learning journey through a language of their own.
“The world too often views the development of children through the lens of adult experience. Effective 21st Century education and programming allows learners to foster ownership and a sense of agency over their learning while developing their identity in an environment founded in respect and rapport. The true value of this work lies in the chance for kids to create and share through the lens of their perception and experience; for their curiosities, expression, and joy to lead the way.”
Andrew is joining KMS with the goals of supporting and expanding after-school and summer programming rooted in individuality, critical thinking, and creativity all while strengthening personal, collective, and environmental awareness and sensitivity. Andrew strives to bring big ideas to learners of all ages, identities, and abilities while cultivating authentic relationships.