Cultural Landscapes Collaboratory: Educational Research and Inquiry

Deanna Sakai

2nd Grade Teacher, Mesa Union School

Ventura County has been my home since I was 1 year old. I have seen the area change tremendously and went through the Oxnard public school system. My first grade teacher was my inspiration to become a teacher. I joined FTA (Future Teachers of America) in high school and became a Sunday School teacher at church. Children are our future, and I feel honored to able to shape their future in a small way.

I attended Ventura College for two years and then transferred to California Lutheran College. At CLC, I received by BA and teaching credential. My masters was completed at California State University at Northridge in Curriculum and Instruction. This is my tenth year at Mesa Union.

Being a part of the Mesa staff is awesome! The professionals here are more like a family than colleagues. We are fortunate to have extremely supportive administrators and parents. Of course, our students are amazing. I couldn’t ask to be in a better place!