The Eagles’ Nest Grows: Introducing Our New Staff of the 2025-2026 School Year

Katie Tran, Staff Writer

September 30, 2025

(Katie Tran)

Brianna Avila: Long-term Chemistry Substitute

Before coming to Gabrielino as a long-term substitute, Brianna Avila worked as a substitute teacher for the district. She is currently pursuing her teaching credential and hopes to continue her journey here full time. Avila is grateful for the encouragement she has received from colleagues and administrators, especially Assistant Principal Chanda Strom. Outside of school, she enjoys making music, reading, and watching movies

(Katie Tran)

Lleny Dolores: Special Education Teacher

Lleny Dolores is in her first year of teaching and works with Gabrielino’s moderate to severe class. Having grown up in the San Gabriel Valley, she wanted to give back to students the same way her teachers once supported her. Dolores was eager to try working in an educational setting, as she has experience working with children ages 3-17. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, going to the beach, and organizing. She appreciates the support she has received from fellow teachers and hopes to continue connecting with students at school.

(Katie Tran)

Michael Humphreys: Physical Education Teacher

Having coached wrestling and football, Michael Humphreys returns to Gabrielino as a new physical education teacher. He is eager to continue building connections with students around campus. Humphreys enjoys staying active by playing pickleball and practicing jujitsu, as well as spending time with his kids. “I like to be involved in things happening around school, and I am excited to be here,” he said.

(Katie Tran)

Jingshi Peng: Mandarin Teacher

Jingshi Peng joins Gabrielino as a Mandarin teacher to help meet the growing demand for language courses. She hopes to “bridge the gap between Mandarin students coming from Jefferson for a smooth transition into high school.” Peng also looks forward to building strong connections with her students. Outside of teaching at Jefferson and Gabrielino, she enjoys attending K-pop concerts, shopping, and hiking.

(Katie Tran)

AJ Sims: Physical Education Teacher

AJ Sims taught physical education at Jefferson Middle School for two years and previously coached at Gabrielino before returning as a teacher. As a Gabrielino alum, she always knew this school would be her goal. In her free time, Sims enjoys staying active and crafting. She hopes to show students that physical education benefits them not only physically but also emotionally. Sims also hopes her students will see her as a mentor, not just a teacher.

(Katie Tran)

Mallory Tan: English Teacher

Before joining Gabrielino as an English teacher, Mallory Tan taught middle school students. She describes it as a “full-circle moment” to return to the school where she was once a student and is now a teacher. Tan values working alongside teachers who once taught her and appreciates how Gabrielino has always maintained a strong sense of family and community.

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About the Contributor

Katie Tran, Staff Writer

Katie is a first-year staff member of the Tongva Times. She enjoys DJing, traveling, and exercising. Katie joined journalism to explore reporting on current events happening both at school and within the San Gabriel community.