By Kayla Phan & Kelly Lu
Staff Writers
“My overall favorite thing about science is that it affects every part of our lives.,” Ly said. “As a naturally curious person, making sense of the world around me inspires me a lot. It also inspires me to try my best when students are also curious.”
With the start of the new school year, the Ramily welcomes new staff members.
Karyna Chong
School nurse Karyna Chong began her work at the start of the 2024 school year. Previously, she worked as a nurse at La Rosa from January to May 2024 and as a nurse at USC Arcadia Hospital. In the future, Chong hopes to become a registered nurse and possibly go on to be a nurse practitioner.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help because you never know what answer you may get,” Chong said. “You’re going to learn from whatever people tell you and you’re going to get new insight on how people think.”
David Ly
Earth Science and Biology teacher David Ly teaches in Room 102. This is his first year teaching. Ly graduated from UC Irvine with his teaching credentials and a degree in Earth System Science. He completed his training at various schools in Orange County.
Coach Randy Backus retired in May of 2024 after teaching for 38 years. He taught Health, English, ELD, Physical Education and Adaptive Physical Education. Due to Backus’ retirement, Health Teacher Lyle Takeshita took over his health classes, while Ly filled Takeshita’s position as an Earth Science teacher.
Bonnie Chan
Bonnie Chan is a new addition to the counseling team. Before becoming a school counselor, Chan worked at a non-profit afterschool program. She previously worked as a preschool teacher and a service coordinator at a regional center. Chan also worked at San Gabriel Unified, Alhambra High School and Gabrielino High School and spent time as a work experience coordinator.
“Your journey is unique, so focus on your own growth and progress,” Chan said. “Balance your academic responsibilities with self care. By managing stress and staying healthy, you’ll be better prepared to face challenges and succeed in all areas of life.”
Antonio Bugarin
Special Education teacher Antonio Bugarin is another addition to the Ramily. Bugarin worked as a behavior interventionist for four years, an instructional aid for four years and taught as a permanent substitute teacher. Bugarin is looking forward to getting to know the students better and being a part of the community.
“Make your parents proud,” Burgarin said. “There will be days that are be tough, but there will always be light at the end of the tunnel.”
LaMesha Carter
School psychologist Dr. LaMesha Carter joined the Ramily with the start of the school year.0. Her office is in Room 302 and she hopes to aid neurodiverse students.
She previously worked at Magnolia Science Academy in Carson, California as a school psychologist. Carter also teaches as a part-time professor at Loyola Marymount University in the School Psychology department. She teaches first year future school psychologists about social justice as part of their future practice.