Meet Claudia Ortega!

Claudia is the first face you see walking into ChangeMakers Academy. She manages competing priorities of the front desk with finesse. As her colleague said, "Claudia is just a fast as Wonder Woman... probably faster!! She's like a shooting star always ready to spark and sparkle!!" Claudia grew up the South Bay before moving out to Fairfield with her family. She studied Child Psychology and Early Childhood Education and has always had a passion for working with students and families. Before joining Caliber, Claudia worked as a pre-school teacher and in the Mental Health field for Solano County. She is blessed with 3 young men in her life: her husband, her son and her 1st grandson, Andre.

Words about Claudia from staff
"Claudia is always wiling to step in and take on any project to support our students and community. Whether translating documents to ensure CMA is servicing all families, tending to student illnesses and concerns, organizing school data and records, or addressing the multitude of questions and comments that come through the front office, Claudia is a wizard in time management and flexibility. One of the more unique components to Claudia's continued success is having a high degree of humility. Aspects of the role are almost thankless -- navigating parent concerns and questions, addressing stakeholder issues, and putting out "small fires." Her responsibilities may not always allow her to experience the joy many of our teachers find in nurturing our students throughout the day, but to instead continuously problem solve. While the fruits of her labor may not always be fully self-evident, we at CMA are incredibly grateful and thankful for all her work. She is one of the first members to ever join the CMA team and to witness the indelible mark she has made from the very beginning when she hit the pavement to recruit our initial families to now continuing to build and improve our front office has been nothing short of tremendous."

"You can tell she cares deeply about all students and families and their well-being. She is a quick learner and does things right the first time. We are so lucky to have her as a staff member and teammate."

"Claudia is the front office glue! As a founding staff member she has always jumped in when needed, even if it's not in her job description. She always gets the job done and with grace while wearing a hundred hats! She is so appreciated!"

All about Claudia!
1. What is your favorite thing about working at Caliber?
Working in the front office gives me the opportunity to work closely with both our students and families. I love that our families are so appreciative of the work we do here at ChangeMakers Academy.

2. What was your favorite subject growing up? 
I loved writing. There’s no right or wrong and I was able to express myself without any criticism.

3. What is your favorite memory associated with music?
My favorite memories associated with music came from watching my son Sergio perform throughout his school years. It was always a proud parent moment when he would play a solo on his flute or any of his other instruments. 

4. If you could go on a dream vacation, what would you do + where would you go?
My dream vacation would be a trip to Greece. It looks so beautiful and calm. One day I’d love to go there
with my husband... Our honeymoon is way overdue!

5. What is your favorite thing about the Bay Area (or specifically Vallejo!)?
I love diversity that both the Bay Area and Solano has. Let’s not forget the food!!!!

6. What is one fun fact that most people don't know about you?
I played sports and was even captain of the basketball team! 

Thank you, Claudia!