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Team Members

Kate Dao

Parent & Founder

With over 18 years of experience designing personalized learning programs, Kate’s dedicated to creating a space where students think critically, explore boldly, and grow with purpose.

Sunayana Das

Guide

With a Master’s in Child Psychology and over 15 years of experience, Sunayana brings deep expertise and heart to her work with young learners.

Beth Terwilliger

Parent & Community & Growth Coordinator

Beth is a dedicated mom, entrepreneur, and lifelong animal advocate who brings warmth, creativity, and connection to her work at Acton Academy East Bay. She’s passionate about helping families discover a learning environment where children thrive with curiosity and confidence.

Margaret Smith

Guide

With a background in biology and a passion for outdoor education, Margaret brings curiosity and energy to the Acton East Bay studio.

Vivien Wu

College Counselor

Vivien is an experienced college counselor with degrees from Harvard and Wharton, and over 15 years in admissions advising. She supports high school learners through every step of their college journey—from Ivy League applications to creative gap year planning—with insight, strategy, and heart.

Laura Sandefer

Advisor

Laura's greatest hero is her mother who was a Master Teacher. Her wisest mentor is her father who sent her off to college with two words of advice: "Be curious".

Julie Benge

Guide

With a Master’s in Elementary Education and a lifelong passion for learning, Julie brings warmth, creativity, and a love for exploration into the studio every day.

Elijah Guan

Music Guide

Elijah brings over eight years of musical and teaching experience, helping Acton Academy East Bay learners build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of music.

Jeff Sandefer

Advisor

Jeff lives a dual life as an entrepreneur and a Socratic Guide.

At Acton Academy East Bay, we promise your child will:

  • Embark on a Hero’s Journey- a purposeful path of growth, leadership, and self-discovery.

  • Develop into a curious, independent, lifelong learner through hands-on learning and Socratic thinking.

  • Gain a deep respect for freedom- economic, political, and spiritual, through real-world, values-driven experiences.

  • Explore the beauty of the arts, science, and nature, building a sense of wonder about the world around them.

  • Discover and apply their unique gifts to solve meaningful challenges- preparing for life, college, and career.

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Through a mastery-based approach, your child will grow with confidence, purpose, and the tools to lead in a rapidly changing world.

© 2025 Acton Academy East Bay
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