Faculty and staff
Exceptional educators, mentors, and leaders dedicated to every student’s success.
Meet the people behind High Bluff Academy.
Our faculty bring deep expertise, warmth, and a shared commitment to personalized education. They are scholars, professionals, artists, and mentors who know their students well and care deeply about their growth—both in and out of the classroom.
School leadership
Kun Xuan
Head of School
Head of School with 17+ years in education and investment, focused on innovative, student-centered learning environments.
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George Humphreys
Director & Principal
Director and Principal known for Chemistry, AP Chemistry, Physics, and building lasting mentor relationships with students.
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Ethan Alvarée
Director of Instruction and Curriculum
Math, statistics, and computer science educator, curriculum writer for College Board, and director of technology at HBA.
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Molly Sun
Director of Admissions and Operations
Admissions and operations leader with a background in higher education, language teaching, and cross-cultural communication.
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Kristin O'Connor
Office Manager & Student Activities Coordinator
Office manager and activities coordinator with a background in Child Development and a passion for student success.
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Ishaan Mishra
Academic & College Counselor
Academic and college counselor focused on helping students navigate college, career pathways, and long-term goals.
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Ellen Sullivan
English Department Chair
English and Social Science educator with a background in international affairs and a passion for literacy and communication.
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Alan Saltamachio
Biology & Environmental Science Teacher
Veteran biology and environmental science teacher with 30+ years of experience and a passion for hands-on learning.
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Fran Dickson
Spanish Department Chair
Spanish teacher from Chile who brings language, culture, and lived experience into every lesson.
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Tricia Tigli
French & ESL Teacher
French and ESL teacher with a global background, deep linguistic training, and a love of travel and culture.
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Kris Bunce
Math & Science Teacher
Former nuclear engineer and research scientist teaching math, chemistry, and physics with real-world rigor.
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Will Anderson, Ph.D.
Science Teacher
Ph.D. biochemist and longtime San Diego educator making advanced science accessible and exciting for students.
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Lindy Benson
Economics Teacher
Economics teacher with deep academic training, a global background, and a passion for both students and animals.
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Judy Beck
Studio Art Teacher
Artist, designer, and educator with a rich career in art, design, philanthropy, and global travel.
Read full bio →Teaching is personal here.
At High Bluff Academy, students are known by name, strengths, and aspirations. Our faculty build real relationships, provide thoughtful feedback, and help each student discover what they’re capable of—academically and beyond.