Our Educators

Introducing Heather Gerber, owner, founder, CEO, and Science Subject Specialist for grades 3-8 at Guiding Our Days! Heather is a California native residing in San Juan Capistrano, CA, with a strong passion for teaching science, dentistry, entrepreneurship, and public speaking. With over 20 years of experience in the dental industry, Heather discovered her entrepreneurial spirit while completing her dental studies and started her own successful spray tan business, working with celebrities and developing her own solution for wholesale to other companies.

Heather's love for teaching started during her time in dental school. Her extensive knowledge in this area has inspired her to specialize in science. Heather has taught various subjects, including Public Speaking, Entrepreneurship, Dental Hygiene, World of Animals, Anatomy, and Habitats and Ecosystems. She brings her wealth of experience in both teaching and entrepreneurship to inspire and mentor her students. Heather retired from clinical practice as a dental hygienist because she was called to raise the next generation of children to do mighty works for God's Kingdom.

When not in the classroom, Heather enjoys exploring the outdoors and spending quality time with her husband of 21 years, and her two daughters, Avalon (9) and Brooklyn (13), who attend Guiding Our Days.

Introducing Nicole Clifford, our TK - Kindergarten teacher at Guiding Our Days! Nicole is the compassionate heart of our education team, known for her big smile, warm demeanor, and unwavering commitment to her students. Her TK-K program beautifully blends traditional classroom instruction with hands-on learning through Montessori methods and dramatic play, creating a dynamic environment where young learners thrive. Nicole brings endless creativity into the classroom, turning every lesson into a fun and engaging experience. With a passion for art and a love for painting, she infuses her teaching with vibrant energy, inspiring young minds to explore and express themselves.

Outside of school, Nicole leads a dynamic ministry for teenagers at her church, offering guidance and support during their formative years. She also enjoys spending time outdoors, connecting with nature, and caring for animals. Whether she’s gardening or serving her community, Nicole’s dedication to making a positive impact shines through in all she does. Her influence is immeasurable, leaving a lasting legacy of positivity and inspiration. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our team.

Introducing Miss Brianna Beach, our enthusiastic and devoted 1st-2nd grade teacher at Guiding Our Days! Brianna is the caring cornerstone of our early elementary team, celebrated for her kind heart, patient approach, and unwavering dedication to her students. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her classroom, thanks to her strong foundation in Elementary Education and her teaching credential in multiple subjects. 

Brianna has a remarkable gift for making learning an exciting journey, where every day is filled with discovery, growth, and joy. Her classroom is a vibrant space where young learners are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and develop a love for learning that will last a lifetime. With her nurturing guidance, students not only master foundational skills but also build confidence and creativity, setting the stage for their future success.

Beyond the classroom, Brianna’s zest for life is evident in her love for animals, her passion for the beach, and her adventurous spirit as a skier. She brings the same joy and energy to her teaching, creating a warm and inviting environment where her students feel valued and inspired. We are incredibly fortunate to have Miss Beach as part of our team, and she can’t wait to embark on this exciting educational journey with your 1st-2nd graders!

   Introducing Miss Duncan, our dedicated and enthusiastic English Language Arts teacher. Hailing from sunny Orange County and a proud alumna of JSerra Catholic High School, Miss Duncan pursued her love for education at Chapman University, where she majored in Integrated Educational Studies and minored in Language and Literacy. With four years of teaching experience under her belt, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for fostering creativity.

Her journey into literature and writing began early, inspired by her supportive parents and teachers who encouraged her to explore topics that ignited her curiosity. Now, in her own classroom, Miss Duncan is committed to creating an environment where students can discover their unique voices, think critically, express themselves creatively, and develop a lifelong appreciation for reading and writing through engaging activities in literature and storytelling.

Beyond the classroom, Miss Duncan is all about balance and fun. Whether she's soaking up the sun at the beach, enjoying quality time with family and friends, or deepening her faith at church and Bible study, she brings joy to every moment. She also loves staying active, whether it's through pilates, barre classes, or going for a run. Miss Duncan's dynamic energy and love for language arts make her an incredible addition to our team!

   Introducing Ms. Grace McCormick, our Math Subject Specialist for grades 3-8 at Guiding Our Days! Born and raised in Southern California, Grace has always had a deep-seated passion for math, a love that began in her childhood and only grew stronger over the years. From excelling in advanced math classes in middle school to skipping a level of calculus in high school, Grace's journey with math has been nothing short of impressive. Her academic prowess led her to pass the AP Calculus exam and earn college credit, all while ranking within the top 25 of her class.

Grace's commitment to education is fueled by her lifelong dream of teaching math. Although she initially pursued pre-med chemistry in college—drawn by its mathematical elements—she eventually found her true calling in secondary math education. Her diverse experiences, including three years of respite care for children with disabilities and a background in behavioral therapy, have only deepened her understanding and dedication to working with students.

With her engaging teaching style and unwavering dedication, Grace makes math an exciting and rewarding journey for middle and upper elementary students. Her enthusiasm and commitment shine through as she inspires her students to not only grasp mathematical concepts but also develop a genuine love for learning. Grace is also deeply involved in ministry, leading middle and high school students at her church, and she continues to pursue a degree in Theology, blending her passions for education and faith.  

Introducing Mrs. Dahl, our Social Studies and Geography teacher specialist, sharing teaching responsibilities with Mrs. Gerber. In addition to teaching, she plays a vital role in overseeing classrooms across the school, ensuring that both teachers and students have the resources and support they need to succeed.

Mrs. Dahl holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles and brings over 15 years of experience working with children in various educational settings. Known for her exceptional ability to connect with students, she is passionate about making learning engaging, meaningful, and fun through project-based and experiential learning methods. Whether it’s building models, creating presentations, or collaborating on group activities, Mrs. Dahl ensures that history, geography, and science come alive for her students.

Her hands-on approach helps students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while exploring real-world applications of their studies. She believes in fostering curiosity and a love of learning by encouraging students to take ownership of their education through creative and interactive projects. Through immersive activities and hands-on projects, Mrs. Dahl encourages students to actively engage with history and geography sparking curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world around them

As a dedicated wife to her husband, Derick, for 14 years and a proud mother to three boys—Luke (12), Liam (10), and Henry (7)—Mrs. Dahl brings warmth, compassion, and a wealth of experience to her role. She is thrilled to guide students in their academic journeys, helping them grow academically, personally, and spiritually.