Trust the Dedication of California's Foremost Educational Leaders

CAVA's administrative staff is composed of professionals and specialists dedicated to making a virtual academy a very real learning experience. Here are some of the people who work behind the scenes to keep CAVA responsive to your needs:

Head of Schools
Katrina Abston is the Head of Schools for the California Virtual Academies. Having gained experience in traditional brick–and–mortar and independent study settings, she brings a broad scope of educational knowledge to her position. Serving on state committees, reviewing curriculum, teaching parenting classes, and designing home interventions for special education students are a few of the leadership roles Ms. Abston has performed during her years of charter school service. Her administrative experience includes working as a categorical projects manager, case manager, special education director, district–wide teacher coach, and various other school management positions. She holds a Multiple Subject Credential, a Mild to Moderate Education Specialist Credential, and a master's degree in special education. She has chosen public school and homeschool placements as educational options for her children.

Dean of Student Services
Laura Terrazas is CAVA's Dean of Student Services. She graduated from CSU, Fresno, with a bachelor's in English and nutrition, and received her multi–subject teaching credential from National University. Laura has a single–subject credential in English and a mild/moderate special education credential. She previously held the position of a general education teacher, where she gained expertise in the K¹² curriculum. Laura also served as special education teacher and the special education coordinator with CAVA. In these positions she worked closely with families, supporting them with their learning. She also worked closely with the Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA), developing SELPA petitions and policies, and ensuring that all students receive services. Laura has experience in brick–and–mortar settings in the independent study/charter school field, and she works hard to ensure that all her students get the opportunity to be successful.

High School Academic Administrator
Victoria Nelson received her bachelor’s degree in Communications from Chapman University, her Multiple Subjects Credential from Whittier College, and her master’s in Education from Whittier College. She taught in the classroom for seven years in a brick-and-mortar school as a teacher and reading specialist. Ms. Nelson started with CAVA in 2005. She has worked as a teacher, Lead Teacher, and Regional Program Coordinator prior to her role as CAVA’s HS Academic Administrator.

K–8 Academic Administrator
April Warren is the K–8 Academic Administrator. Her experience in brick-and-mortar schools and alternative educational models has provided her with a wide range of skills necessary in her position. She has worked closely with teachers and families to ensure academic success of students in the areas of attendance and achievement. Previously, she created teacher training modules and designed parent education tracks. She received her bachelor's degree in child development and her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from California State University, San Bernardino.

Vice President, Western Region
James Konantz was formerly Assistant Superintendent for Secondary School Redesign and Charter School Development of the Los Angeles Unified School District. In his 35–year career with LAUSD, Mr. Konantz served in a variety of roles that included instruction, administration, career development, technology, and instructional materials. He was a teacher for seven years, an instructional advisor, and an assistant principal, and had leadership roles in curriculum development, special education, career development, and specialized programs for high–risk youth. From 1998 to 2003, Mr. Konantz led the information and technology efforts of LAUSD, including the E–rate program. Mr. Konantz was the recipient of the 2002 "Shaper of the Future" award from “Converge Magazine” and the "Technology for Learning" award from the L.A. County Superintendent of Schools. He has also served as a consultant to numerous organizations, including the Japanese Ministry of Science, Technology, and Education.