A BIT ABOUT STAFF
MS. LIDIA
Teacher Aide
My name is Lidia Gonzalez. My mother's family, the Hernandez family, has called Catalina Island home since the early 1900s. Together with my husband, we raised our five children in the charming town of Avalon.
For the past 13 years, I have been part of the Catalina Kid Ventures team. I find great satisfaction in nurturing and guiding every child who joins this remarkable program.
One of the joys of my role is meeting former CKV children, now grown, as I walk through town. Their faces light up when they see me, and I truly treasure hearing about their fond memories and positive experiences at CKV.
MS. NICOLE
Teacher Aide
Hi, my name is Nicole. I am a multigenerational islander who absolutely loves this island and community.
I feel honored to be able to work with the youth of this wonderful town that helped to raise my daughter and myself. As someone who has always been in the service industry I enjoy taking care of people so I couldn't ask for a better environment with CKV to do that in
I look forward to seeing these amazing kids and am so grateful for the connections that I am making with them. It truly is a special experience ... especially when I have babysat so many of their parents in the past. Here's to round two!
MS. STACY
Director
Hello!! My name is Stacy Massey and I am the Director of CKV.
I grew up at Two Harbors and loved my time on the island, treasuring moments with family and friends. I am thrilled to be back!
I graduated from CSU Long Beach where I majored in Psychology with an emphasis in Child Development and Early Education. I later attended Hope International University for graduate work in Marriage and Family Studies and Orange Coast College for early childhood education classes, administration and supervision qualifications.
I have spent over 30 years working and playing in the ECE field … consistently striving to make a difference by encouraging kindness, helping to build a child’s self esteem and empowering them to live their best life possible.
MS. VANESSA
Preschool / Pre-K Teacher
I’m Ms. Vanessa, and I grew up on the picturesque Catalina Island. From a young age, whenever adults asked me, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” my answer was always “Teacher.” I was fortunate to have inspiring educators at Avalon School, who ignited my passion for learning and motivated me to pursue a career in teaching.
Helping raise my two youngest sisters taught me patience and gave me valuable insight into how children learn best—especially through play.
I earned an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Long Beach City College. Now, I am beginning my sixth year at
Catalina Kid Ventures.
My approach to teaching is rooted in nurturing curiosity, creativity, and kindness in every child. In the classroom, I emphasize hands-on activities, imaginative play, and the development of strong social-emotional skills.