Our Staff and Faculty

La Verne Niles

Ms. Niles is an enthusiastic educator and lover of children. Originally from the East Coast, she has lived in several states accumulating a breadth of knowledge and experiences from various educational institutions. She has six years of experience working within the Philadelphia School District. She previously taught and held leadership positions within the religious sector for twelve years. Ms. Niles is passionate about teaching the whole child and incorporating a love of self and communal identity. She has been successful with promoting student achievement and building strong relationships with both students and families. Prior to entering the field of education, Ms. Niles was a prominent banker for ten years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from the University of Hartford in Connecticut and a Master’s in Education from Chestnut Hill College in Pennsylvania.

Mr. Tran is a 2017 graduate of San Jose State University with a Master's in Education. I have teaching experience in 2nd and 5th grade level. It is my goal to combine my experience with my ability to be compassionate, empathetic, and a responsible teacher who will make a positive contribution to Perseverance Prep School. I want my students to become critical thinkers, to take control over their life and be creators of tomorrow.

Alexander Tran

Ms. Martinez graduated from Cal State East Bay in 2019 with a Bachelor's in Hospitality & Tourism. In addition to her degree, she has worked in customer service for over 15 years. She is looking forward to bringing her skills to the charter school community. 

Michelle Martinez 

Ms. Ortega graduated in 2017 from San Jose State University with a Double Major in Spanish and Social Work. She has prior experience in outreach and engagement. I previously worked as an IA in Special Education for 2 years with children who are from multi-cultured diverse backgrounds. I am very excited to have the privilege to spread the word about Perseverance Preparatory to our community. 

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Veronica Ortega

Alexandria LeeNatali

Lead Founder and Executive Director of Perseverance Preparatory School, Ms. LeeNatali began working with high school students at Downtown College Preparatory School on the Alameda, then joined Teach For America and taught at Cornerstone Academy Preparatory School (“Cornerstone”) in the Franklin-McKinley School District. Cornerstone, a 2014 California Distinguished School located within the boundaries of San Jose, was also founded by a Fellow with Building Excellent Schools. At Cornerstone, Ms. LeeNatali taught 2nd, 5th, and 6th grades, piloted a leadership curriculum based on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, served on the school’s Hiring Committee, and contributed as Master Teacher for the pilot Teacher Residency Program. Ms. LeeNatali also served as Manager of Operations and Culture as well as Site Director at Teach For America’s intensive summer training program for two years. Bringing a deep commitment to the students and families of San Jose and a regional as well as national network of training and support from Building Excellent Schools, Ms. LeeNatali earned a BA in Law and Social Justice, as well as a BS in Psychology, and Multiple Subject Teaching Credentials from Loyola Marymount University.