Ms. Ann Tash,
Principal
As Thoreau High School embarks on its sixth year as a "Sober
School", Mrs. Tash begins her fifteenth year as principal. Committed
to continuation education, Mrs.Tash feels all students deserve a second chance
and she strives to see that Thoreau is a safe learning environment where students
can thrive and grow. Creating a drug-free school was an ambitious task but
it was a goal that required great determination and perseverance. Mrs. Tash
attributes the program's success to a dedicated and gifted staff who collectively
share a vision.
Ms. Nancy Piantanida,
Office Manager
Ms.Piantanida joined the Thoreau family in 2000. She is a welcomed
addition to the staff. Always cordial and gracious, Ms. Piantanida is responsible
for running an efficient, friendly office and is a favorite with Thoreau students.
Mrs. Lisa Robertson,
Science
Miss Turek came to Thoreau in her tenth year as an educator. She
worked as an elementary school teacher for the first part of her career, and
has now made the transition to continuation high school. Miss Turek teaches
science and math. She also runs the Tribes program where the students participate
in the Six Pillars of Character program that LAUSD adopted. ![]()
Ms. Gail Nettels,
English
Ms. Nettels has been teaching at Thoreau High School since 1994.
She feels that continuation school offers both teacher and student a unique
and valuable educational experience. Students are given the opportunity to
explore the limits of their potential and teachers are inspired to create
new challenging lessons. Ms. Nettels teaches English, Art and Computer. As
a member of the "Sober School" team, Ms. Nettels conducts Twelve Step meetings
on our campus. ![]()
Mr. Anthony Miranda,
Social Studies
Mr. Miranda comes the Thoreau in his eleventh year of teaching.
He taught nine years at a traditional high school and taught last year at
a continuation high school in Pasadena. He teaches Social Studies, P.E. and
Impact. Mr. Miranda enjoys helping students that face challenges and makes
a point of doing whatever it takes to help kids be successful.