Growing Faith.
Building Character.
Preparing for Kindergarten!
Mission Kidz Staff
At Mission Kidz, caring for your children is more than just a career. It is our heart and our ministry. We believe we have been called to this great work of "Growing Faith, Building Character, and Preparing for Kindergarten".
Our staff members are trained and qualified in accordance with California Department of Education requirements and uniquely equipped by God with gifts and talents to nurture, teach, and care for every child entrusted to us.
Mabel Talavera, BA ECED
Director
My name is Mabel Talavera, and I am honored to serve as the Director of Mission Kidz. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Vanguard University. I am certified in CPR and Water Safety through the American Red Cross, and I am also a Certified Mandated Reporter.
I have dedicated 25 years to early childhood education as a lead teacher and director, including the past four years serving as Director of MKZ. I am passionate about helping children grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually while partnering with families and encouraging each child to reach their God-given potential in a loving, Christ-centered environment.
A fun fact about me is that I love to clean! In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my husband and adult children.
Melinda Talavera Gonzalez, MPH
Administrative Secretary
Hi, I’m Melinda, and I serve as the Administrative Secretary at Mission Kidz! My experience in higher education, Kids Ministry, and as the VBS Director at The Mission has allowed me to combine my heart for ministry with my passion for education, leadership, and serving families by creating efficient systems that help our school run smoothly.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Vanguard University and a Master of Public Health from Azusa Pacific University. I am passionate about the important role education plays in a child’s lifelong health and well-being, recognizing that a strong educational foundation can positively shape opportunities and outcomes for years to come.
In my free time, you can find me at the beach or spending time with my husband, family, and friends—but always with a book or my Kindle in hand, because I refuse to go anywhere without a plot twist!
Lorraine Piña
Teacher
My name is Lorraine Pina, and I am the Little Caboose Teacher at Mission Kidz. I hold an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education and have worked with young children for over 10 years.
What I love most about being a preschool teacher is how the children learn through the play-based approach. My favorite part of teaching is building a safe environment for the littles to come excited and ready to learn something new every day.
Outside of teaching, I love going to the gym, going on hikes, getting my nails done, going shopping, watching sports, spending time with my family, and coaching T-ball!
Maria Rubio
Teacher
My name is Maria Rubio, and I am the Big Engines/Conductors Teacher at Mission Kidz. I have an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and have been working at Mission Kidz for almost three years.
I feel truly blessed to serve as an advocate for the little ones in my care, creating a classroom where every child feels loved, safe, and encouraged to grow academically, socially, and spiritually. One of my favorite parts of teaching is learning from my students each day—their curiosity, kindness, and joy continually remind me to see the world through their eyes and strengthen my own faith.
In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, cooking, making special memories, and thanking God for the opportunity to do what I love every day.
Najelli Villanueva
Teacher Assistant
Hello, my name is Najelli Villanueva. I graduated from high school in 2024, and I am currently pursuing a degree in Child Development at Cal State University Dominguez Hills.
For nearly 2 years, I have had the privilege of working as a teacher’s assistant for all teachers, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has only deepened my passion for becoming an educator.
I also serve as a Sunday School leader and teacher at Mission Ebenezer Family Church, where I attend with my family.
Outside of school and work, I love spending quality time with my loved ones and participating in church events.
