Glitter, Glue, and a Genuine Love of Learning: Inside Ms. Khristyn Cheshire’s Kinder Classroom at SCVi
What does it look like when a child falls in love with learning? At Santa Clarita Valley International (SCVi) Charter School, a tuition-free TK–12th grade school in Castaic, Ms. C sees it happen every single day. As a TK–2 facilitator and grade-level leader, she designs hands-on experiences so engaging that learners forget they’re even “doing school.” Read on to meet the educator behind the magic.
Please tell us about your background and how you came to be at SCVi.
I currently serve as a TK–2 facilitator and grade-level leader, where I design engaging, developmentally responsive learning experiences that integrate literacy, math, science, social studies, STEAM, and social-emotional learning.
I hold a double Master’s degree and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Pepperdine University. I am deeply committed to project-based learning and believe young learners thrive when curiosity, creativity, and real-world problem solving are at the center of instruction.
In addition to teaching, I have led curriculum development initiatives, collaborated closely with colleagues and school leadership, and partnered with families through clear communication and meaningful relationships.
What are your favorite parts about your role?
My favorite part of my job is designing engaging learning experiences and seeing students actively curious, invested, and excited about their learning. I love creating opportunities where students feel safe to explore, ask questions, and think creatively.
What do you LOVE about SCVi? What sets it apart from other schools?
What sets SCVi Charter School apart is its intentional focus on personalized, student-centered learning grounded in real-world relevance. Learning here goes beyond isolated subjects—students engage in meaningful, interdisciplinary projects that encourage curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
SCVi prioritizes the whole child by embedding social-emotional learning, student voice, and strong relationships into daily practice. The flexible structure allows educators to meet learners where they are while fostering independence, confidence, and a genuine love of learning. Most importantly, SCVi is a close-knit community where educators and families partner together to support every student’s growth and success.
There are great social-emotional learning activities and opportunities at SCVi. Can you share a story about seeing learners using them in action?
A moment that stands out to me was seeing a learner step away from a challenging task, take a few deep breaths, and return ready to try again, without adult prompting. I’ve also seen students show empathy by checking in on classmates, offering help, and resolving conflicts with words rather than reactions. These moments reflect the strong culture of self-awareness, resilience, and community that SEL supports at SCVi, and they are powerful reminders that these skills truly stick when they are modeled, practiced, and valued daily.
Please give us a few examples of hands-on project-based learning in your classroom:
Two of my favorite project-based learning units are Feathered Friends and Holidays Around the World, both of which are designed to be highly hands-on, interdisciplinary, and developmentally appropriate.
In Feathered Friends, learners explore birds through science, engineering, literacy, and art. Students research bird characteristics and habitats, observe real-world examples, and design and build nests or gliders using a variety of materials. Through this project, learners practice asking questions, testing ideas, revising designs, and communicating their learning, while developing a deeper understanding of how structure and function work in nature.
In Holidays Around the World, learners explore global cultures and traditions through geography, storytelling, music, art, and hands-on creation. Students “travel” to different countries, learn about holiday customs, and create artifacts such as passports, crafts, and written reflections. This project emphasizes cultural awareness, empathy, and global citizenship while strengthening literacy, collaboration, and presentation skills.
Both projects encourage curiosity, creativity, and real-world connections, allowing learners to take ownership of their learning while building academic and social-emotional skills.
Fun Facts About Ms. C
– I have two Master’s degrees and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Pepperdine University—but don’t be fooled, my happiest days still involve glitter, cardboard engineering, and very serious debates about which glue works best.
– I’m a big fan of turning learning into an experience. I enjoy creating immersive projects, transforming classrooms, and designing hands-on activities that make students forget they’re “doing school.”
– I’m a mother to two college-aged daughters, which means I’ve lived through every phase of school from glue sticks to graduation and it’s given me a deep appreciation for both the joy and chaos of learning.
– I’m known for being direct, high-energy, and fiercely supportive. I hold high standards, advocate loudly for my people, and believe that kindness and accountability can (and should) exist at the same time.
Thank you Ms. C, we love the excitement you bring to your classroom, glitter and glue included!
Come take a tour of our school and see our safe and supportive TK-12 in action. Enrollment for 2026-7 is open!
About SCVi:
Santa Clarita Valley International School (SCVi) is a free public charter school empowering TK-12th graders to become conscientious, compassionate, and responsible citizens of the world. Founded in 2008, we use project-based and social-emotional learning concepts to inspire and motivate lifelong learners with the skills they need to lead in the 21st century. We incorporate technology into every component of our curriculum, and we value and encourage development of leadership skills by inspiring confidence and character in each of our unique learners. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadsantaclarita.org.
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