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Teaching Staff

The Executive Administration at Embrace Learning Institute provides visionary leadership and strategic direction, ensuring that our mission of empowering students with special needs is achieved with excellence and integrity. This team is responsible for setting the overarching goals, developing innovative programs, and cultivating partnerships that enhance the learning experience for every student.

With extensive experience in education, organizational leadership, and community engagement, our executives bring both expertise and passion to their roles. They champion a culture of equity, inclusion, and high performance, guiding the institute toward continuous growth while maintaining a student-centered focus.

From overseeing operations to shaping long-term initiatives, the Executive Administration ensures that ELI remains a place where students thrive, staff excel, and families feel supported. Their leadership serves as the foundation for our commitment to personalized learning, innovation, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of every student we serve.

Aaron Katz

Special Education Teacher Supervisor

Aaron Katz is the Special Education Teacher Supervisor at the Bellevue campus.

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Drawing on both his professional background as a special education teacher and his personal experience attending a special education school, he offers informed insight into effective, student-centered instructional practices.

Bernabe Garza Jr.

General Education & Special Education Teacher's Assistant

Bernabe Garza Jr. is a dedicated educator at Embrace Learning Institute, deeply committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and growth-centered learning environment for all students.

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With a passion for helping every learner reach their potential, Bernabe combines his background in education, behavioral health, and athletics to create a classroom atmosphere that values perseverance, teamwork, and personal development. A summa cum laude graduate, Bernabe earned his Bachelor's degree in Physical Education with a Minor in Biblical Studies, where he developed a strong foundation in teaching methodologies, child development, and mentorship. His academic and professional journey reflects a lifelong devotion to empowering students—particularly those with unique learning needs—to gain confidence and independence. Before joining Embrace Learning Institute, Bernabe worked for a behavioral health organization, supporting children with a wide range of abilities and diagnoses, including both verbal and nonverbal students. In this role, he specialized in guiding students through behavioral challenges, implementing individualized support plans, and celebrating small daily victories that built toward lasting growth. His experience in coaching and behavioral intervention gives him a unique perspective on motivation and resilience—qualities he strives to instill in every student he works with. At ELI, Bernabe plays a vital role in both the general education and special education classrooms, assisting with academic instruction, behavioral support, and social-emotional development. Known for his calm presence, adaptability, and team-oriented mindset, he is always ready to lend a hand—whether supporting staff, mentoring students, or helping to facilitate inclusive classroom experiences. Outside the classroom, Bernabe continues to pursue his love of athletics as a competitive athlete, coach, and referee. He enjoys staying active through sports, spending time outdoors, and using physical activity as a way to build character and discipline. Whether in the classroom or on the field, Bernabe approaches every challenge with positivity, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Delaney Williams

B.E.S.S.

Delaney Williams is a Behavioral & Educational Support Specialist (B.E.S.S.) at Embrace Learning Institute, bringing a strong background in behavioral health and a passion for empowering students to thrive.

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With approximately four years of experience in the behavioral health field, Delaney has worked closely with children of varying needs, helping them develop critical social, emotional, and academic skills in both individual and group settings. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Washington State University in 2024 and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Special Education, demonstrating her commitment to continually expanding her expertise and enhancing her ability to support neurodiverse learners. Delaney's educational foundation, combined with her hands-on experience, enables her to implement evidence-based strategies that promote growth, independence, and confidence in her students. Delaney is recognized for her compassionate and patient approach, which fosters positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues alike. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time outdoors, including hiking and paddleboarding, and cherishes quality moments with her friends, family, and pets. Her dedication to personal wellness and connection complements her mission to inspire and uplift the children she works with every day.

Chelsea Hunter

B.E.S.S.

Chelsea Hunter is a Behavior & Educational Support Specialist (B.E.S.S.) at Embrace Learning Institute’s Tacoma location, where she is dedicated to supporting students with learning differences, behavioral challenges, and special needs.

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With hands-on experience in elementary special education classrooms in the Bethel School District, Chelsea brings a combination of professional expertise, empathy, and creativity to her work, helping students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Chelsea is currently pursuing a degree in Physical Therapy at Pierce College, reflecting her commitment to providing holistic support for students, including those who may benefit from physical therapy interventions as part of their educational plan. Her training and certifications, including Right Response Training and childhood trauma-informed practices, equip her to manage challenging behaviors, prevent escalation, and ensure the safety and well-being of every student in her care. At ELI, Chelsea excels at helping students develop coping strategies, self-confidence, and emotional regulation skills, empowering them to embrace their unique strengths and potential. She believes in creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child feels valued, understood, and capable of achieving success. Her passion for supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences, combined with her hands-on experience and professional dedication, makes Chelsea a vital member of the ELI team. Through her work, she helps students gain the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to succeed both in the classroom and beyond. Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys continuing her own education, exploring ways to integrate physical therapy and behavioral support, and remaining an advocate for holistic child development.

Chinedu Nnadi

B.E.S.S.

Chinedu Nnadi is a Behavioral and Educational Support Specialist (B.E.S.S.) at Embrace Learning Institute's Tacoma location.

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She brings a strong background in both healthcare and education, holding certifications as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and in CPR/BLS, as well as degrees in Nursing and Child and Youth Development with a specialization in Special Education. Chinedu's work is fueled by a deep sense of purpose—to create lasting, positive change for children who thrive with individualized care and attention. Her combined medical and educational training allows her to approach each student holistically, understanding not just their behavioral and academic needs, but also their emotional and physical well-being. She is passionate about helping students build confidence, develop essential life skills, and experience success both in the classroom and beyond. Throughout her career, Chinedu has supported children with a wide range of learning differences, emotional and behavioral challenges, and developmental needs. Her calm, nurturing presence and ability to connect authentically with each student make her a trusted figure in their growth and success. She values teamwork and collaboration, working closely with families, teachers, and therapists to create supportive, inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive. Beyond her professional expertise, Chinedu has a lifelong love of basketball, which has shaped her leadership, discipline, and teamwork skills. A former college athlete, she proudly earned two championship rings, including one game that ended with her memorable, game-winning three-pointer. Off the court, she enjoys staying active at the gym and exploring new cuisines with friends and family. Chinedu brings that same passion, energy, and commitment from the court into her work at ELI—empowering each student to discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and believe in their own potential.

Chris Furry

B.E.S.S.

Chris Furry is a Behavior & Educational Support Specialist (B.E.S.S.) at Embrace Learning Institute’s Tacoma campus, where he brings a strong blend of educational leadership, mentorship, and real-world experience to his work with students.

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Born in Sacramento, California, Chris has spent years supporting learners across a wide range of abilities and backgrounds. Chris has taught English, history, and AVID at the secondary level and has served as both an English Department Chair and a National Honor Society Advisor. His experience in education includes providing individualized instruction, mentoring students, and supporting learners through academic, social, and behavioral challenges. He is especially skilled at building meaningful relationships with students and helping them develop confidence, resilience, and self-advocacy skills. Before entering education, Chris served in the United States Army from 2007 to 2013 as an Ammunition Specialist. His military service helped shape his disciplined, adaptable, and calm approach—qualities that now guide his work in supporting students during moments of growth, challenge, and transition. In addition to his work at ELI, Chris is a published author, podcast host, and avid baseball fan. He values storytelling, collaboration, and connection, and brings those interests into his interactions with students whenever possible. Chris is passionate about helping students feel understood, supported, and equipped with the tools they need to thrive academically and socially.