About Your Instructor
Passionate about water. Passionate about people.
I believe every person can learn to love the water.
I started Sunshine Swim Academy because I saw a gap: too many swimmers — especially neurodiverse learners — were being turned away from programs that weren't built for them. I wanted to create something different. Something warm, patient, and genuinely celebratory.
My approach is simple: I meet you exactly where you are. Whether you're a fearless 4-year-old ready to jump in, a nervous adult who never learned, or a sensory-sensitive swimmer who needs extra time to trust the water — we'll find your pace together.
I've trained extensively in adaptive aquatics through SwimAngelfish (I'm a Level 4 Certified Swim Whisperer — their highest tier), as well as the American Red Cross and Starfish Aquatics Institute. I'm CPR, AED, and First Aid certified, and I stay current because your safety matters.
All my lessons are held at Simpkins Family Swim Center here in Santa Cruz County — a warm, accessible, beautifully maintained facility that makes the pool feel like the welcoming place it should be.
Credentials & Certifications
Trained to the highest standard, so you can focus on swimming.
SwimAngelfish Level 4
Certified Swim Whisperer
The highest level of SwimAngelfish's adaptive aquatics certification. Specialized training in instruction for neurodiverse learners.
American Red Cross WSI
Water Safety Instructor
Nationally recognized certification in water safety and swim instruction methodology.
Starfish Aquatics Institute
Certified Swim Instructor
Comprehensive aquatic instruction certification from one of the leading swim education organizations.
CPR / AED / First Aid
Current Certification
Fully certified in emergency response so every lesson environment is as safe as possible.
Teaching Philosophy
Safety First, Always
Water safety isn't a module — it's the foundation. Every swimmer leaves my lessons with stronger water awareness and confidence.
Celebrate Every Win
Putting your face in the water for the first time is a huge deal. I treat it that way. Progress looks different for every swimmer and every milestone matters.
No Rush, No Pressure
I don't have a checklist I'm racing through. We move at your pace. Learning to swim should feel good — not stressful.
Relationship-Based Learning
Trust is the prerequisite for everything. I spend time building a real connection before asking a swimmer to do anything that feels uncertain.
Simpkins Family Swim Center
All Sunshine Swim Academy lessons are held at Simpkins Family Swim Center, part of Santa Cruz County Parks. It's a warm, welcoming facility with accessible pools, comfortable water temperatures, and a supportive environment.
Santa Cruz County, CA
Facility photo coming soon