Faculty and Staff Directory

The La Jolla Country Day School faculty, administration and staff are strong, diverse and talented individuals who have been drawn together for a common purpose. Ours is a vibrant community with an exciting charge—to create a stronger, better place where our children and those of future generations can grow to become excellent individuals, citizens and adventurers of the world.

Below is a list of the administration, staff and faculty. To locate a member, click on the drop-down menus below to search by division, department or last name. Faculty and staff bios are also available below.

Faculty/Staff Directory

  • Photo of Kelley Hart
    Kelley Hart
    Educator, ECC and LS Performing Arts
    (858) 453-3440 x360
    Bio
     
    “I inspire greatness for a better world by instilling in students the idea that we are all creative, expressive beings capable of musical growth and appreciation, regardless of natural talent.”

    Kelley Hart believes music is an integral part of a child’s life. Through music, children develop a sense of self-identity, release stress, communicate complex emotions in a healthy way, and connect with the beauty of the world through aesthetic experiences. Ms. Hart regularly witnesses the impact music has on self-esteem and confidence. Working together with fellow musicians builds long-lasting friendships. Performing allows children an opportunity to reach out and touch the hearts of all those who hear it.

    Ms. Hart began her musical studies at age 8, when her parents gave her a piano and lessons for her birthday. She earned a Bachelor of Science in music education from Missouri Southern State University and a Master of Music in opera performance from the University of Texas at Austin. She has taught all ages, pre-K through high school, served on the faculty at Kenyon College, Ohio State University and the University of San Diego. She is the co-founder of Opera NEO, a local nonprofit summer opera festival. Ms. Hart enjoys teaching students of all ages and believes her strengths lie in the diversity of her musical experiences.

    Ms. Hart moved to San Diego in 2010 with her husband, Peter Kozma (who is also a musician), and their daughter, Sofie (who was two at the time). When Sofie started school as a junior kindergartener, they found a loving, supportive community at LJCDS and decided to put down roots in San Diego. Ms. Hart is thrilled to be a part of the LJCDS community!
     
  • Photo of Adrian Hayes
    Adrian Hayes
    Associate Educator, Grade 4
    (858) 453-3440 x750
    Bio
     
    “I inspire greatness by bringing a unique excitement to the classroom and by building a special connection with students. I believe that all students have unique gifts, and it is up to us as instructors to encourage the growth and development of those gifts. The more we learn how to overcome challenges, the more we learn about ourselves and our resources.” 

    Adrian Hayes is a Lower School associate educator. He provides in-class support to Grades 2–4 teachers, including classroom management, duty coverages and small group assignments.

    Before joining LJCDS in 2020, Mr. Hayes served as both a college and professional basketball coach in Colorado and San Diego. He served as program coordinator for the YMCA, developing after-school programs for lower school-aged students. Mr. Hayes also runs a local basketball program in San Diego, where he develops the skills of youth basketball players and coaches several competitive basketball teams. 

    Mr. Hayes was born and raised in Austin, Texas. He dedicates his free time to staying in shape and spending time with friends and family. He is also very active in the community with his nonprofit organization, Play Our Dues, supporting youth with special needs. 
  • Photo of Kimberly Huntoon
    Kimberly Huntoon
    Educator, Grade 2
    (858) 453-3440 x209
    Bio
     
    “I inspire greatness for a better world by encouraging children to become their best self. This often means digging deeper to reach beyond what they think they can achieve. Taking time to enjoy one’s successes and conversely reflecting and learning from one’s mistakes is another lesson I value teaching. I also strive to teach children to show respect and kindness to others.”
     
    Kim Huntoon works to provide a safe, caring and inspirational environment for young children so that instruction can flourish. The importance of being a positive influence at the beginning of a child’s education is a continuing source of motivation for her. She enjoys that no two days are ever the same when working with young children. Ms. Huntoon has experience not only in kindergarten but also in Tiny Torreys, junior kindergarten and second grade.
     
    Ms. Huntoon moved to San Diego after graduating from Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tenn. She worked in the computer industry and college admissions before joining the faculty at La Jolla Country Day School. She and her husband live in Carlsbad, where she enjoys gardening and tennis.
 

Faculty and Staff Spotlights

La Jolla Country Day School

9490 Genesee Avenue
La Jolla, CA 92037
858-453-3440

© 2025 La Jolla Country Day School 

Privacy Policy

Country Day Connection Newsletter

Accredited by: