Andrea Gardner: Science Teacher

My name is Andrea Gardner and I am a science teacher at San Diego Virtual School.

I completed my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at Towson University in Towson, Maryland. During my years in Maryland I had the opportunity to study the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. From there, I moved to California and obtained my Single-Subject Teaching Credential in Biological Sciences from National University in San Diego. Once I began my teaching career, I obtained my Masters of Education in Cross Cultural Education from National University. I have taught both Middle School and High School for 14 years in Hawaii, Virginia, and California.

When I am not teaching I enjoy spending time with my family. My husband is in the Navy and we have young 4 children: Kai, Brady, Eva, and Jonathan. We also have a 4 year old husky named Koda. I also enjoy playing the drums and the piano. I love being outdoors and enjoy hiking and paddleboarding.

Heidi Bridges: Science Teacher/College and Career Counselor

Hello!  My name is Heidi Bridges and I am the Academic Dean of Students at San Diego Virtual School where I get the pleasure of working with our students to help them feel successful in their academic journey.  I also work with our online curriculum partners, serve as the homeless and foster youth liaison, am developing our CTE program and help our seniors develop their post secondary plans.   I have a B.A. in Environmental Science from UC Santa Barbara, a single subject teaching credential from the University of Maine at Orono to teach middle and high school life science, and a college and career counseling certificate from UC San Diego.  I love being part of San Diego Virtual School and feel thankful to have the opportunity to work with our students in helping them develop their post secondary dreams.  My goal is that all our students will graduate and feel like they are a valuable member in the community and they can overcome any hardship they may have in life and make a positive impact.