Staff Directory
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Teacher: 7th and 8th Grade Science
rsself@seattleschools.orgWith a warm and welcoming community of students, parents and staff, Blaine continues to be the right fit for me. I've been teaching middle school here for nearly 20 years! It often feels like my second home. I am an innately curious and enthusiastic individual and hope these characteristics are conveyed through my love of teaching science and understanding the complexities of our fascinating world. I have two wonderful children in Seattle Public Schools and an amazing wife who works at Children's Hospital. We all love preparing and enjoying great food, soccer, books and music of all kinds, anything adventurous and outdoors, and traveling to other cultures and countries.
Teacher: 6th and 8th Grade Math and Algebra
metorcaso@seattleschools.orgHello and welcome to the new school year! I'm so excited for another year teaching math and computer science (a new elective) at Blaine!
My teaching career started in the Auburn School District from 1998-2011. After that I moved to SPS, and it was nice to be working closer to my Ballard home! In the last 20 years I've taught 4th grade, 5th grade, middle school ELA, Geography, Science and Math (my personal favorite). I love teaching 6th and 7th grade math at Blaine! Sports are another love, and besides cheering on my Mariners and Seahawks, my favorite NL baseball teams are the Cubs and Dodgers... maybe that will help you figure out which one in the picture is me!
Music and Theatre Teacher
tmvanduser@seattleschools.orgHello! This is my first year at Blaine and I am so excited to have the opportunity to help build the music and theatre departments. Prior to this year, I was the music technology specialist at Green Lake Elementary. I am excited to bring a modern take on music and the arts to our wonderful Blaine students.
I grew up nearby in Mukilteo but ever since I was little, I've dreamed of living in Seattle and contributing to this wonderful music and arts community. On top of teaching, I perform in several choral ensembles. Performing is such a joyful part of my life and I am excited to offer opportunities for these students to do the same!
Beyond teaching and performing, I am a dog lover, cat owner, and avid explorer!
