3rd Grade Teachers

Samantha Levy, Lead Teacher

After taking a break from the classroom to stay home with my babies I am beyond excited to get back to teaching at the New School and can’t wait to get started! I was born in Bakersfield, California and eventually moved to San Francisco to attend SF State. This is going to be my 10th year living in SF!

While at SFSU, I earned my BA, Masters in Ed and teaching credential. During my credential program, I did my field work at Jefferson Elementary in the Sunset. I was later lucky enough to teach a 3rd grade classroom of my own and stay within the community.

In my free time I like to take my two little guys, Milo and Remy, to different parks in the city. We love the new Tunnel Tops park in the Presidio. I also enjoy reading Bon Appetit magazine, organizing our new apartment and visiting small shops around the city.

Rebekah Kitchens, Lead Teacher

I moved to SF this summer from Birmingham, AL where I received my BS in Elementary Education from UAB and served as the 5th grade lead ELA teacher last year at a Birmingham charter school. I am so excited to continue learning and exploring the city and feel so privileged to be joining a school here that shares my same values on student-centered learning, equity, and inclusion.

I can’t wait to jump into my role and work alongside the staff, students, and families of New School SF to help guide the next generation to become critical thinkers and socially conscious leaders. In my free time, I enjoy taking my dog to different parks, snuggling up with my cat and a good book, and exploring new places as I discover all the Bay Area has to offer.

Christina Fortenberry, Resident Teacher

I was born in Berkeley, California and spent most of my time participating in competitive gymnastics or playing volleyball! My journey through the educational field has been very interesting! I began as a Behavioral Therapist, transitioned into a Teacher's Assistant role for two years and then was a Lead Science Teacher for another.

I've also coached Middle and High School Varsity Volleyball! My love for sports and coaching introduced me to teaching and I have not looked back since.

My goals include inspiring kids to dream big, never give up, and to find passion within any subject. School can be challenging and it is my job to help students figure out how best to navigate through it! I hope to have my own classroom in a few years and it will be filled with love, fun, Disney, and happy kids!