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Feb 20

Noelle Torres

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Being able to teach my native language, English, to adults has been incredibly rewarding. I truly cherish the relationships I build with my students. Our classroom is a welcoming space where we share, learn, and laugh together.

I have also enjoyed studying French and Spanish, and I spent most of my professional career teaching French at the junior high level. In addition to teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children, going for walks for exercise, reading, singing, napping, and eating candy.

Feb 11

Jamie Castello

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I have been married to my best friend for 27 wonderful years. I’m originally from Pittsburgh, PA, and spent nine years living in Ecuador before moving to Utah in 2023. I’ve taught English for more than 11 years, and I truly understand the challenges students face. I love being part of their English-learning journey and enjoy watching them grow and become part of a community. Now empty nesters, my spouse and I love traveling—especially cruising. We’ve visited 12 countries so far and look forward to many more adventures together!

Sep 14

Simone Ongoongotau

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I’m from Florida and have been living in Utah now for 2 years. Happily married to my college sweetheart. I am an empty nester. My daughter is now going on her sophomore year at the University of Hawaii. I love being outdoors, hiking, swimming or anything outside. I do love to bake, travel and shop.

Nov 09

Ron Mortensen

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I love teaching and meeting people from other cultures. After getting my BA in Spanish and English from BYU, I taught in LA and then Saudi Arabia for the national oil company’s training programs. I was able to work in various areas, including curriculum development creating textbooks and exams, and eventually as Department Chair of English and General Studies for their College Prep Program. I also mentored the Speech and Drama Clubs. I now greatly enjoy teaching in the Alpine Adult Ed program. My interests include swimming, traveling, and being creative: designing stained glass for my home, writing, and portrait drawing.

Nov 07

Sonya Gneiting

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I have been teaching ESL for 10 years now, six years here in the Adult Education Program at Alpine District.  I feel like this is my dream job. I absolutely love teaching and helping people to understand the English language and American culture. It has been so rewarding to know that I am an instrument in helping many people feel successful here in this country. I understand the challenges of learning a new language because I have lived in 2 foreign countries. I too, had to try and learn the language of their countries and integrate into their culture. It was a very eye-opening experience. I love these people and they have become my friends. I have 5 children and 3 grandchildren. I love to spend time with them. In my free time, I love to exercise and watch movies. I also love to travel. Learning about new cultures is fun for me.
Oct 08

Tania Carrera

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I am from Ecuador and I have been working for the district for more than 10 years. I got my degree in Marketing which is a reason I love working with people and talking to them.  I have two children, and we love going on walks to experience Utah’s scenery.  I also enjoy running, dancing, and spending time with my family eating and singing karaoke.

Oct 08

Roselle Harney

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I come from a family of teachers, both of my parents were teachers, my grandmother and even my great grandmother were teachers. So, teaching might be in my DNA, as you may have guessed I also enjoy genealogy.  I am fortunate to teach English Language Learners, they are amazing students, willing to work hard, and create new opportunities for their family. Being a part of that journey is a privilege for me.  I have a degree in Music therapy and have worked as a substance abuse counselor, currently I also teach water aerobic classes at the local pool and occasional genealogy classes.