Our team
Meet the team of HWGD
Meet the team of HWGD
Our staff are the heart of HWGD, creating a safe, fun, exciting, engaging, nurturing, supportive, and inspiring environment for every child.
Our staff are the heart of HWGD, creating a safe, fun, exciting, engaging, nurturing, supportive, and inspiring environment for every child.
Ms. Huang
Principal
Ms. Huang, founder of Hong Wu Kung Fu Taichi Academy and owner of Golden Dragon After School, brings a unique blend of educational vision, athletic excellence, and community leadership. A former professional Wushu athlete from China and Wushu professor at Ningbo University, she began teaching in the U.S. after moving here in 2005.Inspired by her experience as both a parent and an educator, Ms. Huang founded Golden Dragon After School to create a place where children could thrive academically, physically, and socially. Her vision was shaped during the pandemic, when she saw the need for a more supportive, enriching alternative to virtual learning.Today, Golden Dragon After School reflects her deep commitment to high-quality education, discipline, and whole-child development. With a dedicated team and thoughtfully designed programs, Ms. Huang has built a trusted environment where students gain confidence, build strong friendships, and grow into their best selves.
Ms. Huang
Principal
Ms. Huang, founder of Hong Wu Kung Fu Taichi Academy and owner of Golden Dragon After School, brings a unique blend of educational vision, athletic excellence, and community leadership. A former professional Wushu athlete from China and Wushu professor at Ningbo University, she began teaching in the U.S. after moving here in 2005.Inspired by her experience as both a parent and an educator, Ms. Huang founded Golden Dragon After School to create a place where children could thrive academically, physically, and socially. Her vision was shaped during the pandemic, when she saw the need for a more supportive, enriching alternative to virtual learning.Today, Golden Dragon After School reflects her deep commitment to high-quality education, discipline, and whole-child development. With a dedicated team and thoughtfully designed programs, Ms. Huang has built a trusted environment where students gain confidence, build strong friendships, and grow into their best selves.
Ms. Huang
Principal
Ms. Huang, founder of Hong Wu Kung Fu Taichi Academy and owner of Golden Dragon After School, brings a unique blend of educational vision, athletic excellence, and community leadership. A former professional Wushu athlete from China and Wushu professor at Ningbo University, she began teaching in the U.S. after moving here in 2005.Inspired by her experience as both a parent and an educator, Ms. Huang founded Golden Dragon After School to create a place where children could thrive academically, physically, and socially. Her vision was shaped during the pandemic, when she saw the need for a more supportive, enriching alternative to virtual learning.Today, Golden Dragon After School reflects her deep commitment to high-quality education, discipline, and whole-child development. With a dedicated team and thoughtfully designed programs, Ms. Huang has built a trusted environment where students gain confidence, build strong friendships, and grow into their best selves.
Mr. Willis
Head of School & Martial Arts Teacher
Mr. Willis brings decades of leadership, teaching, and program development experience to martial arts and student enrichment. He is passionate about helping students build confidence, discipline, leadership, and personal growth through martial arts education, mentoring, and community engagement.
Willis has more than 25 years of experience coaching and teaching Chinese martial arts and has led programs focused on student development, performance, competition, and outreach. He is also the founder and owner of a successful after-school enrichment program and has served as a STEM coach, including as a FIRST Lego League mentor.
Mr. Willis
Head of School & Martial Arts Teacher
Mr. Willis brings decades of leadership, teaching, and program development experience to martial arts and student enrichment. He is passionate about helping students build confidence, discipline, leadership, and personal growth through martial arts education, mentoring, and community engagement.
Willis has more than 25 years of experience coaching and teaching Chinese martial arts and has led programs focused on student development, performance, competition, and outreach. He is also the founder and owner of a successful after-school enrichment program and has served as a STEM coach, including as a FIRST Lego League mentor.
Mr. Willis
Head of School & Martial Arts Teacher
Mr. Willis brings decades of leadership, teaching, and program development experience to martial arts and student enrichment. He is passionate about helping students build confidence, discipline, leadership, and personal growth through martial arts education, mentoring, and community engagement.
Willis has more than 25 years of experience coaching and teaching Chinese martial arts and has led programs focused on student development, performance, competition, and outreach. He is also the founder and owner of a successful after-school enrichment program and has served as a STEM coach, including as a FIRST Lego League mentor.
Ms. Shelly
Office Manager
Ms. Shelly is a dedicated art educator with a strong foundation in visual arts, specializing in both traditional and digital media. She earned her degree in Visual Art: Media from the University of California, San Diego, and has developed her creative expertise through teaching in various studio settings as well as working on illustration projects.
Known for her thoughtful and encouraging teaching style, Ms. Shelly provides personalized instruction that supports each student’s individual growth. She inspires students of all ages to explore creativity, refine advanced techniques, and build strong portfolios with confidence. With additional experience in film, photography, and cross-cultural studies, she brings a unique perspective to the classroom, helping students strengthen both their technical skills and their appreciation for art in its many forms.
Ms. Shelly
Office Manager
Ms. Shelly is a dedicated art educator with a strong foundation in visual arts, specializing in both traditional and digital media. She earned her degree in Visual Art: Media from the University of California, San Diego, and has developed her creative expertise through teaching in various studio settings as well as working on illustration projects.
Known for her thoughtful and encouraging teaching style, Ms. Shelly provides personalized instruction that supports each student’s individual growth. She inspires students of all ages to explore creativity, refine advanced techniques, and build strong portfolios with confidence. With additional experience in film, photography, and cross-cultural studies, she brings a unique perspective to the classroom, helping students strengthen both their technical skills and their appreciation for art in its many forms.
Ms. Shelly
Office Manager
Ms. Shelly is a dedicated art educator with a strong foundation in visual arts, specializing in both traditional and digital media. She earned her degree in Visual Art: Media from the University of California, San Diego, and has developed her creative expertise through teaching in various studio settings as well as working on illustration projects.
Known for her thoughtful and encouraging teaching style, Ms. Shelly provides personalized instruction that supports each student’s individual growth. She inspires students of all ages to explore creativity, refine advanced techniques, and build strong portfolios with confidence. With additional experience in film, photography, and cross-cultural studies, she brings a unique perspective to the classroom, helping students strengthen both their technical skills and their appreciation for art in its many forms.
Ms. Wu
Chinese Teacher
Ms. Wu brings both dedication and resilience to her teaching. She graduated from the Art Department of Tianjin Normal University and developed extensive experience as both an art teacher and the founder of her own studio.
Since joining Hong Wu Golden Dragon Academy in 2021 as a Chinese and Art teacher, Ms. Wu has been known for her creative and engaging teaching style. She enjoys sharing her ideas and experiences with students, inspiring curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. By combining interactive instruction with a well-structured classroom environment, she helps students grow both academically and artistically.
Ms. Wu
Chinese Teacher
Ms. Wu brings both dedication and resilience to her teaching. She graduated from the Art Department of Tianjin Normal University and developed extensive experience as both an art teacher and the founder of her own studio.
Since joining Hong Wu Golden Dragon Academy in 2021 as a Chinese and Art teacher, Ms. Wu has been known for her creative and engaging teaching style. She enjoys sharing her ideas and experiences with students, inspiring curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. By combining interactive instruction with a well-structured classroom environment, she helps students grow both academically and artistically.
Ms. Wu
Chinese Teacher
Ms. Wu brings both dedication and resilience to her teaching. She graduated from the Art Department of Tianjin Normal University and developed extensive experience as both an art teacher and the founder of her own studio.
Since joining Hong Wu Golden Dragon Academy in 2021 as a Chinese and Art teacher, Ms. Wu has been known for her creative and engaging teaching style. She enjoys sharing her ideas and experiences with students, inspiring curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. By combining interactive instruction with a well-structured classroom environment, she helps students grow both academically and artistically.
Ms. Mia
Chinese Teacher
Ms.Mia graduated from Southwest University with a degree in Broadcasting and Hosting and holds a Level 1-B Mandarin Proficiency Certificate. With a strong foundation in language and extensive stage experience, she has hosted numerous large-scale events in San Diego.
Bringing the energy and presence of the stage into the classroom, she creates lively, engaging, and dynamic learning experiences that spark children’s interest in language and communication. Her teaching emphasizes interaction, confidence, and enjoyment, with a focus on helping students refine pronunciation, improve speech clarity, and express themselves with confidence. Her passionate, student-centered approach has made her a teacher appreciated by both children and parents.
Ms. Mia
Chinese Teacher
Ms.Mia graduated from Southwest University with a degree in Broadcasting and Hosting and holds a Level 1-B Mandarin Proficiency Certificate. With a strong foundation in language and extensive stage experience, she has hosted numerous large-scale events in San Diego.
Bringing the energy and presence of the stage into the classroom, she creates lively, engaging, and dynamic learning experiences that spark children’s interest in language and communication. Her teaching emphasizes interaction, confidence, and enjoyment, with a focus on helping students refine pronunciation, improve speech clarity, and express themselves with confidence. Her passionate, student-centered approach has made her a teacher appreciated by both children and parents.
Ms. Mia
Chinese Teacher
Ms.Mia graduated from Southwest University with a degree in Broadcasting and Hosting and holds a Level 1-B Mandarin Proficiency Certificate. With a strong foundation in language and extensive stage experience, she has hosted numerous large-scale events in San Diego.
Bringing the energy and presence of the stage into the classroom, she creates lively, engaging, and dynamic learning experiences that spark children’s interest in language and communication. Her teaching emphasizes interaction, confidence, and enjoyment, with a focus on helping students refine pronunciation, improve speech clarity, and express themselves with confidence. Her passionate, student-centered approach has made her a teacher appreciated by both children and parents.
Mr. Josh
FLL Robotics, Math
Mr. Josh supports students during the Golden Dragon After School program through classes in FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Robotics, Noetic Mathematics Strategies, and academic homework support. His teaching style encourages students to think deeply, ask questions, and discover solutions for themselves. By guiding students through thoughtful discussion and problem-solving, he helps them build confidence, strengthen intuition, and apply what they learn independently. To reinforce understanding, he also introduces challenging exercises and creative puzzles designed to deepen learning in an engaging way.
Mr. Josh graduated from the University of California, San Diego, with a major in Applied Mathematics and a minor in Engineering Mechanics. His passion for STEM began at a young age through building with LEGO and exploring mechanical design. Over the years, he continued to develop this interest through programs and organizations such as Project Lead the Way (PLTW), the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), and the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE). He brings that strong academic background and enthusiasm for problem-solving into the classroom, helping students grow in both skill and curiosity.
Mr. Josh
FLL Robotics, Math
Mr. Josh supports students during the Golden Dragon After School program through classes in FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Robotics, Noetic Mathematics Strategies, and academic homework support. His teaching style encourages students to think deeply, ask questions, and discover solutions for themselves. By guiding students through thoughtful discussion and problem-solving, he helps them build confidence, strengthen intuition, and apply what they learn independently. To reinforce understanding, he also introduces challenging exercises and creative puzzles designed to deepen learning in an engaging way.
Mr. Josh graduated from the University of California, San Diego, with a major in Applied Mathematics and a minor in Engineering Mechanics. His passion for STEM began at a young age through building with LEGO and exploring mechanical design. Over the years, he continued to develop this interest through programs and organizations such as Project Lead the Way (PLTW), the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), and the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE). He brings that strong academic background and enthusiasm for problem-solving into the classroom, helping students grow in both skill and curiosity.
Mr. Josh
FLL Robotics, Math
Mr. Josh supports students during the Golden Dragon After School program through classes in FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Robotics, Noetic Mathematics Strategies, and academic homework support. His teaching style encourages students to think deeply, ask questions, and discover solutions for themselves. By guiding students through thoughtful discussion and problem-solving, he helps them build confidence, strengthen intuition, and apply what they learn independently. To reinforce understanding, he also introduces challenging exercises and creative puzzles designed to deepen learning in an engaging way.
Mr. Josh graduated from the University of California, San Diego, with a major in Applied Mathematics and a minor in Engineering Mechanics. His passion for STEM began at a young age through building with LEGO and exploring mechanical design. Over the years, he continued to develop this interest through programs and organizations such as Project Lead the Way (PLTW), the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), and the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE). He brings that strong academic background and enthusiasm for problem-solving into the classroom, helping students grow in both skill and curiosity.
Ms. Katie
Math, Python Teacher
Ms. Katie holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Social Data Science from UCLA. She has experience teaching STEM to students in grades 2–6 and has also served as a volunteer tutor with San Diego Refugee Tutoring. Before joining Golden Dragon, Katie worked as a marketing research analyst and grew up in the San Diego area.
Katie’s teaching approach centers on building meaningful connections with students and inspiring a genuine love of learning. She creates a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where every child feels encouraged and valued, while thoughtfully adapting lessons to meet individual needs. Through interactive and engaging activities, Katie helps students connect learning to the real world, develop curiosity, and approach new challenges with confidence.
Ms. Katie
Math, Python Teacher
Ms. Katie holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Social Data Science from UCLA. She has experience teaching STEM to students in grades 2–6 and has also served as a volunteer tutor with San Diego Refugee Tutoring. Before joining Golden Dragon, Katie worked as a marketing research analyst and grew up in the San Diego area.
Katie’s teaching approach centers on building meaningful connections with students and inspiring a genuine love of learning. She creates a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where every child feels encouraged and valued, while thoughtfully adapting lessons to meet individual needs. Through interactive and engaging activities, Katie helps students connect learning to the real world, develop curiosity, and approach new challenges with confidence.
Ms. Katie
Math, Python Teacher
Ms. Katie holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Social Data Science from UCLA. She has experience teaching STEM to students in grades 2–6 and has also served as a volunteer tutor with San Diego Refugee Tutoring. Before joining Golden Dragon, Katie worked as a marketing research analyst and grew up in the San Diego area.
Katie’s teaching approach centers on building meaningful connections with students and inspiring a genuine love of learning. She creates a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where every child feels encouraged and valued, while thoughtfully adapting lessons to meet individual needs. Through interactive and engaging activities, Katie helps students connect learning to the real world, develop curiosity, and approach new challenges with confidence.
Ms. Alina
Gymnastic Teacher
Ms. Alina is an experienced personal trainer and gymnastics coach with over 15 years of expertise in fitness, gymnastics, and athlete development. A former professional athlete and Master of Sport in Sports Acrobatics, she brings strong knowledge of movement, conditioning, and physical development to her teaching.
Ms.Alina has worked with students of all ages, from children to elite athletes, designing training programs that build strength, flexibility, coordination, and confidence. Her supportive and disciplined approach helps students grow both physically and personally.
Ms. Alina
Gymnastic Teacher
Ms. Alina is an experienced personal trainer and gymnastics coach with over 15 years of expertise in fitness, gymnastics, and athlete development. A former professional athlete and Master of Sport in Sports Acrobatics, she brings strong knowledge of movement, conditioning, and physical development to her teaching.
Ms.Alina has worked with students of all ages, from children to elite athletes, designing training programs that build strength, flexibility, coordination, and confidence. Her supportive and disciplined approach helps students grow both physically and personally.
Ms. Alina
Gymnastic Teacher
Ms. Alina is an experienced personal trainer and gymnastics coach with over 15 years of expertise in fitness, gymnastics, and athlete development. A former professional athlete and Master of Sport in Sports Acrobatics, she brings strong knowledge of movement, conditioning, and physical development to her teaching.
Ms.Alina has worked with students of all ages, from children to elite athletes, designing training programs that build strength, flexibility, coordination, and confidence. Her supportive and disciplined approach helps students grow both physically and personally.
Ms. Li
Chinese/Bilingual Teacher
Ms. Li is a highly respected Chinese teacher known for her warm, caring, and dedicated teaching style. She builds strong and positive connections with her students, creating a classroom environment where they feel supported, encouraged, and engaged in learning.
Before moving to the United States, Ms. Li taught Mandarin at Southwest University in China. She later worked as a host for Chongqing Television Station and Beijing Television Station, where she also managed KAKU Cartoon Satellite TV. In early 2025, Ms. Li joined Golden Dragon After School, where she continues to inspire students through her passion for language and education.
Ms. Li
Chinese/Bilingual Teacher
Ms. Li is a highly respected Chinese teacher known for her warm, caring, and dedicated teaching style. She builds strong and positive connections with her students, creating a classroom environment where they feel supported, encouraged, and engaged in learning.
Before moving to the United States, Ms. Li taught Mandarin at Southwest University in China. She later worked as a host for Chongqing Television Station and Beijing Television Station, where she also managed KAKU Cartoon Satellite TV. In early 2025, Ms. Li joined Golden Dragon After School, where she continues to inspire students through her passion for language and education.
Ms. Li
Chinese/Bilingual Teacher
Ms. Li is a highly respected Chinese teacher known for her warm, caring, and dedicated teaching style. She builds strong and positive connections with her students, creating a classroom environment where they feel supported, encouraged, and engaged in learning.
Before moving to the United States, Ms. Li taught Mandarin at Southwest University in China. She later worked as a host for Chongqing Television Station and Beijing Television Station, where she also managed KAKU Cartoon Satellite TV. In early 2025, Ms. Li joined Golden Dragon After School, where she continues to inspire students through her passion for language and education.
Ms. Cao
Chinese Teacher
Ms. Cao holds a bachelor’s degree in Chinese Language, Literature, and Education from Shanghai Normal University, as well as a master’s degree in Chinese Studies from the National University of Singapore. With nearly 20 years of experience teaching Chinese at the secondary level in China and Singapore, she brings a strong depth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom. Since moving to the United States, she has continued teaching in a variety of after-school programs, including Huaxia Chinese School.
Her student-centered teaching approach focuses on adapting lessons to meet individual learning needs and using a variety of methods to make Chinese both accessible and engaging. Known for creating lively, interactive classroom experiences, Cao Lao Shi encourages curiosity, active participation, and a joy for learning, earning the lasting appreciation of her students and families.
Ms. Cao
Chinese Teacher
Ms. Cao holds a bachelor’s degree in Chinese Language, Literature, and Education from Shanghai Normal University, as well as a master’s degree in Chinese Studies from the National University of Singapore. With nearly 20 years of experience teaching Chinese at the secondary level in China and Singapore, she brings a strong depth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom. Since moving to the United States, she has continued teaching in a variety of after-school programs, including Huaxia Chinese School.
Her student-centered teaching approach focuses on adapting lessons to meet individual learning needs and using a variety of methods to make Chinese both accessible and engaging. Known for creating lively, interactive classroom experiences, Cao Lao Shi encourages curiosity, active participation, and a joy for learning, earning the lasting appreciation of her students and families.
Ms. Cao
Chinese Teacher
Ms. Cao holds a bachelor’s degree in Chinese Language, Literature, and Education from Shanghai Normal University, as well as a master’s degree in Chinese Studies from the National University of Singapore. With nearly 20 years of experience teaching Chinese at the secondary level in China and Singapore, she brings a strong depth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom. Since moving to the United States, she has continued teaching in a variety of after-school programs, including Huaxia Chinese School.
Her student-centered teaching approach focuses on adapting lessons to meet individual learning needs and using a variety of methods to make Chinese both accessible and engaging. Known for creating lively, interactive classroom experiences, Cao Lao Shi encourages curiosity, active participation, and a joy for learning, earning the lasting appreciation of her students and families.
Mr.Tony
Mathematics & FLL roboticsTeacher
Mr. Tony is an award-winning game designer and producer with a strong background in graphic design, mechanical systems, and industrial design for mass production. With a creative and hands-on approach, he inspires students through robotics, design thinking, and problem-solving activities that encourage innovation and curiosity.
Tony holds a BSD degree in Graphic Design from Arizona State University. His passion for robots, engineering, and creative technology helps students explore STEM in an engaging and imaginative way.
Mr.Tony
Mathematics & FLL roboticsTeacher
Mr. Tony is an award-winning game designer and producer with a strong background in graphic design, mechanical systems, and industrial design for mass production. With a creative and hands-on approach, he inspires students through robotics, design thinking, and problem-solving activities that encourage innovation and curiosity.
Tony holds a BSD degree in Graphic Design from Arizona State University. His passion for robots, engineering, and creative technology helps students explore STEM in an engaging and imaginative way.
Mr.Tony
Mathematics & FLL roboticsTeacher
Mr. Tony is an award-winning game designer and producer with a strong background in graphic design, mechanical systems, and industrial design for mass production. With a creative and hands-on approach, he inspires students through robotics, design thinking, and problem-solving activities that encourage innovation and curiosity.
Tony holds a BSD degree in Graphic Design from Arizona State University. His passion for robots, engineering, and creative technology helps students explore STEM in an engaging and imaginative way.
Mr.Brandon
English Language Arts Teacher
Mr. Brandon is an English Language Arts teacher who helps students strengthen their writing, reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary while preparing them for the demands of middle and high school. Through the study of speeches, texts, and short stories, he guides students in developing critical thinking and creative writing skills in a structured and engaging learning environment.
Brandon holds a California teaching credential and has teaching experience in public schools across San Diego. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from San Diego State University and a Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in Critical Thinking.
Mr.Brandon
English Language Arts Teacher
Mr. Brandon is an English Language Arts teacher who helps students strengthen their writing, reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary while preparing them for the demands of middle and high school. Through the study of speeches, texts, and short stories, he guides students in developing critical thinking and creative writing skills in a structured and engaging learning environment.
Brandon holds a California teaching credential and has teaching experience in public schools across San Diego. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from San Diego State University and a Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in Critical Thinking.
Mr.Brandon
English Language Arts Teacher
Mr. Brandon is an English Language Arts teacher who helps students strengthen their writing, reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary while preparing them for the demands of middle and high school. Through the study of speeches, texts, and short stories, he guides students in developing critical thinking and creative writing skills in a structured and engaging learning environment.
Brandon holds a California teaching credential and has teaching experience in public schools across San Diego. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from San Diego State University and a Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in Critical Thinking.
Join our team
Join our team
Looking for a fun and rewarding summer? Join our team and help create unforgettable experiences, lifelong memories, and meaningful friendships for every camper!
Looking for a fun and rewarding summer? Join our team and help create unforgettable experiences, lifelong memories, and meaningful friendships for every camper!
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