Purpose & Philosophy

At Ari Guiragos Minassian Armenian School …

We provide a dynamic learning environment committed to educational excellence and cultural enrichment which encourages students to discover their unique gifts and talents.

We nurture students in a safe environment that prepares them to thrive academically with self esteem and confidence, built upon the strong foundation of our Armenian culture and old-fashioned values.

We emphasize the development of moral and ethical responsibilities, personal integrity and respect for all people and cultures. We partner with parents to instill in students a love of learning that transcends the realm of academic excellence and extends to the preparation of students to lead and to serve their community, society and work together toward the creation of a better world.

Ari Guiragos Minassian Armenian School Faculty and Staff 2005-2006 Academic Year

Администрация:

• Assadour Assadourian, principal
• Margo Baghjajian, school secretary

Pre-Kindergarten Faculty Ani Assadourian, teacher, Pre-K 1 Astrid Ashkarian, teacher, Pre-K 2 Talin Wartan, teachers aide Talin Artinian, teachers aide (Armenian)

Grade School Faculty Kelly Koopman, teacher, kindergarten Rebecca Johnson, teacher, 1st grade Alicia Weber, teacher, 2nd grade Michelle Golden, teacher, 3rd grade Jeff Weinstein, teacher, 4th grade Russel McCall, teacher, 5th grade Ani Geloyan, teacher, 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th (Armenian) Kohar Zaher, teacher, 1st & 2nd grade Armenian teacher

Other Nanor Jamgotsian, teacher, music

- elementary grades

We are extremely proud of our faculty and staff at Ari Guiragos Minassian School. Our teachers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our school. Read on for more information about each of our wonderful teachers and dedicated administration:

Chantelle Dagert (1st Grade)

This is Ms. Dagerts 5th year at A.G. Minassian. She received her bachelors degree from Cal Poly Pomona and received her credentials in 2001 from California State University at Long Beach. Her experience before coming to A.G. Minassian included long-term substitute teaching.

Alicia Weber (2nd Grade)

Mrs. Weber obtained her Multiple Subject Credential and masters degree in the Art of Education from the University of Phoenix. This is her first year at A.G. Minassian.

Michele Golden (3rd Grade)

Mrs. Golden has been with A.G. Minassian for six years. She taught Kindergarten for the last five years, but moves to third grade this year. She has a bachelors degree in psychology and recently obtained her teaching credentials.

Jeff Weinstein (4th Grade)

This is Mr. Weinsteins second year at A.G. Minassian as a fourth grade teacher. He is a graduate of the University of Arizona, earning a BA in Elementary Education, along with his teaching credentials.

Russell McCall (5th Grade)

This is Mr. McCalls second year at A.G. Minassian. He received his BA in Psychology from Cal State Fullerton, and his MFA from Chapman University. He is currently completing his teaching credentials. His past experience includes teaching for two years in Japan.

Mrs. Ani Geloyan (6th Grade Homeroom/4th, 5th 6th grade Armenian)

This is Mrs. Geloyans second year at A.G. Minassian and her qualifications include a bachelors degree from Haigazian University in Beirut, as well as a bachelors degree from the American University of Beirut. Mrs. Geloyan has taught Armenian language and Armenian History at various educational institutions.

Silva Nahabedian (Armenian-1st, 2nd & 3rd Grade)

This is Mrs. Nahabedians 7th year of teaching Armenian language at A.G. Minassian. She has earned her bachelors degree in Armenian Literature at Yervant Hussissian Institute for Armenian Studies. Her past experience includes teaching Armenian language as well as Armenian history at various Armenian institutions.

Jennifer Smith (Kindergarten)

This is Mrs. Smiths fist year at A.G. Minassian. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University at Long Beach, and her Master of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix. Her previous experience includes working as a long-term substitute Kindergarten teacher for the Anaheim School District.

Ani Assadourian (Pre-KI)

Mrs. Assadourian has been with our school since it first opened its doors in 1986, and has remained as the Pre-KI teacher for 20 years. Mrs. Assadourian has taught at various schools throughout her career. Her educational background includes receiving a degree in Child Development in Lebanon, as well as a degree from UCLA.

Talin Artinian (Armenian-Kindergarten/PreKI Aide)

Miss Artinian has been with A.G. Minassian as both an aide for Pre-K1 and as Armenian language instructor for students in Kindergarten. Her previous experience includes teaching Armenian religion and language in Syria. In 2005, she completed her certification in Early Childhood Education.

Astrid Ashkarian (Pre-KII)

Mrs. Ashkarian began her teaching career as a music and dance instructor. Through the years she has held various teaching positions, most notably working for 10 years as a head pre-school teacher. She has received her degree in Early Childhood Education and has been at A.G. Minassian for 8 years as our Pre-KII teacher.

Taline Wartan (Pre-KII Aide)

Taline Wartan, has been a Pre-KII aide at A.G. Minassian for the last 7 years. She has earned enough units to qualify her as a pre-school teacher, and is currently obtaining her certificate in Early Education.

Assadour Assadourian (Principal)

Principal Assadourian has been at A.G. Minassian for the 10 years. He has been in the field of education for the last 38 years as a teacher, mentor and administrator/principal. Along with his degrees and credentials he has been awarded many certifications, notices and recognition for his accomplishments. In 2001, he was recognized as Educator of the Year for his service to the Armenian community. Prior to moving to Orange County, he was principal at the Armenian Community School in Fresno for 15 years.

Margo Baghjajian (School Secretary)

Mrs. Baghjajian has been with A.G. Minassian for the last 17 years as school secretary. Her voice is usually the first you hear when you contact our school. She is responsible for many duties and interacts on a daily basis with the children, staff and parents. Margos organizational skills and dedication to our students are a tremendous asset to the school.

Margo Bartoumian (Cafeteria Coordinator)

Mrs. Bartoumian has been providing hot Armenian lunches for students since the establishment of our school. Whether its letsoug (dolma) or the occasional pizza (so its not Armenian, but the kids love it!), her meals are tasty and nutritious. She is currently the owner and operator of Ararat Restaurant in Anaheim, Ca.

Aram Aghababian (Music Instruction)

Mr. Aghababian A.G. Minassians musical director for the last 5 years. He is responsible for teaching the children music and preparing them for our traditional hantesses. Mr. Aghababian is also currently the music conductor for 40 Martyrs Armenian Church.