Meet the PTA Board

President
Natalie Strauss
About Me: We're in our sixth year at Kester, and my youngest daughter is now in fourth grade. Being on campus and getting to watch these kids grow has been the best part of volunteering. My favorite places include Maui, Disneyland and the quiet room at Burke Williams.
My elementary school was: Badillo Elementary School in Covina, CA
Favorite school memory: One of my favorite school memories was attending AstroCamp.

Executive Vice President
Katie Berger
About Me: This is my family’s 7th year at Kester, and I have loved being involved in every way: from Room Parent, to field trips, to PTA board, it’s so rewarding to give back to the school that has given us so much. In my spare time, I love reading, traveling with my family, and spending time with friends.
My elementary school was: Sierra School in El Cerrito, CA
Favorite school memory: Performing in school theater productions

Vice President, PRIDE
Ellen Thordarson
About Me: My name is Ellen Thordarson, vice president of the PTA. I have served on the PTA board for 4 years and have 4 kids, grades 6th, 4th, 2nd and preschool.
My elementary school was: Franklin/Randall Elementary in Madison, WI
Favorite school memory: SNOW DAYS!!!

Treasurer
Erika Hallbourg
About Me: We have lived in Sherman Oaks for almost 10 years and love the community so much! I am mom to a 4th grade girl at Kester and step-mom to an 8th grade boy. I work full time in production legal and am excited for the opportunity to provide service to the students while on the PTA board.
My elementary school was: Pueblo Elementary in Scottsdale, AZ.
Favorite school memory: The annual Halloween party and winning the "cake walk."

Treasurer
Emily Link
About me: I have two daughters, one in 1st grade and one in 5th grade at Kester Elementary. I am a stay at home mom and a CPA in my spare time. I also enjoy making art and crafting.
My elementary school was: Pacific Palisades Elementary.
Favorite school memory: is learning how to double dutch jump rope with all the girls in my class.

Financial Secretary
Jessica Cohen
About me:
My elementary school was:
Favorite school memory:

Historian
Tara Kroeger
About Me: I have 2 kids at Kester. I used to teach 6th grade math and science. I love music, comedy, going to restaurants, being creative, and spending time with my friends and family.
My elementary school was: Murray Elementary in Dublin, CA
Favorite school memory: making up games and playing outside with my friends.

Secretary
Laura Portwood-Stacer
About Me: I'm the parent of a fifth grader and second grader in the Kester Magnet program. We love our Kester community events, especially KAST plays and Rockin' for Kester concerts. Outside of school, I own a business where I coach college professors around the world on publishing books about their academic research. I'm also an avid knitter and you'll usually see me with a knitting project in tow or wearing something I've made.
My elementary school was: Webster Elementary in Livonia, Michigan
Favorite school memory: Being drum major of my high school marching band
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Parlialmentarian
Rachel Ngo
About Me: Being a parent to 2 Kester students, I try to volunteer on campus in my spare time, as it's truly a joy to witness them blossom at school. Among other activities I enjoy, eating and taking siestas can be found at the top of the list. I also work part time as a pharmacist, providing patient care at a hospital.
My elementary school was: Eagle Canyon in Chino Hills, CA.
Favorite school memory: To no surprise, lunchtime with friends.

Financial Reviewer
Tyler Rutkin
About Me:
My elementary school was:
Favorite school memory: