Our Teachers
Our faculty partners with families to help students grow in faith, scholarship, and character. Get to know the teachers who make Bakersfield Adventist Academy a welcoming place to learn and thrive.
Kindergarten Teacher
Keila Butler
- About me:
- Keila Butler is passionate about nurturing young learners during their very first year of formal schooling. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education and brings 40 years of experience in education, including 30 years serving at Bakersfield Adventist Academy. As the kindergarten teacher at BAA, she is dedicated to creating a safe, loving, and engaging classroom where students feel supported academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. She believes early learning should be joyful, hands-on, and rooted in faith—helping children build confidence, curiosity, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Mrs. Butler works closely with families and the school community to ensure each child feels valued, encouraged, and ready to grow.
1st + 2nd Grade Teacher
Liani Longoria
- About me:
- Liani Longoria is proud to serve Bakersfield Adventist Academy as an alumna who had the privilege of attending the school herself. She is dedicated to helping students grow academically, spiritually, and socially in a supportive and engaging classroom environment. Mrs. Longoria fosters a strong love for reading and encourages students to ask questions, work collaboratively, and discover the love that God has for each of them.
- She has proudly served students at Bakersfield Adventist Academy for the past five years. Mrs. Longoria holds a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Bakersfield, is a credentialed teacher recognized by the State of California, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in educational administration.
- Favorite Bible Verse: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
3rd + 4th Grade Teacher
Julie Goodman-King
- About me:
- Julie Goodman-King is the 3rd and 4th grade teacher at Bakersfield Adventist Academy and brings over 20 years of teaching experience, including four years at BAA. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and is NAD Professionally Certified, a Licensed Educational Therapist, and Certified in Dyslexia Education. Mrs. Goodman-King is passionate about helping students grow with confidence through strong routines, hands-on learning, and small-group support. She loves teaching math and enjoys guiding students to develop curiosity, resilience, and a love for learning. She also brings a heart for service through her missionary background and has supported students beyond the classroom as a robotics coach.
- This year, Mrs. Goodman-King’s class is working on FIRST LEGO League Explore: Unearthed, where students use STEM to explore archaeology and problem-solving. Her hope for every student is that they grow to love learning and develop a saving relationship with Jesus, inspired by her favorite Bible passage, Revelation 21:1–5. Outside of school, she enjoys traveling and sharing new experiences with her students and school community.
5th + 6th Grade Teacher
Fredi Castrejon
- About me:
- With seven years of teaching experience, Fredi Castrejon is a dedicated educator brings both knowledge and heart to the classroom. He holds a teaching degree and is credentialed through the North American Division (NAD). Deeply involved in school life, he actively participates in meetings and school initiatives, always advocating for what is best for students. Beyond the classroom, he goes above and beyond—supporting school trips, helping with transportation, and showing up wherever students need him. His strong connection to his church community shapes his commitment to serving, mentoring, and being a steady presence for the children in his care.