English

Sarah Haskett, Department Chair
I have been a teacher at MHS for 20 years. I'm currently the AP Literature & Composition, Creative Writing, and Women's Studies teacher, as well as co-Department Chair, WASC chairperson, and MEA High School Director. Words are power and my goal is always to empower.

Marissa Kekke, Department Chair
Being able to teach at Manteca High School brings me so much joy. Our staff and students make the school a great place to work. Teaching Film as Lit, Popular Media, English, and ELD makes each day interesting. Outside of work, you will find me traveling the world.

Lucy Borba, ELD Department Chair
I am a graduate of California State University, Stanislaus with a degree in English and a concentration in TESOL (Teaching English to Students of Other Languages) and a minor in Psychology. In July of 2026, I received a master's degree from Grand Canyon University in Curriculum and Instruction. In 2020, I began teaching English - specifically English Language Development (ELD). These years have been dedicated to teaching the English language to our English Language learner students. This is near and dear to my heart since I, myself, am an English learner even into my adult life. Manteca High School is my Alma Mater being of the class of 2000 and having the opportunity to teach here comes with a sense of pride and is a homecoming for me. I look forward to continuously encourage our students to see how multilingualism is a superpower.

Jennifer Benson
I have been teaching at Manteca High since 2021, where I primarily teach English II and English III. In addition to the classroom, I coach Academic Decathlon and serve as the advisor for the World Scholar's Cup Club. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of the Pacific, with minors in Philosophy, Political Science, and Teaching Professions, and I hold a Master of Arts in Education from Humphreys University. Outside of the classroom, you can often find me immersed in a good book.

Stephanie Campiotti
I am a proud 2003 graduate of Manteca High School and currently serve as a member of the English Department. Along with teaching English, I oversee both the Link Crew and HERD Leadership programs, where I enjoy helping our underclassmen develop leadership skills and create a positive campus culture. As both an educator and alumna, I am incredibly passionate about giving back to the school community that helped shape who I am today.

Eli Gibbs
Mr. Gibbs graduated from California State University, Chico in 2013 with a bachelor's degree in Journalism (Public Relations) and minored in Photographic Studies. Mr. Gibbs began his teaching career as a substitute for Manteca Unified in 2015-2016 before assuming a full-time teaching role at Great Valley Elementary in 2016-2017. Following five years in Junior High English, Mr. Gibbs moved to his alma-mater, Manteca High School, where he previously graduated in 2008. In addition to his role as an English Teacher, he coaches Freshman Football and Boys Golf.

Melody Greco
Lover of football (go Niners), dogs, running and things fitness. My name is Ms. Greco and I am someone who spends most of her free time running, cycling, lifting weights, or reading a book. I love writing and believe it is one of the best forms of self-expression. I have my degree in English and my Master's in Educational Inquiry. Working with young minds and helping them develop and grow is one of my greatest passions, and I am fortunate to be in a work environment that provides me with that opportunity every single day! I have a daughter named Emma, a dog named Kenobi, and a cat whose name changes regularly. Go Buffs!

Chad Henderson
Though I started working with teens in 2003, I've worked at Manteca High for four years and have taught ELD, general education English, and English Honors. I'm SO grateful that I get to work with our team and students.

Stephanie Hjelmstad
Mrs. Hjelmstad has been a teacher at Manteca High for over 20 years. She is the Activity Director in addition to being an English teacher. She has taught English I, English III, English IV, Speech, Small Learning Community English, Medical English, AVID, and Leadership. Throughout her career, she has served on numerous committees, advised clubs, and been a part of the School Site Council. As the Activity Director, Mrs. Hjelmstad strives to focus on inclusion of all students, consistently reflects on activities to improve them, and works tirelessly to ensure the MHS student body has a fun-filled, memorable high school experience. She oversees and/or manages campus activities, clubs, advisors, publicity, student recognition, ASB accounts, and MUSD Board representation.

Timothy Jensen
Timothy Jensen has been a dedicated English teacher at Manteca High School since 1998. Known for his engaging storytelling and approachable demeanor, he draws from his diverse experiences, including seven years in the U.S. Army, to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment for his students.

Aaron Moren
This is my ninth year in education. I spent the first year of my career as a middle school custodian and from there took a job as a paraprofessional with the San Joaquin County. I stayed there for three years before making the permanent switch to high school general education English. I love working with students, studying texts, engaging in in-depth discussions with students, and watching them grow as individuals.

Tyleen Smith

Jessica Teicheira
I have been teaching in Manteca since 2013. I graduated with a bachelor's degree in liberal studies from Stanislaus State University and a master's degree in forensic psychology from Grand Canyon University. I am also a proud Buffalo and Alumni of Manteca High School. Additionally, I am the Cheerleading coordinator and am happy to be back, continuing the tradition.

Mackenzie VanWarmerdam
I have over a decade of experience teaching a variety of topics. As an MHS grad, I strive to help our students have the best high school experience possible and work to help them be successful in all aspects of their lives.
