Meet Our Staff
Student Services Director
Petra Luhrsen
As the Student Services Director, Petra supports all five academies. She started her career with Natomas Charter School as a classroom teacher at Star Academy and served in this position for several years before shifting into administration. Prior to her return to Natomas Charter School, she served as a site administrator for Natomas Unified, San Juan Unified, a Principal Coach through Sacramento County Office of Education, Principal Coach for the Cultivating Leaders Program in SJUSD and has supported K-12 teachers in Northern California as an Area 3 Writing Project Teacher Coach. Petra attended the University of Northern Colorado where she earned a degree in Public Relations and Advertising, along with an MA in Elementary Education. Petra is passionate about providing equitable outcomes for all students by collaboratively developing predictable systems and supports for all.
Administrative Assistant for Student Services
Michele Hunnicutt
Hello! I'm Michele Hunnicutt. I have been with Natomas Charter School since 2019 and I'm thrilled to be a part of the Student Services team as an Administrative Assistant. I have a B.S. in Human Services and an M.S. in Psychology. I have a passion for helping and supporting our students.
When I'm not busy at work, you'll likely find me engrossed in a good book, crocheting, or hanging out with my family, especially my grandchildren, they are source of endless joy. And of course, I can't forget to mention my dog Lulu who always manages to bring a smile to my face. Her boundless energy and unconditional love serves as a constant reminder of the simple joys in life.
I'm excited to bring my dedication, passion for learning, and warm spirit to the Student Services team. Feel free to reach out to me for any assistance or just to share a good book recommendation – I'm always ready for a friendly chat!
Before & After School Supervisor
Kisha Stroder
My name is Kisha Stroder. Students call me Ms. Kisha or Coach. I have been with Natomas Charter Schools since 2021. My passion is coaching and mentoring students of all ages in sports and academics. I have been certified in multiple leadership courses and have an extensive resume in managing adult and youth groups. My expertise is in training, marketing, and education. I strongly believe that everyone has a chance to be successful in life, but it takes a village and people to expose opportunities to those who might never have access to them otherwise. In my spare time I love to spend time with my family traveling or exploring our own city. I also coach girls AAU basketball and it brings me so much joy knowing that I can help young girls accomplish their sports dreams. My slogan is "Everyday Is Work" because in some shape or form you have to put in the work that it takes to accomplish your goals in life, and I am here to help anyone that needs it.
Health Office
LaToya Okon, RN-BSN
LaToya is the newest member of the Natomas Charter School Team. She has been a registered nurse for five years and a medic, in the United States Air Force, for over ten years. LaToya has worked in many areas of healthcare ranging from emergency medicine, internal medicine, correctional medicine and workers compensation. As a graduate from Sacramento State and Pacific Union College, with degrees in Communication Studies and Nursing, she is passionate about educating on preventative medicine and debating opposing perspectives in health care. She is fun-loving, easy going and looking forward to working with staff and students this year.
Lauren Mejia, Health AIde (Blackrock Campus)
Hello, I'm Lauren Mejia, the newest member of the exceptional Natomas Charter team, serving as the Health Aide. With a background as a Medical Assistant for 9 years, I've collaborated across various specialties and age groups. My journey in the medical field was fueled by a desire to assist people during their vulnerable moments, bringing smiles to their faces even when they're under the weather. Joining Natomas Charter marks a new chapter in my career, where I aim to contribute to our scholars' lives because, as they say, it takes a village! Outside of work, I find joy in camping with my husband, son, and our dog Cali, embracing the great outdoors. Reading and cooking also rank high on my list of hobbies. Being part of Natomas Charter School feels like winning the career jackpot—my colleagues are fantastic, and the students make each day a delight. The overall atmosphere at Natomas Charter is truly the place to be!