About
Northern San Mateo County families have had few public K-8 choices — Oceanlight is here to change that. We’re a proposed tuition-free TK-8 public charter school created for the planet and for the future.
Like all public schools, we follow state standards, but our team has the freedom to design learning that is hands-on, meaningful, and innovative. At Oceanlight, every child belongs to a vibrant, caring community where learning is active and purpose-driven. Together, we nurture confident changemakers who are ready to shape their world — starting today.
The Dreamers and Doers
Our founding team and board bring together decades of educational leadership, hands-on classroom experience, executive business acumen, and deep community roots. United by a belief in equitable, innovative learning for all, we blend expertise in project-based teaching, organizational strategy, legal and financial stewardship, environmental education, and family partnership. Supported by an accomplished advisory council and a community of skilled professional collaborators, our team is committed to building a welcoming, vibrant school community where every child can thrive.
Board Members
Shivani
CFO & COO, New Sun Road; Board Treasurer, Institute for Sustainable Communities
A strategic leader in renewable energy finance and operations, Shivani Ganguly brings 25 years of experience in technology, sustainability, and organizational growth. Her passion for equitable education and fiscal stewardship strengthens Oceanlight’s foundation.
LiLing
Co-Founder & Former CEO, Trekaroo
Co-Founder of Trekaroo, a travel platform that connects families to meaningful, learning-rich experiences, LiLing Pang brings an entrepreneurial drive and organizational leadership to help Oceanlight realize its mission to be a school for the planet.
Don
Social Science Educator, Mills High School
Veteran educator and union leader, Don Burdette has 34 years of experience fostering collaboration and equity in public schools. As a parent and advocate for inclusion, he’s committed to building an engaging, student-centered community at Oceanlight.
Christina
Claims Attorney, Arch Insurance
Legal professional and strategist and devoted public school volunteer, Christina Lee brings skills in litigation management and a passion for accessible, high-quality learning to Oceanlight’s board governance.
Jen H.
Migration & Modernization Advisor, Amazon Web Services
Strategic technology leader with 18 years’ experience in product management and engineering at Fortune 500 firms, Jen Hsu excels at building cross-functional teams and launching large-scale initiatives. Her expertise in business modeling and digital transformation supports Oceanlight’s growth and operations.
Partners
The Heal Project
Educating and inspiring students to make healthy choices for themselves and their world
New Sun Road
Accelerating energy and internet access for underserved communities around the world.
SEI
Environmental nonprofit consultancy building leaders that accelerate climate solutions in K-12 education.
... and more soon