MADISON LAWRENCE - TIDES MANAGER

Hi! I’m Madison Lawrence - a SCUBA MSDT instructor, teacher and new mom of twin girls! I’ve traveled extensively for both exploration and diving, I’ve worked with a team to disentangle whales, spent many hours in a lab researching plankton and most recently teaching others to scuba dive! Encouraging others to be involved with the ocean in any capacity is my dream. As a past head teacher of San Diego with Tides turned to a co-manager of Lanterns Global, I am thrilled to continue sharing my passion with our communities! 

Katelyn Piwowar - Tides Sd Head Teacher

Hi, my name is Katelyn Piwowar, and I'm thrilled to join the Tides team as the Marine Biology Head Teacher for San Diego!

Growing up in the Midwest with a passion for marine life was a struggle, but I spent countless hours at zoos and aquariums, learning everything I could about the subject. This passion eventually led me to the Puget Sound area in Washington, where I earned my degree in Marine and Coastal Sciences. This also allowed me to truly fall in love with tide pooling. There, I was thankful to also have the opportunity to perform biological oceanography research on plankton and trophic interactions in kelp forest ecosystems. My pursuits in marine sciences finally landed me here in San Diego with the hopes of continuing my education and experience in an environment absolutely designed for this industry.

I'm incredibly excited to share my love for our coasts and oceans with the Tides students and am looking forward to the semesters ahead!

Makayla Esquibel - Tides Sd Assistant Teacher

Bio Coming Soon!

Tatiana Guillen - Tides Sd Assistant Teacher

Hello, my name is Tatiana Guillen, and I’m excited to be an assistant teacher with Tides. I’m originally from San Antonio, Texas, but I moved to San Diego to pursue my degree in Biology with a concentration in Marine Biology at San Diego State University. During my studies, I gained experience both in the laboratory and out in the field. My work has included coral reef monitoring, invasive species research, and reef restoration in Honduras, as well as studying sea urchin development and marine defense systems here in San Diego.

I also have hands-on experience caring for animals through my work at previous roles, and I have enjoyed teaching and mentoring children from many different backgrounds. I love creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels encouraged to explore tide pools, discover marine life, and deepen their connection to the ocean. My favorite sea animal is the whale shark, and I enjoy sharing fun facts and stories about them with the students.

Outside of teaching, I love scuba diving, painting, and spending time near the water. I look forward to learning alongside your children and helping them connect with the marine world in meaningful ways.

Jessica H - Tides PV Assistant Teacher

Bio Coming Soon!

Emma Auerbach - Tides Malibu Head Teacher

BIO COMING SOON!

Ramona (Emilie) Becker- Tides Malibu Assistant Teacher

Hi there!  I’m Emilie, a certified mermaid, and I have a degree in marine science from the University of Hawaii at Hilo. I’ve studied whale migrations and even been part of the sea turtle rescue team. I love to stay active and connected to the water, whether it’s scuba diving, playing water polo, or cliff jumping with friends. I’ve been a science teacher and wildlife educator for many years, and I absolutely love the outdoors. I’m passionate about inspiring curiosity in science and nature to students of all ages. 

Liliana Vela - Tides Carpinteria Assistant Teacher and El Jardin Carpinteria Pequenos Head Maestra

Bio Coming Soon!

Daria Mattly - Tides Monterey + SC Head Teacher

Bio Coming Soon!

Elle Vilela - Tides Monterey + SC Assistant Teacher

“Hello everyone, my name is Elle Vilela! I recently graduated with a degree in Environmental Biology and have hands-on experience in field research, habitat restoration, and environmental monitoring. My passion for the outdoors—especially the ocean—fuels both my work and my hobbies; I love hiking, camping, swimming, and exploring new coastlines whenever I get the chance. Whether in the field or in the classroom, I am dedicated to sharing that enthusiasm with others and fostering curiosity in the next generation. I am thrilled to be a part of the Lanterns Global team and to share my love for our planet’s incredible ecosystems.”

Sophia Sharon - Tides Marin Head Teacher

Hey guys! My name is Sofia, and I am a lover of the Salish Sea and the California Coast. I am a Bay Area native and studied marine biology at the University of Washington. I have spent a considerable amount of time on the San Juan Islands in Washington, conducting research and workshops focused on marine science. 

I am a huge Radiohead fan, love to surf, and enjoy walks in search of a sweet treat. I am constantly looking for new connections and a great laugh. I find so much joy communicating with others and teaching younger generations of the importance of our oceans. I find that learning through experiences and hands-on approaches are most beneficial for myself and I hope to apply this to my own teaching. 

It is refreshing to see such engagement and care from younger generations towards our oceans. I am beyond thrilled to be a part of this community to help create a safe place for younger minds to explore their interests about the sea!

Eva Bradman - Tides Marin Assistant Teacher

Bio Coming Soon!

Sasha Urban - Tides Hawaii Head Teacher

Hi! I’m Sasha Urban - I hold a Bachelor's of Science in Marine Biology from the University of Hawaii. Originally from Novato, California, I moved to Hawaii for school and stayed because I fell in love with the island. My journey has been diverse, including working as an art teacher and volunteering with Hawaiian Marine Animal Rescue and Response, where I also conducted a research project on marine animal behavior. I have a deep love for marine mammals and invertebrates, and a passion for art, particularly drawing and painting. I also have a background in competitive swimming and lifeguarding. In my free time, you can often find me diving and snorkeling, exploring the vibrant underwater world of Hawaii. My dream is to combine my love for marine biology and art to foster a deeper appreciation for our oceans. I am excited to continue sharing my passion and knowledge with our students!

Alyssa Perez - Tides Hawaii Assistant Teacher

Bio Coming Soon!