A lifelong learner and passionate educator at heart, Cara is thrilled to join the Thrive community. Growing up in Hawaii, she had two math professors as parents, and she strives to give her students the same access, support, and mathematical joy she received at home. After earning her B.A. in mathematics from Williams College and her Master’s in Education from Harvard University, she worked as a math teacher, department chair, swim coach, college counselor, mentor teacher, and curriculum creator at top private schools across the country for over 20 years (including, most recently, Pacific Ridge in Carlsbad and Rhoades in Encinitas). Known for her warmth and enthusiasm, Cara brings her extensive mathematical background and teaching expertise to her collaborative, student-centered classroom environment. She plans and facilitates rich, engaging lessons that allow her students to develop their skills as deep mathematical thinkers, clear communicators, and confident problem solvers.