Independence High School provides a great opportunity for students who wish to learn at their own pace.  Every student meets 1:1, 1:2, or in small class sizes with their teacher.  This more personalized approach to learning allows for students to truly engage with their academics that larger class sizes can't provide.  

Students can choose between attending hourly sessions with their teachers onsite or online each week or choose 5 day synchronous online learning (similar to a normal comprehensive site). In addition, students can attend additional study labs to receive more help.  Every student has a staff advisor who helps students with weekly time management, study skills, social emotional lessons, and college and career supports that students might need to be successful.  Teachers adjust and tailor-make sessions to meet students where they are at in their learning, challenge students when concepts are too easy, and review past concepts when students find difficulty in a topic. 

Multiple work spaces are available on campus to allow students to work on projects throughout the day while having teachers available for guidance.  Independence High School has multiple pathways to success for our students.  

For more information about IHS services, please click on the link: English - Spanish - Russian  

Course offerings are approved by the University of California system (UC a-g).     

Independence High School began as a district program in the 1986 - 1987 school year, and in 1991, was established an alternative high school within Roseville Joint Union High School District and was located in four portable units where the RJUHSD Maintenance Department currently sits.  The first principal of the school was Ona Castaneda who served from 1991-2007.

In 2001, Independence High School was permanently relocated to its current facility combining teacher/student offices and classrooms for the flexibility necessary for independent studies.  Independent study teachers, district, and state administrators from around the state have come to observe, and marvel at, the operations of our RJUHSD independent studies model.

In 2007, after Ona Castaneda’s retirement, Rick Matteoli became principal and served as the administrator from 2007-2009.  It was during that time that the first “blended” courses were created and offered in the District.  The first courses were U.S. History and Government.  The students were certainly early adopters of technology-enhanced courses.

From 2009-2020, Debra Latteri served as Principal of Independence High School.  During her tenure, the primary independent study delivery system grew to a highly technology-enhanced blended model. 

Independence High School became the host for the districtwide summer Credit Recovery in 2010 and expanded to year round Credit Recovery in the fall of 2011.  Grade Recovery to recover Ds as well as Fs was added in the fall of 2013.  In the fall of 2019, Independence High School became the host of the districtwide Home and Hospital program.

RJUHSD Values: 
Ignite innovative & meaningful learning 
Inspire powerful impact in communities 
Prepare all students for multiple paths to success

Independence Mission: Students are unique individuals who will grow socially/academically when provided a caring, equitable, and engaging environment.  We will provide all students with the knowledge and skills to fulfill their unique potential through multiple paths to success. 

Core Values: All students are able to: 
A. Live Socially and Emotionally Intelligent Lives
B. Be Critical and Innovative Thinkers
C. Be Effective Communicators
D. Live As Independent Learners

School Philosophy: Our Independence core values drive the shared commitment of the mission and enable staff to continually develop and improve the student outcomes.  Systems in our Independence school are aligned and adaptive in order to create a personal and equitable learning environment that sets all students up for their future (academic, college & career ready, social-emotional).  We help level the playing field for youth navigating life disruptions that can have an impact in their academic future as well as youth seeking an alternative approach to the regular school system.

 E: rfernandes@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1000
 

 Instagram:@independence_high_trailblazers
 Twitter:@IHSTrailblazer
 Facebook: @IndependenceHighSchoolRJUHSD

Degree: BA Chemistry, MA Ed Leadership

Welcome!  I have been a teacher and administrator in education for the past 17 years at both Sacramento Charter High School and Antelope High School.  I feel privileged to be a Trailblazer and excited that Independence High School represents the future of schools where families and students get a personalized education in a blended learning environment.  Every student at IHS receives an adult mentor who helps them navigate academic, time management, college & career pathways, and social emotional needs.  Our staff consistently communicates with families about their child's progress and needs.  Please don't hesitate to reach out if being a Trailblazer is the right choice for you!

 E: kzorio@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1300  

 Welcome to IHS!

I am known as “Ms. Kelley” around here. I grew up in Buffalo, NY before moving to beautiful California as a teen. I left the snow for the sun and haven’t looked back. I have worked for RJUHSD since 2005 in a variety of positions including Registrar at Granite Bay High School and Administrative Assistant/Student Services at Oakmont High School before coming over to IHS in 2018 as the Principal Secretary/Office Manager. I am proud to say that in my first year at each of these three major positions I was given the award of excellence by the district. I am honored to work at Independence High School. I love our positive learning atmosphere and the fact that all staff members work together for the success of the students. I am a huge sports fan and I follow the SF Giants, San Jose Sharks, SF 49ers, and the Sacramento Kings.

I look forward to meeting every student that walks through our doors! Proud to be a Trailblazer!

 E: dburns@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1305

I attended Sacramento State University for my Bachelor of Art in Philosophy and Master of Science: Counselor Education, School Counseling, and Career Counseling.  I am passionate about supporting high school students and preparing them for successful futures after high school.  

 E: cdobon-claveau@rjuhsd.us

 P: (916) 786-0793 

 Degree: LCSW, PPSC

 E: ecazares@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 
 

Hello! My name is Edgar Cazares and I am the mental health specialist associate for Independence high school. I received my bachelors and masters degree in social work at CSU, Sacramento.I got into this profession because I am passionate about helping others.I was born and raised in Sacramento, California. I love to spend time with my loved ones and watch/play soccer and basketball. I hope you all get the chance to know me, please done hesitate to find me if you ever need anything.

 E: epowell@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1304

 E: ctravasso@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1302

Welcome to Independence HS! My name is Cynthia Travasso, and I am the High School's Student Data Manager/Registrar. Before living in the Roseville Area, I was born and raised in Gilroy, California, finished high school at Notre Dame in Salinas, and went to Chico state for Graphic Design and Communications degree. I have been with the Roseville High School District for 21 years. I started work in the RJUHSD at Roseville High School in 1999 working in the College and Career Center for 10 years and then was assigned to Registrar position until June of 2016. From 2016 to 2019 was hired and worked at Adelante High School where I was the Principal Secretary/Office Manager/Student Data Manager. In June, 2019 to present, I was hired and have been excited to be working as the Student Data Manager here at Independence High School and being a part of this amazing staff here. Additionally, as well as working as the Registrar Independence H.S. I also work as the Student Data Mgr./Registrar for the Roseville High School District Credit Recovery Program, as well as the RJUHSD Summer School Program. Proud to be a Trailblazer!

 E: swilder@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 
 

Welcome! Sarah began working at Adelante High School in the fall of 2019 and began working at Independence High school during the 20-21 school year. She graduated from CSU Chico with a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing and a minor in Child Development. Sarah has worked with all ages of children throughout her nursing career. She came to Adelante High School with 8 years of school nurse supervisor experience from the Bay Area. She has past nursing experience working with infants, families, and pregnant teens as a rural maternal-child public health nurse in San Diego County and a critical care pediatric nurse at UCLA Children's Hospital.  She also finished her School Nurse Credential program and her Master's degree in Nursing from Sacramento State in December 2016. In her spare time she enjoys traveling to tropical locations, playing basketball, and spending time with her husband, son and daughter. 

 E: sclinton@rjuhsd.us

 P: (916) 786-0793 

  Hello
My name is Darth Clinton and I've been teaching math for almost twenty years.  I've run the gamut of teaching high school and middle school math: Pre-Algebra through AP Calculus BC.  My educational background includes a bachelor's in mathematics and a minor in computer science from CSUS.  My biggest passion is helping kids learn how to become independent learners through the use of resources and supports that I can offer in the classroom setting.  I've been heavily involved in math leadership roles across the district and am excited to bring the fruits of those labors to my students every day. One of my non-math goals for my students is to prepare them to be successful in any scenario that life might throw at them through perseverance and savviness.  I try to be as close to the cutting edge as possible when it comes to technology that can help students learn effectively, and you will see that immediately if you are in my class.  I was born and raised locally (Citrus Heights)!.  I've been in this school district for almost my entire career, including such exciting locales as Antelope High, Roseville High, Adelante, Oakmont, and now Independence! I'm a pop culture fanboy, and my favorite fandoms are gaming, star wars, comic books, and TV/movies/novels related to those fandoms.  I also live with my far too energetic dog Kitty Pryde. If you see something that you relate to, tell me!  I'm always looking to chat with fellow nerds.
As always, to be continued...Stay savvy, my padawans.

 E: bcordell@rjuhsd.us

 P: (916) 786-0793 

I have been teaching Ceramics, Art, and AP Art History in the RJUHSD for over 20 years.  My wife is a teacher, and my three boys graduated from WHS.  I love to spend free time with my family and friends, painting and sculpting, and enjoy reading, traveling, and visiting art museums. 

I believe that all students are capable of developing their creativity.  Art classes help you develop problem solving and critical thinking skills.  Sign up for an Art or Ceramics class to restore balance and relaxation in your daily life, while developing sophisticated and meaningful works of art.

 E: sferguson@rjuhsd.us

 P: (916) 786-0793 x1418

 Degree: English (B.A./M.Ed.)

Welcome!  My name is Stacy Ferguson, and I teach English here at Independence High School.  I was born and raised in Ohio, and I received my bachelor's degree in English and my master's degree in English Education from The Ohio State University (Go Buckeyes!).  I taught Gifted Education for two years in Pennsylvania before moving to California in 2007.  Prior to coming to Independence High School in 2012, I taught English at Davis Senior High School and Antelope High School.  This is my thirteenth year of teaching, and each year keeps getting better and better!  I am passionate about the English subject, and I love working with students.  I hope you never hesitate to reach out for assistance; I am here to help!

 E: jfrodahl@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916.786.0793 ext 1427

I have been teaching for more than twenty years.  Ten years ago I was given an opportunity to teach at an alternative education site:  Independence High School.  I found the ability to personalize education and work with students individually to be just what I had been looking for.  I applaud you for your decision to be part of a 21st Century alternative education site!  I hope you will love it here as much as I do.  The key to success is communication.  Please make note of my office hours and contact information.  I am here to help guide your learning, so please contact me with any questions or concerns.

 E: ghill@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 ext.1422

 Degree: BA Government

Mr. Hill lives with his wife and children in Sacramento, California.  He was born and raised within a 42 nautical mile radius (SSW) of Hangar 18. He is currently the unofficial President of the Jethro Bodine Fan Club and knows all about Sasquatch.  

Hill has been teaching for over 16 years and currently teachers AP and college prep World History, U.S. History, Economics and Government, and Psychology. He looks forward to helping you definitely achieve your educational goals! 

 E: tkringle@rjuhsd.us

 P: (916) 786-0793 

 Proud to be a Trailblazer!

 E: lloggins-morgan@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1417

My name is Leslie Loggins - Morgan, and I teach Physics, Chemistry, Guitar and music at Independence High School. I grew up in the Sacramento valley, Carmichael, California. I have a B.S. in Geology, Minor in Music from CSU Sacramento and a Masters in Education in Cross Cultural Ed from National University. Before becoming a teacher I worked in the private sector in accounting (Payroll and Human Resources). I also spent a few years as a professional musician before deciding that being a teacher and guiding today's youth is my passion. I hope to inspire you to be your best, learn about your world and make it a better place, through science or music. Let me know how I may help you reach your goals. I look forward to working with you. Welcome! Proud to be a Trailblazer!

 E: kmarazzo@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1416

 Degree: BA English, MA Leadership

Welcome! My name is Karen Marazzo and I have been teaching since 2003. I have taught kindergarten through 12th grade. I have my bachelor's degree with a major in sociology and a minor in anthropology from UC Santa Barbara. I earned my single subject teaching credential in English from CSU Stanislaus. Next, I earned my multiple subject teaching credential from Chapman University. As you might have gathered, I truly love learning, so I went back to school and I earned my master's degree in educational leadership and my administrative credential. My husband and I have two hilarious children and enjoy going to Tahoe and going on bike rides to the park with our Golden Retriever, Max. Please know that I am truly passionate about education and working with students. I hope you never hesitate to reach out for assistance; I am here to help!

 E: tmoorehead@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916 786-0793 ext. 1414

 Degree: BA Mathematics, CSUS

Huge Sacramento Kings fan and San Francisco Giants fan. I also love Star Wars and Harry Potter.

 E: knurss@rjuhsd.us

 P: (916) 786-0793 

My name is Katie Nurss, and I have been teaching in the RJUHSD for four years. I have been a full time teacher at Roseville High School since the start of my career in education, teaching NGSS Biology and the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science program, and have taught NGSS Biology at Independence High School for the past year. I enjoy guiding students through their learning experience by offering real-world phenomena to observe and problems to solve through the lens of the course.

 E: crothenberg@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1430

¡Hola! I am Celia Rothenberg, and I teach Spanish here at Independence High School. I was born and raised in Mexico City, and I received my undergraduate and graduate degrees from universities in Mexico. I have been living in the US for more than 20 years, and currently live in Granite Bay with my husband and teenage children. This is my tenth year of teaching, and I have taught Spanish to students of all ages in a variety of settings. I have worked in private, charter and traditional public schools. Here at Independence, I teach four levels of Spanish, both online and in the classroom. I very much love my language and my culture and I bring that to my students with enthusiasm. I myself am a lifelong learner, constantly pursuing opportunities to further develop my teaching skills and my knowledge of Spanish. I value hard work, dedication, commitment, and believe strongly in pursuing quality standards in all I do. I am looking forward to working with you! Proud to be a Trailblazer!

 E: jsanner@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1420

Degree: MA Literacy & Digital Learning

Cert: Google Certified, Level 1

Ms. Sanner enjoys poetry and art, and the more active side of her enjoys swimming, hiking, and just simply hanging out in nature. She has been teaching since 2004 and joined the Independence High School staff in 2009. Ms. Sanner teaches 9-12th grade English, AP Language, and will be helping with Orientation classes and teaching a few electives this year. She earned her Masters of Education in Literacy and Digital Learning from the University of San Diego in January 2017 and enjoy helping students utilize technology in the classroom, and more importantly, learning from them. Other tidbits about Ms. Sanner - She married my high school sweetheart, Rusty, and they have two grown children, Caleb and Paige. They enjoy traveling to tropical locales to scuba dive. Her next challenge she is undertaking will be learning to sail. Enjoy life. Make each day count. And keep HOPE alive! All the best, Joy Respect ⋅ Responsibility ⋅ Right Choices

 E: gschauberger@rjuhsd.us

 P: (916) 786-0793 ex. 1423

 Degree: AA History, AA Social Science, BA US History

This is my 19th year of teaching Social Science and 5th year at Independence High School.  In addition to Social Science, I teach Yearbook at IHS.  I love spending time with my family and gardening. Some of you will meet my wife (Tracy) who is a substitute teacher here frequently.  I look forward to working with you this year.

 E: jsilva@rjuhsd.us

 P: (916) 786-0793 x1419

 Degree: BS Political Science, MA Education

Mr. Silva began working in education as a para-educator helping special needs students in their core classes before graduating from Southern Oregon University with a BS in Political Science. Mr. Silva then went on to UC Santa Cruz as a regent scholar and McCarthy Dressman Fellow to obtain his Masters in Education. Silva continued on, teaching at Watsonville High School, where he had been doing his student teaching, becoming a leader in the ECHO Academy, helping students achieve careers in education and social justice work. Mr. Silva worked at Watsonville High School for 3 years during which time he helped create and distribute LGBTQ History to bring school districts in line with the FAIR Act, being recognized with the PVUSD Leadership Award, and partnering with UCSC to have psychology students being part of graduate level research studies. Since joining RJUHSD and Independence High School, Mr. Silva was placed in charge of Student Government, sits on the Ethnic Studies Task Force, Econ and Gov Team Lead teams, is a part of both the CSI and Equity team at both the site and district level. During this time Mr. Silva has been recognized as a Teacher Who Makes a Difference by ACSA, and with the RJUHSD staff excellency award. During his free time, Mr. Silva likes to go hiking, spend time with his dogs, read, and cook dinner with his wife.

 E: mtupper@rjuhsd.us

 P: 916-786-0793 x1000

My name is Melissa Tupper I teach Physical Education and Health at IHS. I'm in my 18th year of teaching, the last 7 have been with RJUHSD. When I'm not teaching you can find me golfing, hiking or working out.