I graduated from the University of California, Davis where I majored in zoology with an emphasis in zoological veterinary medicine. While at UC Davis, I earned a minor in Education and completed my single subject and multiple subjects credentials at the California State University, Hayward campus. Before coming to Stone Valley Middle School in 1994, I taught at John Muir Middle School in San Leandro. I have been teaching since 1987. I completed my Masters of Science in Education with a specialization in Middle Level Education in 2004 from Walden University.

I became a teacher after working at Marine World/Africa USA in the Education and Land Animals departments. As part of my responsibilities, I worked in the School Assembly Program. We would bring a variety of exotic animals into schools throughout Northern California. I enjoyed watching students light up as we talked about cheetahs or tigers or even something as simple as raccoons and opossums. The idea of bringing something new and exciting to these students prompted me to seek my teaching credentials after Marine World/Africa USA moved from Redwood City to Vallejo. Some people wonder why I left a job where I worked with wild and exotic animals... that is, until I remind them that I do teach middle school!

In addition to teaching, I am active in the San Ramon Valley Educators' Association, editor of the SRVEA Newsletter, a CTA State Delegate, and a member of the ALCOSTA Service Center Steering Committee. I also serve on the SRVUSD Benefits Studies Committee. I strongly believe that my participation in the organizations and committees strengthens my commitment to education, benefiting my students even more.

When I am not involved in the classroom, I train and show Golden Retrievers in AKC conformation, agility, and obedience competitions. I am an AKC licensed Agility Judge. I also volunteer as a 4-H Dog Care and Training leader for Del Arroyo 4-H Club in Livermore. In what little spare time I have, I enjoy scuba diving, inline skating, and rock climbing. I served on the Tri-County Underwater Search and Recovery team and was a member of the China Lake Mountain Rescue Team.

I live in Dublin with my partner, April and our pups, Lucky, Jester, Star, Spice, Sunshine, and DJ, Halle, and Dusty--all part of Argus Golden Retrievers. Please visit my other website:

http://web.mac.com/roncalab

Download a copy of the Course Policy and Parent Brochure from my Locker. Throughout the school year, the Science 8 Locker will be the best resource for worksheets, calendars, assignments, as well as study guides and other valuable information