Our story
Faith, Excellence, and a Better Way to Learn
CAAL was founded on the conviction that education should prepare the whole student — academically, spiritually, and practically — for a life of purpose and impact.
Mission & vision
Why We Exist
To equip students with rigorous academics, real-world skills, and a faith-grounded character so they can thrive in college, career, and life.
We envision a generation of graduates who are not just credentialed, but capable — young men and women who know who they are, what they believe, and how to build something meaningful.
Faith First
Every subject, skill, and decision is filtered through a biblical worldview that anchors students in truth.
Academic Rigor
We hold students to high standards because we believe they are capable of more than the average system expects.
Real-World Readiness
Diplomas matter. So do skills. We build both — through apprenticeships, business workshops, and dual enrollment.
Family Partnership
Parents are the primary educators. CAAL comes alongside families as a trusted partner, not a replacement.
Private school satellite program
What Is a Private School Satellite Program?
CAAL operates as a private school satellite program (PSP) under California law. This means homeschool families enroll under CAAL's private school umbrella, giving students access to an accredited curriculum framework, official transcripts, and a recognized diploma — while retaining the flexibility of home-based learning. Parents remain the day-to-day educators; CAAL provides the structure, oversight, resources, and compliance support that make it official.
- Official Transcripts — Fully documented academic records accepted by colleges, employers, and the military.
- Recognized Diploma — A CAAL diploma carries the weight of a private school credential — not just a homeschool certificate.
- Compliance Support — We handle the paperwork. Families submit required CA documents through our portal and we track everything.
- Flexible Scheduling — Students learn at home, on their schedule, with CAAL's curriculum guidance and advisor support.
Leadership team
The People Behind CAAL
Our team brings together decades of experience in education, ministry, business, and family advocacy.
Kherissa Stuart
Founder & Executive Director
Kherissa founded CAAL to provide families with a homeschool experience rooted in a Christian, Biblical worldview while preparing students for life beyond the classroom. Drawing from her experience in educational leadership and as a homeschooling parent, she developed an accelerated academic pathway that exceeds California Department of Education standards and equips students with practical life skills, career exposure, entrepreneurship opportunities, and a head start toward whichever path God calls them to pursue.
Amber Castillo-Wilson
Secretary
Amber serves as CAAL's Secretary, bringing valuable business experience, strong organizational skills, and exceptional attention to detail. She is passionate about serving youth and helping create meaningful opportunities they may not receive in a traditional educational setting, while using her skills to keep CAAL organized, efficient, and moving forward with excellence.
Carol Dickson
Director of Admissions & Record Keeping
Carol Dickson brings decades of experience in education as a former high school teacher, district administrator, and Department of Education consultant. Her depth of knowledge makes her an invaluable part of CAAL, where she oversees Department of Education record keeping and compliance while bringing a heart for stewarding Biblical values into the next generation.
Brie Medina
Director of Academics & Educator
Mrs. Medina serves as CAAL's Director of Academics, bringing a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Point Loma Nazarene University and a B.A. from San Diego Christian College. After transitioning from the public school system to home-based education, she developed a passion for helping students pursue rigorous academics without being confined to a one-size-fits-all model. She ensures CAAL maintains strong academic standards as an educator while honoring each student's unique learning path, strengths, and God-given calling.
Cheska Durrant
Pathway Advisor
Cheska serves as a Pathway Advisor at CAAL, helping students and families navigate their academic journey and identify the right educational pathway to match each student's goals, strengths, and calling.
Jamar Stuart
Academic Advisor & Educator
Jamar serves as an Academic Advisor and Educator at CAAL, bringing a passion for ministry work alongside academic excellence. He works closely with students to support their learning, keep them on track toward graduation, and help them discover their God-given potential.
Jennifer Gonzales
Curriculum Specialist
Jennifer brings a deep and studied knowledge of curriculum development rooted in a biblical worldview. She ensures that every course and resource used at CAAL upholds a strong foundation of faith, academic integrity, and Christ-centered truth — equipping students not just for academic success, but for a life grounded in God's Word.
Andrea Rubio
Montessori Educator
Andrea brings creativity, warmth, and hands-on learning into class. With experience in early childhood education, she helps our younger students develop a love for learning through engaging experiences in art, music, Spanish, creating an environment where children can explore, grow, and have fun while building a strong academic foundation.
Ready to Join the CAAL Family?
Whether you're just exploring or ready to enroll, we'd love to connect. Our advisors are here to answer every question. Serving families choosing alternative education.