OUR COACHES

Meet our coaches and learn about their backgrounds.

CHINA ALEISSE THOMAS

ELA & GLOBAL STUDIES COACH

China Aleisse Thomas is a passionate educator and writer who brings both a global lens and a deep commitment to student-centered learning to her role at Eden Creative Arts. With a background in ESL and Montessori education, China creates thoughtful, inclusive learning environments that encourage students to explore, question, and express themselves with confidence and clarity.

Her academic journey began at DePaul University and continued with immersive travels through Australia and New Zealand—experiences that deeply shaped her belief in the power of cultural exchange, empathy, and diverse perspectives. At Eden, she blends these experiences with a strong foundation in literacy instruction, helping students grow not only in their reading and writing skills but also in their critical thinking and global awareness.

In her classroom, curiosity is celebrated, and each student’s voice is honored. China’s approach reflects Eden’s philosophy of nurturing the whole child—fostering academic excellence while building character, compassion, and creativity.

Through her work at Eden Creative Arts, China ensures that every learner feels seen, supported, and inspired to engage with the world around them with both heart and intellect.

CELESTE LOPEZ

SPANISH & MATH COACH

Celeste Lopez is a dedicated bilingual educator whose passion for language and numbers brings energy, clarity, and connection to every classroom she leads. As a native Spanish speaker and experienced math tutor, Celeste has spent years helping students build confidence in two of the most foundational subjects—approaching each lesson with patience, creativity, and cultural awareness.

At Eden Creative Arts, she teaches both Spanish and math, often integrating the two to create an immersive, cross-disciplinary experience that sparks curiosity and deepens understanding. Her lessons are joyful, interactive, and thoughtfully designed to meet students where they are—whether they’re learning to count in a new language or tackling complex math problems.

Celeste’s teaching reflects Eden’s commitment to personalized, student-centered education. She believes that every learner can thrive when given the tools, support, and freedom to explore. Through her work, she empowers students to grow academically while embracing their cultural identity and creative potential.

With Celeste in the classroom, learning becomes a vibrant journey—rooted in discovery, connection, and the belief that every child can succeed.

TOOMY VILAI

STEAM COACH

Toomy Vilai is a passionate STEAM educator with over 15 years of experience teaching students across all age levels—from kindergarten to college. At Eden Creative Arts, she brings a hands-on, inquiry-based approach that invites students to explore the exciting intersections of science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

With a vibrant teaching style and deep commitment to real-world learning, Toomy designs lessons that spark curiosity and encourage creative problem-solving. Her classrooms are dynamic spaces where students are not only challenged to think critically but also empowered to take risks, experiment, and innovate.

Toomy’s approach to STEAM is grounded in joy and discovery. Whether students are building prototypes, exploring coding, or blending art with engineering, her goal is to nurture confident learners who see themselves as capable creators and thinkers.

Aligned with Eden’s mission of cultivating whole-child development, Toomy fosters an environment where academic exploration is both meaningful and fun—equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

LYDEAH KEARSE

DANCE & MOVEMENT COACH

Lydeah Kearse is a dynamic choreographer, educator, and creative producer whose vibrant career spans global stages—including the BET Hip Hop Awards and Coachella. At Eden Creative Arts, Lydeah infuses every class with her deep passion for movement, culture, and community, offering students more than just dance instruction—she offers a space to feel seen, celebrated, and empowered.

Trained in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and hip hop, Lydeah brings a multidisciplinary approach that allows students to explore various styles while building confidence, discipline, and self-expression. Her classroom is a joy-filled environment where movement becomes a form of storytelling, and each student is encouraged to tap into their unique voice through dance.

With a teaching style rooted in both technique and heart, Lydeah embodies Eden’s mission of nurturing young creatives through intentional, holistic education. She believes that dance is not just an art form—it’s a language that builds connection, resilience, and joy.

Lydeah’s presence at Eden Creative Arts ensures that students experience the transformative power of dance while developing the strength, freedom, and creativity that will carry them far beyond the studio.