sara yamaguchi
student services coordinator
Sara Yamaguchi’s journey into teaching is one of resilience, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the power of education. Born in South Korea, Sara moved to Baltimore at the age of nine. As a child in an immigrant family facing significant financial hardship, Ms. Yamaguchi experienced firsthand the challenges of starting over in a new country, learning English and adapting to a new cultural environment, navigating uncertainty with determination and hope.
Determined to succeed, Ms. Yamaguchi excelled academically and built a successful career in finance. Yet, she could not ignore her lifelong calling to teach. She earned her Master of Arts in Teaching from Liberty University and went on to become an accomplished educator, holding an Advanced Teacher License from the Hawai‘i Teacher Standards Board with endorsements in Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Sociology, Algebra 1, and Special Education.
Before joining Kūlia Academy, Sara taught at Mililani High School, Mililani Middle School, Wahiawā Middle School, and Assets High School, where she served as a Beginning Teacher Mentor, PLC/Data Team Leader, and Professional Development Facilitator. Fluent in both English and Korean, she integrates her multicultural background into her teaching, fostering inclusive, equitable classrooms where every student feels supported and inspired.
Sara’s own life story fuels her passion for ensuring all students—especially those from immigrant and underserved communities—receive the opportunities, encouragement, and resources they need to thrive.