Contacts & Directions

Prior to coming to Laguna, Joyce Balak worked for more than a decade in admissions, advancement, and external affairs in the capacity of Director of Marketing and Communications at another K-12, coed independent school – St. Margaret’s Episcopal in San Juan Capistrano. Joyce is a Cum Laude bachelor's degree recipient from the University of Southern California and holds a Master of Education in Enrollment Management and Policy from the University of Southern California.

Originally from the Bay Area, Lauren Bedard moved to Santa Barbara to attend UCSB, earning a B.A. in Mathematics followed by a Master's in Education. Prior to joining Laguna this year, Lauren spent three years teaching in public schools, first in Stockton, followed by a year in Ventura at Buena High School. In her time as a teacher, Lauren has been involved in several school organizations, including running the student council and working as the head varsity softball coach. In her spare time, she enjoys backpacking, playing softball, painting, and reading.

Michelle moved to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles in late 2021 and most recently worked at Crane Country Day School as the Assistant Director of Admission. In Los Angeles she spent nine years working in admissions offices in independent schools and feels so fortunate to have found a profession that allows her to connect meaningfully with families as they get to know a school community. She grew up in San Diego, attended the University of Pennsylvania, and completed a Masters of Journalism while living in Sydney, Australia. Volunteerism has always been an important part of her life and she currently volunteers with Mission Scholars, Postpartum Education for Parents (PEP), and Congregation B'nai B'rith. On weekends, Michelle loves spending time with her husband and her young daughter, Ora, as they enjoy the local coffee shops, bike along the beautiful paths, and explore the many playgrounds (specifically the swings and slide!). Michelle is very excited to join the Laguna Blanca School community and looks forward to meeting everyone.

Kelly Boyle brings her genuine passion for education to the Laguna Blanca teaching community. Her journey started in the sunny backdrop of San Diego, where she discovered her love for teaching while instructing swim lessons at a local pool. She proudly holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with minors in Spanish and Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). Kelly later deepened her commitment to education by earning her teaching credential and master's degree from the Girvetz School of Education. For nearly a decade, she has been devoted to shaping young minds at Roosevelt Elementary School, primarily in third grade. Kelly is both humbled and excited to embrace the role of the third grade teacher at Laguna Blanca this year, a grade level that holds a special place in her heart. Beyond the classroom, she finds joy in outdoor activities like backpacking, surfing, beach volleyball, and the challenge of training for triathlons, often accompanied by her faithful running partner, her black lab named Quinley.

As an active member of the Santa Barbara community and local schools, Tina has played many roles. She has served on numerous Parent Auxiliary Boards and committees, as well as assisted in the classroom. Tina comes to Laguna with an extensive background in event coordination and project management, working for the Santa Barbara Triathlon, as well as a local interior design company. She also has experience in office administration, accounting, and volunteer management.

A UCSB graduate, Tina earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Art History. She most cherishes her time with her husband and three children and enjoys hiking, gardening, cooking, and design. 

Duncan joins the Laguna faculty after 7 years of teaching Latin at Fairfield Country Day School in Connecticut, where he also spent the last several years building and implementing a school-wide student support system focusing on the development of executive function. He holds a M.A. Degree in School Leadership from Columbia University, Teacher's College and a B.A. in Classical and Medieval Studies from Bates College. Born and raised on an island in coastal Maine, Duncan has always enjoyed being close to the ocean. His interests include surfing, running and sharing his passion for ancient Roman history, art and archaeology.

Tara Broucqsault harbors a great love for em dashes and runs on laughter, creative design, and breaking news. Originally from the east coast, she moved to Santa Barbara in 1992 to attend college, graduating from UCSB with a B.A. in communications. Before joining the Laguna Blanca community in 2000, Tara worked as an HR recruiter in the staffing industry. She is the proud mother of her son, Henri, and adorable Boston Terrier, Goose. When not at Laguna, Tara enjoys interior design, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.