Margie Ryckman

Born in Maryland, but a Santa Barbara transplant at six years old, Mrs. Ryckman was so shy in elementary school that if an adult even spoke to her, she’d burst out in tears.  In junior high, though, Mrs. Ryckman found a friend in her pony, Goldilocks.  She was able to earn money to buy Goldilocks by babysitting.  In high school, Mrs. Ryckman continued to branch out- she was a member of the track and field team, participated in plays, and worked at an ice cream shop.

Mrs. Ryckman loved learning about weather and natural disasters during her studies at UCSB, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in geography.  During a field trip to Death Valley, Ms. Ryckman saw a rattlesnake and found a million year old fossil.

Mrs. Ryckman loves working at IV School because the staff works together and cares for each other as a family.

Mr. and Mrs. Ryckman met when they were 16 and 15, respectively.  Had they met one year earlier, they could have sung, “You are Sixteen Going on 17.”  They have three children, two dogs, and two cats.  And sometimes they have foster kittens.  Mrs. Ryckman loves photography, reading, baking, camping, and walking on the beach.

Kimberly Young

Ms. Young enjoyed growing up in Santa Barbara and attending local schools. As a child,  she was active in tennis and music, playing the piano and violin.  After high school, she attended Biola University and received a degree in business but quickly realized that her love was in education.  She then went to California State University, Northridge to get her teaching credential and soon after began teaching in Carpinteria.  

During her tenure in Carpinteria, she taught grades 3-5.  Moving to GUSD in 2016, she began teaching 6th grade for the first time and fell in love with the grade level and the students!  Sixth graders are the best! There are many things she loves about Isla Vista School.  She loves the camaraderie between the teachers and loves her grade level teammates.  She also loves the community of families and students that creates the perfect blend of so many cultures and experiences.  This unique family of Seahawks is what makes Isla Vista an amazing school. 

FINLEY BALMA

Ms. Balma grew up in the snowy mountains of Colorado. In Elementary school she loved reading and creating! Ms.Balma always made her own Halloween costumes. She was once a tootsie roll, a bowling pin, and a box of popcorn!  

After graduating from high school Ms. Balma traded the snow for the sand. She moved to Santa Barbara and attended Westmont college. She studied Sociology and Spanish. After college she worked for a non-profit that helped women start their own small businesses! She loved that job, but eventually decided to return to grad school at UCSB to become a teacher.

Ms. Balma is lucky enough to have spent her whole teaching career at Isla Vista! She loves learning and teaching alongside the most amazing community of teachers, students, and families!