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Biography

Elio Van Gorden

GENERAL INFORMATION

Department
4th Grade A, LS Classroom Teacher
Location
Lower School
Title(s)
4th Grade Teacher

Education

Degree(s)
B.A., Environmental Studies — Politics, Whitman College

Other Information

Employed Since
2026
Biography

Elio is joining the AVS team with three years of experience in education. From designing international gap year programming to teaching outdoor education in Berkeley, and most recently redefining the classroom experience for upper elementary students in San Francisco, Elio has built community across the educational spectrum. Elio’s classroom is driven by student-led inquiry and intentional reflection that are grounded in social-emotional learning and real-world stakes. His students explore STEAM topics through an analytical lens, building critical thinking and problem-solving skills through scaffolded projects and scenarios. As an educator and certified yoga teacher, he is passionate about cultivating a sense of belonging to unlock the overall learning potential for students and learning communities. In his free time, Elio can be found running on trails around the Bay, spending time tending his garden, or making up silly songs for his cats.