Volunteer-led. Community-powered. Student-focused.
The Grove Parent Teacher Group, Inc. (GPTG) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and enriching the educational experience of students at The Grove School in Redlands, California.
Our Mission
Our mission is to strengthen the Grove School experience by raising and responsibly stewarding funds that expand opportunities for students, support educators, and build meaningful connections among students, families, teachers, and the greater Redlands community. Through fundraising, community partnerships, and volunteer engagement, GPTG helps make key experiences, programs, and opportunities possible that enrich student life and help our Grove community thrive.
2026 - 2027 GPTG Board
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Alisa Evans is a Grove parent and President of the GPTG Board. She and her husband have two children at Grove and value its focus on community and helping young people grow into thoughtful, confident individuals.
Alisa is Founder and CEO of Mission Enrollment, a Certified B Corporation supporting K–12 private and independent schools with financial aid. Over 25 years, she has helped schools and colleges strengthen financial aid practices, expand access for families, and steward resources. She is a frequent speaker and has served as treasurer and trustee on independent school boards.
Alisa believes strong schools are built through relationships and is grateful to help Grove families connect and contribute. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor movie nights and hosting family and friends.
Alisa Evans
President
Kathleen Ojo is a long-time Redlander and proud Grove parent. She works in tech marketing and enjoys volunteering her time to support the Grove community. Outside of work and school activities, she likes lifting weights, gardening, and spending time with her family. Kathleen is glad to be part of a community where families can come together to support students and help make their school experiences meaningful.
Kathleen Ojo
Vice President
I’m a husband, father, therapist, musician, and lifelong work-in-progress who believes some of the most meaningful things we can offer another person are our presence, curiosity, and the freedom to be fully themselves. My life has taken a few unexpected turns (from IT to marketing to chaplaincy and music to starting over in my forties and becoming a clinical social worker pediatric mental health therapist) and through all of it, I’ve tried to keep choosing people, especially kids and families who deserve to know they matter. More than anything, I hope my life leaves people feeling a little more seen, a little less alone, and a little more hopeful than they did before our paths crossed.
K.C. Hohensee
Treasurer
Melanie “Mel” Knypstra joined The Grove School in 2010 and served as an English teacher here for 14 years before transitioning into the role of Assistant Head of School in 2024. Years before, Mel graduated with a BA in English Literature from UCLA. She then worked for an archaeological firm before returning to school to get her Single Subject Credential for English and MA in Teaching from Chapman University in 2007. Mel completed the AMI/NAMTA Montessori Orientation to Adolescent Studies in 2011 and holds a AMI Montessori 12-18 Diploma. She currently holds a Preliminary Administrative Services credential, which she is working to clear through UC Irvine. She considers the Grove “home” and values its community.
Melanie Knypstra
Assistant Head of School
Ms. O’Brien joined The Grove School in 2016. She is grateful to be part of a community that allows students to construct their knowledge through active involvement with a diverse yet rigorous curriculum.
Ms. O’Brien earned AAs in Social and Behavioral Sciences, Biological and Physical Sciences, Environmental Studies, and Real Estate at SBVC and two BAs in Environmental Studies and Geography at CSUSB. She also earned an Urban Planning Certificate while at CSUSB. While attending Loyola Marymount University, Ms. O’Brien earned a Single Subject Teaching Credential in Biological and Life Sciences, as well as Geosciences. She also earned her MA in Urban Education, Policy, and Administration at LMU. In 2018, Ms. O’Brien earned her 12-18 diploma from the Association Montessori International. In addition, Ms. O’Brien was also an AmeriCorps/Teach for America corps member.
Ms. O’Brien teaches Environmental Science, Anatomy and Physiology, Senior Seminar, and AP Environmental Science. She is also the Senior Project Coordinator and advisor for the HS ASB and Environmental Club. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, volunteering, and immersing herself in the beauty of nature.
Tina O'Brien
Teacher Representative