Office & Admin
Dr. Benjamin Feinstein
Executive Director
Dr. Benjamin Feinstein is the founding Executive Director of Vegas Vista Academy and a nationally experienced educational leader with more than 35 years of expertise in school design, curriculum development, teacher education, administration, and community-based learning.
A published researcher and internationally recognized leader in International Baccalaureate (IB) education, Dr. Feinstein has served as an IB teacher, coordinator, school administrator, and active member of the IB Educator Network. He helped establish both the Hawai‘i Association of IB World Schools and the Nevada Association of IB World Schools, serving as president of both associations. His leadership has strengthened school programs, supported educators, and expanded access to inquiry-based, globally minded education across multiple school communities in the US and internationally.
He earned his Ph.D. in Teacher Education from the University of Hawai‘i, a master’s degree in Urban Leadership from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a Certificate in School Management and Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
At Vegas Vista Academy, Dr. Feinstein has brought together decades of research and practice to create a distinctive educational model centered on small class sizes, dual-language learning, inquiry, experiential education, and community service. Under his leadership, Vegas Vista Academy became an authorized IB World School in June 2026 — an important step toward its vision of becoming Nevada’s only K–12 full IB Continuum school.
Gretel Valdes
Director of Operations
With a bachelor’s in Creative Writing, Gretel brings not only her passion for using her words to make a difference, but also a dedication to serving the Spanish-speaking communities in Las Vegas. She was a founding member of the Alpha Alpha Alpha National Honor Society for First-Generation College Students at Linfield University, allowing her to recognize the importance of emphasizing the achievements of first generation students. As a cat enthusiast, she dedicates time volunteering at the Animal Foundation here in Las Vegas, Nevada, as a means of giving back to her community. As Office Manager, she hopes to impact the lives of students and those around her with her devotion to accessible and effective education.
✉️ info@vegasvistaacademy.org
Greta Valdes
Community Engagement Coordinator
Greta is a proud native of Las Vegas with a deep-rooted commitment to her community. With a passion for connecting people and fostering meaningful partnerships, she plays a pivotal role in building bridges between Vegas Vista Academy and local organizations. Whether it’s planning vibrant events or nurturing collaborations, Greta’s enthusiasm for bringing people together shines through in everything she does. Her dedication to creating positive change makes her an invaluable part of the Vegas Vista team, always working to strengthen ties and make a lasting impact on the community.
Jennifer Murphy
Director of Early Childhood
✉️ jmurphy@vegasvisaacademy.org
I’m Jennifer Murphy, Director of Early Childhood and teacher here at Vegas Vista. I’ve been in early childhood education for about 20 years as a kindergarten teacher and a PreK teacher. Most of my teaching experience is with special education. In my free time, my 9 year old son, Jaxon and I go on world adventures with our family and dog Wednesday. I love everything outdoors, artsy and DIY. I am excited to be a part of the VVA family and community.
Hoot
School Mascot