Our Administrative Team

Jillayne Antoon

Executive Director

Jillayne Antoon takes the helm as superintendent of River Charter Schools with 23 years of experience in education. For the past two decades, she worked at the Rocklin Academy Family of Schools, a system of public charter schools in Rocklin and Citrus Heights. There she served in dual roles as the director of growth and community engagement and the principal of Rocklin Academy Gateway, a TK-8 grade school with about 1,200 students.

Before becoming an educator, Ms. Antoon earned a degree in Applied Music: Vocal Performance. She later earned her Master of Arts in Teaching at California State University, Fresno, and an Administrative Services Credential.

Ms. Antoon is excited to join the River Charter Schools staff after years of knowing and admiring the organization through her involvement in the greater Sacramento public charter schools network.

“I am honored to join a community committed to providing a learning environment focused on helping each student thrive,” she says.

Email Ms. Antoon
916-744-1212

Andrea Flores

Principal (DECS)

Andrea Flores began her journey in education 15 years ago in the Lodi Unified School District, where she taught every elementary grade and served as a reading intervention specialist and adjunct instructor for future teachers. She joined Delta Elementary Charter School in 2015 as a teacher and instructional coach, and became principal in 2023.

Mrs. Flores first became part of the DECS community as a parent—her oldest child attended from kindergarten through sixth grade, and her youngest is currently enrolled. This personal connection fuels her deep belief in DECS’s mission and the power of a strong school community.

She holds a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Sacramento State, a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University, and an Administrative Services Credential. Mrs. Flores is a passionate advocate for the whole child approach to learning, project-based learning (PBL), and the essential role of art and music in education. She is proud to work alongside the dedicated DECS team and finds daily joy in supporting students as they grow both in and out of the classroom.

Email Mrs. Flores
916-744-1200

Maureen James Pendleton

Principal (LCS)

Maureen James Pendleton recently marked her 30th year in education, having spent 19 years as an elementary teacher, three years as an academic coach, six years as an assistant principal, and one year as a principal. As an administrator, she oversaw TK–8 Homeschool and TK–5 Independent Study programs. She holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

“My nephew once said to me, ‘You know you’ve never actually left school, right?’ He was both amused and baffled—but it’s true. Being part of the educational journey and serving future generations has always been my passion,” she says.

Ms. James Pendleton’s educational philosophy closely aligns with the values of Lighthouse Charter School, making her especially excited to join the LCS team.

Email Ms. James Pendleton
916-744-1212

Ashley Sanford

Director of Special Education & Student Services

Ashley Sanford began her career in education in 2011, after first working with adults with developmental disabilities, teaching independent living skills. She served in a local district as a resource specialist for grades K–6 and as a special day class teacher for grades 3–5 before coming to River Charter Schools in 2018 as both a parent and an educator.

Since then, Ms. Sanford has worked as an education specialist, taught fourth grade general education, and served as the TK–6 art teacher before moving into administration. She now serves as the director of student services and special education, where she is dedicated to supporting students, families, and staff across the district.

Her diverse educational background gives her a unique perspective on the needs of students and families and shapes her commitment to building inclusive, supportive school communities. She holds an Administrative Services Credential, an Education Specialist Mild/Moderate Credential, and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. She is a passionate advocate for inclusion, believing it strengthens not only students with special needs but all learners, families, and the wider community.

Email Mrs. Sanford
916-744-1200

Elizabeth Plancarte

Executive Assistant

Elizabeth Plancarte joined River Charter Schools as Executive Assistant, bringing a background in education, public service, executive support, and organizational operations. Prior to joining RCS, she supported leadership and school operations at Bay Area schools and previously worked in local government with the City of San José and San José City Council.
A proud first-generation college graduate, Elizabeth earned her B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Public Policy and Public Administration from San José State University. Her experiences in both education and public service have shaped her passion for mission-driven work, strong community partnerships, and creating thoughtful systems that help teams thrive.
In her role at RCS, Elizabeth supports the Executive Director and Board of Directors and helps coordinate organizational projects, compliance, and administrative operations across the network. She is excited to contribute behind the scenes in ways that support RCS staff and leadership in their work serving students and families.
Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with family, exploring her community, trying new local restaurants, and spending time outdoors.

Email Ms. Plancarte
916-744-1212