About us - The Aztec Hut

Hi, I'm Maxine Trigg and I'm currently a junior at Esperanza. I'm a part of various programs at EHS like, basketball, lacrosse, NHS, Distinguished Scholars, APISU, and ASB. As president of this organization, I have a lot of hopes for this program and I believe that we can impact people's lives within our members and community.

As gaining business experience is one of the main goals of this organization, I believe that being a part of the Aztec Hut has helped me grow a lot as an individual and will continue to teach me leadership skills moving forward. I strongly encourage those seeking business experience or an extracurricular that will help you meet people and differentiate yourself when applying to colleges to apply to our program. If you have any questions don't be afraid to reach out to me!

Hi! I’m Audrey and I am a sophomore here at Esperanza. I joined because I am passionate about business management and exploring opportunities for growth. At Esperanza, I am part of varsity dance, distinguished scholars, YIS, ambassadors club, NHS, and APISU.

As our treasurer, I’m committed to responsibly manage our funds. I keep finances organized and contribute my ideas to boost revenue. I have always had a strong interest in financial strategies and I am very excited to contribute my skills to grow the Aztec Hut.

I'm Payton Farrell and I enjoy business and competition. I started my own car wash business when I was in 6th grade and still continue it to this day. At Esperanza High School I participate in cross country, track, and I’m part of ASB. I am excited that I’m part of what was a club that Mr. Woodward and James started for kids who enjoy business, but now it’s more than a club it’s a nonprofit that offers students clothes and school merch which make students feel more involved with school and then the nonprofit gives money away so students can attend college. Some other things I enjoy doing is investing in stocks and doing research about individual companies.

Hi! First off, thanks for taking the time to read this page. My name is Lana and I’m a senior here at Esperanza High School. Go class of 2025! I am also on the soccer team, a part of Link Crew, NHS, and Distinguished Scholars. I have three brothers and love spending time with my family. I love card games, board games, and most outdoor activities.

I am the current secretary of the Aztec Hut. I am very excited to see this organization grow. I got introduced to this club by Mr. Woodward when I was his AP chem student my junior year. After coming to one of the meetings, I got invested into growing this to be something bigger. There are a lot of big projects we have planned for this school year and I’m excited to share them all with everyone! 

Michael Woodward currently teaches A.P. and honors chemistry at Esperanza High School. PYLUSD runs deep throughout his blood: he is a Yorba Linda resident, is married to another PYLUSD teacher, and has two daughters that attend PYLUSD schools. After graduating with a B.S. in pharmacology & marketing, he entered into a sales and sales management career that stretched a decade in various industries. He finally decided to pursue his lifelong dream of being a teacher and began his chemistry teaching career in 2011. He received a grant for $1,000 from the Placentia Chamber of Commerce in 2024 to begin a program to inspire young entrepreneurs and that is how The Aztec Hut was born. Now he advises the student leaders in our nonprofit charity to generate income through fundraisers to fund student scholarships. 

Thom Metcalf is a dedicated Career Technical Eduction Administrator with North Orange County ROP for over 12 years, including a tenure as a Graphic Design instructor at Esperanza High School. With over twenty years of expertise in the screen print and apparel business, Thom Metcalf brings a wealth of real-world knowledge to the educational setting. Passionate about preparing youth for successful futures, Thom Metcalf is committed to providing students with the skills and support they need to thrive in any path they choose.

Hi, I’m Kate Horton. I am a mom of twins, Daniel and Julia, who are 8th graders at YLMS.  I currently on my second year serving as YLMS PTSA President with an amazing team of other parents, teachers and students. Together we have raised and distributed tens of thousands of dollars to support academics, teachers, sports, performing arts, supplies, scholarships and campus improvements. I hope I can leverage that experience in helping this organization.  
The other part of my life is as Chief Merchandising Officer for Torrid, the largest plus size retailer in the world. I’ve been in some form of retail or wholesale business since graduating from UC Berkeley in 1993.  

Gina Aguilar has served as a teacher, counselor, assistant principal, principal and director for PYLUSD for almost 30 years, most of which were spent at Esperanza High School. She currently serves as the principal of El Camino Real High School. She grew up in Placentia and attended PYLUSD schools. She and her husband Larry live in the area with their three children who attend Travis Ranch and are very involved in the community. Gina has always been passionate about building school culture and spirit as well as preparing students to be college and career ready. She is excited to be a part of The Aztec Hut and have the opportunity to support an organization that raises funds to provide scholarships that will empower students to follow their passions and dreams.

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