Donald Puathasnanon

Donald Puathasnanon joined Da Vinci Communications in 2014 (DVC Year 2) as a founding 10th grade teacher and has been an integral part of the Da Vinci community ever since. In the 2026–27 school year, Donald will bring his passion for innovation, mentorship, and student-centered learning to the new The Levitt Lab at Da Vinci Connect, powered by ASU Prep. 

Donald held the honor of being the tallest (6’4”) and having the longest last name (12 letters) among the DVC staff. Raised in Granada Hills, he did not travel far to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology from UCLA. He later earned a Master of Arts degree in Education in 2017.

Sports have been an integral part of Donald’s life, from playing competitive basketball at an early age, to playing volleyball and winning an NCAA Championship at UCLA in 1998, to coaching boys’ and girls’ high school and club volleyball for more than 15 years. He remains a lifelong fan of UCLA, the Dodgers, and the Lakers.

Beyond the classroom, Donald enjoys spending time with the love his life, their two sons, and their Chihuahua-Terrier. In their spare time, they love exploring good food and creating memories with family and friends.

Donald is excited to continue inspiring students through The Levitt Lab at Da Vinci Connect, where he will help students explore creativity, innovation, and the possibilities of the future. He can’t wait to see what students will imagine, create, and achieve!