Why Work for La Paloma Academy Lakeside?

OUR COMMUNITY

Our school community comprises a diverse group of families, yet they all share a common goal: fostering an environment conducive to learning. The teachers, staff, and community collaborate to facilitate learning activities and identify the factors that contribute to the effectiveness of these activities in shaping the successful futures of every student at La Paloma Academy Lakeside

OUR STUDENTS

At La Paloma Academy Lakeside, our students are naturally curious, energetic, and social, with a strong desire for learning, collaboration, and recognition. They thrive on hands-on activities and enjoy games, stories, and interactive learning experiences. They approach learning with enthusiasm and eagerness and enjoy tasks that are challenging, yet not overly difficult. Our students are also resilient and can learn a great deal from mistakes, with the right support and guidance.

OUR CULTURE

La Paloma Academy Lakeside is a tuition-FREE, not-for-profit K-8 charter school, providing an exceptional educational environment which focuses on incredible academics, community involvement, and family values. As a charter school, we adhere to the same major laws and regulations as all other public schools. The major difference between charter and public schools is that charter schools have the freedom to set their own rules regarding curriculum and teaching styles. La Paloma Academy Lakeside was designed to deliver programs tailored to educational excellence and the needs of the community it serves.

TYPES OF TEACHING POSITIONS

Subject Expert Teacher

Subject

Expert Teacher

Our Subject Expert Teachers are specialists in a specific area of interest. They use their passion for their subjects to inspire students while teaching them at a higher level than expected for each grade level. At La Paloma Academy Lakeside, our teachers are encouraged to collaborate with other learning experts. The Subject Expert Teachers are the primary instructors for their respective courses.

Learning Expert Teacher

Learning

Expert Teacher

Learning Expert Teachers are education specialists and are present in classrooms for the early grades. They monitor students' academic progress and support their socio/emotional growth. Learning Expert Teachers accompany their students from class to class, co-teaching with Subject Expert Teachers and providing differentiated instruction to students.

Kindergarten Expert Teacher

Kindergarten

Expert Teacher

Kindergarten Expert Teachers, our dedicated educators, lead our kindergarten classrooms and are responsible for delivering captivating lessons to our students. Our kindergarten program is designed to be self-contained, ensuring that students remain in a single classroom throughout the school day. In collaboration with a Teaching Fellow, Kindergarten Expert Teachers co-teach all core subjects, fostering a dynamic learning environment.

Kindergarten Teaching Fellow

Kindergarten

Teaching Fellow

Kindergarten Teaching Fellows support all aspects of teaching in our kindergarten classrooms. Under the guidance of the Kindergarten Expert Teacher, they provide classroom assistance, student support, assessment and evaluation, and they contribute to creating a positive learning environment for our students.

WHAT THE TEACHERS ARE SAYING

"Starting something new can cause a person to feel fear and anxiety. However, my time as a first year teacher at La Paloma Academy has been one filled with amazing support and guidance. There is always someone on campus that is willing to help me out and answer any questions I may have. It is through the support of my team, my coach, admin, and our school community that I am able to feel confident and comfortable in my role as a teacher in this school."

Nasya Patrick,

First-year teacher

"After 22 years, I will be retiring from the Special Education department at La Paloma Academy, Lakeside campus. It has been a great ride!

The Special Education Department is second to none. Our special education teachers and paraprofessionals love each student and find creative ways to help them academically, behaviorally and emotionally. A positive sense of collaboration between staff, parents and students is obvious. La Paloma’s dedication to continuous improvement and nurturing a sense of belonging makes it an exceptional place for all!

I appreciate the faith and trust administrations have put in me. This has been home, and a safe place where I have had opportunities to create my own path, learn from my mistakes without judgement, and constantly evolve professionally and personally, while always being surrounded by brilliant colleagues!"

Julie Clark,

Retiring after over 20 years at LPA

"La Paloma Academy: Lakeside holds a special place in my heart. As a former student, I experienced firsthand the nurturing and supportive environment that makes this school so unique. My journey with LPA came full circle when, after graduating college, I returned to work here, and I've now been part of the LPA family for 12 years, growing from teacher to support staff to administrator. It's a testament to the school's commitment to both its students and its staff. I even send my own children here because I believe so strongly in the quality education and family feel that LPA provides."

Andrew Cleaver,

Director of Student Achievement

"Working at LPA for over 15+ years, I feel a sense of belonging to our students and our community. There is constant opportunity for professional growth as well as support from administration. I love being able to collaborate with my colleagues and make a positive impact on the lives of so many students!"

Rebecca Rios,

3rd Grade Teacher

WHO WE ARE

La Paloma Academy Lakeside serves children from kindergarten through eighth grade. We pride ourselves on being able to give children an enriched education which includes a heavy emphasis on community service and social responsibility. While La Paloma Academy Lakeside adheres to the same major regulations as all other public schools, our status as a charter school allows us the freedom to set our own rules regarding curriculum and teaching style.

La Paloma Academy Lakeside is committed to providing the highest quality education where children can achieve their full potential. This is accomplished by individualized instruction in core curriculum, low teacher-student ratios and a qualified teaching staff. Our goal is to provide a safe, structured environment, which encourages the development of strong family values. This helps students become not only well-rounded scholastically, but also lifelong responsible citizens in their community.

LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Jackie Trujillo, Superintendent

Jackie Trujillo

SUPERINTENDENT

TITLE IX COORDINATOR

Dear Prospective Educators,

Thank you for your interest in joining our exceptional team of dedicated professionals. We are committed to fostering a learning environment where every student can thrive, and that begins with passionate and talented teachers like you.

Our district values innovation, collaboration, and diversity, and we are dedicated to providing our educators with the resources and support they need to succeed. Whether you're an experienced teacher or just beginning your journey in education, you'll find a community that encourages growth, creativity, and excellence.

"We believe that teachers have the power to inspire, empower, and shape the future. If you are ready to make a meaningful impact and be part of a supportive and dynamic team, we would be thrilled to welcome you."

I have been here for 24 years and have raised all my children in our schools with the support of the incredible teachers. My heart is here and always will be. Join us in our mission to inspire every student to reach their full potential. Together, we can make a lasting difference.

Sincerely,
Jackie Trujillo
Superintendent

LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL

I’ve been the principal at La Paloma Academy Lakeside for five years, and although I’m the principal, my passion for teaching has never wavered. Our students are the highlight of my job here. I cherish the daily interactions and the remarkable growth I witness as the years go by.

"Our school boasts an exceptional support staff and resources that empower every teacher to deliver their best to our students. We also have an instructional coach who provides direct mentorship and support to new teachers, helping them develop their skills and navigate their first three years."

Additionally, our Superintendent champions programs focused on student wellness and support, including counseling services, academic tutoring, extracurricular activities, and clubs. We also organize monthly family events to foster a strong connection between parents/guardians and the school.

At La Paloma Lakeside, we value teacher input in decision-making processes that impact teaching and actively seek their suggestions. Additionally, we offer extra prep time to support teachers’ professional development and we provide teachers with autonomy, allowing them to design their lessons and access a wealth of valuable resources.

Megan Rodgers, Principal

Megan Rodgers

PRINCIPAL

CURRENT OPENINGS

3rd Grade Teacher

Apr 2025

We have a position open for a 3rd Grade Teacher at La Paloma Academy – Lakeside Campus for the 2025-2026 school year.

Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

Mar 2025

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) to join our team full-time at a Title 1 K-8 charter school. This role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact with the support of a collaborative administrative team and an engaged community.