Why Work for La Paloma Academy South?

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 South.

OUR STUDENTS

At La Paloma Academy South, 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 South 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 South 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 South, 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

"Coming back to this school as a staff member, it felt really weird my first year! I was still transitioning from that “student to teacher” mentality and super in between both mindsets. I came back mostly because I remember being seen by some of the teachers; not just as a student or an annoying kid but a kid with real world problems on the outside. I felt a sort of silent-mutual understanding that I didn’t get with my friends or family at the time. I felt like there were real adults that had my back and it’s hard to feel that way about anyone especially at that young age. I came back because I want students to know that no matter what the situation, there’s going to be an adult that cares, listens and has your back. I wanted to be that adult. "

Abdel Guillen,

Title I Paraprofessional

"I love working at La Paloma Academy South Campus because it’s a place where I truly feel important and included. The supportive environment created by the staff makes every day meaningful, and I genuinely enjoy being part of a team that cares about each other and works together like family. There’s a strong sense of purpose in what we do, and I’m proud to contribute to something that has such a positive impact on the community. Seeing our students grow and thrive reminds me daily that the work we do matters."

Victoria Ochoa,

4th Grade Teacher

"Working at LPA South has been a life-changing experience for me. From the moment I joined, I felt welcomed, valued, and supported. This is the first job and the first school where I’ve truly felt like part of a family. The environment here is uplifting, positive and rooted in a shared commitment to growth, care, and excellence.

I’ve been given so many incredible opportunities to pursue the things I love; opportunities I know I wouldn’t have found anywhere else. The leadership here believes in its people, and that belief has empowered me to grow both personally and professionally.

I genuinely love this school and everything it stands for. It’s more than just a workplace, it’s a home away from home, where my contributions matter, and where I’m inspired every day."

Tianna Claridge,

5th Grade Teacher

WHO WE ARE

La Paloma Academy South 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 South 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 South 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

This is my 24th year with the La Paloma Academy district. I have worked at four of our eight schools. Each site is very different with the common goal of serving our students and their families.

"We do this by caring for their needs and the needs of those who serve our students and families."

I appreciate the support and camaraderie we have within our staff. Our organization works together for our greater good, while never losing sight of the individuals. We genuinely care for each other.

Sincerely,
Sean Watins
Principal

Brendan Ewald, Principal

Sean Watins

PRINCIPAL

CURRENT OPENINGS

Submit An Application

La Paloma Academy is accepting applications for those wanting to work at our South campus at 5660 S. 12th Avenue in Tucson. We’re always looking for great teachers and support staff.Â