New Teacher Feature | Introducing Kayla P.
At Pacific Preparatory, we are so lucky to work with the most thoughtful and inspiring instructors, all who bring lessons to life with engaging connections to student interests and their community. This month, we are excited to introduce Kayla!
Kayla has been an educator for 15 years and holds a master’s and teaching credential in Special Education from San Francisco State University. She has extensive training in multi-sensory reading intervention methodologies including Orton-Gillingham, Wilson, and Lindamood-Bell. In addition, she has also taught K-8th grade Science, History, and Math using common core standards with an emphasis on Project-Based Learning. Kayla specializes in integrating research-based, systematic instruction across all subjects and incorporating executive functioning support systems to help build independence and critical thinking skills. Along with her background supporting students with diverse learning profiles including autism, ADHD, and other learning differences, Kayla creates positive support strategies to help all learners succeed. In her free time, Kayla can be found reading, painting, and trying new foods.
What’s your favorite subject to teach and why?
As an online special education teacher with over 10 years of experience in teaching literacy, I've found that helping students develop their reading and writing skills is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. Literacy truly opens doors, giving students the ability to dive into books, craft incredible stories, and even analyze the lyrics of their favorite songs. The possibilities are endless, whether it's reading directions for a game or exploring new worlds through words. Literacy skills are deeply ingrained in our everyday lives, and when students feel confident in their abilities, they navigate the world with a newfound sense of empowerment and confidence.
What brought you to teaching with Pacific Preparatory?
After many years of teaching online, I was eager to find an educational community where I could truly thrive. I wanted to be part of a team that shared my passion for creating customized learning experiences, prioritizing a student-centered approach, and embracing creative teaching methods. When I discovered Pacific Preparatory, I knew I had found exactly what I was looking for. The educators here align perfectly with my commitment to making each student's learning journey unique and meaningful, and I’m excited to be part of such an inspiring and supportive community.
What do you enjoy most about teaching with Pacific Preparatory?
One of the things I enjoy most about Pacific Preparatory is their unwavering dedication to meeting each student where they are. They take the time to go through an extensive process of getting to know each student and their families before carefully matching them with educators. This thoughtful approach extends to every aspect, from selecting the curriculum and class materials to building the student's team and ensuring effective communication. From the very beginning, students are welcomed into a caring environment where every decision is made with their unique needs in mind, setting the stage for a truly personalized and supportive learning experience.
What has surprised you about teaching with Pacific Preparatory?
As soon as I joined Pacific Preparatory, I was amazed by the level of care and dedication invested in every aspect of both the educator and student experience. The entire team is incredibly supportive and goes above and beyond to ensure everyone in the community feels valued. There's a genuine openness to new ideas and creativity, creating an environment where both educators and students can truly shine. The possibilities here are endless, and it's inspiring to be part of a community that fosters such growth and innovation.
How did any misconceptions of virtual 1:1 learning compare to the reality?
I think there are significant misconceptions about the ability to build relationships in a virtual space. Even though we interact through a screen, we can create the same level of connection as we would in person. We can have fun, crack jokes, and engage in deep, meaningful conversations. At Pacific Preparatory, there is a strong emphasis on building relationships with families, which in turn deepens our connections with students. I've even found that some students feel more confident in front of their computers than in a traditional classroom. It allows them to create a personalized learning environment that can be difficult to replicate in person.
Can you share a PacPrep student success story?
I have an absolutely wonderful student who came to us with a need for an extremely customized and personalized learning journey. The family and our team collaborated, embracing a "sky's the limit" approach to creativity, and together we created some truly amazing projects. Using AI, the student wrote and illustrated a book about their pet hermit crabs (see below), built play spaces for them using geometry and measurement concepts, and explored animal adaptations by connecting them to the creation of Pokémon. We even created songs based on their favorite topics, blending fun and creativity with engaging learning. The student later added another team member to expand their experience even further, leading to activities like raising live butterflies! It's been an incredible journey, full of growth and discovery.
What is your favorite activity to do outside of teaching?
Outside of teaching, I’m a huge travel enthusiast with a passion for exploring every corner of the world. I also love art, crafting, and trying new hobbies. Reading is another passion of mine—whether it's diving into a good book or discovering new stories.
Kayla, we and your students are so lucky to have you on our team!