With nearly two decades of experience spanning elementary to high school, Academic Coach and Facilitator Kristen Lawson brings a wealth of diverse knowledge and a deep commitment to student connection to iLEAD Online. Ms. Lawson’s role allows her to design meaningful strategies that support learners not just academically, but as whole people. Let’s get to know Kristen!
Please tell us about your background and how you came to be at iLEAD Online.
I have been an educator for over 18 years, teaching learners from elementary through high school in both in-person and online settings. My background is diverse—I hold a B.A. in Sports Marketing from UC Santa Barbara, a Teaching Credential from National University, and I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Leadership along with a Preliminary Administrative Services Credential at Sacramento State.
Over the years, I’ve served as a teacher, curriculum specialist, lead teacher, athletic director, and small group math instructor. I’ve been teaching for many years, but what has always mattered most to me is building real connections with students and families.
I came to iLEAD Online because it feels like a place where learners are truly seen and supported—not just for their academics, but for who they are as people. I was drawn to iLEAD’s focus on creativity, social-emotional growth, and personalized learning, and I knew this was a community where I could help students thrive while continuing to grow myself.
What is your role at iLEAD Online? What’s the best part about it? What’s the biggest challenge? (This can be an “and”/”or” situation.)
My role at iLEAD Online is as an Academic Coach and facilitator. The best part is helping learners grow not only academically but also socially and emotionally. I love getting to know each student’s strengths, interests, and goals and then designing learning strategies that make education feel meaningful. The biggest challenge is balancing the wide range of learner needs in a virtual environment, but I see that challenge as an opportunity to be creative with technology and instructional practices.
What do you LOVE about iLEAD Online? What sets it apart from other schools?
I love that iLEAD Online values flexibility, innovation, and student voice. The program truly meets learners where they are and emphasizes growth through real-world connections, SEL, and personalized learning. Unlike many traditional schools, iLEAD empowers students to take ownership of their learning while still feeling supported by facilitators who see them as whole people, not just test scores.
Are you involved in other activities (e.g. clubs, tutoring, community engagement) at iLEAD Online? If not, what are some events you enjoy at iLEAD Online?
I support students beyond the classroom through tutoring, academic coaching, and orientation planning. I also love being part of milestones like graduations and college counselor appointments, because those moments remind me how much our learners have accomplished. Advisory sessions and schoolwide events are also favorites of mine since they bring students together and create a true sense of community.
In your opinion, what makes a great leader?
A great leader is someone who listens, shows integrity, and inspires others by what they do. They hold people accountable while also being kind, establish high standards, and provide people the tools and support they need to do well. A strong leader generates trust by treating people as individuals and giving them the power to use their abilities to make a difference.
There are great social-emotional learning activities/opportunities at iLEAD Online. Can you share a story about seeing learners using them in action (or yourself)?
During Advisory on SMART Goals, Keanu (who likes to go by K) opened up about wanting to feel more confident balancing school and personal responsibilities. Together, we set a small, realistic goal she could accomplish that week, and she later shared her success with the group. This activity went beyond academics—it gave K space to reflect on her own strengths and take ownership of her growth. It also built a sense of trust between us, bringing us closer and allowing me to really support her in a way that feels meaningful. Moments like this show how SEL activities can truly change a learner’s life.
What does a day in your school life look like (pick a day, any day…or a composite of a day)?
A day in my life as a coach is a balance of structure, connection, and flexibility—something I really love about this role. I usually start my mornings with a workout, then settle into my workspace with a cup of coffee, candles lit, classical music in the background, and all my tech set up.
Mondays are my favorite, because I lead Advisory with my learners, and on some Mondays we join Joint Advisory as well, which always feels like a great community-building start to the week.
Tuesdays are reserved for office hours, when students can pop in with questions or just check in.
Fridays I leave open as my administration days, following up with students who need help and catching up on tasks.
Throughout the week, I get to create my own schedule, which gives me the flexibility to also balance my own schoolwork.
Most afternoons are spent meeting with students, coaching them through challenges, and celebrating their progress. No two days are exactly alike, but the combination of supporting learners and managing my own rhythm is what makes this work so meaningful.
Please name four fun facts about you. Extra credit for lots of details.
- I’m a nationally ranked tennis player.
- I love cooking and can make a variety of traditional Thai dishes.
- I’m an avid reader—especially thrillers, biographies, and books on science, physics, and spirituality.
For Kristen Lawson, the essence of iLEAD Online is its dedication to flexibility, innovation, and empowering learners’ voices. By prioritizing social-emotional growth and real-world connections, Ms. Lawson fosters an environment where every learner can take ownership of their education and succeed not just academically but as whole people.
About iLEAD Online:
iLEAD Online is a free public TK-12 school providing personalized online education with flexible schedules, allowing learners to pursue their passions like acting, athletics, and dance, alongside their studies. Founded in 2017, we emphasize individualized and project-based learning, leadership, and social-emotional growth. Learners benefit from technology, arts, and deeper learning, developing collaboration and critical thinking skills through our flexible virtual independent study model. Certified educators and college counselors offer personalized support, including guidance on college applications and financial aid. We also offer NCAA and UC a-g approved courses. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadonline.org.