iLEAD Online Counselor Mrs. Laura Lopez on Personalized Learning and SEL

Welcome to the latest edition of our iLEAD Online Staff Spotlight! We’re thrilled to shine a light on one of the amazing team members who makes our flexible learning environment thrive: Mrs. Laura Lopez. As our dedicated Student Support and 8th Grade Academic Counselor, Mrs. Lopez brings over a decade of educational experience and a deep commitment to personalized learning to our school. Get to know her journey, her passion for helping learner succeed, and a few fun facts!

Please tell us about your background and how you came to be at iLEAD Online.

I have been in the field of education for over 10 years. I began as a volunteer and gradually worked my way into a substitute teaching role. Eventually, I became a 1st grade teacher, a position I held for three years while simultaneously pursuing my second master’s degree in School Counseling.

My first year as a school counselor was at iLEAD Online, where I served in a multifaceted role supporting learners academically, socially, and in their college and career planning. Joining iLEAD has been a true blessing. I’ve found a deep sense of purpose in helping learners thrive in a flexible, learner-centered environment. I’ve loved being part of the iLEAD community ever since.

What is your role at iLEAD Online? What’s the best part about it? 

I serve as a Student Support Counselor and Academic Counselor for 8th grade at iLEAD Online. In this dual role, I support learners’ emotional well-being while also helping them stay on track academically. I work closely with 8th grade learners and their families to provide college and career awareness, preparing them for a successful transition into high school and beyond.

The best part of my job is connecting with learners and watching them grow—both emotionally and academically. I love being a trusted support system for learners, guiding them through challenges, celebrating their wins, and helping them explore future possibilities.

What do you LOVE about iLEAD Online? What sets it apart from other schools?

I love iLEAD Online because of the unique opportunities and flexibility it offers our learners. The program is truly customized to meet each learner’s individual needs, helping them succeed both academically and personally. iLEAD focuses not just on academic achievement but also on the overall well-being of each learner.

What sets iLEAD apart from other schools and districts is the way the team genuinely dedicates their time and effort to designing personalized learning paths that work best for every learner. They are compassionate, forward-thinking educators who are deeply committed to supporting learners as they plan for their futures—and I feel grateful to be part of that mission.

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?

At iLEAD Online, I support our learners through counseling and also host our weekly Social Lunch Bunch and Virtual Hangout.

During these virtual meetups, learners are encouraged to bring their lunch, log on, and connect with peers in a relaxed, supportive space. While enjoying their meals together, learners engage in conversations that naturally build social-emotional skills, such as active listening, empathy, and navigating tough situations.

These club meetings create a sense of community and connection, helping learners from TK through 12th grade develop strong friendships and important social-emotional foundations in an online setting.

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)?

At iLEAD Online, we value the social-emotional growth of our learners just as much as their academic progress. One key opportunity we offer is the weekly Virtual Lunch Bunch and Social Hangout, which I have the privilege of guiding as the Student Support Counselor.

These sessions create a safe, welcoming space where learners from TK through 12th grade can bring their lunch, log on, and connect with peers across our school community. While the environment is casual and fun, each session is intentionally designed to promote social-emotional learning (SEL) in a meaningful way.

As a counselor, I guide these sessions to ensure learners feel seen, heard, and supported, helping them develop essential life skills like empathy, communication, and resilience in a virtual setting.

What does a day in your school life look like?

As a Student Support Counselor, I provide one-on-one and small-group support to learners across grade levels. I help guide learners through social-emotional challenges, offer counseling support, and collaborate on IEP goals to ensure all learners have what they need to succeed.

I also have the privilege of working closely with our 8th grade learners and their families, offering college and career awareness counseling as they prepare for the transition to high school and beyond.

Each day is filled with meaningful conversations, goal-setting, and providing a safe space where learners feel supported, heard, and empowered.

In your opinion, what makes a great leader?

At iLEAD Online, we are incredibly fortunate to be led by Kate Wolfe, a truly exceptional leader.

Kate models what it means to be both an effective and empathetic leader. She leads with consistency, compassion, and a deep commitment to supporting each member of our team. Whether she’s offering professional development, encouraging collaboration, or simply checking in to ask what we think, Kate makes it clear that every voice matters.

Her leadership isn’t just about guiding us, it’s about growing with us. She demonstrates daily what it takes to lead with heart, integrity, and purpose.

Please name eight fun/interesting facts about you.

1. I love Disneyland.
2. I love helping others, especially students.
3. I have an old soul. I love listening to oldies music.
4. I have been attending a university for 10 years straight.
5. I’m an advocate for higher education.
6. I am a Los Angeles Rams fan.
7. I am a mom of four.
8. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a news anchor.

Mrs. Lopez’s dedication to personalized learning and her role in fostering community through the Virtual Lunch Bunch are just a couple of the reasons we’re so lucky to have her on the team. Thank you, Mrs. Lopez, for everything you do to create a supportive, personalized experience for our 8th graders and the wider community! If you see her in a virtual meeting, be sure to say hello, and join the next Lunch Bunch!

 

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.

Join our innovative school today!