Spotlight on iLEAD Online Bilingual Academic Coach Lourdes Estrada

Welcome to our staff spotlight series, where we highlight the amazing people who make iLEAD Online a special place for learning. This week, we’re thrilled to feature Lourdes Estrada, a dedicated Academic Coach and Spanish facilitator. Her passion for helping learners succeed shines through in everything she does. Join us as we get to know Lourdes a little better!

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

I started working for iLEAD Online in the summer of 2021 and have absolutely loved my time here.

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

I am a high school Academic Coach and Spanish 2, 3, 4, and AP Spanish facilitator. I love that coaches and facilitators get the privilege of working closely with learners. We get to really know our learners and we can set up plans that are specific to the learners’ needs and interests.

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

I love that coaches and facilitators get the privilege of working closely with learners. We get to really know our learners, and we can set up plans that are specific to the learners’ needs and interests.

Are you involved in other activities at iLEAD Online? If not, what are some events you enjoy?

I co-sponsor Christian Club with Mrs. Erin Acquaviva.

In your opinion, what makes a great leader?

A great leader serves others first and is always looking for opportunities to be there for others.

There are great social-emotional learning activities/opportunities at iLEAD Online. Can you share a story about seeing learners using them in action?

I love seeing my learners interact with each other in Advisory Live. It starts in the Zoom chat, then unmuting and sharing out loud. All of a sudden, my advisory seniors are graduating and taking graduation group pictures together!

What does a day in your school life look like?

A day in my life begins with a cup of coffee and a heart full of gratitude for everything I will get to do and the people I will get to interact with. It ends with me going to bed at 9:00 because I can’t stay up late.

Please name three fun facts about you.

1. My parents are from El Salvador.
2. I can do simultaneous interpreting (Spanish/English).
3. I have three kids—Juliana (16), Jonathan (12), and Olivia (9).

We are grateful for Lourde’s dedication to the iLEAD Online community. Her passion for serving learners and commitment to their success is truly inspiring.

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!