Leading with Compassion at iLEAD Agua Dulce: TK Facilitator Ms. Cervantes

For Ms. Cervantes, a Transitional Kindergarten (TK) facilitator at iLEAD Agua Dulce, education is about more than just lessons—it’s about empowering young learners to be well-rounded individuals who are prepared to overcome challenges and continuously grow. With a background in early childhood education and a master’s degree specializing in trauma-informed practices, Ms. Cervantes brings a unique and compassionate approach to her classroom. Let’s get to know Ms. Cervantes!

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

Academically, I currently possess a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a specialization in Trauma Studies from Pacific Oaks College. Professionally, this is my fifth year teaching.

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

I am a TK facilitator at iLEAD Agua Dulce. I am confident that the knowledge and experience that I have acquired have given me the opportunity to establish a safe and intentional learning environment for the children I serve.

As with any other profession, there will always be challenges; however, it is important to adopt a growth mindset, seek support from colleagues and mentors, and prioritize self-care to build resilience.

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

What I love most about iLEAD Agua Dulce is the project-based learning (PBL). I understand the importance of fostering deeper understanding and long-term retention by engaging learners in real-world problems and projects, developing crucial 21st-century skills like critical thinking, collaboration, and communication, and increasing student motivation and engagement by connecting learning to authentic, personally relevant contexts. PBL empowers learners to take ownership of their learning, build resilience, and prepare for future academic and professional challenges.

In your opinion, what makes a great leader?

A great leader empowers others by sharing their knowledge to ensure growth and learning. In addition, an exceptional leader demonstrates empathy, adaptability, strategic thinking, and the ability to make difficult ethical decisions, creating a positive and collaborative environment that prioritizes the well-being of the team and the organization.

At iLEAD Agua Dulce, Ms. Cervantes has found a perfect match for her empathetic and growth-minded educational approach. We are so grateful she is a part of our community, providing a safe and intentional learning environment for the children we serve!

About iLEAD Agua Dulce:

iLEAD Agua Dulce is a free public school offering TK-12th graders a unique, personalized education in picturesque Agua Dulce, CA. Founded in 2018, the school emphasizes leadership development, play-based and project-based learning, and social-emotional development. Its outdoor classroom, complete with farm animals, promotes empathy and responsibility. Learners benefit from technology, arts, and aerospace opportunities, developing collaborative skills and critical thinking. High schoolers take advantage of UC a-g approved coursework, Career & Technical Education (CTE), and the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme, preparing for success in college and career. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadaguadulce.org.

Join our innovative school today!