Teacher Spotlight: How Ms. Jara Builds a Supportive and Engaging Learning Environment at iQLA 

Ms. Sindia Jara teaches third grade at iQ Academy Los Angeles (iQLA) and has spent 13 years building her career at the school. Her classroom focuses on consistency, participation, and a strong sense of community. Students start each day knowing they have a teacher who listens and a space designed for growth. 

Ms. Jara discovered her passion for teaching when she was in fifth grade, saying her teacher helped her feel excited about learning. She remembers that year as the moment school became a place she wanted to be. She shares, “He changed my whole view and perspective on education. I started loving going to school and wanting to learn.” The experience showed her what encouragement can do for a young learner, and she carries that lesson into her own classroom. 

Routine Filled with Connection and Learning Experiences 

At iQLA, classrooms are built around consistent routines that balance structure, connection, and engagement, and Ms. Jara’s approach reflects that schoolwide framework. 

Her school day begins with homeroom, a common starting point across iQLA classrooms, where students review expectations, share updates, and connect. She uses this time to set a clear plan for the day and to build trust with her students. After homeroom, she teaches math and science in small, targeted groups. The afternoon includes enrichment activities, such as fun math, social studies, and art classes, that give students extra time to explore subjects they enjoy. It also includes dedicated time to connect with families. As she explains, “After these classes, it is my time to reach out to any families I need to communicate with, to see how everything is going and if they have questions.” 

Students receive weekly schedules with their live sessions and daily learning goals, a structure used throughout iQLA to help students plan their time and manage responsibilities. Classrooms encourage students to take ownership of their progress, and over time, students learn how to navigate expectations and hold themselves accountable. 

Across iQLA, teachers use activities, games, and group work to keep students engaged in every lesson. Ms. Jara encourages students to turn on cameras so they can see one another, stay engaged and build connections with each other. Breakout rooms create opportunities for teamwork and communication. Her goal is to help students participate through discussion, problem-solving, and shared activities. 

Building Confidence and Strengthening Connections for Students and Families 

Students arrive at iQLA for many different reasons. For example, one student entered her class feeling defeated and unsure of themselves after a difficult year at their previous school. The structure of the virtual environment provided by iQLA created a sense of safety for the student. Over time, the student began to participate, interact, and rebuild confidence. 

Parents often need support as they adjust to online learning, too. Ms. Jara offers guidance through phone calls, emails, and text messages, making communication easy and accessible. She invites parents to join homeroom when they need clarification or reassurance.  The school also provides staff dedicated to helping new families learn the platforms and routines. In addition, families can access resources like the Learning Coach Corner, which offers tips, tools, and guidance to help parents navigate schedules, platforms, and daily routines with confidence.  

Ms. Jara’s class holds themed sessions before each school break to help students celebrate together. Students share plans, play games, draw, and enjoy time as a group. “We always do a special class before each break. We get together, talk about what we are planning to do, and play games or draw,” she says. These gatherings give students a chance to connect outside of academic work and strengthen relationships within the classroom. 

What She Values About iQLA 

Ms. Jara values the chance to provide students with a learning environment that feels safe and welcoming. Many families come to the school seeking a fresh start, and she works to honor that trust. She focuses on creating a space where students feel supported and ready to succeed. The growth she witnesses each year reinforces the purpose behind her work. 

Teachers like Ms. Jara demonstrate the strength of online education when it is guided by intention, care, and consistent support. 

To learn more about how iQ Academy Los Angeles supports students and families through dedicated teachers, strong routines, and parent resources like the Learning Coach Corner, visit the iQLA website or explore enrollment options for the upcoming school year.