Building Connections: Spotlight on iLEAD Hybrid Educational Facilitator Ashley Pelka
Please join us in welcoming Ashley Pelka to iLEAD Hybrid at the Acton Studio! One of our dedicated Educational Facilitators, she began her journey in traditional public education and joins us this year at iLEAD Hybrid at the Acton Studio. Read on to discover her passion for learning and what makes iLEAD Hybrid so special to her.
Please tell us about your background and how you came to be at iLEAD Hybrid – Acton.
I worked in public elementary schools for 13 years prior to having my daughter and taking some time off to raise her in her very years. Once she started school, I knew I wanted to get back to working with learners in some capacity, but the classroom environment did not fit with my current needs to be able to be a great mom and great teacher at the same time. I found iLEAD through a mutual friend and the individualized learning concept was something that really intrigued me. When I further researched the school, I found it to be a great match for what I was looking for and hoped they would feel the same about me too. I am thankful Terri Budke decided to take a chance with me, and here I am working as an EF for iLEAD Hybrid at Acton Studio.
What’s the best part about being an EF at iLEAD Hybrid?
The best part of my job is that I am able to work with families and learners to be able to really connect with them and make their learning journey personalized to their family needs. It has been so wonderful to get to know learners on a much deeper level and help parents with my teaching expertise.
What do you LOVE about iLEAD Hybrid – Acton? What sets it apart from other schools?
I LOVE my colleagues! I have great leadership in my director, Terri Budke, along with my lead EF, Tina Toval. The other EFs at the studio are so helpful and supportive! It really feels like a family at our studio!
In your opinion, what makes a great leader?
A great leader is someone who leads by example, communicates openly, and makes others feel supported and valued. I believe they build some relationships, listens to everyone’s ideas, and create an environment where people feel comfortable to take risks, ask questions and grow.
There are great social-emotional learning activities/opportunities at iLEAD Hybrid – Acton. Can you share a story about seeing learners using them in action (or yourself)?
I really appreciate about iLEAD is the emphasis on the whole learner, not just academics. I have been enjoying seeing learners practice skills like collaboration, communication problem-solving and self-advocacy. As an Educational Facilitator, I try to model these skills by building positive relationships with learners and their family and create a space where they feel seen, heard, and supported.
What does a day in your school life look like (pick a day, any day…or a composite of a day)?
Every day is a little different. My day includes connecting with families, reviewing learner work, providing feedback, answering questions, collaborating with my colleagues, preparing resources, providing live instruction, and helping families navigate their personalized learning journey. After all my years in a traditional elementary classroom setting, I love that this role allows me to support learners and families in such an individualized way.
Please name three to five fun/interesting facts about you. Extra credit for lots of details.
- I am married and a mom to a fun little 4-year-old daughter.
- I love to travel and explore new places with my little family, and I am always excited to try new restaurants, especially ones with a fun atmosphere and great food.
- I also love shopping, home decor, and design because I love finding ways to make my home feel cozy and inviting.
We are so grateful to have such dedicated, passionate, and caring educators as part of iLEAD Hybrid at the Acton Studio!
Stay tuned for our next Q&A spotlight as we continue to highlight the amazing individuals who make iLEAD Hybrid such a special place to learn and grow.
About iLEAD Hybrid at the Acton Studio:
iLEAD Hybrid at the Acton Studio is a free public TK-8 school independent study program with a studio in Acton, CA. Our credentialed educators empower each family’s journey with personalized guidance, award-winning curriculum, technology, vendor funds, engaging field trips, and the convenience of free drop-off workshops. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and find us at ileadhybridstudio.org.