Our Team
Dedicated educators and mentors committed to nurturing growth and inspiring change.
At St Cloud Social Justice Academy, our team is the foundation of our success. Each member brings a unique combination of expertise, experience, and compassion, ensuring that every learner feels supported, challenged, and valued. Our educators are not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where children and community members can thrive. We believe that strong relationships between teachers, students, and families are key to effective learning, and our team prioritizes communication, empathy, and collaboration in all interactions. From curriculum design to hands-on mentoring, our staff works tirelessly to provide transformative experiences that cultivate both academic skills and social awareness. Together, we are united by our mission to empower learners to understand, advocate, and take meaningful action for a more just and equitable world.
Emily Thompson – Director of Education
Emily has over 15 years of experience in early childhood and community-focused education. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Justice Education and is passionate about creating programs that blend academic learning with civic engagement. Emily’s leadership style emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and empowerment, ensuring that both students and staff feel supported. She believes that every child can be a changemaker when provided with the right guidance, resources, and encouragement. Emily is committed to fostering a nurturing environment that balances rigorous learning with creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional development.
Michael Rivera – Lead Curriculum Specialist
Michael brings a decade of experience designing innovative curricula that integrate social justice, cultural awareness, and experiential learning. Holding a degree in Education with a specialization in community engagement, he works closely with teachers to develop programs that challenge learners to think critically and act compassionately. Michael’s approach emphasizes hands-on learning, project-based exploration, and reflective discussions that connect classroom knowledge with real-world application. He is passionate about equipping students with the tools they need to become informed, empathetic, and active participants in society.
Jasmine Joseph – Early Childhood Educator
Jasmine has spent over 8 years working with young children in diverse learning environments. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and specializes in fostering social-emotional growth alongside cognitive development. Jasmine creates a warm, inclusive, and stimulating environment where young learners feel safe to explore, experiment, and express themselves. She emphasizes play-based learning that encourages curiosity, collaboration, and creativity while helping children develop a strong sense of identity, empathy, and community awareness.
David Nguyen – Community Engagement Coordinator
David is dedicated to building bridges between the academy, families, and the wider Saint Cloud community. With a background in nonprofit management and social justice advocacy, he coordinates programs, partnerships, and volunteer initiatives that connect learners with meaningful opportunities to make a positive impact. David’s work ensures that the academy remains a vibrant hub of collaboration, learning, and service, where students, families, and community members grow together.
Community & Engagement
At St Cloud Social Justice Academy, we understand that education is most effective when it extends beyond the classroom and involves the entire community. We are committed to fostering meaningful relationships with families, local organizations, and community leaders, creating a supportive network that enhances learning and social development. Our approach emphasizes collaboration, communication, and shared responsibility, ensuring that families are active participants in their children’s education. By engaging with the community, we provide learners with opportunities to apply their knowledge, explore real-world challenges, and develop a sense of civic responsibility. Together, we nurture a culture of inclusion, understanding, and collective growth that benefits every member of our academy.
Community Partnerships
Our partnerships with local organizations, nonprofits, and community leaders are a cornerstone of our academy’s approach. These relationships allow learners to engage in meaningful projects, service initiatives, and mentorship programs that provide hands-on experience and real-world applications of classroom lessons. By connecting students with community experts and resources, we enrich the educational experience while fostering a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement. These partnerships also help families access support networks and cultural opportunities, creating a holistic ecosystem where education, advocacy, and community involvement thrive together.
Ways to Help
Your skills, your passion, your contribution matters.
There are many ways to get involved at St Cloud Social Justice Academy, allowing volunteers to find opportunities that match their skills, interests, and availability. Volunteers may assist in classrooms by supporting teachers and working directly with learners, lead workshops or enrichment activities, help organize community events, or provide administrative and logistical support for programs and initiatives. Other opportunities include mentoring older students, contributing to curriculum development, or assisting with outreach and fundraising efforts. Each role is vital, helping to ensure that our learners receive the attention, guidance, and encouragement they need to thrive. By offering your time and talents, you become an integral part of our mission and help shape the next generation of compassionate, empowered citizens.
Join us
Be part of a team shaping the next generation of changemakers.
At St Cloud Social Justice Academy, we are always seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to join our team. Our mission to educate, inspire, and empower learners depends on the talent, creativity, and commitment of our staff. Working with us means becoming part of a community that values collaboration, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Every team member contributes to creating a nurturing environment where learners feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. We prioritize professional development, mentorship, and a culture that celebrates innovation and shared purpose, ensuring that our staff thrives alongside the students they guide and inspire.