Meet Pilar Diaz Bombino (she/her), who graduated from Jordan High School in 2021 and most recently from the University of California, Los Angeles. We connected with her to learn how the Watkins Fellowship helped her through her college journey, especially during motherhood. When Pilar Diaz Bombino received the call that she had been awarded the...
Meet Danielle Torrez (she/her), History and AP Psychology teacher at Math, Science, and Technology Magnet Academy (MSTMA), co-located at Roosevelt High School. We connected with her about the new school year, what she’s looking forward to, and how she builds belonging in her classroom. From an early age, Ms. Torrez knew she wanted to teach....
Meet Dr. Fe Chavez (she/her), a dedicated educator in science, special education, and college and career readiness at Santee Education Complex—and a 2025 LAUSD Teacher of the Year. We recently connected to reflect on her 30-year journey in education and the deep commitment it takes to earn such an honor. Dr. Chavez discovered her passion...
Meet Doreen Fonseca (she/her), a former Jordan High student and current student at the University of California, Davis. We connected to talk about her college journey and the impact the Watkins Fellowship has had on her life. Read more below. Doreen Fonseca still remembers the moment she learned she had received the Watkins Fellowship. Just...
Meet Michelle Staine, current instructional math coach at 49th Street Elementary, soon-to-be third-grade teacher in 2025-26. She brings 23 years of experience, dedication, leadership, and heart to her work. We connected to discuss her journey to become a National Board Certified educator. Inspired by her sister, partner, and daughter, Michelle completed the rigorous National Board...
Meet Nathan Cabrera (he/him), an 11th grader at the Math, Science, and Technology Magnet Academy (MSTMA) at Roosevelt and a member of Partnership’s Policy Advisory Board. We connected to talk about his journey as a changemaker and his participation in our Advocacy Days. Read more below. Nathan’s advocacy journey began in ninth grade when InnerCity...
Meet Norma Tateosian (she/her, left) ELA Intervention Coordinator, and Dharini Dharmadasa (she/her, right), Math Intervention Coordinator, at Sunrise Elementary. We connected to speak about their work helping students build skills, close learning gaps, and get the support they need to thrive. For Tateosian, a 26-year educator at Sunrise, education wasn’t the original plan. “I originally...
Meet Aleta Williams (she/her), the proud principal of 107th Street Elementary School & STEAM Magnet. We connected to discuss how the support from the Partnership has helped her build strong systems and foster a thriving school culture at 107th. Read more below. Williams has worked in the Los Angeles Unified School District for 25 years,...
Yarely Baltazar (she/her), a senior at Santee Education Complex, is preparing to embark on an exciting new chapter at the University of Southern California (USC). Recently accepted to USC’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, she plans to major in public relations and advertising, combining her passion for business, creativity, and social engagement. Although naturally...
Meet Jaqueline Jones, 5th grade teacher at 107th Street Elementary School in Watts. Mrs. Jones is also a resident mentor in the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools’ Teacher Residency program, which prepares and trains educators for a year in collaboration with Alder Graduate School of Education and allows them to earn their teacher credentials and...
Meet Jace Avila (he/him), a sixth grader at Markham Middle School. We connected to discuss his career ambitions in STEM. Read more below. Since he was a third-grade student at Grape Street Elementary, Jace has known that he wants to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Though still undecided on his...
Meet Olivia Vaca (she/her), a senior at MSTMA at Roosevelt. We connected to discuss her musical experiences and goals for the future. Read more below. Olivia is a prime example of determination, resilience, and ambition. With a flawless attendance record, she is unwavering in her commitment to academic excellence, having completed 14 advanced placement (AP)...
