Last month, Speech and Language Development Center welcomed its brand-new Principal, Ms. Andriana Gutierrez to campus. Her extensive experience, passion for special education, and collaborative leadership will undoubtedly enhance the school’s learning environment and help ensure the success of each individual student.
Read on to learn more about Gutierrez’s background and how she is excited to carry out SLDC’s mission as she starts this new chapter with us:
Gutierrez joins our SLDC campus from her previous role as Assistant Director for a similar Non-Public School (NPS), bringing with her strong leadership qualities and a commitment to empowering exceptional learners of unique talents and abilities. With her wealth of knowledge as an experienced Education Specialist and Program Specialist, she will be a wonderful leader in facilitating IEP meetings, mentoring teachers, and supporting our students.
“I’ve always found myself drawn to support students who learn differently,” Gutierrez shares. “When I decided to pursue teaching, I knew I wanted to work with exceptional learners. I continue to be motivated each day by the development and growth of students and how the IEP process can support the child throughout their educational career.”
In her role as Principal, Gutierrez will oversee day-to-day operations of our NPS program serving as Administrator for IEP meetings, supporting staff, addressing parent concerns, and working closely with our Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA), Ms. Renee Bautista. Together, they aim to ensure the smooth functioning of our school program.
“Working at a school site with all students who have special needs is an absolute dream come true,” Gutierrez tells us. “Everyone on campus comes to work for these students, and I hope to contribute to that sense of camaraderie and community that is already very present at SLDC.”
SLDC’s mission to create an environment that nurtures growth, inspires achievement, and maximizes each individual’s potential mirrors Gutierrez’s own goals as an educator. It is her commitment as Principal to carry out this mission and she hopes her leadership will be a driving force in continuing this movement.
In just her first month, Gutierrez has noted the unique and special aspects of SLDC, emphasizing the warm and welcoming atmosphere, the supportive community, and the exceptional therapy provided by all departments such as mental health, behavioral health, kinesiology, and speech.
“I was immediately drawn to SLDC’s mission as I have dedicated my career to a similar mission. It’s incredible to have so many competent and caring providers in one place. The most special part of SLDC is the teachers and paraeducators who work with our students every day. It is evident that I have joined a powerhouse group of people who all want the best for our students.”
Outside of campus, Gutierrez enjoys spending time with her family and watching TV with her dog. She also loves to play music with her family, sing, and attend concerts when she can.
Connect With Our New Principal
Principal Gutierrez is eager to build relationships with SLDC’s community of students and their families. Feel free to contact her with anything you may need at (714) 821-3620 ext. 241 or via email at andriana.gutierrez@sldc.net.
Connect with her more at upcoming family engagement events like SLDC’s Walk Your Way 2024 happening April 7th. Click the link here for more information on how you can attend the event: Walk Your Way 2024 (onecause.com)