Lanae Aguilera Celebrates 30 Years at Sierra School of San Diego

30 Years of Leadership at Sierra School of San Diego

This year marks a remarkable milestone for Sierra School of San Diego as Director Lanae Aguilera celebrates her 30th anniversary with the school. What began in 1996 as a role in the classroom has grown into three decades of dedicated leadership, student advocacy, and community building.

A Career Dedicated to Students at Sierra School of San Diego

Aguilera joined the school after earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology from San Diego State University. She went on to receive her master’s in counseling and pupil personnel services credential from the University of San Diego. Over the years, she’s held a wide range of positions at Sierra, formerly known as Springall Academy. This includes working directly with students, supporting the school’s crisis center, and co-creating the Counseling and Guidance Program. Furthermore, within this program, she served as a school counselor for eight years.

“When I was starting my career, I wanted something personal, where I would be able to make an impact with the toughest kids,” Aguilera said.

That desire to connect with students on a meaningful level has never wavered. In 2008, she became the pupil personnel services coordinator. Additionally, in 2015, she earned certification as a PRO-Act trainer, allowing her to train school staff across California and Arizona. She stepped into her current role as director in 2016.

“I like change,” she said. “It suited me switching roles every so often.”

Building Partnerships and Community Impact

Throughout her tenure, Aguilera has maintained strong partnerships with San Diego State University and the University of San Diego. As a result, this creates opportunities for volunteers and counseling interns to fulfill practicum and graduation requirements at Sierra. She also serves on the garden leadership team, working closely with the San Carlos Community Garden volunteers to plan community and school-based events on Sierra’s campus.

Those who work alongside her say her impact is unmistakable.

“Lanae consistently demonstrates strong leadership through clear communication, thoughtful decision-making and genuine support and care for her staff,” said Nicole Luster, associate director of Sierra School of San Diego. “She truly wants the best for students and staff, making sure she cultivates a positive and fun environment. Her years of experience and depth of knowledge have played a significant role in shaping my own personal growth and development as an administrator.”

“Lanae is a very supportive director who truly understands the perspective of teachers because of her years of experience and mentorship,” said Kayla Jordan, teacher, Sierra School of San Diego. She always maintains an open-door policy when questions or concerns arise. She is very approachable when unexpected life situations come up and is supportive of a healthy work-life balance. Lanae has helped me grow in my career, from starting as a teacher assistant to now being a third-year teacher, by supporting me through my schooling process and providing specific, thoughtful feedback on ways to improve.”

The Lasting Impact of Sierra School of San Diego

For Aguilera, one of the most meaningful parts of her 30 years has been watching the lasting impact Sierra has on the people who pass through its doors. Former students return as young adults to tell staff what a difference the school made in their lives. Former employees come back to visit. It is a testament to the culture she has helped build.

Supporting the Whole Student Experience

Beyond academics, Aguilera has championed opportunities that enrich students’ lives in unexpected ways, from a sports league to the community garden to a newly launched composting program. It all reflects her belief in creating a school environment where everyone has each other’s back, and students are supported as whole people.

“Lanae has been a great leader over my tenure at Sierra School of San Diego,” said Matt Beltran, occupational therapist. “She values my long-time commitment to the culture of the school and supports my creativity and outside of the box ideas to provide the most engaging occupational therapy services to our diverse needs of students. The commitment to the strong culture of our team comes from Lanae’s leadership, experience and understanding of what it takes to provide the best environment for our amazing neurodiverse student population.”