CARLSBAD UNIFIED CONNECTIONS

Priscilla Carreon, Campus Supervisor

Carlsbad Village Academy

Priscilla Carreon walks the pathway that circles the Carlsbad Village Academy and Carlsbad Seaside Academy classrooms, adjacent to the Carlsbad High School campus. “It's like my horse training track,” says the Carlsbad Village Academy’s Campus Supervisor. “My job is to keep things safe and secure on campus for our students.”

One of Carlsbad Unified's alternative education programs, Carlsbad Village Academy (CVA) is a continuation school where students in grades 10-12 attend classes in a smaller, more personal environment, in order to make up credits to get back on track for graduation. The other alternative program on campus, Carlsbad Seaside Academy, offers independent study for students who cannot regularly attend a comprehensive high school because of medical issues or other demands such as a professional acting or athletic career.

It was nineteen years ago when Ms. Carreon began her CUSD career at Jefferson Elementary School. She then served at Aviara Oaks Middle School, and next at Carlsbad High School. When Sage Creek High School opened she chose to move next door to the Carlsbad Village Academy campus, and it has been her home away from home ever since. She has excelled as a reliable and caring staff member who has earned the respect of staff and students.

Ms. Carreon arrives at school by 6:50 a.m., checks the alarms, and unlocks the bathrooms and the campus. She greets staff and students as they arrive. Classes start at 9 o’clock and the last students leave at 2:30. At various times during the day she “goes through the gate” to Carlsbad High School to monitor the comings and goings of CHS students, some of whom participate in Surf PE or Beach Volleyball.

CVA students thrive in a smaller setting where personal relationships are important. It is a place where all students can be successful. CVA students are often talented artists and musicians who find common ground with other non-traditional students on campus.

“Sometimes the students at CVA get a bad rap,” Ms. Carreon says, “But in working with these students every day I find them to be respectful and reliable. They're just teenagers, trying to find their way, and we let them be. I enjoy all of them. We encourage them to be part of our family.”

“Ms. Carreon has been an integral part of our school community for the past ten years, and her impact cannot be overstated,” says CVA principal Jorge Espinoza. “As the eyes and ears of our campus, she is deeply attuned to the well-being of our students, always putting their safety and care at the forefront.

“She has an extraordinary ability to understand the pulse of our school, often providing invaluable insights into how students are connecting and thriving. Her skill in de-escalating conflicts and fostering a supportive environment has been instrumental in maintaining a positive and safe atmosphere for everyone. While she works quietly behind the scenes, her dedication and compassion shine brightly. I am incredibly grateful for her unwavering commitment and all she brings to our school community.”

Ms. Carreon and her three adult children are all Carlsbad High School graduates. She has four grandchildren.

A group of seniors, on track to graduate in June, stopped on their way to class to say, “Ms. Carreon–Yeah, she’s cool.”