Spotlight on support: Celebrating our 2025 Staff Member of the Year finalists

Laura Lopez-Hlavka serves as a Learning Success Coach for ASU Prep Digital, overseeing 40 students. In her role, Laura meets students early in their educational journeys through welcome emails and Zoom introductions, taking the time to learn about their hobbies, interests and personalities. 

“I always want to know my students as a person, not just who they are as a student. That really helps with my connection with them.”

This thoughtful approach sets the foundation for meaningful relationships and effective support.

A major focus of Laura’s work is college advising. She guides students in selecting courses that align with their future goals and prepares them to succeed in higher education. 

“Part of what I do is help guide students to pick college classes that are going to set them up for success when they decide to pursue higher ed,” Laura said. “Seeing a student build confidence and take college-level classes while still in high school is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.” 

Over the years, she has supported students from middle school into their senior year, celebrating their growth and helping them navigate important academic decisions.

Laura approaches challenges with a solution-focused mindset. 

“I am all about, instead of ruminating on the problem, asking, ‘What’s the problem, and how can we solve it?’” she says. 

She applies this approach not only with students but also in collaborating with teachers, special education staff, social workers and administrators, ensuring everyone has the support they need to thrive.

Her impact is clear in the stories of her students. One senior, guided by Laura’s encouragement, gained the confidence to enroll in a college English course, giving her a head start on college credits and building skills that will serve her long after high school. 

“It’s not so much a single project, it’s the consistency of working with students, motivating them and seeing them grow year after year,” Laura said.

For inspiration, Laura looks to her students. 

“My students inspire me to do my best work because I’m serving them,” she said. “I’m not satisfied unless I know I’ve given them the support they need.” 

She takes joy in their creativity and ambition, like a student who developed her crochet skills into a small business, and celebrates the ways they grow into confident, capable individuals.

Looking ahead, Laura is energized by the growth and innovation at ASU Prep Digital. This year, the program welcomed nearly 450 students, marking the largest influx since COVID. She’s particularly excited about opportunities like the ASU Prep Digital+ program, which allows students to combine online learning with on-campus experiences. 

“We’re creating new pathways and opportunities that didn’t exist a few years ago,” Lauren said. “It’s incredible to see our students gain college experience while still in high school and make informed decisions about their futures.”

Being named a Staff Member of the Year finalist is both an honor and an affirmation for Laura. 

“It’s a huge honor to be recognized for the work I put in—not for myself, but for students and the school. This shows that the effort and consistency behind the scenes matter.”

Laura’s advice for others in support roles reflects her collaborative and humble approach: “Use all of your resources. No one knows everything, and it’s okay to ask for help. Leaning on your team and continuing to learn and grow is essential.”

Through her dedication, thoughtful guidance and unwavering support, Laura Lopez-Hlavka exemplifies the heart of ASU Prep Digital, making her a truly deserving 2025 Staff Member of the Year finalist.

Jill Loveall is the Director of Teacher Development and Learning Initiatives at ASU Preparatory Academy. Her responsibilities range from designing and leading professional development programs, including the Expert Teacher Tracks, coaching Transformational Teacher Leaders and implementing innovative models like the Next Education Workforce at the downtown campus. Jill works closely with teachers to build capacity for student-centered learning, helping educators translate abstract initiatives into tangible outcomes that benefit both staff and students.

Reflecting on her career accomplishments, Jill said she’s most proud of seeing ASU Prep South Phoenix rise in ratings over the years.

“It took consistent effort and collaboration with incredible educators, but seeing our students succeed makes it all worthwhile,” she said.

Jill also highlights successes like her work with 6th-grade teams, where she supported teachers in designing flexible learning environments that connect subjects like science and ELA in meaningful ways.

Jill says she draws inspiration from colleagues who lead with empathy and collaboration. 

“I am inspired by the people around me who show up every day ready to support students and each other.” 

Looking ahead, she sees ASU Prep continuing to grow as a hub for innovation and personalized learning. 

“The future is about empowering students with the tools, skills and confidence they need to succeed in an increasingly complex world,” Jill said.

Jill turns big ideas into classroom impact, helping teachers thrive so students can succeed, an achievement that makes her stand out as a 2025 Staff Member of the Year finalist.

Product Manager Ellie Reich serves on the Professional Development team at ASU Prep Digital, supporting educators both within the school and across partner organizations. She mentors, facilitates professional development sessions and develops asynchronous courses designed to enhance the work teachers are already doing in their classrooms. Through her role, Ellie empowers educators around the world, ensuring students have access to exceptional learning experiences.

Nearing her fifth anniversary at ASU Prep, Ellie was inspired to join the team by ASU Prep’s charter and its innovative approaches to providing equitable educational opportunities. 

“The work I do now enables me to support and empower educators, who, in turn, inspire their students to reach their full potential and pursue their dreams.”

Knowing her efforts have a broad impact makes the long hours and many meetings incredibly rewarding.

Over the past year, Ellie has been instrumental in mentoring educators at Worthington Academy, collaborating on CTE pathway development and creating student enrichment courses on social-emotional learning for students in marginalized communities. Her approach to challenges is always solution-focused, working closely with her team to brainstorm ideas that put students at the center of every decision.

Reflecting on her role, Ellie emphasizes the value of collaboration and the inspiring work of her colleagues. 

“Working with such a talented team across ASU Prep and our partners constantly motivates me to do my best work,” she says. 

Ellie is energized by seeing the direct results of her efforts: educators growing in confidence, skills and impact, ultimately benefiting students and school communities alike.

Looking ahead, Ellie is excited about innovative projects in development that will continue to push the boundaries of student success. She is eager to contribute to initiatives that provide students with the best educational opportunities while fostering professional growth among educators.

With her thoughtful leadership, collaborative spirit and focus on meaningful impact, Ellie Reich ensures educators—and the students they serve—continue to thrive, earning her place among the Staff Member of the Year finalists.