Our Employee of the Month is Angela Jalakian from Massachusetts!
Angela Jalakian has served as the Site Director at Albert Argenziano for the past two years. She brings a strong background in school administration, and we are grateful that she has chosen to continue her career in after-school programming with Apollo. Angela has a true passion for providing high-quality programming to our students each and every day. She is deeply loved by both students and families. This year, Angela also joined our training team, where she shares her knowledge and expertise while supporting new hires as they joined the Apollo After School family.
Angela, thank you for being such an outstanding employee and teacher.
To show our appreciation for your dedication and hard work – please check your email this week for a special gift from us.
Check out our interview with Angela below:
- Who are you, where do you come from, where are you going?
My name is Angie Jalakian. I was born and raised in Yorkshire, England. I studied at university in the U.K. and began my career in public education as a primary school teacher, later moving into school administration as a Deputy Headteacher. In 2002, I moved to Los Angeles and continued along the same career path, but in private schools. I started as a middle school teacher and then transitioned into administration, first as an Assistant Principal and later as the English Principal of a small private school. In 2017, I started my own private Educational Consulting business while also working with the Los Angeles Unified School District as a Professional Development Consultant, focusing mainly on teacher training, coaching, and mentoring. A couple of years ago, I moved to Massachusetts and decided to try something a little different. I stepped into after-school education, and I’m really enjoying it. It’s been refreshing to work in a new setting while still staying connected to what I love — supporting educators and students.
- How long have you been teaching with Apollo?
I started my job with Apollo late in the academic year and began working as a Site Director in March 2025.
- What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned since you started teaching?
Probably that the effect you can have on a child is significant and long-lasting. The things we say, the actions we take, and the way we show up as educators really matter. They can stay with a child for a lifetime. That’s why it’s so important that the impact we make is positive, and genuine. We all remember the teachers who were kind to us, who went that extra mile, who made us feel seen. That kind of influence doesn’t fade — it shapes confidence, self-worth, and how children view themselves long after they’ve left the classroom.
- How do you motivate your students to succeed?
I give my students specific and meaningful praise. I make a conscious effort to catch them doing something right. I notice the unique or special things they do — even the tiniest details, like the way they’re sitting, the way they’re focusing, or how their body language shows me they’re really listening. I try to be a good “noticer” and intentionally zone in on the positive. I want my students to know they are seen, valued, and appreciated. When they realize that even their small actions are recognized, they feel proud of themselves. Over time, that’s how you build a truly positive culture.
- If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
I would choose the ability to fly — to suddenly take flight whenever I wanted to. It would be amazing to get places faster and easily visit people who live far away. There’s something freeing about the idea of just lifting off and going wherever you want.
- What is your most memorable memory from your time as an Apollo instructor?
I think it was the first time I made a proper and genuine connection with the students outside. I lay down on the playground so the kids could draw around me with chalk. It was a funny, spontaneous activity and broke the ice in those first early days.
- If you could retire tomorrow and never have to worry about money again, what would you do with your time?
I would spend more time with my family overseas and volunteer in the community in some way. I’d also love to work with wild animals — at an elephant sanctuary, or with giant pandas. Experiencing that kind of special connection with animals would be memorable.
- What’s your go-to technique for dealing with ‘handful students’?
I have a few strategies up my sleeve, depending on the situation and the age of the students. It’s also important to understand the root cause of a behavior in order to determine the best approach. That said, in order to successfully support “handful” students, I believe it’s essential to first have a strong rapport with them. Without a bond between teacher and student, it’s much harder to navigate complex situations. Conversation and connection are critical. I also value reflection — sometimes later in the day, once emotions have settled. At Apollo, we don’t use “Time Out.” Instead, I practice the opposite: “Time In.” It’s about staying connected rather than isolating a child. I make a point of following up after any challenging situation, whether later the same day or within the next couple of days. I also strongly believe in working closely with parents when it comes to behavioral challenges. Supporting a child with behavioral needs is really a triangle — teacher, parent, and child — and all three need to work together for the very best outcome. Connection comes before correction.
- What is an unusual place you have been to?
I’ve been to an unusual place called Mother Shipton’s Cave in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, which is England’s oldest visitor attraction. It has been open since 1630. The cave itself is quite small, but it’s known as the birthplace of England’s most famous prophetess. It’s set within an ancient forest, and it’s a beautiful area which is mystical and mysterious. There’s something very atmospheric about being there; you can almost feel the history around you.
- Do you have a talent that not many people know about?
I play guitar, cello and drumkit and have perfect pitch.
- What’s your #1 teaching tip?
Be charismatic! Bring on the drama, the energy and the excitement! Pretend you’re on stage or in a show. Kids notice when you are engaged and animated.
A great teacher is always the heart of every program and every class.
- What’s your favorite classroom Attention Getter?
I use a variety of attention-getters in the classroom, but lately I’ve been adding a twist. For example, I might say, “If you can hear me, clap once,” or sometimes I’ll mix it up with a bit of silliness — “If you can hear me, click, cluck, bark, or moo once!” It’s a fun way to grab attention, get kids laughing, and keep them engaged while still maintaining control.
- What is something interesting that you’re involved in, outside of Apollo After School?
I’m a bit of a foodie and also a fairly serious baker who loves to discover new bakeries. I really enjoy experimenting with different types of flour. Honestly, if I had the chance to retrain as a pastry chef, I think I probably would.
- How do you spend your summer breaks?
I usually spend time with family and visit friends or my family will visit me.
- Star Wars, Star Trek, or they’re both lame?
Neither is really my cup of tea, but if I have to pick, it would be Star Trek.
- What do you like most about working with Apollo?
I absolutely love working with the children. I think they’re all so brilliant, funny, and talented. I also really enjoy my work as an Apollo trainer because teacher training is where I have the most experience — and it’s something I’m truly passionate about.
