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Hi, I am April Leatherman! I am looking forward to a fabulous year at American River Collegiate Academy as the Educational Support Specialist for the 2025-2026 school year! I am excited to support and extend student learning in all grade levels.  I strive to ensure that all students are successful and I take pride in designing a learning environment to be inviting, safe, nurturing, engaging and fun that will support student learning and our school rules: Being Responsible, Respectful, Safe, and Resourceful. We are Otters and Otters Rise!

I have worked with children of all ages for the past 29 years.  This will be my 14th year teaching at Rocklin Academy Family of Schools (RAFOS) as an educator. During these years with RAFOS, I have had the honor of teaching 2nd grade, Kindergarten and TK. In Fall of 2020, I was one of the founding teachers in opening our new campus, American River Collegiate Academy (ARCA), and continue to be involved with the growth of our new campus and welcoming our new families and students with open arms. We have an amazing staff, and this experience has truly been amazing! I was also nominated as Sacramento County Teacher of the Year for 2024, so exciting and such an honor! I received my B.A. in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Child Development at California State University, Sacramento and my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Chapman University.

I live in Lincoln with my husband, married 28 years with 3 wonderful children. We have also been blessed with 2 beautiful grandchildren (4 year old granddaughter & 1 year old grandson) by our daughter and son-in-law. Our two sons, age 23, are busy continuing the next chapter in their lives by finishing college, traveling and starting their career goals.  We couldn’t be more proud as parents and grandparents. My husband and I love spending time with our family and friends. Aside from family time, I also enjoy concerts, paddle boarding, and long walks or hikes.

I look forward to connecting with new and returning students this Fall and seeing them grow this academic school year! It will be a fabulous year and as a team we will make your child’s education a success. Welcome to American River Collegiate Academy (ARCA), home of the Otters!