About Us
PHILOSOPHY AND MISSION
Dominicus International Academy (DIA) offers a personalized, practical, and enriching bilingual experience. Our holistic educational approach integrates a wide variety of classes—including yoga, art, music, theatre, STEAM, horticulture, and more—all aligned with the highest standards of international education.
Every program is thoughtfully tailored to each student, fostering the development of their individual skills and talentsto their fullest potential. Our approach is guided by core values, a deep connection to nature, and an intentional focus on mindfulness, creating a nurturing environment where students thrive both academically and personally.
At Dominicus International Academy (DIA), our mission is to cultivate a well-rounded, creative, and nurturing environment that reflects a truly holistic approach to education. We are committed to personalizing learning based on each student’s unique interests, strengths, and needs.
Our primary goal is to provide a dynamic learning space enriched with diverse teaching methods and practical experiences, ensuring that every student receives a balanced, meaningful, and future-ready education.
GENERAL ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Dominicus International Academy (DIA) is committed to providing a holistic, bilingual education that enhances each child’s academic development while nurturing their social, emotional, and behavioral growth.
Our program is thoughtfully guided by a doctoral-level behavior analyst and a lifelong education specialist, ensuring that every student benefits from the gold standard in 21st-century education.
At DIA, we focus on identifying and developing each child’s individual strengths and abilities, empowering them to reach their full potential in a supportive and dynamic learning environment.
We are also proud to be affiliated with Isla Academy, a leader in student-centered education with campuses in Cabarete and Las Terrenas, further expanding our academic support network and providing our students with even more opportunities for growth, collaboration, and educational excellence.
Preschool and Kindergarten
At Dominicus International Academy (DIA), our early childhood classrooms are thoughtfully designed in a Montessori-style layout, organized into distinct learning areas such as math, language, art, functional living, science, culture, and sensory exploration.
We offer a diverse range of classes, including STEAM, art, science, music, physical education, yoga, math, and cooking, all carefully crafted to support a child’s natural curiosity and development. Learning extends beyond the classroom into our expansive outdoor spaces, where students engage in horticulture, agriculture, and functional livingactivities.
Beginning as early as 3 years old, children are introduced to meditation, yoga, and mindfulness through fun, age-appropriate activities that foster emotional awareness and self-regulation.
Our play-based approach and integrated STEAM curriculum provide a strong foundation for academic readiness. With small class sizes, each child receives personalized attention, ensuring a rich and engaging learning experience.
In preparation for the elementary years, students in these grades are also introduced to the fundamentals of Project-Based Learning (PBL). This early exposure helps them build the skills necessary to thrive in our multi-leveled, PBL-centered elementary program.
Elementary
At Dominicus International Academy (DIA), our elementary grades follow a multi-leveled classroom model, moving away from traditional age-based grouping. Research shows that multi-age learning environments foster stronger collaboration, peer-to-peer learning, enhanced social skills, and better preparation for real-world challenges.
Our curriculum is deeply rooted in Project-Based Learning (PBL), where students engage in hands-on, real-world experiences to acquire and apply knowledge in meaningful ways. These multidisciplinary projects are designed to tackle complex, open-ended questions and real-life problems, encouraging critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and the development of practical life skills.
Junior High
Similar to our elementary program, junior high classrooms at Dominicus International Academy (DIA) utilize multi-leveled groupings, creating a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that fosters diverse learning opportunities.
Our curriculum continues to center around Project-Based Learning (PBL), encouraging students to engage in collaborative, hands-on experiences that promote critical thinking, real-world problem solving, peer learning, and social development. This approach not only deepens academic understanding but also prepares students to navigate real-life challenges with confidence and creativity.
High School
Our high school program at Dominicus International Academy (DIA) continues to follow the same innovative, student-centered approach as our lower grades, with multi-leveled classrooms that promote personalized and inclusive learning. Project-Based Learning (PBL) remains the cornerstone of our curriculum, fostering deeper understanding, critical thinking, collaboration, and the development of real-world skills essential for future success.
All DIA students are officially enrolled through Homelife Academy, a recognized educational institution based in the United States. Upon graduation, students receive a U.S. high school diploma and official transcripts, which are internationally recognized, including in the Dominican Republic.
For students planning to study internationally, documents will require an apostille and legal translation. For those seeking to continue their education within the Dominican Republic, they must complete the “homologación” processthrough the Ministry of Education to validate their academic credentials locally.
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Staff Members
Academic Coordinators
Jessica L. Fuller, PhD., BCBA-D (Director)
Dr. Jessica L. Fuler is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and co-founder of Dominicus International Academy (DIA). She brings over 15 years of experience in education and behavior analysis, having served in various roles across private and public schools in the United States as both a teacher and behavior analyst.
Jessica earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, with a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis, from the University of South Florida in 2013. While pursuing her board certification, she gained hands-on experience in educational and clinical settings, shaping her expertise in student behavior and learning. In 2017, she completed her Master of Science in Psychology from Capella University, becoming a certified BCBA.
In 2018, Jessica moved with her family to the Dominican Republic, where she pursued a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP), focusing her research on mindfulness. During this time, she began laying the groundwork for an innovative school model that integrates Project-Based Learning (PBL) with mindful education practices.
As a dedicated researcher and educational leader, Jessica focuses on areas such as mindful parenting, language acquisition, teacher training, and student motivation. Her work is driven by a deep commitment to enhancing learning outcomes and fostering meaningful engagement among students.
Dr. Fuler’s passion, expertise, and vision are at the heart of Dominicus International Academy’s mission to deliver a holistic, student-centered, and empowering educational experience where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Ines Lopez de Lara, B.A., E.d (Academic Coordinator)
Ines López de Lara is a lifelong K–12 educator and the Director of Dominicus International Academy (DIA). She earned her degree in Early Childhood Education from Escuela Normal Manuel Ávila Camacho in Zacatecas, Mexico, and later obtained a second Bachelor’s degree in Spanish as a Foreign Language, with a minor in Education, from the University of South Florida.
With over 30 years of experience in the field of education, Ines has worked with students of all ages and abilities in both Mexico and the United States, serving in roles as both an educator and school director in several prestigious institutions.
Ines is deeply committed to maintaining and exceeding academic standards, ensuring that every student at DIA is given the tools and support to achieve academic excellence. She believes that rigor and creativity go hand in hand, and is passionate about creating a learning environment where students are not only challenged intellectually but are also engaged, inspired, and having fun.
Her leadership and dedication are key to DIA’s mission of delivering a high-quality, joyful, and holistic educational experience that nurtures each child’s potential and love of learning.
Sheilla Camarena- Academic Coordinator
Sheilla, a native of the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, is a deeply passionate and enthusiastic educational leader. With a strong foundation in pedagogy, she has led numerous workshops on Teaching Methods, Multiple Intelligences, Emotional Intelligence, and Restorative Practices. Her extensive experience as a teacher includes a specialization in Spanish as a Foreign Language and Dominican Culture, always emphasizing the importance of universal values in holistic education.
Sheilla embraces a collaborative approach, viewing education as a two-way street where teachers and students learn from one another. Her dynamic teaching style integrates movement, art, and introspection, creating transformative learning experiences. She envisions education as a powerful tool for awakening consciousness and nurturing individual purpose.
At DIA, Sheilla serves as the coordinator for upper elementary, middle school, and high school. Her leadership and vision contribute meaningfully to the growth and depth of our academic program.
Alejandra- 1st & 2nd grade Lead Teacher and Coordinator
Alejandra is the lead teacher in the Beethoven classroom, where she guides our 1st and 2nd grade students through engaging and meaningful learning experiences. She holds certifications from Spain in monitoring children’s and youth leisure activities, as well as in education for children at high risk.
Alejandra gained much of her valuable experience through her work at Asociación Educativa ITACA in Spain, a center dedicated to supporting students from vulnerable communities. Starting as a volunteer in 2021, her passion and dedication quickly led her to grow into a leadership role in education.
At Dominicus International Academy, Alejandra brings warmth, structure, and creativity to the classroom. She holds certifications in Positive Behavior Support, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Montessori education, and Mindful Teaching, highlighting her commitment to fostering a well-rounded and supportive learning environment.
Administration
Veronica Jimenez- Administrator and HR manager
Verónica Jiménez was born in La Romana and has spent most of her life in Bayahibe, where she lives with her family. She holds a Law degree from Universidad Federico Henríquez y Carvajal (UFHEC) and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Resources.
With several years of experience as an administrative assistant, Verónica brings strong organizational skills and a deep commitment to teamwork and efficiency. She joined the Dominicus International Academy (DIA) team as the lead administrator, supporting the smooth and professional operation of the school.
“Becoming part of the Dominicus International Academy team has marked an exciting step forward in both my professional and personal journey. I find great meaning in human resource management and am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a project that aligns with my passions and values.”
Leslie - Administrative Assistant and Office Manager
Leslye has been part of the Dominicus International Academy family since 2021 and officially joined our team in 2024, bringing dedication, organization, and a heart for service to her role as Administrative Assistant and Office Manager. With a multifaceted role that touches nearly every aspect of daily operations, Leslye leads with both empathy and excellence. Her ability to manage details while staying connected to the needs of staff, families, and students has made her an essential part of our community. Whether coordinating schedules, supporting communication, or ensuring the smooth functioning of the office, Leslye does it all with grace, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to our shared mission.
Our Team
Dominicus International Academy Academic Staff
At Dominicus International Academy, our staff is the heart of our community. Our teaching team is made up of passionate educators from diverse countries and educational backgrounds, bringing a rich blend of perspectives to our classrooms. Most of our teachers hold bachelor’s degrees in Education, Psychology, or related fields, and many have pursued master’s-level studies as well.
We believe that great teaching comes from continuous learning. All staff members engage in ongoing professional development throughout the year to ensure we stay aligned with best practices in education. This year, our faculty completed ISLA teacher training as part of our commitment to quality and our affiliation with ISLA Academy.
Our staff is comprised of three core teaching teams:
Preschool Team, overseen by Ines, with Quesia and Sorelys leading Maitri (2–4 years) and Mairely and Hidekelleading Meraki (Kindergarten).
Elementary Team, overseen by Alejandra, with Ely, Samuel, and Omeiris in Ohana (1st–2nd Grade), Ana Raquel and Andres in Lykke (3rd–4th Grade), and Ydhelca in Ubuntu (5th–6th Grade).
Middle & High School Team, overseen by Sheila, with Katherine in Sisu (7th–8th Grade) and Katie in Kaizen(High School).
The entire academic program is overseen by Dr. Jess Fuller.
We are proud of the dedication, warmth, and professionalism our team brings every day to our students and our community.