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 2 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 (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.
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.
Psychology and ABA
Nathalia Rosado- Psychologist and Behavior Specialist
Nathalia studied Educational Psychology at Universidad O&M in La Romana. She has also completed Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) training in behavior analysis and is currently pursuing a certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). With experience working with children of all ages, Nathalia brings deep knowledge, compassion, and professionalism to her role. As our Lead Psychologist and ABA Supervisor, she provides essential support in both individual and group settings, guiding behavioral interventions and promoting student well-being across our learning community.
Paola Mesa- Behavior Therapist
Paola, originally from Bogotá, Colombia, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and is currently completing her fieldwork to earn her IBAO certification as a behavior specialist. Since 2013, she has led workshops in communication, writing, and spelling, developing a strong passion for education through her work with national social programs. Her diverse experience includes teaching French and traditional Colombian dance, as well as language training in Belgium. As our Lead Spanish Language Teacher, Paola is committed to helping students develop eloquence, strong vocabulary, and proper grammar, fostering confident and respectful communication in Spanish.
Mavis Trujillo- Behavior Therapist
Mavis Trujillo, a graduate in tourism from Cuba, became a valuable addition to our team in 2022 when she joined as an administrative assistant while concurrently pursuing coursework in behavior analysis. Over time, Mavis has accumulated significant experience as a behavior therapist, and she is actively pursuing independent fieldwork supervision to achieve her IBAO certification. Currently serving as a dedicated behavior therapist, Mavis exemplifies her commitment to professional growth and excellence in the field.
Preschool and Kindergarten
Francis and Samaly - Early Childhood Educators
Francis and Samaly serve as our esteemed teachers in the “Sprouts” classroom, catering to the vibrant age group of 3-year-olds. Together, they form a dynamic duo, infusing each day with a rich blend of singing, playing, and learning activities. Drawing from their diverse experiences in various educational settings, both educators have successfully obtained certifications in first aid, behavior analysis, Montessori and positive education, showcasing their commitment to creating a nurturing and educational environment for our young learners.
Leidy and Sorelys- Early Childhood Educators
Sorelys and Leidy, our dedicated educators in the “Journey” classroom for 4-year-olds (Pre-K), bring boundless enthusiasm to our students’ learning experiences. Their primary focus is on imparting essential skills that pave the way for a smooth transition to kindergarten. Boasting a wealth of expertise, both Sorelys and Leidy hold certifications in first aid, behavior analysis, positive education, and Montessori, ensuring a holistic and enriching educational journey for our young learners.
Leidy is a proud graduate of Federico Henríquez & Carvajal University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Education with a concentration in School Orientation. She has completed a certification in child neuropsychology and has undertaken additional studies related to childcare and development. With several years of experience caring for children of various ages, Leidy is particularly passionate about early childhood education, recognizing its vital role in the integral development of individuals. We are delighted to have Leidy as a valued member of our team, contributing her expertise as a teacher in the preschool area.
Sorelys is currently in the process of completing a degree in education and is actively learning under the guidance of our team. She has demonstrated exceptional skills in areas such as Montessori, respectful teaching (positive behavior), and overall pedagogy. Sorelys’s commitment to ongoing development and her dedication to effective teaching make her a valuable asset to our preschool team.
Andreina and Lizbeth- Early Childhood Educators
Lizbeht and Andreina, exceptional educators, contribute their expertise to our “Discovery Classroom,” catering to kindergarteners aged 5. Lizbeht, who holds a bachelor’s degree in education, initially joined our team in 2021 as a tutor for foreign language students and has since transitioned into the role of a kindergarten teacher and specialist for our after-school program. With a commitment to professional development, Lizbeht has successfully earned certifications in various areas, including Montessori, positive behavior, mindful teaching, ABA, and first aid.
Andreina, who joined our team in 2023, serves as the lead English teacher for the Discovery Classroom. Despite pursuing a degree in architecture at a local university, she brings her passion for teaching to our learning environment. Together, Lizbeht and Andreina create a dynamic teaching team dedicated to providing a well-rounded and enriching educational experience for our young learners.
Elementary, Junior High, and High School
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.
Ely Samuel- 1st & 2nd Grade English Teacher
Ely Samuel plays a multifaceted role at Dominicus International Academy, serving as the lead English teacher in the Beethoven classroom, where he teaches 1st and 2nd grade students with enthusiasm and care.
Beyond his core teaching role, Ely contributes his talents across multiple disciplines, supporting other grade levels by teaching sports, computer science, and music. His ability to integrate academic instruction with the arts and athletics allows him to reach students in meaningful and dynamic ways.
Ely’s versatile approach, combined with his commitment to excellence and creativity, makes him a highly valued and beloved member of the DIA team. His leadership and dedication inspire both students and colleagues alike, helping to create a well-rounded and engaging school environment.
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.
Fradilenny - 1st & 2nd grade Teacher
Fradilenny serves as the assistant teacher in the Beethoven classroom, where her enthusiasm, dedication, and strong sense of teamwork contribute to a vibrant and nurturing learning environment. Working closely with lead teacher Alejandra, she plays an active role in supporting students academically and emotionally.
In addition to her classroom responsibilities, Fradilenny leads the Spanish language curriculum for reading and writing in 1st and 2nd grade, ensuring that students develop strong foundational literacy skills in their native language.
She is currently completing a certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), further deepening her expertise in supporting student learning and behavior. Fradilenny’s passion for education and her thoughtful, student-centered approach make her an essential part of the Dominicus International Academy team.
Ana Rosario- 3rd & 4th Grade Teacher
Ana, a psychology student at Universidad Dominicana O&M, joined our team in 2022 as an assistant teacher in the toddlers’ program. Her versatility and dedication have since allowed her to support other areas, including language development, behavior support, and upper education. She currently works closely with upper elementary and junior high students, applying the principles she is learning in her psychology degree.
Ana collaborates with our school psychologist and academic coordinators to help create a holistic, student-centered environment. She has also completed certifications in Montessori, ABA, classroom inclusion, and positive behavior strategies, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and student success.
Adriana Aceituno - 3rd & 4th Grade English Teacher
Adriana joined our team in 2024 as the 3rd and 4th grade English teacher, bringing energy, creativity, and a passion for literacy to her classroom. Her dedication to building strong foundations in reading, writing, and communication helps students grow in confidence and language skills. Adriana is committed to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment where students are encouraged to express themselves, think critically, and develop a lifelong love for English.
Katherine - Mathematics and Sciences
Yanina holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Chemistry from the Pedro Henríquez Ureña National University (UNPHU) and a master’s degree in Teaching from the Federico Henríquez y Carvajal University (UFHEC). With over 10 years of experience working with children of diverse ages and abilities, Yanina is a seasoned professional. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian, she joined our team in 2021, quickly amassing valuable experience in various roles within our school.
Currently serving as our Spanish Language specialist in Elementary and Junior High, Yanina’s expertise extends to a range of certifications, including first aid, Montessori, mindful teaching, ABA, and positive behavior. Her academic background, linguistic proficiency, and wealth of experience make her a valuable asset to our educational community.
Math
Mateo- Mathematics Teacher
Mateo, a Biology student at a local university and a multiple-time math olympic champion, brings a dynamic and multifaceted skill set to our team. With a wealth of knowledge in both mathematics and sports, Mateo assumed the role of our lead math teacher in elementary and junior high when he joined our team in 2023. His unique combination of academic expertise and athletic achievement enriches our educational environment, providing students with a vibrant and engaging learning experience.
Music
Isabella- Music Teacher
Isabella, our esteemed music teacher, became a valued member of our team in 2022. Hailing from a conservatory in Italy, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a profound passion for classical music to our educational community. Isabella’s dedication to music education is evident as she imparts her expertise to our students, currently focusing on teaching the flute as an introductory instrument.
Her unique approach combines the timeless elegance of classical music with a modern twist, creating a dynamic and engaging learning experience for our students. Isabella’s commitment to fostering a love for music and her ability to blend tradition with innovation make her an inspiring presence in our school.
Swim
Miguel- Swim Coach
Miguel, our esteemed swim coach at Dominicus International Academy, became a part of our team in 2022, infusing our program with a wealth of fun and essential water safety skills. His primary emphasis is on cultivating not only proficient swimmers but also instilling a strong foundation in water safety and technique. Under Miguel’s guidance, students are not only learning to excel in the water but also developing a comprehensive understanding of crucial swimming skills.
After Care
Kathy- Aftercare Specialist
Katy is one of our aftercare teachers who joined our team in 2021, quickly becoming a valuable and integral part of our community. She has completed training in Montessori, positive behavior, and first aid, showcasing her commitment to providing a safe and enriching environment for our students.
Kathy’s linguistic versatility is another asset she brings to our team, as she is fluent in Spanish, Italian, German, and English. This multilingual proficiency allows her to connect with a diverse range of students and create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere within our aftercare program. Katy’s dedication and diverse skill set contribute significantly to the positive and supportive environment we aim to provide for our students.
Lizbeth- Aftercare Specialist
Lizbeht serves as one of our lead kindergarten teachers and has recently become an essential member of our aftercare team. Her passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to prioritizing the well-being of our students make her an ideal candidate for this additional role.
With expertise in guiding young learners through their early educational journey, Lizbeht brings a unique blend of nurturing care and educational excellence to our aftercare program. Her dedication to fostering a supportive environment aligns seamlessly with our commitment to providing holistic care for our students beyond traditional classroom hours. Lizbeht’s dual role reflects her versatility and dedication to creating a positive and enriching experience for every child in our care.