Arriving in the United States in 2011 through the Visiting International Faculty Program, Karla brought a rich heritage of educational excellence, following in the footsteps of her family.
A dedicated educator and community advocate whose journey from Barranquilla, Colombia, to South Carolina has been marked by a profound commitment to empowering immigrant families.
Before beginning her career as a teacher, she gained valuable experience as an administrative assistant in the hospitality industry. This experience, coupled with her innate desire to make a difference, led her to pursue a degree in Humanities and Teaching English as a Second Language from Universidad de Córdoba in Colombia.
In 2016, she joined the Charleston County School District as an ESOL educator and was able to seamlessly blend her love for teaching with her dedication to supporting immigrant children as well as their families. For nearly two decades, Karla has been a guiding light, helping young people navigate the challenges of adapting to a new country, school, and community. Her unwavering advocacy ensures that these families understand and exercise their rights within unfamiliar systems.
Beyond the classroom, her influence resonates throughout the community. Her genuine connections and long-term relationships have fostered a network of support and trust. In her personal time, Karla cherishes moments with her family, immerses in books, and expresses her creativity through painting as well as crochet. Her artistic talents are showcased at the Charleston City Night Market on weekends, where her work adds vibrancy to the local arts scene.
Her multifaceted attributes as an educator, mentor, advocate, and artist continue to inspire and uplift the citizens of South Carolina.
