Sofia Laguna Rigolon is originally from Boulder, Colorado, and has been teaching, designing curriculum, and advancing inclusive educational practices since 2013. Throughout her career, she has worked in schools across Colorado, California, Illinois, and Utah, serving students with a wide range of learning needs while developing innovative, student-centered educational programs.
Sofia joined Elizabeth Academy in 2021 as the Curriculum Coordinator for the secondary program. Since then, she has served in several leadership roles, including Secondary Principal. Following the closure of the secondary program, she transitioned into her current role as Curriculum and Special Education Director, where she oversees curriculum development, special education services, accreditation, educator development, and schoolwide systems that support student success. She also directs Elizabeth Academy’s APPEL (Alternative Pathway to Professional Educator Licensure) program and collaborates with a variety of universities, educational organizations, and community partners to strengthen educator preparation, expand professional learning opportunities, and support continuous school improvement. These partnerships include organizations such as the University of Utah, the Western Montessori Collective, and many others committed to advancing excellence in education.
Sofia earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Colorado Boulder (2013), a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Denver (2014), and a Master of Education in Instructional Leadership from Utah State University (2023). She holds Utah professional licenses in Elementary Education, Special Education, and School Leadership and is currently completing her Elementary Montessori credential.
Sofia and her husband, Alessandro, are the proud parents of two Elizabeth Academy students. Outside of school, she loves spending time with her family, reading great literature, writing, and staying active. Whether she’s riding her bike, hiking, teaching a High Fitness class, or curling up with a good book, she believes that lifelong learning, meaningful relationships, and movement are essential to living a joyful, balanced life.
