Photo by Marshall Smith
Judson “Judd” Andolina, easy-going and affable, brings an international background to his new job as full-time math teacher at Idyllwild Arts Academy.
The Sutter Creek, South Lake Tahoe native has taught in Brazil and Chile and has worked in other capacities in Mexico and Panama. He is married to Chilean native Karina who works at the IA bookstore. They met in Chile when Judd was working at a ski resort. Both live on campus with their two children and are dorm parents for Pierson Dorm, for IA female students.
Andolina teaches Algebra and Geometry. “I’m spoiled with the small size of my classes,” he said. Andolina holds an AA degree in general studies from Lake Tahoe Community College, a bachelor of science in math education from California State University, Chico, and a Clear California Teaching Credential in math education.
In addition to teaching math in Brazil at the Escola American Belo Horizonte, Andolina taught English to 4th- and 5th-grade students at the Oxford School in Villarrica, Chile. “While in Brazil I became convinced that I love teaching to a wide diversity of students,” he said. “Teaching English in Chile, instead of math, was a great experience that thoroughly improved my experience with ESL students, younger students and students from other cultures.”
In the U.S., Andolina taught at Lake Tahoe Unified School District, Lake Tahoe Community College, Lahainaluna High School in Maui, Hawaii, and Central Middle School in Oroville, California.
Andolina describes himself as patient, professional and responsible. “I’m someone who loves to see the promotion and learning of all students,” he said. “I can be strict and also listen, follow directions and contribute ideas. I love traveling, all sports and new experiences. Living on campus has made the transition to the U.S. so easy for our family. We’re settling in nicely.”
