Magdalena Segura didn’t set out to be a teacher. With a degree in political science and philosophy, she was planning to attend law school until she joined Teach For America in 2017 and was placed at KIPP LA Prep — that’s when everything changed.
“At KIPP LA Prep, I quickly discovered the joy of teaching. I fell in love with working with students and collaborating with educators who genuinely believe in their success. I always say teaching found me,” said Ms. Segura.
Now in her eighth year at KIPP LA Prep, Ms. Segura is a National Board Certified math teacher who brings energy, joy, and cultural relevance to her classroom every day. Whether it’s using her students’ names in word problems, referencing pop culture, or relating math concepts to everyday experiences like buying elotes (corn), her lessons are designed to feel relevant and personal.
That approach is deeply rooted in her own experience as a student. Ms. Segura was inspired by two math teachers—Ms. Ramirez and Mr. Gonzalez—who made her feel seen. They looked like her, believed in her, and helped her feel that she belonged in the world of math. Today, she channels that same energy into her classroom and works hard to be that kind of role model for her students.
Ms. Segura and her students during KIPP LA Prep's Winter Festival
Positivity and confidence-building are core to her teaching philosophy. Through what she calls the “power of yes,” she encourages students to believe that understanding will come with time and effort. If a student doesn’t get something right away, she’ll say “not yet,” helping them shift their mindset toward growth. She also normalizes mistakes to show students that getting it wrong is part of learning.
“I always make mistakes when I’m teaching math—sometimes on purpose, sometimes just naturally—and I think that’s important for kids to see. If their math teacher messes up and keeps going, it shows them that making mistakes is not the end of the world,” she said.
Ms. Segura enjoys creating a safe space for students to take risks. She adapts her strategies to meet student needs by blending guided practice, group work, and student-led discovery. She always focuses on growth by offering retakes, praising effort, and helping students build confidence over time.
As a veteran teacher, Ms. Segura credits KIPP LA Prep’s team and family culture for supporting her through every stage of her journey. From mentorship to professional development, she feels empowered to grow and adapt her teaching every year. Her biggest belief? Teaching is a team effort.
“For a child to be successful, everyone has to be on the same page — students, parents, teachers, admin. When that happens, real learning takes off,” she said.
Ready to make an impact like Ms. Segura? Join our team of passionate educators and explore open positions today!