Title: Chief Executive Officer, Founder, and Educator
Company: Academy of Leonardo’s Apprentice
Location: Azusa, California, United States
Peter Romero, MEd, chief executive officer, founder, and educator at the Academy of Leonardo’s Apprentice, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Educators for dedication, achievements, and leadership in education and instructional design.
With over three decades of experience to his credit, Mr. Romero has carved out a distinguished career in the field of education and instructional design. He is currently excelling as the chief executive officer, founder, and educator at the Academy of Leonardo’s Apprentice since 2017.
Prior to this position, Mr. Romero was active as an educator and community theatre director at Baldwin Park Unified School District from 2010 to 2021. He also worked as a freelance instructional designer in 2020, a consultant for NASA in 2000, and with Walt Disney Imagineering. His career also includes experience as a storytelling and public speaking coach from 1995 to 2020.
Before embarking on his professional path, Mr. Romero pursued an education at the University of Phoenix, earning a Bachelor of Science in information technology in 2011. He continued his academic efforts at Concordia University, where he obtained a Master of Education in instructional design and e-learning in 2013. He also holds teaching credentials in programming and system design, as well as media arts and technology. In addition to his primary vocation, he remains affiliated with various organizations. He has been a mentor at Azusa Pacific University since 2010, secretary of the Rotary Club of Azusa, and a volunteer math tutor. He has also been associated with Toastmasters International, serving as past president and past vice president.
Mr. Romero has accrued several accolades throughout his career, including the Mr. Gavel Animation Award from First Lady Hillary Clinton in 2000, recognition from the Library of Congress for the Space Island Program in 1996, special recognition from NASA in 1996, and Resolution 4058 from the State of California. One of his most notable accomplishments was being recognized by Congress. This honor led to acknowledgment from the State of California, and NASA extended him an honorary award and invited him to become a consultant for their educational program in 2000. This was particularly impactful for him, as he had dreamt of becoming a programmer at NASA since childhood. Today, he continues to collaborate with JPL NASA on various exciting projects.
Mr. Romero attributes his success to focusing on project-based programs rather than program-based ones. He notes that this approach helps answer the common question from students, “Why do I have to learn this?” During meetings, he often discusses science and engineering but rarely mentions STEM, as he believes technology is merely a tool, not a learning outcome. He prioritizes applied math over theoretical math, emphasizing practical application in education.
Over the next five years, Mr. Romero aims to build upon his past successes and expand his impact further. He envisions creating an open online system that will be a valuable resource for educators, encouraging collaboration by sharing his ideas and projects. By introducing Project Know, he believes teachers can effectively switch their programs and overcome recurring challenges. His ultimate goal is to become a reliable source of guidance and support for educators worldwide.
Mr. Romero plans to establish a fully operational academy with a visionary board of directors willing to drive change and take risks. He seeks to build a strong foundation that allows for the evolution of programs to meet the diverse needs of students. Committed to maintaining the academy as a nonprofit, he aims to serve more students and ensure the institution can adapt while prioritizing student needs.
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