Welcome to Semilla Educational Consulting !

Our Services

Semilla Educational Consulting partners with schools and organizations to build strong, sustainable systems that support student success. Through a focus on trauma-informed practices, PBIS/MTSS alignment, and Tier 2 intervention development, Semilla helps educators move from reactive approaches to intentional, data-driven support. Services include professional development, coaching, program design, and evaluation—all grounded in equity, collaboration, and real-world application. At Semilla, we believe that when systems are nurtured with care and purpose, students develop the strong roots they need to thrive.

ROOTS-T2 Framework

ROOTS-T2 is a structured, school-based cohort model designed to strengthen Tier 2 systems and support for at-risk students. Grounded in trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and PBIS-aligned practices, ROOTS-T2 equips educators with practical strategies to match interventions to student needs—moving beyond reactive discipline toward intentional, preventative support. Through guided modules, coaching, and data-informed reflection, teams build the capacity to implement effective Tier 2 supports that improve student behavior, engagement, and overall school climate.

Educational Advocacy

At Semilla Educational Consulting, we believe that access to support should never be a barrier to a child’s success. As part of our commitment to equity and community care, Semilla offers educational advocacy services at no cost to families navigating complex school systems—particularly those impacted by foster care, trauma, and systemic barriers.

This support may include helping caregivers understand their educational rights, preparing for school meetings (such as SSTs or IEPs), and bridging communication between families, schools, and support systems. Rooted in compassion and cultural humility, our advocacy work ensures that every child and family feels seen, supported, and empowered to pursue thriving educational outcomes.

Because strong systems begin with strong relationships—and every student deserves someone in their corner.

Founder & CEO, Semilla Educational Consulting

Christina Prieto, MS.Ed., PPS, DSW Candidate
Founder & CEO, Semilla Educational Consulting

Christina Prieto is the Founder and CEO of Semilla Educational Consulting, a purpose-driven practice rooted in the belief that strong systems create strong outcomes for all students. As a School Psychologist, child welfare professional, and Doctoral Candidate in Social Work at California Baptist University, Christina brings a unique cross-system perspective to her work—bridging education and child welfare to better support students impacted by adversity.

Through Semilla, Christina partners with schools, districts, and organizations to design and implement trauma-informed, equity-centered frameworks aligned with PBIS and MTSS. Her work focuses on strengthening Tier 2 systems, building staff capacity, and creating sustainable practices that move beyond reactive discipline toward proactive, relationship-centered support.

Christina is the creator of the ROOTS framework (Responsive, Opportunity-centered, Organized Tiered Supports), an innovative model designed to help educators translate insight into intentional action. Her approach integrates research, lived experience, and practical application—equipping educators with tools that are both meaningful and manageable in real-world settings.

Grounded in both data and purpose, Christina’s work is driven by a commitment to ensuring that students especially those impacted by foster care and systemic inequities are supported in ways that honor their strengths, experiences, and potential.

Grounded in both data and purpose, Christina’s work is driven by a commitment to ensuring that students, especially those impacted by foster care and systemic inequities are supported in ways that honor their strengths, experiences, and potential.

Semilla Associate Consultants

Shelton Yuen - MS. Ed., PPS, LEP

Over the course of his eighteen+ years in behavioral health and school psychology, Shelton has served as an ABA provider, an Educationally Related Mental Health Service psychologist, and a direct care provider in residential settings. For the past decade, he has served as a Behavior Intervention Psychologist, focusing on supporting general education students with behaviors that interfere with classroom success. Shelton believes that behavioral change is a journey of time and consistency, requiring us to meet students with patience as they replace old habits with new, functional skills.

As a first-generation Chinese American fluent in Cantonese, Shelton brings a vital perspective to the educational landscape. He possesses an intimate understanding of the dynamics between immigrant families and the education system, as well as the nuanced challenges of navigating life as a bicultural person. This background allows him to bridge the gap between home and school with cultural humility for families who may feel alienated by traditional systems.

In collaborating with school sites, Shelton strives to work closely with staff to develop individualized plans and provide the coaching necessary to navigate complex educational dynamics. Through this work, Shelton hopes that every student, regardless of their background and experiences, can have a supportive gateway to learning.

Daniel Zepeda - MS. Ed., PPS

Daniel Zepeda is a School Psychologist with over 10 years of experience supporting students through trauma-informed and behavior-focused practices. He has served in Riverside Unified School District, where he has worked collaboratively with educators and families to promote positive student outcomes.

Daniel also brings clinical experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), using data-driven strategies to support skill development, reduce challenging behaviors, and build effective intervention plans. His work is grounded in a commitment to creating supportive, inclusive school environments where all students can thrive.

Mayra Barerra - MS. Ed., PPS, BCBA

For the past 10 years, I’ve had the absolute joy of serving as a School Psychologist. My journey has taken me through a variety of settings—from non-public schools and Emotional Disability classrooms to Autism programs and Charter schools spanning Kindergarten all the way through High School. In 2022, I reached a proud milestone by earning my BCBA. Today, I work with the Riverside Unified School District, where I focus on providing vital behavior support for our general education students and educators. I believe every child has a unique spark, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to help them shine!