
Teaching with Purpose
Human Centered Teaching & Learning
Empowering educators and school leaders to center identity, integrity, and relational trust in teaching—so every student can thrive as a whole human being.
Rooted in Integrity. Driven by Purpose.
Human Centered Teaching & Learning LLC was founded on a powerful belief: great teaching emerges not just from strategies, but from the heart and identity of the educator. With over 25 years in education—as a classroom teacher, coach, author, and national presenter—we offer deep, lived expertise in supporting educators to reconnect with their purpose and lead with authenticity.
We provide human-centered professional learning experiences that cultivate teacher well-being, build leadership capacity, and foster equitable, student-centered classrooms. Through workshops, coaching, retreats, and curriculum consultation, we create reflective spaces where educators are empowered to thrive—personally and professionally.


Empower. Reflect. Lead.
Our Services
Our offerings are grounded in years of experience and a deep commitment to educator growth. We tailor each service to meet the unique needs of schools and districts, with a focus on sustainability, equity, and authentic learning.
Professional Development Workshops
Interactive, research-based sessions on identity, collaborative meetings, productive PLC, habits of mind, continuous improvement cycles, high leverage teaching practices, and more.
One-on-One Instructional Support
Targeted instructional support for educators seeking deeper practice and pedagogical alignment.
Instructional Coaching & Leadership Support
Personalized coaching for teachers and leaders, including site-wide implementation strategies and leadership development.
Courage to Teach & Courage to Lead Retreats
Reflective, retreat-style experiences to nurture teacher identity, integrity, and renewal.
Curriculum & Program Design
Expert guidance in designing inclusive curriculum for World Languages, SEL, equity initiatives, and Portrait of a Graduate alignment.
Keynotes & Conference Presentations
Dynamic, engaging presentations at educational conferences, summits, and school district events.
What Sets Us Apart
At Human Centered Teaching & Learning, we go beyond surface-level solutions. Our work centers the whole educator and promotes sustainable growth—rooted in reflective practice and authentic connection. We bring a blend of classroom wisdom, leadership insight, and facilitation expertise to every engagement.
Lived Experience, Real Results
25+ years in classrooms, coaching, and district leadership.
Thought Leadership
Nationally recognized author and presenter in World Language education and educator renewal.
Safe, Reflective Spaces
Trusted facilitation that nurtures teacher identity, voice, and well-being.
“Your audience is in for an exceptional professional development experience with Yo Azama leading the effort! Yo’s background with standards and assessments is the essential foundation for him to tailor the PD to the needs of your specific education community. His expertise will ensure that your educators will be able to take their instruction to the next level and his wit and humor will make it a most enjoyable experience for all.”
Marty Abbott
ACTFL President 2003
ACTFL Executive Director 2011-2018
“We were honored to have Yo Azama (ACTFL’s 2012 National Teacher of the Year) as our keynote speaker and workshop presenter at Alaska’s statewide world language teachers’ association (AFLA) in the fall of 2024. Yo is an amazing presenter; gifted, inspiring, personable, and passionate. He engages with his audience, sharing powerful messages supported by specific examples and experiences. I’d love to bring Yo back to Anchorage to work with our world language and immersion teachers in the Anchorage School District.“
Brandon Locke, Ed.D.
Director, World Languages and Immersion Programs
Teaching & Learning Department
Anchorage School District
“There is something in every one of you that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine in yourself.
It is the only true guide you will ever have. And if you cannot hear it, you will all of of your life
spend your days on the ends of strings that somebody else pulls.” – Howard Thurman
Let’s Connect
Ready to create a more human-centered learning environment?
We’d love to learn more about your goals and explore how we can support your educators. Let’s start the conversation.
Phone: 831-259-5333
Email: yo@humancenteredteachingandlearning.com
Business Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (PST)