NCIC Staff
Gladys Aldana
Gladys serves as the Achievement & Integration Coordinator at NCIC, where she oversees a variety of programs and events that support students and families across the six-member school districts, including Worthington. She is passionate about community engagement and takes pride in helping others access the resources they need to thrive. Gladys earned her bachelor’s degree in TESL from SMSU and is currently pursuing her master’s in education with an emphasis in Reading. She values the opportunities NCIC provides and is grateful to contribute to such a dedicated and collaborative team. Gladys can be reached at gladys.aldana@isd518.net or at 507-727-1145.
Lila Duron
Lila is a Youth Development Leader who coordinates out-of-school programs for students in grades 7-12, along with the Ready, Set, Read summer reading program at the Collaborative. She provides homework help, in-class support for English Learning (EL) classrooms in the mornings, and language assistance for NCIC member school districts. A graduate of MN Virtual Academy and Worthington High School, Lila is proud to be part of an organization that has played a meaningful role in her personal and professional growth. She enjoys working with members of the community and contributing to the same wonderful experiences that once inspired her in her own journey with the Collaborative. She welcomes others to reach out to her at ana.duron@isd518.net or 507-727-1116.
Sai Rahhtoo Shwe
Sai is joining the team as a Youth Development Leader. Graduating from Worthington High School, he is currently working on finishing his two years at Minnesota West and moving on to his bachelors. A proud member of the Karen Community, he’s working to qualify himself so he can better his people’s position. Sai works with NCIC by helping children better their reading and writing, leading youth in afterschool programs, helping with homework, and interpreting. He can be reached at sai.shwe@isd518.net or 507-727-1111.
Hkee La Htoo
Hkee is our newest Youth Development Leader. She is a graduate of MN West with an AS degree in business management and is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Metro State University. She can be reached at hkeela.htoo@isd518.net or the main office line, 507-376-3300.
Estrella Bahena Herrera
Estrella is joining the team as a Youth Development Leader. A proud graduate of Worthington High School, she is currently working toward her teaching licenses in Special Education and English Secondary Learners (ESL). Deeply grateful for the significant role NCIC has played in her own life, Estrella is excited to give back to the community and help create the same meaningful experiences she once received. She looks forward to contributing her skills, passion, and dedication as a valuable member of the team. You can contact her at estrella.bahena@isd518.net or 507-727-1114.
Alyssa Sounthala
Alyssa is one of our Cultural Liaisons at the Nobles County Integration Collaborative. She supports students and families by building relationships, promoting cultural understanding, and helping everyone feel welcomed and included. Before stepping into this role, Alyssa worked as a Youth Development Leader, where she supported students academically and socially while helping create positive learning environments. She now works closely with schools and community partners to bridge communication, share resources, and build meaningful connections. She is committed to uplifting students, celebrating diversity, and helping families navigate school and community systems with confidence. Alyssa plans to return to school next year to continue her education and pursue her goal of becoming an elementary teacher. You can contact her at alyssa.sounthala@isd518.net or at the main office line 507-376-3300.
Heidi Ramirez
Heidi is one of our Cultural Liaisons at the Nobles County Integration Collaborative. In her role, she handles data entry, helps code bills, assists the coordinator with day-to-day program needs and provides language assistance across the six member school districts. A proud graduate of Worthington High School, Heidi is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the organization that helped shape her own educational journey. She is committed to fostering positive opportunities and meaningful connections for the next generation of students. Heidi can be reached at heidi.ramirez@isd518.net or at the main office line 507-376-3300.