Katie spent four years researching programs that matched her philosophies, visiting many schools from coast to coast. She met innovative and inspiring leaders embracing new ways of educating and learning. Some of those leaders became trusted mentors. The Hirsch Academy in Decatur, GA championed the concept of neurodiversity decades before it was trending on social media. Much like the origins of The Heard Center 20 yrs later, The Hirsch Academy forged a new path, uncharted territory inspired by one child, his parents and their OT who knew he needed something different. They created it.

 

One of her most beloved group of inspiring humans, is the founder/director and assistant director and staff at  Wildwood Nature School here in Massachusetts. Wildwood is a magical forest school, naturally inclusive and affirming; proving everyday that not all classrooms have four walls. Wildwood kids and staff are doing the deep social/emotional work with nature's playground serving as an endless sensory, gross and fine motor wonderland, promoting skill building through play.

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And lastly, leaders in self directed, nature inspired education, a philosophy she didn't know was so aligned with her own values until learning more about it from her kids' summer nanny. She demonstrated the value of letting children take calculated risks, and the cost of not doing so. She instilled hope that kids who interact with the world differently and others like them can be radically accepted by the world. Now, as a consultant and mentor to The Heard Center she continues to enkindle hope that this lofty endeavor is worthwhile.