Our Team
The Institute for Self-Directed Learning is led by a team of leaders, educators, and researchers—all actively doing the work. We come from diverse professional backgrounds, life experiences, and skill sets, but we share one goal:
To cultivate flourishing, independent, self-directed learners.
Dr. Tyler Thigpen—CEO and Head of Schools (GA)
Dr. Caleb Collier—Institute Director & Founding Guide (GA)
Amber Bryant—Head of Learning & Founding Guide (GA)
Brittney Toles—Founding High School Guide & Head of Culture (GA)
Johnny Green—COO & CFO (GA)
Denise Ostrowski—Founding Montessori Guide (GA)
Chrissy Schmidt—School Founder & Middle and High School Guide (Thailand)
Brooke Harris—Elementary Guide (GA)
Lana Toler—Middle School Guide & Head of Guide Competencies (GA)
Eleah McClamb—High School Guide & Story Arts Ambassador (GA)
Eliza Rivas—School Founder & Middle and High School Guide (MO)
Trey Lackey—Researcher & Middle School Guide (GA)
Lauren Morris—Administrator & Story Arts Ambassador (TX)
Collaborators
Dr. Brandi B. Kenner
Stephanie Rogen
Dr. Erin Raab