Ms. Valerie | Founding Tutor & Pedagogical Lead

Valerie Chisom is a dedicated teacher with a Masters's degree and over 30 years of experience in education. She has held state certifications from New Jersey in both elementary education (Nursery through Grade 8) and special education (Kindergarten through Grade 12, including gifted education). She is also trained as a reading teacher by the Phono-Graphix Reading Association. 

Mrs. Chisom has taught everything from preschool to grade 12. Her teaching experiences include classroom teaching, being a district coordinator for social studies (K-5), teaching classes in a homeschool science co-op, and vast tutoring experience. As a professional K-12 tutor, she has been intimately involved in the educational journey of countless students across the Berkshires.

While loving education in general, Mrs. Chisom is most passionate about early childhood education because it provides the foundation for all future education. Her teaching style is eclectic, with a heavy inclusion of Montessori. Most significantly, she believes in meeting the individual needs of her students as much as possible. Her multifaceted background has afforded her insights into diverse learning styles, needs, and aspirations.

When Mrs. Chisom is not teaching, she enjoys her other passions, which include spending time with her daughter, sharing financial literacy/personal finance information, exploring the arts, taking walks and socializing with friends, continuing to learn, and hanging out with her Maine Coon cat. 

Ms. Mickey | Founding Mom & Administrative Lead

Starting her career as an elementary school teacher, Ms. Mickey's journey was sparked by a simple yet profound belief: that every child deserves an education tailored to their unique needs. As a Black woman from a humble background, she recognized the gaps in a system that often fails to account for its students' diverse identities and aspirations. This realization set her on a mission to reimagine education and explore how to create a safe space where all children can flourish without constraints.

Determined to bring her vision to life, Ms. Mickey ventured into the world of education nonprofits, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. Along the way, she discovered that authentic change requires leaders who understand the challenges of marginalized communities from firsthand experience. With a focus on love, liberation, and empowerment, she leads our school's administrative efforts, ensuring that our envisioned micro-school is a space of growth and support.

As a devoted mother, Ms. Mickey's passion is amplified by a sense of responsibility to provide a nurturing environment for her child and others. With experience as an elementary school teacher, educational consultant, and diversity advocate, Ms. Mickey brings a wealth of insights to our mission. Her previous role in supporting a Montessori micro-school network launch new schools and her leadership on the Board of Sage Montessori School reflect her dedication to creating environments where children can thrive.

Ms. Mickey's academic background includes a B.S.B.A. in Accounting from The Ohio State University, an MBA from Harvard Business School, and a Master's in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

Mr. Joe | Founding Dad & Spatial Design Lead

Mr. Joe is a dedicated founding parent of our homeschool program, bringing his passion for education and his profound personal journey to our community. With a unique perspective shaped by his own experiences, Joe is committed to creating a nurturing and empowering environment for children.

Having navigated the challenges of ADHD throughout his own educational journey, Joe recognizes the transformative potential of alternative learning approaches. He envisions a child-led education where every student is met with understanding and appreciation for their individual strengths. Joe's personal experiences fuel his determination to provide children with the kind of environment that would have allowed him to thrive during his own school years.

Joe's aspirations go beyond academic achievement. He understands the importance of spaces that foster healthy identity development regarding gender, race, and class. He believes that education should empower children to not only excel academically but also develop a strong sense of self and community.

Professionally, Joe brings a wealth of experience from the field of software development. His expertise in spatial design and setup is invaluable as he takes the lead in crafting the physical infrastructure of our school. His meticulous attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills ensure that our learning environment is conducive to exploration, growth, and discovery.

Ms. Marguerita | Founding Nana & On-call Volunteer Assistant

Introducing Ms. Marguerita, a cherished member of our team who steps in with care whenever needed. With a background as a retired professional nanny, she brings a wealth of childcare experience and a heart full of dedication to our educational journey.

Originally from the vibrant island of Barbados, Ms. Marguerita infuses our community with cultural richness and unique perspectives. Her deep connection to farm life, including managing a flock of laying hens, reflects her appreciation for nature's rhythms and responsibilities.

As our on-call assistant, Ms. Marguerita is always ready to provide extra eyes, ears, and nurturing support. Whether supporting the teacher, delivering snacks, assisting during unforeseen situations, or ensuring a secure, clean learning environment, her presence ensures a safe and enriching space for our children to thrive. With her warmth, expertise, and nurturing spirit, Ms. Marguerita is an essential part of our commitment to the well-being and growth of each child.