If you would like to contact any of our board members, please send them an email. They will respond as soon as possible.
Tim Morrow, President
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Tim Morrow is currently the Principal and Coordinator at Antietam Academy, which is the alternative program for Washington County Public Schools in Hagerstown, Maryland. He has been in education for 31 years. During that time, he has been a teacher, coach, athletic director, assistant principal and principal.
Mr. Morrow’s passion is working with what he refers to as “at-promise” youth which others often term “at-risk” youth. He believes every child can learn and succeed but we must remember it may not be on the same day in the same way. As he shares in many of his presentations, relationships are fundamental and behavior is communication. Both in education and our society, we must stop treating the symptoms(behaviors) and start attending to the cause.
Mr. Morrow has presented at various local and national conference including the National Alternative Education Conference. He also serves as the National Alternative Education Association Region 2 Board of Director member and works closely with alternative educators and programs in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey and the District of Columbia. He is also started the Maryland Alternative Education Association four years ago and is the current President/Chairperson of that group. Mr. Morrow is also a member of the first Maryland State Department of Education Alternative Education workgroup which recently developed the first ever Alternative Education Best Practice Guiding Document. Mr. Morrow provides consultation service and professional development to other alternative education groups, schools and associations regarding behavior, restorative practices and trauma-informed approaches.
In his spare time, Mr. Morrow simply enjoys going camping and spending time with family and friends.
[email protected]
Tim Morrow is currently the Principal and Coordinator at Antietam Academy, which is the alternative program for Washington County Public Schools in Hagerstown, Maryland. He has been in education for 31 years. During that time, he has been a teacher, coach, athletic director, assistant principal and principal.
Mr. Morrow’s passion is working with what he refers to as “at-promise” youth which others often term “at-risk” youth. He believes every child can learn and succeed but we must remember it may not be on the same day in the same way. As he shares in many of his presentations, relationships are fundamental and behavior is communication. Both in education and our society, we must stop treating the symptoms(behaviors) and start attending to the cause.
Mr. Morrow has presented at various local and national conference including the National Alternative Education Conference. He also serves as the National Alternative Education Association Region 2 Board of Director member and works closely with alternative educators and programs in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey and the District of Columbia. He is also started the Maryland Alternative Education Association four years ago and is the current President/Chairperson of that group. Mr. Morrow is also a member of the first Maryland State Department of Education Alternative Education workgroup which recently developed the first ever Alternative Education Best Practice Guiding Document. Mr. Morrow provides consultation service and professional development to other alternative education groups, schools and associations regarding behavior, restorative practices and trauma-informed approaches.
In his spare time, Mr. Morrow simply enjoys going camping and spending time with family and friends.
Dr. LaToya Brown , President-Elect
[email protected]
Dr. LaToya Brown has over 10 years of experience in Alternative School Models, Restorative Education, Correctional Education, Adult Education, Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, and Career & Technical Education. Having served youth and adults in non-traditional learning environments LaToya understands the continuum of education and support from K-12 through K-12 Adult Education. Currently serving as director of adult and community education for Rowland Unified School District in the San Gabriel Valley, LaToya supports adults learners who were once disengaged youth, reengage and earn a high school diploma or equivalent.
LaToya earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy from Pepperdine University. Her research focuses on the intersectionality of race, racism, and BIPOC youths’ disconnection from traditional public schools and subsequent re-engagement and graduation from alternative education. She is currently working towards completing a second doctoral degree in Global Leadership. As a leader, educator, student, advocate, and navigator, LaToya serves the community through a critical-race and trauma-informed lens grounded in an understanding of the bioecological connection between a child’s physical, social, and cognitive development.
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Dr. LaToya Brown has over 10 years of experience in Alternative School Models, Restorative Education, Correctional Education, Adult Education, Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, and Career & Technical Education. Having served youth and adults in non-traditional learning environments LaToya understands the continuum of education and support from K-12 through K-12 Adult Education. Currently serving as director of adult and community education for Rowland Unified School District in the San Gabriel Valley, LaToya supports adults learners who were once disengaged youth, reengage and earn a high school diploma or equivalent.
LaToya earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy from Pepperdine University. Her research focuses on the intersectionality of race, racism, and BIPOC youths’ disconnection from traditional public schools and subsequent re-engagement and graduation from alternative education. She is currently working towards completing a second doctoral degree in Global Leadership. As a leader, educator, student, advocate, and navigator, LaToya serves the community through a critical-race and trauma-informed lens grounded in an understanding of the bioecological connection between a child’s physical, social, and cognitive development.
“My educational philosophy is built on the South African principle of “Ubuntu” which means, “I am because we are.” I believe in a collective approach to educational and social success. As a community, we are collectively responsible for the successes or failures of its members.”
Dr. Coby Davis, Treasurer
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Dr. Coby Davis currently serves as the assistant principal for Archer Learning Center, the sole alternative high school within the Springdale Arkansas School District, one of the largest districts in the state. He is a proven leader in education and a passionate and engaging educator with global perspective and inter-cultural savvy with demonstrated results in both adult and childhood learning forums.
Dr. Davis began his career nearly 20 years ago as a public school elementary teacher in Williamson County School district in Middle Tennessee. He later transitioned into higher education where he spent 9 years at Lipscomb University in Nashville before returning to public school as a middle school math teacher in the Springdale School District. Having taught in a traditional elementary and middle school setting, led in a teacher education program at the college level, and operated as a behavior interventionist in an alternative education setting has allowed Dr. Davis the opportunity to build his expertise in providing public school teachers with tools, experiences and confidence to support advancements and adoption of 21st century learning techniques and technologies.
Dr. Davis is community-focused and participates in several professional activities. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Northwest Arkansas NAACP chapter as the vice-president. Previously, Dr. Davis served as the Middle Tennessee Representative and Treasurer of TACTE (Tennessee Association of Colleges of Teacher Education), and he served on an accreditation review team. He routinely presents at various national conferences and has been requested to speak at numerous education workshops. Dr. Davis has served as a mentor for a struggling school and has worked with schools located in the Bronx, in South Dakota on the Pine Ridge Reservation, and in Nigeria.
Dr. Davis earned his bachelor’s degree in Education from Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tenn., his M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision from Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tenn., and his Ed.D in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville.
[email protected]
Dr. Coby Davis currently serves as the assistant principal for Archer Learning Center, the sole alternative high school within the Springdale Arkansas School District, one of the largest districts in the state. He is a proven leader in education and a passionate and engaging educator with global perspective and inter-cultural savvy with demonstrated results in both adult and childhood learning forums.
Dr. Davis began his career nearly 20 years ago as a public school elementary teacher in Williamson County School district in Middle Tennessee. He later transitioned into higher education where he spent 9 years at Lipscomb University in Nashville before returning to public school as a middle school math teacher in the Springdale School District. Having taught in a traditional elementary and middle school setting, led in a teacher education program at the college level, and operated as a behavior interventionist in an alternative education setting has allowed Dr. Davis the opportunity to build his expertise in providing public school teachers with tools, experiences and confidence to support advancements and adoption of 21st century learning techniques and technologies.
Dr. Davis is community-focused and participates in several professional activities. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Northwest Arkansas NAACP chapter as the vice-president. Previously, Dr. Davis served as the Middle Tennessee Representative and Treasurer of TACTE (Tennessee Association of Colleges of Teacher Education), and he served on an accreditation review team. He routinely presents at various national conferences and has been requested to speak at numerous education workshops. Dr. Davis has served as a mentor for a struggling school and has worked with schools located in the Bronx, in South Dakota on the Pine Ridge Reservation, and in Nigeria.
Dr. Davis earned his bachelor’s degree in Education from Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tenn., his M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision from Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tenn., and his Ed.D in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville.
Natalie Stromberg, Secretary
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Natalie is the Business Development Coordinator at the Davis Catalyst Center where she works with industry partners to find real-world projects for students. Students develop professional skills as they take ownership of their future. Natalie is the project manager directing student projects in Cyber Security, Web Design, Culinary Arts, Drones, Audio, Video, Construction Management, Business and Marketing.
Previously, Natalie was an Alternative Education Instructor teaching students English, ESL, Senior Seminar, Business, Entrepreneurship, and DECA. Her passion is empowering students to take control of their education and design their futures. Natalie is the mother of 4 amazing children. She loves traveling with and supporting them in all of their adventures. Natalie loves humanitarian travel and has served people in Nicaragua, Guatemala, Ecuador, India, and Nepal. She enjoys travel of all kinds and has visited 26 different countries.
Natalie is so excited to be serving on the NAEA board and to work with incredible alternative educators!
[email protected]
Natalie is the Business Development Coordinator at the Davis Catalyst Center where she works with industry partners to find real-world projects for students. Students develop professional skills as they take ownership of their future. Natalie is the project manager directing student projects in Cyber Security, Web Design, Culinary Arts, Drones, Audio, Video, Construction Management, Business and Marketing.
Previously, Natalie was an Alternative Education Instructor teaching students English, ESL, Senior Seminar, Business, Entrepreneurship, and DECA. Her passion is empowering students to take control of their education and design their futures. Natalie is the mother of 4 amazing children. She loves traveling with and supporting them in all of their adventures. Natalie loves humanitarian travel and has served people in Nicaragua, Guatemala, Ecuador, India, and Nepal. She enjoys travel of all kinds and has visited 26 different countries.
Natalie is so excited to be serving on the NAEA board and to work with incredible alternative educators!
Brian Tetreault, Board Member – Region 1
[email protected]
Mr. Brian Tetreault currently serves as the Director of Alternative Learning Programs in the Chariho Regional School District in South County, Rhode Island. Chariho’s Alternative Learning Academy includes both an alternative learning program and a clinical day program. It is a comprehensive K-12 alternative school providing individualized instruction, social emotional learning and mental health support for youth who have not reached their full potential in traditional public schools. An academic focus on interdisciplinary, standards aligned, project based learning and high expectations of his staff to do whatever it takes to help each student find success are the hallmarks of his leadership at The Academy. Brian has over 25 years of experience in education, beginning his career as a program manager for a Clinical Day School with locations in Salem, Connecticut and Westerly, Rhode Island. He has been a special education teacher and dean of students at a traditional high school and was a middle school assistant principal before returning to the alternative education realm. These experiences have shaped him into an accomplished educational leader instilling confidence in his students, staff and fellow school administrators. He graduated from the University of Connecticut and earned a Master of Education degree from Providence College. Brian is married with twin boys and is active in the community volunteering on the local Little League board of Directors and coaching various sports for his children. He loves to travel and spend time on the beach with his family.
[email protected]
Mr. Brian Tetreault currently serves as the Director of Alternative Learning Programs in the Chariho Regional School District in South County, Rhode Island. Chariho’s Alternative Learning Academy includes both an alternative learning program and a clinical day program. It is a comprehensive K-12 alternative school providing individualized instruction, social emotional learning and mental health support for youth who have not reached their full potential in traditional public schools. An academic focus on interdisciplinary, standards aligned, project based learning and high expectations of his staff to do whatever it takes to help each student find success are the hallmarks of his leadership at The Academy. Brian has over 25 years of experience in education, beginning his career as a program manager for a Clinical Day School with locations in Salem, Connecticut and Westerly, Rhode Island. He has been a special education teacher and dean of students at a traditional high school and was a middle school assistant principal before returning to the alternative education realm. These experiences have shaped him into an accomplished educational leader instilling confidence in his students, staff and fellow school administrators. He graduated from the University of Connecticut and earned a Master of Education degree from Providence College. Brian is married with twin boys and is active in the community volunteering on the local Little League board of Directors and coaching various sports for his children. He loves to travel and spend time on the beach with his family.
Dr. Mark Brown, Board Member – Region 2
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Dr. Mark Brown is the principal of Phoenix Academy, a K-12 public alternative school located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. He has devoted considerable effort toward enriching his academic development and currently possesses a Doctor of Education degree (Ed.D.) specializing in Urban Leadership from Morgan State University and has completed all but the dissertation for a second Doctor of Education degree (ABD) in Special Education with a focus on emotional behavioral disorders from the University of Maryland. In addition, he holds a Master of Arts degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, a Master of Science degree in Educational Administration from Coppin State University, a Master of Education degree in Special Education from Coppin State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Morgan State University. Complementing his academic achievements, Dr. Brown has over 24 years of experience in the field of education, with over 22 years of administrative leadership in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Pennsylvania. He has been issued seven endorsements from the Maryland State Department of Education in areas including Superintendent of Schools, Administrator I, Administrator II, Special Education K-8, Special Education 6-Adult, Reading Teacher, and Supervisor of Special Education Facilities. Moreover, Dr. Brown is a graduate of the inaugural class of the Maryland Educational Policy Fellowship Program, a subset of the National Institute for Educational Leadership. He currently sits on the advisory board of the Maryland Out Of School Time Network and is an adjunct professor in the doctoral program in Morgan State University’s Urban Leadership program. In his recently elected position as the Region 2 Director of the National Alternative Education Association, he will serve as the official representative of Virginia, District of Columbia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey on this body.
Dr. Brown is a published author having contributed to scholarly research focusing upon the impact of teacher-student relationships on students’ abilities to demonstrate self-control within and outside the school setting.
[email protected]
Dr. Mark Brown is the principal of Phoenix Academy, a K-12 public alternative school located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. He has devoted considerable effort toward enriching his academic development and currently possesses a Doctor of Education degree (Ed.D.) specializing in Urban Leadership from Morgan State University and has completed all but the dissertation for a second Doctor of Education degree (ABD) in Special Education with a focus on emotional behavioral disorders from the University of Maryland. In addition, he holds a Master of Arts degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, a Master of Science degree in Educational Administration from Coppin State University, a Master of Education degree in Special Education from Coppin State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Morgan State University. Complementing his academic achievements, Dr. Brown has over 24 years of experience in the field of education, with over 22 years of administrative leadership in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Pennsylvania. He has been issued seven endorsements from the Maryland State Department of Education in areas including Superintendent of Schools, Administrator I, Administrator II, Special Education K-8, Special Education 6-Adult, Reading Teacher, and Supervisor of Special Education Facilities. Moreover, Dr. Brown is a graduate of the inaugural class of the Maryland Educational Policy Fellowship Program, a subset of the National Institute for Educational Leadership. He currently sits on the advisory board of the Maryland Out Of School Time Network and is an adjunct professor in the doctoral program in Morgan State University’s Urban Leadership program. In his recently elected position as the Region 2 Director of the National Alternative Education Association, he will serve as the official representative of Virginia, District of Columbia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey on this body.
Dr. Brown is a published author having contributed to scholarly research focusing upon the impact of teacher-student relationships on students’ abilities to demonstrate self-control within and outside the school setting.
Myron Franklin, Board Member – Region 3
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Myron Franklin is a spontaneously creative leader who brings new and fresh perspectives that defy conventional approaches to education. He currently serves as the principal of Johnson Learning Center in Nashville, TN, where he advocates for systemic changes to better impact the outcomes for non-traditional students. With nearly two decades in education, Myron has been an administrator in four different states, and his educational experience includes rural, urban, and suburban settings in both public and private schools and traditional and non-traditional educational environments. With a focus on achieving results, he cultivates the strength of a team by empowering each member to perform at their highest level. His drive toward excellence raises the bar and leads to new standards of success.
A lover of ideas and great thinkers, Myron enjoys reading books and writing poetry. Outside of traditional education, Myron has worked with youth via several poetry organizations to teach, facilitate, and mentor young poets on their path to self-discovery. He has also performed original works of poetry in various venues throughout the southern region, even sharing the stage with The Last Poets, Umar Bin Hassan, Nikki Giovanni, Haki Matabuti, C. Leigh McInnis, and other notable and local artists. According to Myron, poetry played a pivotal role in shaping his life.
Myron believes the level of greatness a nation attains is in part due to the education level of its populace, which is particularly true of a democratic society, where freedom is a responsibility shared by those equipped to lead. It is Myron’s desire to be the catalyst for change, allowing young people to discover their leadership voice and become confident that they are change agents the world is waiting for.
[email protected]
Myron Franklin is a spontaneously creative leader who brings new and fresh perspectives that defy conventional approaches to education. He currently serves as the principal of Johnson Learning Center in Nashville, TN, where he advocates for systemic changes to better impact the outcomes for non-traditional students. With nearly two decades in education, Myron has been an administrator in four different states, and his educational experience includes rural, urban, and suburban settings in both public and private schools and traditional and non-traditional educational environments. With a focus on achieving results, he cultivates the strength of a team by empowering each member to perform at their highest level. His drive toward excellence raises the bar and leads to new standards of success.
A lover of ideas and great thinkers, Myron enjoys reading books and writing poetry. Outside of traditional education, Myron has worked with youth via several poetry organizations to teach, facilitate, and mentor young poets on their path to self-discovery. He has also performed original works of poetry in various venues throughout the southern region, even sharing the stage with The Last Poets, Umar Bin Hassan, Nikki Giovanni, Haki Matabuti, C. Leigh McInnis, and other notable and local artists. According to Myron, poetry played a pivotal role in shaping his life.
Myron believes the level of greatness a nation attains is in part due to the education level of its populace, which is particularly true of a democratic society, where freedom is a responsibility shared by those equipped to lead. It is Myron’s desire to be the catalyst for change, allowing young people to discover their leadership voice and become confident that they are change agents the world is waiting for.
Dr. Cynthia Freeman-Smalls – Region 4
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Dr. Cynthia Freeman Smalls is a dedicated non-traditional educator, currently serving as Assistant Principal at Perry Career Academy within Clayton County Public Schools. With over 19 years of experience in alternative and non-traditional education, she has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by students in these settings. Dr. Smalls’ career has been marked by a commitment to creating transformative programs that empower students to reach their full potential.
Dr. Smalls began her tenure at Perry Career Academy as the Lead Counselor and later transitioned into the role of Assistant Principal. She was instrumental in implementing Digital Learning platforms, such as Odysseyware and Edgenuity, both at PCA and district-wide. Her visionary approach also led to the creation of a mentor-mentee model aimed at helping students overcome barriers to graduation, contributing to a consistent increase in the school’s graduation rate over the past five years. Under her leadership, Perry Career Academy has become a model for non-traditional education in Georgia.
In addition to her administrative and counseling roles, Dr. Smalls maintains a private counseling practice, where she works with students, families, and educators. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in multiple states, she offers a holistic perspective on education, blending academic support with attention to students’ emotional well-being. This unique insight has been a cornerstone of her approach to alternative education, ensuring that students’ mental health and academic needs are met simultaneously.
Throughout her career, Dr. Smalls has also led school improvement initiatives, created staff professional development programs, and participated in leadership roles at a national level, including being part of the National Alternative Education Association 2024 Inaugural Exemplary Practices Cohort. Her work continues to shape the future of non-traditional education, making her a respected leader in the field.
[email protected]
Dr. Cynthia Freeman Smalls is a dedicated non-traditional educator, currently serving as Assistant Principal at Perry Career Academy within Clayton County Public Schools. With over 19 years of experience in alternative and non-traditional education, she has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by students in these settings. Dr. Smalls’ career has been marked by a commitment to creating transformative programs that empower students to reach their full potential.
Dr. Smalls began her tenure at Perry Career Academy as the Lead Counselor and later transitioned into the role of Assistant Principal. She was instrumental in implementing Digital Learning platforms, such as Odysseyware and Edgenuity, both at PCA and district-wide. Her visionary approach also led to the creation of a mentor-mentee model aimed at helping students overcome barriers to graduation, contributing to a consistent increase in the school’s graduation rate over the past five years. Under her leadership, Perry Career Academy has become a model for non-traditional education in Georgia.
In addition to her administrative and counseling roles, Dr. Smalls maintains a private counseling practice, where she works with students, families, and educators. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in multiple states, she offers a holistic perspective on education, blending academic support with attention to students’ emotional well-being. This unique insight has been a cornerstone of her approach to alternative education, ensuring that students’ mental health and academic needs are met simultaneously.
Throughout her career, Dr. Smalls has also led school improvement initiatives, created staff professional development programs, and participated in leadership roles at a national level, including being part of the National Alternative Education Association 2024 Inaugural Exemplary Practices Cohort. Her work continues to shape the future of non-traditional education, making her a respected leader in the field.
Crystal Hosselton, Board Member- Region 5
[email protected]
Crystal Hosselton is the Director of Mary Logan High School (MLHS) located on the beautiful campus of John A. Logan College in Carterville, Illinois. Crystal has been the program director for 12 years and served as the program counselor prior to becoming director. MLHS has been offering optional education and supplementary services to 11 high school districts, across four counties, for over 40 years. Mary Logan HS is one of three community college programs in the state offering optional education programming to their high school communities. Crystal is proud and thankful to have such a dedicated and knowledgeable team that is prepared to offer innovative and comprehensive services to their students on a daily basis.
Crystal began her career as a substance abuse and mental health therapist working with incarcerated youth at the only juvenile Bootcamp in IL. She transitioned into community-based therapy, serving clients from all walks of life. She found her niche however working with clients involved in the criminal justice system and providing treatment to individuals experiencing an arrest while Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or other drugs. Crystal has actively served on the IL state association board, Illinois Coalition for Educating At-Risk Youth (ICEARY), for over ten years in the capacities of Regional Representative, President-Elect, President, and her current role as Immediate Past President. Crystal is also a proud and active Rotarian belonging to the Carterville Area Rotary Club. She is driven to give back to her community through service work and finds Rotary’s core values of service, fellowship, diversity, leadership, and integrity to align with her core values allowing her to reconnect and serve others on a more personal level. Rotary’s “Service Above Self” motto is something she incorporates into her personal lifestyle as serves her students, families, and community. Crystal and her husband Ryan have two daughters, two doodles, and enjoy traveling, St. Louis Cardinals baseball, and visiting their favorite vacation spot, Panama City Beach, FL.
[email protected]
Crystal Hosselton is the Director of Mary Logan High School (MLHS) located on the beautiful campus of John A. Logan College in Carterville, Illinois. Crystal has been the program director for 12 years and served as the program counselor prior to becoming director. MLHS has been offering optional education and supplementary services to 11 high school districts, across four counties, for over 40 years. Mary Logan HS is one of three community college programs in the state offering optional education programming to their high school communities. Crystal is proud and thankful to have such a dedicated and knowledgeable team that is prepared to offer innovative and comprehensive services to their students on a daily basis.
Crystal began her career as a substance abuse and mental health therapist working with incarcerated youth at the only juvenile Bootcamp in IL. She transitioned into community-based therapy, serving clients from all walks of life. She found her niche however working with clients involved in the criminal justice system and providing treatment to individuals experiencing an arrest while Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or other drugs. Crystal has actively served on the IL state association board, Illinois Coalition for Educating At-Risk Youth (ICEARY), for over ten years in the capacities of Regional Representative, President-Elect, President, and her current role as Immediate Past President. Crystal is also a proud and active Rotarian belonging to the Carterville Area Rotary Club. She is driven to give back to her community through service work and finds Rotary’s core values of service, fellowship, diversity, leadership, and integrity to align with her core values allowing her to reconnect and serve others on a more personal level. Rotary’s “Service Above Self” motto is something she incorporates into her personal lifestyle as serves her students, families, and community. Crystal and her husband Ryan have two daughters, two doodles, and enjoy traveling, St. Louis Cardinals baseball, and visiting their favorite vacation spot, Panama City Beach, FL.
John Gatica, Board Member – Region 6
[email protected]
Mr. John D. Gatica is a Regional Counselor for College, Career, and Military Readiness for Responsive Education Solutions. In his work John provides motivation, information, and training for students that choose to pursue a post-secondary education. Mr. Gatica works to create a foundation of support and knowledge to assist students and families as they transition into the post-secondary arena. John’s role is to create a seamless transition and to create a network of support for each student as they walk onto a college campus.
In his years of service to the Texas public schools, he has been able to serve in several capacities including Elementary School principal, Middle School Principal, High School Principal, CTE Director and Director of At-Risk Programs. John’s passion stems from working with students that have been labeled at-risk by a system that has failed to engage them academically. In his leadership capacity, Mr. Gatica has served as a secondary administrator for over 30 years and has served as mentor for both the Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents and the Raise Your Hand Texas Public School Advocacy Group. John is one of the founders of the West Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents in Lubbock, Texas. He is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Informative Solutions: A college and career readiness system that provides post-secondary support to rural schools across the country.
John has studied school leadership while attending Harvard University with the 2010 RYHT cohort and
has earned his Bachelor of Science and a Master of Education degrees from Texas Tech University. John
participated and is an Alum of the 2008 Oxford Roundtable at Oxford University in Oxford, England. Mr.
John Gatica continues to give presentations on the state, national and international levels.
[email protected]
Mr. John D. Gatica is a Regional Counselor for College, Career, and Military Readiness for Responsive Education Solutions. In his work John provides motivation, information, and training for students that choose to pursue a post-secondary education. Mr. Gatica works to create a foundation of support and knowledge to assist students and families as they transition into the post-secondary arena. John’s role is to create a seamless transition and to create a network of support for each student as they walk onto a college campus.
In his years of service to the Texas public schools, he has been able to serve in several capacities including Elementary School principal, Middle School Principal, High School Principal, CTE Director and Director of At-Risk Programs. John’s passion stems from working with students that have been labeled at-risk by a system that has failed to engage them academically. In his leadership capacity, Mr. Gatica has served as a secondary administrator for over 30 years and has served as mentor for both the Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents and the Raise Your Hand Texas Public School Advocacy Group. John is one of the founders of the West Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents in Lubbock, Texas. He is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Informative Solutions: A college and career readiness system that provides post-secondary support to rural schools across the country.
John has studied school leadership while attending Harvard University with the 2010 RYHT cohort and
has earned his Bachelor of Science and a Master of Education degrees from Texas Tech University. John
participated and is an Alum of the 2008 Oxford Roundtable at Oxford University in Oxford, England. Mr.
John Gatica continues to give presentations on the state, national and international levels.
Beth Blatt, Board Member- Region 7
[email protected]
Beth Blatt has been a member of the NAEA for the last 6 years. She has taught for 30 years both at the elementary and middle school levels. For the past 8 years, she has been serving as the Principal of Heart Mountain Academy & Assistant Principal at Cody High School in Cody, Wyoming where she lives with her husband Tim and sons; Tristan, Tanner and Bode.
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Beth Blatt has been a member of the NAEA for the last 6 years. She has taught for 30 years both at the elementary and middle school levels. For the past 8 years, she has been serving as the Principal of Heart Mountain Academy & Assistant Principal at Cody High School in Cody, Wyoming where she lives with her husband Tim and sons; Tristan, Tanner and Bode.
Heart Mountain Academy is an NAEA Exemplary Practices Cohort School, which has helped our staff and school learn and grow to become what is best for students! She believes that alternative schools can open doors of opportunities in student-centered, innovative ways. Collaborating with colleagues through the NAEA has opened the door for her staff to learn, explore, and grow more than any other professional development. She is passionate about education, servant leadership, and lightbulb moments! A daughter, wife, & mother who loves an adventure, outdoors, singing and laughing with family & friends, she is eager to be apart of this amazing organization.
Diane Kridner-Protzmann, Board Member-Region 8
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Diane Kridner-Protzmann is currently the Alternative Education Coordinator at Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach, California. After teaching in traditional schools for ten years, Diane earned a Masters in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in equity from San Diego State University and has spent the last three years in alternative education. In her current position, Diane has had the privilege of building a program from scratch: forming an Alternative Education Intensive Support Team, gathering qualitative and quantitative data, reflecting on current practices and using the NAEA Exemplary Practices as a guide.
Diane would say that she has two firm values when it comes to education: relationships and problem solving. She is passionate about students and families who may not know how or have the resources to advocate for themselves. Believing that values are reflected in culture, Diane can be found kneeling by students to identify the root causes of their school avoidance, collaborating with teachers in trauma informed practices, or meeting with family members to create solid re-entry plans for their students. And, while Diane would not self identify as a “systems thinker”, she has found that much of the educational systems in our country require leaders to think outside the box and refine systems that work to support all students; therefore becoming a systems thinker. We must take what we know isn’t working and find something that works.
The thing that Diane is most excited about in joining the NAEA as Director of Region 8 is the opportunity to connect alternative schools across the region so they can share their challenges and innovative ways they have overcome those challenges. Diane believes that alternative education campuses don’t have to run like an island – more like little islands connected by bridges.
[email protected]
Diane Kridner-Protzmann is currently the Alternative Education Coordinator at Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach, California. After teaching in traditional schools for ten years, Diane earned a Masters in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in equity from San Diego State University and has spent the last three years in alternative education. In her current position, Diane has had the privilege of building a program from scratch: forming an Alternative Education Intensive Support Team, gathering qualitative and quantitative data, reflecting on current practices and using the NAEA Exemplary Practices as a guide.
Diane would say that she has two firm values when it comes to education: relationships and problem solving. She is passionate about students and families who may not know how or have the resources to advocate for themselves. Believing that values are reflected in culture, Diane can be found kneeling by students to identify the root causes of their school avoidance, collaborating with teachers in trauma informed practices, or meeting with family members to create solid re-entry plans for their students. And, while Diane would not self identify as a “systems thinker”, she has found that much of the educational systems in our country require leaders to think outside the box and refine systems that work to support all students; therefore becoming a systems thinker. We must take what we know isn’t working and find something that works.
The thing that Diane is most excited about in joining the NAEA as Director of Region 8 is the opportunity to connect alternative schools across the region so they can share their challenges and innovative ways they have overcome those challenges. Diane believes that alternative education campuses don’t have to run like an island – more like little islands connected by bridges.
Travis Spackman, Board Member- Region 9
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Travis Spackman has taught for 12 years in alternative education as a mathematics and CTE teacher. He is currently teaching at Mountain High School, in Kaysville, Utah. Travis has served on the board of the Utah Alternative Education Association for five years and is currently the Treasurer of the organization. Travis is the father of four children, ages ten, eight, five, and two. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, juggling, and spending time with his family.
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Travis Spackman has taught for 12 years in alternative education as a mathematics and CTE teacher. He is currently teaching at Mountain High School, in Kaysville, Utah. Travis has served on the board of the Utah Alternative Education Association for five years and is currently the Treasurer of the organization. Travis is the father of four children, ages ten, eight, five, and two. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, juggling, and spending time with his family.
Brian Gee, At-Large Board Member – Exemplary Practices Liasion
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Mr. Brian Gee, has the privilege of being the Principal at Goddard Academy, Lakeside Academy and the Goddard Virtual Program in Goddard, Kansas. He has been an administrator for 15 years, that time has been spent in rural, inner-city, and suburban school districts serving as an Assistant Principal, Athletic Director and Principal. Mr. Gee has also served in numerous leadership roles with the Kansas Association of Secondary School Principals and is currently serving on the Evaluations Review Committee for Kansas Department of Education.
Mr. Brian Gee has a unique passion and drive to develop positive relationships within the school and local community, working with students to become a strong part of a productive society, all while supporting teachers to reach their greatest potential, and fostering a positive school culture while in and out of the classroom.
As a family, Brian and his wife Kasey, enjoy spending time with their 4 wonderful kids (Quentin, Braxton, Brooks and Brynlee) watching sporting events and doing family outdoor activities. He began his Educational Leadership career with a Bachelor’s in Physical Science from Fort Hays State University in 2002 and continuing to his Master’s in School Leadership from Baker’s University in 2006.
Brian is looking forward to the opportunity to serve NAEA at the regional and national levels. His previous educational experiences will enhance an already great organization.
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Mr. Brian Gee, has the privilege of being the Principal at Goddard Academy, Lakeside Academy and the Goddard Virtual Program in Goddard, Kansas. He has been an administrator for 15 years, that time has been spent in rural, inner-city, and suburban school districts serving as an Assistant Principal, Athletic Director and Principal. Mr. Gee has also served in numerous leadership roles with the Kansas Association of Secondary School Principals and is currently serving on the Evaluations Review Committee for Kansas Department of Education.
Mr. Brian Gee has a unique passion and drive to develop positive relationships within the school and local community, working with students to become a strong part of a productive society, all while supporting teachers to reach their greatest potential, and fostering a positive school culture while in and out of the classroom.
As a family, Brian and his wife Kasey, enjoy spending time with their 4 wonderful kids (Quentin, Braxton, Brooks and Brynlee) watching sporting events and doing family outdoor activities. He began his Educational Leadership career with a Bachelor’s in Physical Science from Fort Hays State University in 2002 and continuing to his Master’s in School Leadership from Baker’s University in 2006.
Brian is looking forward to the opportunity to serve NAEA at the regional and national levels. His previous educational experiences will enhance an already great organization.