Janice Black, Ed. Spec., Ph. D.

Founder, Chair of Board

Dr. B has started 3+ schools over the years and has a passion for helping create schools that support teaching and learning! Check out more on her About the Founder page and Founder's blog.
 
Dr. B's area of expertise is program development and school structures. Dr. B retained the title of Founding Headmaster only until our first operating Head/Master Teacher was hired. She has now moved to the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees. A major goal of the Board will be the growth of the school so that it can transition to a stand alone non-profit. 

Melinda Tavernier, M. Ed. Admin.

Board Member

Melinda Tavernier has been in education for over 25 years.  From a classroom teacher to teacher trainer to charter school principal, Mrs. Tavernier has experience in many aspects of education.    She is the founder of Vine and Branches Homeschool Association, Pathways for Schools Academic Co-op, and Coastal Leadership Academy; all of which are still actively growing.   In 2001, her educational experience was truly put to the test as she began her 10 year homeschooling journey with her son Alexander and daughter Emilie-Kate.  Mrs. Tavernier graduated from Winthrop University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision.   She is currently working on her Ed.S. Degree in Instructional Technology.  She is currently a Student Career Specialist in the Wall College of Business at Coastal Carolina University. In 1989, she married her husband Pierre-Olivier, who also works at Coastal Carolina University.

J. Kay Keels, M. Div., Ph. D.

Board Member

Kay Keels grew up not far from here just south of Florence, SC. She has always had a heart for students. From her time as a high school special education teacher and coach to her time teaching doctoral students to her current efforts as a Professor of Management. She is also an ordained Methodist pastor. She brings the ethics oversight and an element of spirituality to the board.

Nicholas Twigg, Ph. D.

Board Member

Nicholas Twigg has retired twice. Once from the Navy and once from higher education. His area of specialty is total quality management.  His project management skills and expertise in quality is a welcome addition to the board.