Our Team
Dana
Dana is excited to be the Co-Founder of Academy 7! A dream that started many years ago when she knew students should be at the center of their learning experience and that there should be more breaks, recess and endless fun.
With 17 years of experience in education, school counseling and curriculum design, she has a passion for teaching to the whole-child and project-based learning.
Academy 7 represents a long-held vision of a place where learning is not only about mastering subjects but positive mental-health and building confidence, curiosity and a love for lifelong learning! She is excited for the future of education at Academy 7!
Kentucky Educator Certificates:
Bachelor of Arts in Middle Grades Education: Northern Kentucky University
Masters in Teacher Leadership:
University of Cumberlands
Rank 1 in School Counseling:
University of Cumberlands
Other Academic Accomplishments:
Curriculum Design Leader:
Common Assignment Study
Director of Content & Learning
Our Story
It all started in the halls of a traditional school. Dana had spent years as an educator, dedicated to helping students succeed, but she felt something was missing. As a proud product of the public school system, and with her children currently attending, Dana knew firsthand how valuable that experience can be. However, she also recognized that not every child thrives in that setting. She believed education should be more than just textbooks and tests—it should be flexible, filled with outdoor time, and centered around sparking curiosity and nurturing creativity. Each child’s unique learning journey should be celebrated, not confined by rigid schedules.
With a deep passion for science, project-based learning, and social-emotional development, Dana understood the critical connection between emotional growth and academic success. This vision led her to create Academy 7—a school where learning is hands-on, personalized, and designed to inspire.
Soon, Academy 7 will open its doors! With a team of dedicated educators, Academy 7 is building a community where students are encouraged to explore their passions, ignite their curiosity, and grow into confident, lifelong learners. What started as a dream is becoming a reality. Academy 7 will be a place where every child thrives—academically, emotionally, and socially—a school where learning is dynamic, innovative, and deeply personal.