Our team

is our secret sauce. They are some of the best and brightest in the business!

Our team (and board)

CO-FOUNDER | CEO | BOARD CHAIR

Michael is a former FBI Special Agent and tech startup leader. More importantly, he is a boy dad to three perfect little people!
There is an immense disparity between educators' societal impact and compensation. Teachers, who shape the minds of future generations, often face inadequate pay compared to professionals in other fields. This prompted me to ask myself, “Why isn't someone actively addressing this issue?” And so, I decided to be that someone.
Michael is a fan of cheesecake, bourbon, and "Hello, Dolly!" He makes a killer chocolate cake, and loves to talk about easy stuff like, religion, politics, and if the human experience is a simulation or not.

CO-FOUNDER | COO | BOARD DIRECTOR

Ava is a former educator and a marketing expert. She is a mother to two wonderful kiddos. On top of that, she puts up with Michael...so there's that.
I was a teacher and feel deeply grateful for all educators, especially those brave individuals who managed my children when they were little 😉. I understand firsthand how challenging it is to be a teacher. Assisting teachers, even in small ways, is both a privilege and a joy!
Ava loves all things nature. She enjoys long walks in the forest and talks about life’s great mysteries, such as how did simple life forms evolve into the incredible diversity we see today? She also loves ¼ of a cup of coffee in the morning, no more, no less.

BOARD DIRECTOR

Katie is an avid runner, product guru, and mama bear. Her cubs are adorable. Oh... and married to a super guy, Michael. LOL
As a mom, I've seen how hard our teachers work. They shape our kids' futures. I wanted to support the Educator Fund because teachers deserve better. By boosting their pay, we're investing in our children's education and our community's future. They give so much; it's time we give back.
Katie is an ultra-marathoner. She has run 73 half marathons, 12 marathons, and three +50Ks! In her downtime, she is a track coach and a bona fide badass. [mic drop]

— SOLOMON ORTIZ