Meet Our Founder
Hi, I’m Tommi.
I’m the founder of PivotED, a lifelong educator, and the mom of three boys who somehow eat everything in the house and still insist they’re starving.
My journey in education began nearly 18 years ago—almost by accident—and quickly became a calling. I’ve taught in public and private schools, sat through more meetings than should be legally required, and learned something important along the way: standardized systems don’t work for every student.
That realization led to PivotED.
PivotED is a microschool built on the belief that learning should be personal, meaningful, and responsive to the actual humans in the room. Here, we make space for curiosity, real questions, hands-on experiences, and the many different ways students learn and grow.
I’m passionate about helping students reconnect with learning—and partnering with families who want more than “sit and get.” PivotED isn’t about fixing education. It’s about offering a thoughtful, intentional option for families who want something more flexible, more personal, and rooted in real life.
When I’m not designing learning experiences or dreaming about what school could be, I’m probably driving someone to practice or staring into the pantry wondering where all the snacks went.
PivotED is the school I always wished existed. I’m grateful you’re here.
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I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Sam Houston State University and a Master of Education from Texas A&M University. With 13 years of classroom experience ranging from pre-kindergarten through second grade, I bring a deep understanding of early childhood development and a commitment to creating a supportive, engaging learning environment. I also have two years of graduate-level training in Marriage and Family Therapy, which has strengthened my ability to support students’ emotional and social growth. Though I ultimately chose to remain in education, that counseling background continues to inform my approach to teaching, communication, and classroom culture.