Melissa Bradford, Board President
Melissa is a founder and parent of two graduates of Tallgrass. She taught eighth grade science for seven years before becoming convinced of the value of a democratic community of self-directed education. She holds a doctorate in curriculum studies and collaborates with researchers in the field of self-directed education. She currently teaches educational leadership at DePaul University and volunteers at Tallgrass when she can.
Rick Olson
Rick has been involved in teaching and mentorship within the homeschool/unschool community for the past 13 years and strongly believes in the power of learning through art, play, and out-of-the-box methods. A graduate of Northern Michigan University with degrees in Theatre and Media Productions/New Technologies, Rick has had the opportunity to live in diverse areas of the country, acting and teaching theatre everywhere from West Virginia to Sacramento to Chicago. Rick went to conventional public schools when he was growing up. That experience led him to want to work with young people in an environment where their voices are truly heard and respected.
Zoe Schwartz
Zoe received a BA in Creative Writing and Theater from the University of Illinois. She spent many years making theater and teaching creative writing in Chicago. Zoe's many odd jobs led her to become a program manager and facilitator for The Girls Scouts and Girls Leadership Institute, creating an interest in alternative education systems. Zoe also created and ran Swarm Artist Residency (a sliding scale retreat for Chicago artists) until 2019. She values play, creativity, community and exploration in teaching (as well as art) and can't wait to bring all of those things to her work at Tallgrass. She lives in Oak Park with her toddler, husband, and goofy dog. She loves riding bikes, having picnics, and exploring new ice cream shops.
Casper Pichotta
Casper received their BFA in Costume Design from the University of Minnesota- Duluth. After graduating, they spent time working with students and creating costumes at a performing arts school before moving to Illinois to pursue additional passions of tailoring and teaching yoga. Now residing in La Grange, Casper is thrilled to be back working with children in this community of expressive, creative, and self-directed students and support them as they pave their own path in life.