Joined: 2014
College: Graduated from University of Central Oklahoma with a bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering and a Minor in Mathematics
Why TSAS? Never knew about this school. Until I applied and met with Liesa, Eric and the rest of the teachers and friends and that’s when I knew I had been truly blessed to be at the right place at the right time to do what I truly love to do. TEACH!
Interesting Facts: I am a native born Nigerian. I’ve been in Oklahoma for over 17 years ( I guess I qualify to be called an “Okie” now.). I am blessed with a beautiful wife of 10 years who is also from Nigeria, but we met here in Oklahoma – amazing! We have three amazingly gorgeous and awesome kids named Super-Simi, King David and Queen Esther! And we are blessed to live in the United States of America!
Joined: 2017
College: University of Central Oklahoma, Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communication
Why TSAS? I wanted to work at TSAS because all the kids I’ve ever met that went to school here reminded me of the people I actively sought out in my teenage years: Creative, compassionate and open to many paths in life.
Interesting Fact: I think cornbread is gross. I think cornbread dipped in milk is extra gross.
Joined: 2015
College: College of Santa Fe, Art Therapy. Oklahoma State University, Graduated 2011 Bachelor Science, Horticultural Science
Why TSAS? It was my first and top choice! I absolutely love the unique diversity of the staff and students. The TSAS mission reflects what I believe education should create within our community- life long learners. By encouraging students to approach problem solving creatively, respect individual values and actively engage I feel our school promotes a holistic approach to education and learning. I am so proud to be part of the TSAS family!
Interesting fact(s): I married my best friend, Clay Brewer, in October 2017. We have a small farm that includes donkeys, goats and chickens. I expect our herd to grow once we move onto our recently purchased 10 acres! I love to cook and create for others. I was a horticulturist at the Tulsa Zoo prior to teaching at TSAS.
Joined: 2017
Education: Northeastern State University (Tahlequah, OK) – Bachelor of Science in Education and Tulsa Community College – Associate in Arts
Why TSAS? I knew from the first moments of walking into TSAS that this is a special place. I was drawn to the acceptance of individuality while cultivating an environment allowing students and staff to flourish. I had heard of TSAS’s reputation for being a magnificent place for all who are a part of it, and really wanted an opportunity to join. Since joining, TSAS has lived up to its reputation and I feel lucky to be a part of such a wonderful family.
Interesting Facts: I spent my kindergarten and 5th grade year in German public schools and can speak German fluently. My main hobbies are hiking, camping, gardening, and cooking. I also enjoy Kayaking, motorcycles, fishing, and horseback riding. When I retire, I hope to open an animal sanctuary. My only broken bone has been my cheek when I was smacked by a horse hoof causing 3 breaks and 4 cracks across my cheekbone.
Joined: 2018
College: Bachelor of Arts in Photography from the Art Institute of Colorado
Why TSAS? The passion and dedication for the Arts is what drew me to TSAS. In a time where many institutions are ending photography programs and taking out darkrooms, I admire a school that sees the importance and the potential of photography as a venue for expression for students. I believe it’s not just a skill but an avenue of learning history as well as making it.
Interesting Facts: I have spent my free time over the last few years converting a school bus into a mobile tiny house and through photography, I’ve been documenting the process.
Joined: 2017
College: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Master of Education in Mathematics Education from Northeastern State University
Why TSAS? I chose TSAS because it is truly a learning community. We focus on the whole process of learning, we celebrate the student’s individuality, and don’t try to fit them into a preconceived mold. We recognize that students are people.
Interesting Facts: Believe it or not I am actually really shy and, love to geek out about math. I am also a sun-worshipper.
Joined: 2015
College: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a Minor in Biology from the University of Texas at Brownsville, Master of Science in Deaf Education from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, and Postrado en Readaptación al Esfuerzo de La Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona Spain
Why TSAS?: Initially I applied at TSAS because I wanted a shorter commute, but little did I know I would soon be working at the best high school in Tulsa. Starting from the interview on I was really impressed with the staff and the things that are happening at TSAS. I’m excited to be part of this community!
Interesting Fact: I have a wife and two children, Isabela and Joaquin Cuauhtémoc. I served 8 years in the U.S. Navy. Besides English and Spanish, I am also fluent in American Sign Language. My wife and I love to dance salsa, bachata, and merengue. I played ruby in Barcelona and was part of the 2004 Spanish national championship team. I am a Texas Longhorn fan (Hook-Em Horns)!
Joined: 2017
College: Bachelor of Science in Education – Music, University of Arkansas, and Master of Education in Administration, Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Why TSAS? The environment at TSAS is wonderfully unique and provides tremendous opportunities for students and faculty to discover their best talents. It also allows me as an educator to explore and develop new ideas that are simply not available in a regular public school.
Interesting Facts: I love to work in the outdoors and I’m a huge “do it yourself” kind of person.
Joined: 2017
College: Suleyman Demirel Universitesi – Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Electronics, Hacettepe University – Computer Programming, and North American University – Master of Science in Computer Science-Cyber Security
Why TSAS? TSAS has a warm and friendly environment.
Interesting Facts: I am an MIT Master Trainer and write computer science curriculum extensions for JASON’s science curriculum. I give workshops and run “hack-a-thons” for some Texas teachers and students, so I sometimes travel to Texas. I have a great husband who supports me with everything I do, and two daughters. I love dogs and cats, but I am allergic to cats.
Joined: 2016
College: BA in English from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri.
Why TSAS?: I love the unique culture of TSAS (all three of my kids have attended) and wanted to be a part of the team!
Interesting Fact: I’m a wanna-be minimalist; I love the idea of wearing one outfit all the time (seven of them for each day of the week), but I’m not brave enough for that yet!
Joined: 2018
College: Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, Oral Roberts University
Why TSAS? I prize the value TSAS places on a liberal arts education and their mission to help all students achieve their personal goals.
Interesting Facts: My teaching career began in China in 1987. Three years later, at the American Academy in Istanbul, Turkey, I adopted my life’s motto: “I want to dance with the whole world!” I have been devoted to my partner in life for nearly 30 years, the last 18 of those in our little home on the river bend near downtown Tulsa.
Joined: 2016
College: Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Northeastern State University, and Master of Science in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership – Reading and Literacy Emphasis – from Oklahoma State University.
Why TSAS? TSAS is a different place, and I wanted to experience that! I also have a passion for middle school students and I wanted to get back to that! TSAS + middle schoolers = a magical carpet ride!
Interesting Fact: There is a 20-year age difference between my older sister and myself!
Joined: 2001
College: BS in Foreign Language Education (French) Oklahoma State University
Why TSAS?: I really liked the idea of a smaller school formed entirely by teachers. I love the family/community atmosphere!
Interesting Fact: I recently learned to fence!
Joined: 2017
College: Oklahoma Baptist University – Interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, Religion and Foreign Languages, and University of Colorado – Master of Arts in Medical Anthropology
Why TSAS? I chose to teach at TSAS for purely selfish reasons: I get to work with a great group of colleagues, teach what I love, and collaborate with students in their learning process. I love that my job now allows me to read great books and research fascinating topics.
Interesting Facts: I grew up on an island off the coast of Venezuela and lived in Central and South America for 13 years. I have traveled to five of the seven continents and hope one day to make it to Australia as well (but not Antarctica because I don’t deal too well with the cold).
Joined: 2018
College: Bachelor of Science in English Education, and Master of Education from the University of Auburn at Montgomery in Montgomery, Alabama.
Why TSAS? I have always wanted to teach in a school that valued every student as a human being and every teacher as a professional. I thought a school like TSAS could not possibly exist. It took two states, six schools, and one TSAS graduate (my son’s favorite teacher who suggested TSAS was the best place for him) to find the best kept secret in education.
Interesting Fact: I used to be kind of internet famous. I hated being kind of internet famous.
Joined: 2018
College: Oklahoma State University, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Why TSAS? It fosters and exemplifies the value of relationships in education.
Interesting Facts: I’m a true Texan that calls Tulsa home. I enjoy Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, 90s hip-hop, and mathematics.
Joined: 2018
Education: Camp Robinson Army National Guard GED Plus Program, and Special Education Para Professional Certified
Why TSAS? I chose TSAS because I believe in how we conduct and perform our duties as teachers and principals helping students learn & interact while preparing them for life beyond their graduation.
Interesting Facts: I have obtained a diploma with/and served in the US Army. In addition, I conduct certified personal training for sports & occupational therapy. I have been working with autistic children all my life, and am pleased to now be a certified paraprofessional with the greatest school ever, TSAS! I am also an active group leader for LifeChurch.
Joined: 2006
College: University of Tulsa– Bachelor of Fine Arts, 1998 University of Tulsa– Certificate in Museum Studies, 2000 University of Tulsa– Master of Fine Arts, 2002 Tulsa Community College– Certificate in Italian Language Studies, 2002
Why TSAS?: Because I wanted a school where I was free to develop my own curriculum that was free from the constraints of traditional schools, and focused on encouraging the growth of students in their creative life. This school values the benefits of an all-around education in which art is seen as an essential tool for the development of both the student’s critical thinking and creative problem solving skills.
Interesting Fact: In his 87th year, Michelangelo inscribed on a sketch the words ‘Ancora Imparo’– Italian for ‘I am still learning’. It’s a reminder that learning is a life-long pursuit, and we’re never truly finished. I have also taught at the Philbrook Museum of Art for the last 10 years, and live with two dogs, a cat who thinks he’s a dog, Gus, and my husband, Aaron.
Joined: 2009
College: American Conservatory Theatre Bachelor of Arts (not from ACT)
Why TSAS?: I was aware of its excellent reputation, and knew the school’s environment and goals for student learning were what I wanted to be a part of. More importantly, I’ve stayed at TSAS for nine years because it has exceeded my hopes and expectations in providing an incredible learning process for all. The mutual respect and relationships formed between students, faculty, administration, and the entire staff all work together to build better futures for our kids and improve the world we live in!
Joined: 2017
College: Northeastern State University (Tahlequah, OK) – English Education, and Tulsa Community College – Mass Communication/Journalism
Bio: Mitch comes to TSAS after many years as a professional musician. He has formed and developed many bands over the years, often touring nationally and reaching critical acclaim for his musical quality, music marketing acumen, and community involvement. He also routinely acts as a musical ambassador for Tulsa, often traveling the country to get well-known acts from other cities to play shows and invest in the local Tulsa music scene. He has also worked in large-scale event planning, venue management, and cross promotional strategies for a wide genre of arts efforts. In addition to music, Mitch is also a professional journalist who has worked with the Tulsa Voice, This Land Press, and other publications. Before coming to TSAS as a faculty member, he also worked with Youth Services of Tulsa and as a substitute teacher for TSAS.
Joined: 2011
College: Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Northeastern State University and a Master’s of Education in Educational Administration from the University of Oklahoma
Why TSAS? I work with students because they give me life, make me better, and help me know and love my world more profoundly than I ever could without them. I choose to do this at TSAS because TSAS is a school where every adult and student is profoundly known and valued. TSAS students are the kind of people our world needs as neighbors, doctors, artists, politicians, servers, inventors, thinkers, and friends.
Interesting Fact: My family; Amanda, Adrian, and David are beautiful and sensational. Aside from working at the best school in the world, I watch a lot of TV, eat a lot of food, read a lot of books, referee adult soccer, and work on my house.
Joined: 2016
College: Northeastern State University: Bachelor of Science (Mathematics Education) and University of Oklahoma: Master’s of Science (Teaching, Learning, and Leadership)
Why TSAS?: I believe every student is capable of succeeding in mathematics. It is my goal to encourage students in their ability and hopefully help them to find a love of mathematics.
Interesting Fact: I have two beautiful children that both have blonde hair and blue eyes.
Joined: 2013
College: Oklahoma State University
Why TSAS? As I entered the field of education, I knew I wanted to teach in an environment that nurtured the student as a whole person rather than just a statistic. TSAS is the embodiment of all I believe education to be: individually focused and community minded.
Interesting Fact: I read magazines backward.
Joined: 2016
College: Oklahoma City University, BA in Theatre Performance / BA in Music
Why TSAS?: I’m from the Tulsa area (even though I moved away for 10 years) and I had admired TSAS from afar for a long time – TSAS alums I’ve met are so well-rounded, and none of them can stop talking about how great their high school was. Once I started teaching here, I understood what all the hype was about!
Interesting Fact: I enjoy puns.
Joined: 2017
College: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art from the University of Arkansas, and Master of Sceince in Museum Science and Management from the University of Tulsa
Why TSAS? TSAS is a great school with dedicated faculty and a family atmosphere.
Interesting Fact: I have a deformed rib on my left side.
Joined: 2015
College: B.A. in Sociology from Oklahoma State University, Master of Social Work from the University of Oklahoma
Why TSAS?: I love the feeling of community, the wonderful and supportive people and the way students are respected and empowered as lifelong learners and individuals.
Interesting Fact: I am married to a TSAS alumnus (class of 2004), I love food, dogs, and Tina Fey.
Joined: 2016
College: MA in History and BA in Political Science from the University of Tulsa
Why TSAS?: I believe in the overarching principle of TSAS – that education can be dignifying and every student deserves that opportunity.
Interesting Fact: I’m married to my wonderful wife, and we have 1 four-legged canine friend. I spend my free time being a DJ for weddings.
Joined: 2012
College: Bachelors of Science in Chemistry from University of Tulsa and Masters in TOEFL from Oklahoma State University
Why TSAS? An opportunity to work at a smaller school appealed to me on many levels.
Interesting Fact: I am a Marvel fan!
Joined: 2011
College: Northeastern State University – Criminal Justice Major – Legal Studies Minor
Why TSAS? Inspiring teachers and wonderful staff.
Interesting Fact: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am not for others, what am I? And if not now, when?” ~ Rabbi Hillel
Joined: 2017
College: University of Oklahoma – Ph.D. of Education Leadership; DePauw University – B.A. Political Science
Why TSAS? I believe the heart of education rests within the hands of teachers, and TSAS recognizes and elevates this philosophy. It is a place where teachers give students the tools to grow and learn in dynamic classrooms. TSAS cultivates an environment of rich academic preparation while appreciating the unique needs and interests of the individuals we are and we want to become. I am honored to work alongside everyone who calls TSAS home.
Interesting Facts: Some of my favorites: Coca-Cola, The Beatles, Wendell Berry, Z104.5, Ford pick-up trucks, supreme pizza without sausage, Motown, Kentucky Wildcat Basketball, travel, chocolate…
Joined: 2017
College: Always continuing to learn!
Why TSAS?: I am honored to work at TSAS, I genuinely love the staff, kids, and community, and how no matter what your personality, you are welcome here. I have four children that has graduated from TSAS and two who attend.
Interesting Fact: I’ve been married 29 years. and I have a cat and three parakeets. I receive a word of the day email each day, because I enjoy learning new words as well as reading, cooking, and gardening!
Joined: 2018
College: University of Louisville with a Bachelor’s of Music in Music Therapy – Board Certified Music Therapist
Why TSAS? I chose TSAS because of the wonderful supportive teachers, administration, and other staff as well as the opportunities for personal and academic growth offered to students here. I see that students are consistently welcomed and their thoughts are truly heard!
Interesting Facts: I love to hike, cook, and enjoy music with friends and strangers alike. A notable accomplishment of mine is that I piloted a new NICU Music Therapy program during an internship at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. When I’m not at work, you will most likely find me at home with my cats.
Joined: 2019
College: US Army School of Administration – Fort Jackson, South Carolina
Joined: 2014
College: Central Texas State University and St. Edward’s University
Why TSAS? I worked in public history and education on the programming side for many years and learned a lot about what constitutes educational excellence. After a long term substitute teaching assignment at TSAS in 2012 I knew that teaching here would be my dream job, and it is. TSAS gives teachers the freedom develop innovative and challenging curriculum and the students are awesome!
Interesting Fact: I’m an army brat and married a peripatetic historian so, as Johnny Cash says, “I’ve been everywhere, man.” I’ve lived in two countries and eleven states and travel every change I get.
Joined: 2018
College: John Brown University, Bachelor’s of Arts in English
Why TSAS? I chose TSAS for the environment of student-focused learning that it creates. TSAS seems to be a place where students are truly put before everything else.
Interesting Facts: I love reading, writing, good stories, and board games!
Joined: 2012
Bio: Libby has been a part of the Tulsa community her whole life. In 2012, she came to TSAS as we transitioned to the Barnard Elementary site which was very close to her home. After that building was destroyed by fire, Libby was instrumental in the rebuilding of TSAS assets and resources over the next several years.
Since then, Libby has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to order equipment, manage human resources, oversee transportation, work with the Board of Trustees, and dozens of other jobs that TSAS couldn’t exist without.
Libby is one of the everyday heroes that makes TSAS function for the success of our students, teachers, and community! Libby loves spending time with her family, and is an avid anglophile!
Joined: 2017
College: Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, Loyola University, New Orleans and Master of Science in Biology, University of New Orleans
Why TSAS? I appreciate the respect the administration has for both staff and students. I believe that it is a great foundation for academic success as well as personal growth.
Interesting Facts: I met my husband on the dance floor in New Orleans. Together, we’ve lived in four cities and have two cats and two dogs.
Joined: 2007
College: The Ohio State University. B.S. Physics and B.A Philosophy
Why TSAS? I heard good things about it from one of the founders. In the interview they asked what I would do with an elective, and I said I would love to teach Philosophy to HS students. When they said that could happen, I jumped on it.
Interesting Fact: I have speed-ran Final Fantasy 2/4 in between 20 and 21 hours.
Joined: 2016
College: Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from University of Tulsa, League of American Bicyclists
Why TSAS? It is the most community-centered school I have ever stepped foot in and the family atmosphere runs deep. Teaching runs in my blood but I’ve been looking for this home and open atmosphere for a while. I’ve taught a few classes here in the past but I’m so glad to finally call TSAS home!
Interesting Facts: I was born and raised in Denton, Texas and am a lover of all things bike, a well as music (especially metal). I have the most wonderful family in my wife Arianna and two little loves Julian and Evie <3 I have a deep love for cultivating the self – mind, body and spirit. My goal is to open the door of possibilities and let students lead from there.
Joined: 2014
College: B.A. in Religious Studies, Minor in History – University of Oklahoma; M.A. in Secondary Education (in progress) – University of Missouri- St. Louis
Why TSAS? When I imagined becoming a teacher and being part of a school, this place is what I pictured. The freedom of the teacher, the encouragement of curiosity, and the positive interactions between students and faculty match what I wanted to see happen. This place feels like home to me.
Interesting Fact: Sometimes when I am driving I catch myself singing Paul Simon’s “Still Crazy After All These Years” in the key of Michael McDonald. After that, I like reading books, listening to vinyl records, and watching / analyzing / writing about film and television. I dream about hiking and go occasionally. I love NY Times crossword puzzles.
Joined: 2002, 2009
College: TCC – Associates Degree : Fine Art; TU – Bachelors Degree : English Education and Fine Art; NSU – Masters Degree : School Administration; OSU – Doctorate in progress : Curriculum Studies
Why TSAS? I choose to work at TSAS because it is a learning community focused on the potential and achievement of each individual student. The teachers at TSAS care about each student’s academic growth as well as their human journey. On an almost daily basis I am amazed at how our relational environment is supportive and encouraging to both the students and the faculty. Our school community is made up of people at every level of involvement that care deeply about intellectual pursuits, creativity, innovation and humanity.There’s no place like TSAS and I am honored to work here.
Joined: 2001
College: B.S.E. from the University of Nebraska in English and German Graduate work at the University of Oklahoma
Why TSAS? In the summer of 2001, I came to an informational meeting before the school ever began. I had a son who was going into ninth grade and I was interested in TSAS. After hearing about the school, I was convinced that my son should go there and I wanted to teach there as well. All three of my children ended up going to TSAS and graduating, and I have had the privilege of teaching here since it began. I can’t think of anywhere I would rather be.
Interesting Fact: I love baking bread, doing crosswords, hiking, biking, and rock climbing. My favorite place to grade papers is at Doubleshot Coffee, sitting at a big table with my colleagues from TSAS. I have been married 28 years and have three wonderful children and one lovely daughter-in-law. A few of my favorite authors: John Donne, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Elizabeth Goudge.
Joined: 2007
College: Rogers State University – BA Liberal Arts, and The University of Oklahoma – MA Library & Information Studies
Why TSAS? Choice! Not only do our students choose to attend TSAS, but teachers are afforded the opportunity to make the best decisions for their students’ education. This, coupled with an insightful and supportive group of colleagues who are dedicated to developing themselves and their peers, makes for a community enriching like no other.
Interesting Fact: I like to make robots that can draw.
Joined: 2018
College: University of Oklahoma, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science; Oklahoma State University, International Political Economic Theories; New York University, MS in Global Affairs
Why TSAS? Both the caliber of academic excellence and the outstanding community that defines TSAS.
Interesting Facts: I lived in NYC for 10 years; I had the tremendous honor of completing a degree from NYU and working for an international human rights lawyer with the United Nations. Let’s Go METS!
Joined: 2018
College: Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Oklahoma State University
Why TSAS? I chose TSAS due to its emphasis on the liberal arts as well as the level of autonomy granted to both its students and faculty. I was further impressed by the amount of electives, clubs, and extracurricular activities available to the students.
Interesting Facts: Alongside being a serial hobbyist, I have been playing guitar and singing/songwriting for over 12 years. I also enjoy transition skateboarding, longboarding, and extended road trips.
Joined: 2018
College: University of Tulsa, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Why TSAS? The positive reputation that TSAS has by it’s staff and it’s community.
Interesting Facts: I’m a 7th generation Texan, but I love and have made a second home out of Tulsa. I’m a very devoted TU fan with season tickets for both football and basketball. Reign Cane!
Joined: 2018
College: Baylor University, Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Arabic & Middle East Studies
Why TSAS? I chose TSAS because everything I heard about it reminded me of the sort of education I received growing up. I knew I just had to be in a place where the nature of the school was to nurture the individual to strengthen the community.
Interesting Facts: I keep up with all things nerdy and love to talk about them. I can probably talk your ear off about most video games, movies, comics, or TV shows. I also randomly get a ton of beta test invites, so chances are I have played that obscure indie game you want to buy.