Our Pillars
Co-Teaching
Life Skills development
Life Skills development
Having two teachers in every classroom means students receive more individual attention, targeted scaffolding, and a larger support network. This setup allows foundational skills like phonics to be taught in small groups, ensuring no student falls behind while others can move ahead at their own pace.
Co-teaching also supports teachers’ well-being by sharing responsibilities and expertise, helping prevent burnout and creating a healthier learning environment for everyone.
Life Skills development
Life Skills development
Life Skills development
If students aren’t able to manage their energy and attention, they can’t fully engage in learning. That’s why we prioritize teaching life skills like self-awareness, focus, and problem-solving—tools that support success both in school and in life.
Just like adults need a break or time to reset, kids do too. We help students learn to recognize what they need, regulate their behavior, and return to learning with confidence. Along the way, they build independence and practical skills to thrive—while staying true to who they are.
Expeditionary Learning
Expeditionary Learning
Expeditionary Learning
Our Expeditionary Learning (EL) model focuses on deeper thinking and hands-on exploration. Instead of memorizing facts, students actively apply what they learn by engaging with the world around them—asking questions, solving problems, and making real connections.
This approach helps students build strong critical thinking skills and discover their own interests. By exploring their passions, they develop hobbies and skills that support their growth as confident, independent learners.
Family Engagment
Expeditionary Learning
Expeditionary Learning
At BOP, our commitment to the whole child means we’re here for families too. We recognize how important YOU are in your child’s life, and we want to support you every step of the way.
We’ll offer workshops and community-building opportunities designed specifically for parents and caregivers—not just traditional PTA meetings, but meaningful connections with one another. Examples include resume-building workshops and “Give What You Can, Take What You Need” pantries to provide essential items for families.
Together, we’ll create a strong, supportive community where everyone can thrive.
Meet the Team
Shantell OWen
Shantell OWen
Shantell OWen
Hello! I’m Shantell, a mom to five amazing kids, plus a dog and a cat. I spent over a decade as an educator, teaching 5th grade and working in special education. I’ve always connected deeply with neurodivergent kiddos, which makes even more sense now that I’ve embraced my own late-in-life diagnosis as autistic with ADHD (AuDHD). My journ
Hello! I’m Shantell, a mom to five amazing kids, plus a dog and a cat. I spent over a decade as an educator, teaching 5th grade and working in special education. I’ve always connected deeply with neurodivergent kiddos, which makes even more sense now that I’ve embraced my own late-in-life diagnosis as autistic with ADHD (AuDHD). My journey is about learning to celebrate my unique brain, and I’m passionate about helping others do the same.
Growing up in a challenging environment shaped my dedication to trauma-informed care and creating spaces where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued. I’m fascinated by the brain and mental health, and I love sharing what I’ve learned to help others thrive. I believe in the power of connection and vulnerability to foster growth and build a community where everyone feels free to be themselves.
helen ramsey
Shantell OWen
Shantell OWen
Hello, my name is Helen. I am passionate about supporting children and families from all walks of life in discovering how their brains work and the importance of community connections. Growing up with a love for art and music, I found these creative outlets to be transformative. Overcoming personal trauma has fueled my dedication to work
Hello, my name is Helen. I am passionate about supporting children and families from all walks of life in discovering how their brains work and the importance of community connections. Growing up with a love for art and music, I found these creative outlets to be transformative. Overcoming personal trauma has fueled my dedication to working with children. With four years of experience as a Special Education assistant in public schools, my expertise lies in my ability to connect with students and meet them where they are, fostering growth in a safe, supportive, and emotionally enriching environment.
lana knell
Shantell OWen
lana knell
Hello! My name is Lana (sounds like llama), and I am proud to be one of the founders of Beyond Ordinary Pathways Academy.
I have been a special educator for 6 years and have grown a passion that I feel needs an innovative school to meet my students and families where they are. My personal experiences with being dyslexic have also taught
Hello! My name is Lana (sounds like llama), and I am proud to be one of the founders of Beyond Ordinary Pathways Academy.
I have been a special educator for 6 years and have grown a passion that I feel needs an innovative school to meet my students and families where they are. My personal experiences with being dyslexic have also taught me compassion and understanding, which are at the heart of our mission at Beyond Ordinary Pathways Academy. I am deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where every child can thrive.
Building meaningful relationships with students, families, and educators has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. I believe that through collaboration and connection, we can empower students to overcome challenges, celebrate their strengths, and prepare for a bright future.