The Red Barn Schoolhouse was founded under a Founding Group Charter School Model, where a dedicated group of individuals came together to design the school’s innovative learning model, secure its charter approval, and oversee its initial development. Rooted in community values, the group ensures that the school reflects the needs and aspirations of the families it serves while fostering a deep connection to the natural world.
Once the school is established, the founding group hands over responsibilities to the Governing Board, which takes on the role of providing strategic leadership, ensuring long-term success, and maintaining alignment with the school’s mission.
Dr. Kurt Birusingh, M.D., is a practicing, Iowa-licensed medical doctor with 24 years of specialized experience. He previously served as Chief of Service at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Los Angeles, California.
Matt Brooks, M.A., is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the Developmental and Learning Sciences Program within the Department of Educational Psychology, focusing on Nature and Youth Learning. He has experience as a former teacher, nature-based program leader, and manager. Matt has also worked in personnel management for an outdoor education facility and served as an intern manager at a garden-based nonprofit.
Cynthia is a Documenter and Botanical Artist with a Ph.D. from Northwestern University’s School of Communication. She has served as an External Evaluator for the U.S. Department of Education’s Arts Integration Grant, contributing to work with Chicago Public Schools and suburban school districts.
Sharon Oamek is an entrepreneur with 35 years of community development experience in both the public and private sectors. She serves as a consultant for communities, developers, and small businesses and is a member of the Pottawattamie County Compensation Board. .
Shawn Shea is an entrepreneur and local business owner with over 35 years of experience in construction management. He serves as Chairman of the Board of Adjustments for the City of Crescent, Treasurer of the Industrial Foundation of Crescent, and is a former Supervisor on the Pottawattamie County Board of Supervisors.
With more than 20 years of experience in business operations and management, Jessica Urban is an entrepreneur and a dedicated advocate for sustainability. She manages her own farmstead, where she practices organic farming, grows produce and orchard fruits, and cares for bees and laying hens. In addition to her farming efforts, Jessica is an active member of the Crescent Beautification Committee and serves as a board member for the women’s entrepreneur group, Make Your MARC!.
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