Meet Our Team

Co-Founder
 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, BA, University of Central Florida

• Educational Specialist Degree, Ed.S in School Psychology, University of Central Florida

• STARR Certified Trauma and Resilience Practitioner

• iirp Restorative Practice Trainer

Rhoda Henderson brings over 30 years of experience working with at-risk youth. For 23 of those years, she has served in the public school system as a school psychologist and as a member of the district’s behavior support team, where she primarily supported students with emotional and behavioral disabilities (EBD), as well as provided extensive training to faculty and staff on trauma and its impact, and conditions for learning.  Rhoda is deeply passionate about helping children thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. She is committed to educating students, parents, youth organizations, educators, and the broader community on trauma-informed care, social-emotional skill development, and creating supportive conditions for learning—both at home and in school. Rhoda is excited about the opportunity to serve others and to positively impact minds and lives.

Co-Founder
 

• Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology, Florida State University

• Educational Specialists Degree in School Psychology, University of Central Florida

• STARR Certified Trauma and Resilience Practitioner 

• iirp Restorative Practice Practice Trainer

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Karen Ernst-Smith brings over 35 years of experience in the public school system, where she has served children, teachers, educational support staff, and parents. As a seasoned school psychologist, Karen has worked extensively with students facing significant behavioral and emotional challenges, many of whom have experienced traumatic life events. Throughout her career, she has provided comprehensive training to staff on the impact of trauma on children’s neurological development, academic performance, and classroom behavior. Karen collaborates closely with educators to implement trauma-informed care strategies and effective behavioral supports that benefit all students. Driven by deep empathy for children who have endured adversity, Karen is passionate about helping them navigate emotional and behavioral challenges and supporting their growth in safe, supportive learning environments.

Co-Founder
 

• Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Tougaloo College

• Master of Education K-8 Mathematics and Science

• iirp Restorative Practices Trainer

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Jennifer Smith is a dedicated and certified Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teacher with more than 25 years of experience in the public education system.  Throughout her career, she has remained dedicated to fostering inclusive, engaging, and supportive learning environments that empower students of all abilities to achieve their fullest potential.  Her extensive background in ESE has equipped her with deep expertise in curriculum development, differentiated instructional strategies, and evidence-based practices that promote student achievement and well-being.  She is a passionate advocate for students, teachers and parents. She consistently seeks out and implements innovative strategies to enhance educational outcomes, foster student growth, and promote a culture of excellence in teaching. Through a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, she empowers educators to refine their practice, adopt evidence-based methodologies, and respond effectively to the evolving needs of learners.  As a mentor, she inspires fellow educators to pursue continuous improvement, and as a champion for students, she encourages resilience, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. Her work is grounded in the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their challenges.