Where EPIC Students Become What’s Next.
Our founders
Kristian Gellibert
With a Master’s in Education and expertise in computer science and school safety, he serves as the co-founder of Next Academy, where his original idea and vision for a school that blends innovation with character development helped bring the academy to life. Recognizing that school safety is at the forefront of concern for families and communities, he has become a trusted leader in creating safe, supportive learning environments where students can thrive with confidence and parents can feel assured.
Drawing on his background in computer science, he has helped to shape a forward-thinking curriculum that is hands-on, inquiry-based, and aligned with the academy’s mission of comprehensive student development. His leadership ensures that innovation and safety are never in conflict, but instead work together to empower students with both the skills and the security they need to succeed.
As a co-founder, his vision continues to guide Next Academy’s growth into a school where character, innovation, and safety intersect, a place that prepares EPIC students to lead with purpose while staying grounded in a culture of collaboration and resilience.
Kristen Gellibert
With a Master’s in Education and nearly 20 years of experience, she serves as the co-founder of Next Academy, bringing deep expertise in teaching, leadership, and curriculum development at both the K–12 and college levels. Her background also includes work as an ESOL Coordinator and Compliance Specialist, where she has championed equitable access for multilingual learners and supported teachers with the tools and strategies to ensure every student thrives.
As a co-founder, her leadership is grounded in cultivating a positive school culture where both students and teachers are heard, respected, and valued. She is driven by the belief that education must evolve, moving away from outdated, one-size-fits-all approaches and toward student-centered, inquiry-based learning that seamlessly integrates literacy and C-STEAM.
Her vision for Next Academy is to create a school where diversity is celebrated, collaboration is encouraged, and innovation is at the core, preparing students not only for academic success but also to grow into EPIC leaders of character, creativity, and purpose.
