Amanda Pollack
Spruce Learning Co. Head Leader & Founder

A recovering perfectionist, I have found true happiness in the teaching of young minds. Through curiosity, exploration, and investigation, we learn (and retain!) so much about the world around us. You won’t find any rote memorization in Spruce Learning programs, instead we elevate compassionate connections between our educators (Leaders) and students (Learners). Learning opportunities presented revolve around engaging discussions, hands-on exploration, and real world experiential learning. I can’t wait to share my passion for knowledge and curious questioning with your family!

A bit about me:

• 13 years of experience in Education. I have worked with all types of students, ages 3-15, in a classroom or consistent group environment over that time.

• Proponent of Conscious Discipline, an evidence-based, trauma informed system for establishing strong relationships, social-emotional awareness, and skills in regulation in a community context.

• Experienced with neurodiverse Learners, including those on the autism spectrum.

• CPR & First Aid Certified

• M.A. in Art History & Museum Studies from CWRU
  B.A. in Art History & Minor in Biology from UGA

• Some background highlights:

  • Lead teacher for a full-day play-based early childhood program for 9 years

  • Independent educator offering outdoor nature classes with Tinkgarten

  • Taught grades K-1 at an outdoor hybrid school in Buford

  • Most recently served as Community Lead for a homeschool learning center in Decatur, GA

  • As a grad student, designed Distance Learning curriculum for grades K-12 at the Cleveland Museum of Art

  • Worked in libraries and university Special Collections from high school through grad school

  • Coordinated events including symposia, festivals, fairs, international travel, local field trips, and special events throughout school & career

  • As a young student and Learner, participated in Gifted programs, Advanced Placement classes, college dual-enrollment, study abroad, and various unique community opportunities. These opportunities, and the teachers I encountered along the way, informed my world view and methods of teaching. All Learners deserve to have the world as their classroom!

Rather than excelling for external validation like grades and awards, I encourage a learning environment that is instead intrinsically motivated. All humans love to learn, and I am passionate about helping Learners find their thing! I work with Learners to identify their particular learning style and design experiences that honor each Learner’s needs.

Through mutual respect, Learners are encouraged to take responsibility and accountability for themselves and their actions. In all interactions, Leaders utilize Conscious Discipline, a trauma-informed, evidence-based social emotional learning program for all ages. Leaders are trained to be assertive, calm, emotionally regulated, and respectful in all interactions with Learners.

At Spruce Learning Co., I prioritize connection and emotional awareness as a vital first step to learning. Learning is a life-long pursuit, aided most by a person’s ability to self-regulate, problem solve, and think critically. As such, I’ve designed all Spruce Learning programs to prioritize the individual experience of each Learner, while also aligning with GA state standards for parental peace of mind.

We maintain a 1:5 Learner:Leader ratio. Additional Leaders provide support for programs and Learners.