Our team
Meet the pod tutors
Experienced educators, certified nature guides, and homeschool moms — each pod is led by a tutor who loves the Lord and loves helping children learn.
Sally Carpenter
Sally Carpenter is a wife, mother of three daughters, and the founder and director of The Way Academy. She has been homeschooling her children for the past eight years and has served in children's ministry at Southeast Christian Church for more than a decade, where she developed a deep passion for helping young people grow in their faith.
Sally earned a bachelor's degree in English Literature with a minor in Philosophy, and her years as a paralegal sharpened the organizational and communication skills she now pours into the academy.
Through the years, God has faithfully shaped Sally's heart and called her to invest in the next generation — creating meaningful opportunities for students to grow academically, build lasting friendships, and deepen their relationship with Christ. Her prayer is that every student who walks through the doors of The Way Academy will know they are deeply loved by God, equipped to use their unique gifts, and encouraged to walk boldly in His purpose. To God be the glory for this incredible opportunity to serve families and advance His Kingdom.
Rachel
- Certified nature guide through Tinkergarten
- Accredited through the Forest School Teacher Institute
- 2 years teaching experience at a Forest School co-op in Kentucky
- Served in children's ministry at Southeast Christian Church for many years
Rachel is a mom of three and lives in Sellersburg, Indiana with her family. She began her homeschooling journey six years ago and never looked back. With the Forest School approach close to her heart, she loves guiding children to discover creation up close — and believes what we learn outdoors shapes who we become.
Lindsey
- Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a specialty in English K–12 and Early Childhood development
- Taught for over 10 years, most recently as an Indiana Reading Specialist and Physical Education instructor in NAFC schools
Lindsey was born and raised in Northwest Michigan and loves to hike and find access to water anywhere she can. She moved to Southern Indiana with her husband, Mike, in 2015 and they have two children, Noah and Emmy. They also have a dog, a horse, mini donkeys, chickens, and cats in their hobby farm.
Jennifer
- Biology degree and more than 25 years of educational experience
- Teaching experience in homeschool science programs, zoo education, Ivy Tech, substitute teaching, and coaching club athletics
As a mom of five children, Jennifer is passionate about helping students develop a love of learning through curiosity, exploration, and hands-on experiences. She believes some of the best learning happens when children are encouraged to ask questions, explore the world around them, and ask meaningful questions.
Amanda
- Taught 10 years in NAFC and Greater Clark County school systems
- Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Masters in Special Education for grades K–6
- Served in children's ministry from birth to middle school ages
Amanda is the mom of one daughter and a fluffy goldendoodle, and lives in New Albany with her husband, Kory, on their family compound. Three years into her own homeschooling journey, she loved watching kids run through her garden with a focus on loving God and loving other people well.
Interested in tutoring or volunteering?
We'd love to hear about your gifts — from workshop teaching to event planning and hospitality.