Strategic Solutions for Short-Term Needs and Long-Term Goals
Who We Are
DR. KATE ELLESWORTH founded Optimizing Education to support systems and leaders dedicated to improving schools for students and educators. As a thought leader redefining educational opportunities for the past 30 years, Dr. Ellesworth draws on her extensive experience as a teacher, school founder, network leader, researcher and program designer. She believes school improvement is most effective when schools co-design their path to progress, ensuring the services they receive are tailored to their assets and challenges. To that end, Dr. Ellesworth collaborates with a nationwide network of educators and researchers to bring dynamic, responsive solutions to schools tackling persistent or emerging concerns. Compelled by her belief that schools can be transformational spaces for children and the adults that support them, Dr. Ellesworth’s work is grounded in the realities of everyday schooling and the impact of innovative approaches.
FRANCI BELL is an experienced school leader and consultant currently working with schools and nonprofits to strengthen leadership, culture, and programs. Known for her strategic thinking and collaborative style, Franci combines her legal and educational experience to support schools through expansion and leadership transitions. An expert in progressive education and social emotional learning, she has launched innovative academic programs and built thriving, values-driven communities. Franci coaches educators to drive meaningful impact through engaging, student-centered learning experiences. Her work spans independent schools and youth-serving nonprofits, where she has guided initiatives that expand access for students who are often underserved. Franci presents nationally, bringing her depth of knowledge and skilled engagement to educators and leaders invested in school improvement.
DR. MONICA FITZGERALD is a licensed clinical psychologist and Senior Research Associate in the Prevention Science Program at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Institute of Behavioral Science. She directs the Center for Resilience + Well-Being and has expertise in childhood trauma and resilience, social emotional development, family communication, parenting, and trauma focused treatments for children, teens, and families. She has deep knowledge in designing, implementing and evaluating evidence-based, trauma responsive prevention programs and interventions for families and schools (Let’s Connect®, Resilience in Schools & Educators) that focus on building strong adult-youth relationships and safe, supportive environments. She directs several federal, state, and local initiatives focused on building community capacity to access evidence-based, trauma-informed, culturally responsive programs and supports for youth, families, and educators. Dr. Fitzgerald is a certified trainer and consultant in TF-CBT® and AF-CBT® interventions and enjoys training and consulting nationally and internationally. She has authored numerous scientific articles and book chapters. Dr. Fitzgerald also consults with health care organizations, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network Schools Committee, Colorado Department of Education, and district leaders to support well-being, build healthy climates, advance SEL and reduce burnout and secondary traumatic stress.
How We Work
We are here to design a plan and support implementation as schools tackle some of the largest concerns: Effective curriculum, Staff wellbeing; Student engagement and dynamic instruction.
Step 1
Contact us by phone or email
Step 2
Participate in a free learning session
Step 3
Develop a scope of work and fee structure
Step 4
Co-construct a plan that is continuously improved based on data
Step 5
Engage in embedded coaching and consultation sessions