The heart behind Thrive Together
11 years in the classroom. A lifetime of caring.
Kari spent 11 years as a full-time special education teacher in Indiana public elementary and middle schools — working every single day alongside students with a wide range of learning needs. Across those years, and through 15+ additional years of substitute teaching in both public and private school settings, she built a deep, practical understanding of what it truly takes to reach a student who learns differently.
She holds a Master's degree in Special Education from Indiana University and a Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Grace College, and is a fully licensed Indiana teacher. But what sets Kari apart goes well beyond her credentials: she has a rare ability to make students feel genuinely seen and cared for, creating a learning space where kids feel safe to try, struggle, and grow without fear of judgment.
Kari's teaching philosophy is rooted in experiential, hands-on learning. She believes students learn best when they're actively doing, discovering, and — most importantly — having fun along the way. Rather than drilling concepts through repetition, she designs sessions that engage students with material in ways that make it click and actually stick. Parents regularly share that their children look forward to their sessions with Kari.
She founded Thrive Together Consulting LLC out of a deep passion for serving students who deserve more individualized attention than a traditional classroom can always provide. Being an approved Indiana ESA provider means she can meet families exactly where they are — and walk with them every step of the way.
Outside of work, Kari is a wife, mom of three boys, and someone who loves the outdoors, traveling, and her faith. That spirit of warmth, patience, and adventure shows up in everything she does — including every session she leads.