Matina Hunnell and her mom, Carole Parker, co-founded Evergreen Academy in 2019 with a shared vision to provide a better educational model for Matina’s two children and the greater Norman community. What began as a dream has grown into an award-winning, learner-driven nonprofit K–12 school. Before starting Evergreen, Matina spent twelve years as a music educator. She holds a Master of Music in Piano Performance and Jazz Studies from the University of Central Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Music in Songwriting and Voice from Berklee College of Music. Some of her favorites: gardening, exploring farmer’s markets, improvisational cooking, coffee, dark chocolate, and reading a good book while snuggling her lazy and lovable Australian Shepherd, Junebug.

Carole co-founded Evergreen Academy with her daughter, Matina, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She has extensive experience as a school teacher and is NAMC Montessori certified. Carole is passionate about blending the best practices from Montessori, Forest School, and play-based education to create meaningful and engaging learning experiences. Her greatest joy is working with 5-7 year olds, fostering a rich, nurturing environment filled with books and hands-on opportunities for exploration and growth. Some of her favorites: cooking, spending time with her six grandbabies, and spending summers camping and hiking in Oregon with her husband.

Kristin has been a member of the Evergreen team since 2020 and has become an integral part of the magic of our school. She played a key role in helping Evergreen Academy achieve its two accreditations through Cognia and in receiving the highest learner-driven marks possible as an IALDS Gold-certified school. Kristin holds a Master’s in Human Relations and a Bachelor’s in Psychology, both from OU. Before joining Evergreen, she founded a highly successful nonprofit homeschool group where she taught classes. At Evergreen, she enjoys designing quests and engaging writing projects for the learners in Discovery I Studio. Some of her favorites: dark chocolate, laughing, and spending time with animals—especially her two beloved dogs.

Jeff is passionate about hands-on learning and inspiring curiosity in young learners. As Evergreen’s Discovery II Lead Guide, Jeff helps learners grow in independence, take ownership of their work, and explore new ideas. His passion for Civilization (history and social studies) and art inspires thoughtful discussions, creative expression, and hands-on discovery. With experience teaching in a nature-based, alternative education setting, Jeff brings a love for innovative teaching methods and a dedication to helping children thrive. His interests include reading, writing, movies, video games, hiking, and camping, which often spark connections with learners and enrich his teaching. Some of his favorites: spending time with his wife, Beth, a physical therapist, and their daughters that attend the school, as well as enjoying family adventures hiking and camping in the great outdoors.

Meg is passionate about helping young people discover who they are and what they’re capable of. She believes learning should be meaningful, creative, and driven by each learner’s unique journey. Before joining Evergreen, Meg served as a high school English teacher, Yearbook advisor, and Student Council sponsor. After being named Teacher of the Year, she stepped into a leadership role as an Instructional Coach, supporting learners and fellow teachers across a variety of subjects. Meg holds a Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction and a Bachelor’s in Communication, Media & Ethics. As Evergreen’s Lead Middle School Guide, Meg helps learners build independence, take ownership of their work, and navigate challenges with confidence. She also supports high school learners alongside the High School Guide, bringing curiosity, care, and a deep respect for each learner’s path. Outside of school, Meg enjoys writing, creating content, traveling, meditating, and spending time with her four children and a house full of pets.

Elle supports Evergreen Academy by strengthening systems, building partnerships, and managing initiatives that support a thriving learner-driven community. She works alongside school leadership to advance daily operations and strategic planning, creating the foundation that allows Guides to focus on what matters most: empowering learners to take ownership of their education and begin their Hero’s Journey. With a background in international education, nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and program development, Elle has spent her career helping mission-driven organizations turn big ideas into sustainable impact. Elle is passionate about creating environments where young people can discover their strengths, develop confidence, and pursue their unique callings. She believes strong communities are built through collaboration, intentional relationships, and a shared commitment to helping others thrive. Outside of Evergreen, Elle enjoys traveling with her family, cultivating meaningful collaborations, and championing opportunities that inspire growth and purpose.

Micci Underwood brings heart, playfulness, and a love of music to every learning experience. With over 20 years of experience and a background in both performance and early childhood education, she creates joyful, hands-on opportunities for learners to explore rhythm, melody, and creative expression. Micci holds a Bachelor of Science in Piano with minors in Psychology and Voice, as well as a Master of Music Education. She is certified in Kodály and Music Together® for Families and Early Childhood. As Evergreen’s music guide, Micci blends structure and freedom in a way that sparks curiosity and wonder. Whether singing, moving, or playing instruments, she encourages learners to find their voice and build confidence through music. Outside of the studio, Micci enjoys teaching piano lessons, spending time with her family, and spreading joy through music wherever she goes.

Sadie has always known that working with children is where she belongs. From babysitting and volunteering to spending time in a special education classroom, she has found so much joy in helping children learn, grow, and discover who they are. She is currently studying to become a child psychologist and is excited to bring her passion for understanding and supporting children to her work at Evergreen. Outside of Evergreen, Sadie enjoys getting lost in a good book, spending time outdoors; no matter the weather and being creative. She loves crafting and trying new things, even when a project doesn’t quite turn out the way she planned!

Todd Baker brings more than three decades of experience as a music educator, band director, and performer to Evergreen Academy. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance from Texas Tech University and has taught learners from elementary school through college. His career includes multiple Teacher of the Year awards and nearly 30 years on the faculty of the Southwestern Oklahoma State University Band Camp. At Evergreen, Todd helps learners explore music, build confidence, and discover the joy of making music together. He also teaches throughout the Norman community, including with the Norman Homeschool Band and through private lessons. Some of his favorites: golfing, trying restaurants with his wife, Mamie, and spending time with their dog, Lou—while doing his best to peacefully coexist with their three cats.

Georgette Dobkin is the Learning Design Consultant for Evergreen Academy, working behind the scenes to shape curriculum and learning experiences that empower high-quality self-directed learning. With over 20 years of experience in education, she brings a deep understanding of learner-driven environments that foster curiosity, independence, and excellence. Before retiring, Georgette founded Acton Academy Marietta, where she championed the Acton model and guided countless young heroes on their learning journeys. Her passion for education continues as she helps design meaningful and impactful learning experiences at Evergreen. Some of her favorites: traveling to new places, savoring a good cup of tea, and getting lost in a great book.