Educators

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Krystal Mitchell, M.Ed.

Founder & Owner, Learning to Flourish

Krystal Mitchell is a seasoned educator and visionary leader with over 18 years of experience in early childhood and elementary education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University in Human Development, Family Science, and Education, with a concentration in Early Childhood Development. She also earned a Master’s degree in Education from Mount Vernon Nazarene University.

Krystal began her career teaching preschool and pre-kindergarten while in college, later earning “Teacher of the Year” honors during her time teaching kindergarten at Cornerstone Academy in Westerville. She received advanced training as a curriculum coordinator, which laid the foundation for her leadership in instructional development. Krystal went on to teach kindergarten at Columbus Academy, where she helped lead a grant-funded Robotics and Maker Space program. She served on several key committees, including Diversity and Inclusion, Accreditation, and Student Support Services, and worked as a Reading Specialist supporting Pre-Kindergarten through 4th grade students. In this role, she mentored teachers and played a central role in the implementation of the school’s literacy curriculum.

A passionate advocate for elevating educational standards, Krystal is deeply committed to the strategic growth and development of educational organizations that support the holistic development of students. She believes in cultivating environments where children thrive academically, emotionally, and socially—setting a strong foundation for success beyond the classroom.

Krystal lives in New Albany, Ohio with her husband and their three sons. She is the Founder and Owner of Learning to Flourish, a wellness preschool dedicated to empowering children through research-based education and a commitment to optimal well-being.

Jody Washbourne

Director, Learning to Flourish New Albany & Gahanna

Jody holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. She has spent her entire professional career working with young children, bringing over three decades of experience to the classroom. Jody has worked across various age groups, with a strong focus on early childhood education, where she has consistently fostered warm, structured environments that support both academic and emotional growth. Her top VIA character strengths—Kindness, Love, Leadership, Forgiveness, and Gratitude—inform every aspect of her teaching practice.

Jody’s approach is rooted in strong relationships and intentional guidance. She creates a calm, respectful classroom culture where each child feels seen and supported. She is especially passionate about helping children experience the joy of learning—whether it’s through mastering a new concept or offering a helping hand to a peer. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, and her daily work reflects a deep understanding of child development and social-emotional learning.

Outside of school, Jody enjoys spending time with her family and grandchildren, reading, and appreciating the world around her. These personal interests inspire her work with children and help her bring presence, patience, and joy into the classroom.