Who We Are

A passionate team working to support educators and drive meaningful change in education.

Rooted in Purpose, driven by impact

The Academy for Educators, powered by PLS 3rd Learning, creates innovative solutions that elevate teaching and improve student outcomes.

We collaborate with educators, technology experts, and partner organizations to build systems that address real challenges in professional learning—helping close achievement gaps and prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

At the heart of our work is service—service to colleagues, partners, projects, and most importantly, to children. Guided by PLS 3rd Learning’s mission, we are committed to improving life prospects for students everywhere.

Our mission is clear: empower educators to lead meaningful, sustainable growth in schools and communities—locally and globally.

Visit PLS 3rd Learning opens in external window to learn more about our full range of offerings.

The People Behind the Mission

Headshot of Steve Barkley

Stephen Barkley, M.Ed.

Chief Learning Officer, Executive VP
Hunter Bielat headshot

Hunter Bielat

Chief Operating Officer
Headshot of Breanne Callahan

Breanne Callahan

Digital Designer
Mary Ann Cozza headshot

Mary Ann Cozza

Enrollment Coordinator
Dave Duran headshot

David Duran

Chief Technology Officer
Aaron Feuerstein headshot

Aaron Feuerstein

ADA Compliance Technical Support Specialist
Colin Freeburg headshot

Colin Freeburg

Chief Financial Officer
Brian Heyward headshot

Brian Heyward, Ed.D.

President, State Government & Education Partnerships
Don Jacobs headshot

Donald Jacobs, Ph.D.

Executive Chairman, Founder
Joe Jacobs headshot

Joe Jacobs

Director of Digital Media
Harry Jones headshot

Harry Jones

Video & Media Specialist
Margaux Judge headshot

Margaux Judge, M.S.

VP of Course Design
Judy Lalli headshot

Judy Lalli

Coordinator of Online Instruction
Lorene Malanowski headshot

Lorene Malanowski

Project Director
Regis Marrale headshot

Regis Marrale

Director of ADA Compliance
Gretchen Restino headshot

Gretchen Restino

Sr. Strategic Partnership Executive
Cristin Scordato headshot

Cristin Scordato, M.S.Ed.

Instructional Designer
Emily Scordato headshot

Emily Scordato

Billing Specialist
Nancy Seay headshot

Nancy Seay

Program Manager
Rob Seitelman headshot

Rob Seitelman

Strategic Partnership Executive