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The Graduation Gap
Think Outside The Blok's
The Pathway Pitch Challenge
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The Graduation Gap
Think Outside The Blok's
The Pathway Pitch Challenge
Our Vision
Our Team
Blog
Login Account
Donate
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Think Outside The Blok's
The Pathway Pitch Challenge
Our Vision
Our Team
Blog
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  • Melanie Dearing | Founder & Education Consultant

    Melanie Dearing is a seasoned education professional with decades of experience in curriculum development, experiential learning design, and student-centered instruction.

    Throughout her career, Melanie has focused on helping students build not just knowledge — but confidence, independence, and practical life skills. Her work spans classroom instruction, hands-on program development, and innovative learning initiatives that empower students to think critically and take ownership of their futures.

    With a background that includes curriculum design in woodworks, art, and healthy lifestyle education, Melanie has consistently prioritized real-world application over rote learning. She believes students learn best when they are challenged to create, defend, and apply their ideas in meaningful ways.

    Melanie’s approach blends rigor with encouragement. She understands that students thrive when expectations are clear, support is present, and ownership is emphasized.

    Her work continues to shape programs that bridge the gap between graduation and a purposeful next step — ensuring students leave not only educated, but prepared.

  • Nicole Elizabeth | Marketing & Branding Director

    Expert in Marketing & Brand Advocacy, passionate in connecting student’s potential with real-world careers, hobbies, and lasting realities.

    Nicole is also the creator of Think Outside The Blok’s, a Rubik’s Cubing initiative that uses hands-on problem solving to teach focus, resilience, and strategic thinking — serving as a proof of concept for her broader approach to real-world readiness.

The Graduation Gap

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KCMO 64108

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