There are some people who simply make a community stronger, and Kristin is one of them. A trusted friend, thoughtful leader, and longtime advocate for children and families, she has spent decades helping kids find the environments where they can truly thrive. Through Ryder Educational Consulting, Kristin brings deep experience, compassion, and an unmatched understanding of schools to families navigating some of the most important decisions they’ll make.
What inspired you to start Ryder Educational Consulting?
I have been an educator for nearly 30 years. I began as a Kindergarten teacher in New England before moving here to Denver in 1999. I earned my Master’s in Administration and Policy Studies from the University of Colorado at Denver, and spent 20 years working at Graland Country Day School. I began as a teacher and then became Assistant Head of Lower School. I spent the majority of my time at Graland as the Director of Admission. My passion is helping children and their families. I started Ryder Educational Consulting, to match kids with the right school for them. Starting this business has allowed me to empower kids not just in one classroom, age group, or one school, but all kids K-12 across Denver and beyond.
What do you love most about being an educator?
Seeing kids shine. My favorite kids have always been the ones who march to their own beat. The ones that other teachers find challenging. I love watching these kids grow as humans and build their confidence. They always end up giving back to their community in their own unique way.
How do you guide students and families through the process of finding the right school?
First, I spend time getting to know the family and understanding their priorities. Then, I spend time getting to know the child. Sometimes that means observing them in a classroom among their peers. Other times, that means sitting and chatting with them one-on-one. I also speak with teachers and other professionals who may be involved in the child’s life. I really take my time. Getting a clear picture of the dynamics at play allows me to make sound recommendations to families and help them feel confident in taking the next steps.
How is this process different for High School students?
Choosing a high school is a bit more student-driven. At this age, students are more in tune with what they want out of a school and a school community. Denver offers a good range of educational options; public, private, charter, and parochial. Yet, even in a city with so many strong choices, the right fit isn’t always easy to find. Sometimes a student’s needs evolve, or a school that once felt right, no longer supports their growth. In those moments, families may need to consider a change mid-stride, re-evaluating what environment will best support their child.
That’s often when families begin to look beyond Denver. Many of the clients I work with come to me seeking a broader perspective. Boarding schools, in particular, can offer a fresh start, providing structure, independence, specialized programs, and a community that aligns more closely with a student’s academic, social, or emotional needs.
As a past parent of a boarding school student I understand the dilemma. This option can be daunting for parents, but boarding schools can have a positive impact on children’s development and self-esteem. They allow students to explore new things, gain independence, and have experiences they wouldn’t otherwise have at home.
Ultimately, my focus is on finding the right fit for each child. I help families understand their options and outline clear next steps to help them move forward with confidence.
What strategies do you use to stay informed about current practices and developments in schools?
I’m in schools all the time. Whether it’s public, charter, or independent, I make the time to observe, understand the culture, and speak with teachers, administrators, and families. My job is to know schools inside and out. I also believe in the importance of continuing professional development. I’m an active member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, and am President of the Volunteer K-12 Committee. I collaborate with other consultants to create professional development resources that benefit us all.
How do you balance your career with being a parent?
I think my experience as a parent has certainly influenced my work, and, in turn, my work has made me a better parent. My sons had specific needs of their own to consider when it came to finding the right schools for them and this is something we’ve had to navigate.
In my free time, I’m most at home outside,whether I’m telemark skiing through fresh snow, exploring trails on my mountain bike, or traveling to experience new places and perspectives. I deeply value time with my family and friends, and much of what I do is grounded in those relationships. I also dedicate time to working with rescued mustangs, which has become a meaningful and humbling part of my life.
My kids see the way I show up, with commitment, professionalism, and genuine passion, and that matters to me. I believe in giving my full energy to the things I care about, whether in my work, my community, or my personal pursuits. Ultimately, my hope is to lead by example and be a strong, positive role model in all aspects of my life.
Can you describe a memorable moment when you helped a student or family find the right school?
Many families come to mind, but one in particular involved a child who was really struggling in school. With a late diagnosis of dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD, the parents were very sad, scared, and worried. Their child was having a really hard time academically and socially in school, and they felt lost about how to help their son. Working with this family to identify their child’s weaknesses, and focus on his strengths, allowed us to narrow down which school culture, accommodations, and setting were just right. Getting to see this student flourish today, with so much more self-confidence, is immensely rewarding.
For more information on Kristin’s services, please visit ryder-ec.com.