Certell Core Values
Fostering a Generation of
Independent Thinkers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Certell a virtual school?
No, Certell provides unbiased, world-class engaging digital curriculum to teachers, at no cost to them, for in-person learning.
What is provided for teachers?
Teachers receive access to e-books with activities and assessments for use in their classrooms.
What types of schools use Certell curriculum?
Public, private, co-op, micro-schools, homeschools, and any other in-person learning environment.
How many students are using Certell curriculum?
Approximately 3.2 million.
Who pays for the curriculum and the technical delivery platform for teachers?
Certell is supported by individuals and foundations. We are a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization and donations are 100% tax deductible.
Click here to donate online.
Our Team
Fred Fransen, Ph.D.
Co-Founder and CEO
Fred's career has been dedicated to improving the ability of people around the world to live prosperous and free lives by increasing their educational opportunities. His work and interests have taken him to six continents, more than 60 countries, and all 50 states. In addition to the development of U.S. social studies courses, he has been involved in numerous initiatives to deliver Certell digital learning resources in U.S. prisons, as well as to students around the world, including in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Fred is the former Director of Higher Education Programs at The Philanthropy Roundtable and Senior Fellow of the Liberty Fund, where he helped develop more than 2,000 educational seminars on topics including European liberalism and the American founding. He is the author of The Supranational Politics of Jean Monnet: Ideas and Origins of the European Community. Fred earned a Ph.D. in Social Thought from the University of Chicago.
Kaitlin Gutwein
Content Administrator
Kaitlin graduated from Grove City College, majoring in History and with a specialization in Secondary Education. Her classical education throughout high school and her emphasis on the humanities in college sparked Kaitlin's passion for well-rounded education, and her opportunities to travel abroad opened her eyes to the importance of investigative learning.
Lisa Hazlett Roberts
Chief Philanthropy Officer
Lisa has over 20 years of experience in philanthropy and education and a profound commitment to expanding educational access for students everywhere. She has played a key role in securing funding for educational institutions and think tanks worldwide, contributing significantly to their development and innovation. As an adjunct professor at Indian River State College, Lisa lends her expertise to the business and technology department. A Florida native, she holds a BA from the University of North Florida and an MBA from Jacksonville University.
Sam Keyes
Director of Information Technology
Sam is a dynamic IT Director with a multifaceted background encompassing IT, Graphic Design, and Marketing. His diverse expertise allows him to seamlessly integrate technology solutions with creative design and strategic marketing initiatives. Sam's proficiency in IT ensures that systems are robust, secure, and efficient.
Jason Kops, Ph.D.
Director of Systems and Sales
Jason has a diverse professional background in food service, sales, and education. After obtaining his PhD in Integrated Coastal Sciences with a focus on economics from East Carolina University, he believes private enterprise education provides the greatest opportunity to enrich his community, his nation, and the world. He is inspired by the works of Thomas Sowell, Murray Rothbard, and Henry Hazlitt.
Michelle Leonard
Director of Administration
Michelle has worked for Certell since 2019 and has supported the overall operations for the organization. Prior to Certell, she served in business management roles for home builders and property management firms. She has an Associates in Business degree from Indiana Wesleyan University
Alex Pack
Donor Engagement Manager
Alex came to Certell after serving as the Membership Officer of Common Sense Society and working for The Cato Institute. He is passionate about K-12 education and serves on the St. Albans Alumni board. Alex received a BA in English from The College of Charleston.
Beth Patterson
Creative Director
Beth Patterson is a multifaceted artist with over 20 years of experience helping organizations and individuals take their brands and ideas to a higher level. Her incredible heart and ability to view the world on a deep, emotional level give her a unique perspective and approach to developing strategic and emotionally resonant creative. Beth built a reputation for innovative thinking and creative marketing for clients across the country, helping them reach new levels of success. Now she's using her knowledge, talents, and commitment to quality to further Certell’s vision and mission and help us reach a greater level of impact.
Julie Smitherman
Vice President of Programs
Julie was a high school social studies teacher for eight years before joining Certell to help craft its social studies curriculum. Julie earned a master’s degree in economics from George Mason University, and a bachelor’s degree in social studies teacher education from Purdue University.
Jessy Swisher
Philanthropy Administrative Coordinator
Jessy supports the philanthropy team with her database magic and donor communication skills. She is also a talented barista, having formerly worked at a coffee shop that served the deaf community. Beyond her professional expertise, Jessy is deeply passionate about humanitarian issues, social justice, and community well-being. She also has a profound love for cats, advocating for animal welfare in her free time.Governance
Make a Difference
Certell, Inc. is funded by donors who believe all teachers and students should have access to quality curriculum. Our donors do not influence or control the content that we produce and distribute.