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.
Leadership
Fred Fransen
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jessy Swisher
Administrative Coordinator
Governance
Chairman
Dennis A. Trinkle
Board Member
Sheree Speakman
Treasurer
Jay Utterback
Board Member
Stephen Farris
Board Member
Dominique Lazanski
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.