The Board of Directors: Guiding the Vision
As is customary in Waldorf schools, City of Fountains School does not have a traditional hierarchical structure. Instead, it is governed by a three-fold structure composed of three realms: Board of Directors, which is responsible for legal and financial matters, the Faculty, which is responsible for pedagogical matters, and Administration, accountable for the day-to-day running of the school and business matters. Working hand-in-hand with parents, parent association, and Lead Teachers, each realm holds as its shared priority the well-being of the children. Our governance model is structured to embrace collaboration and, most importantly, our students.
The Board of Directors is a devoted group of school community members volunteering their time to continue growing a sustainable and nourishing Waldorf inspired school. The Board provides supportive oversight to all other realms of the school. The board is responsible for strategic planning, budget approval, leadership, legalities and risk management oversight matters of the school.
This group, composed of COFS parents, staff and community members, meets bi-monthly to carry out the functions of budget review/approval, and other school development needs. The Board takes input from the school community and other governing realms to approve budget and establish policies and procedures.
The Board is always looking for energetic and creative people who have expertise in one or more of the following areas:
Legal
Insurance
Finance and Investments Real Estate
Networking and fundraising
Non-profit board experience
Strategic Planning
Site development or construction
2024- 2025 School Year Board Members:
Daniela Hindman - Presider
Stephen Flanery - Co-Presider
Shannon Berry - Treasurer
Jill Paton - Scribe
Layla Olberding - Faculty Chair
Please take a minute to get to get to know our 2024- 2025 School Year Board Members:
Daniela Hindman - Presider and school administrator
Growing up in the beautiful city of Quito, Ecuador, I was deeply inspired by my mother, a devoted K-12 educator who embodied the spirit of Waldorf ideals. My own adventure in Waldorf education began when my daughter participated in the parent-child program at the St. Louis Waldorf School. When we relocated to Kansas City in 2012, finding a nurturing environment for her was our top priority. That’s when we discovered City of Fountains School, which was just beginning as a once-per-week homeschool enrichment program.
From the moment we joined this community, I felt an incredible sense of belonging. It has been my absolute honor to serve as the school’s administrator since 2013, working alongside a group of passionate and big-hearted individuals who invest their love and dedication into every child’s growth. I’ve always dreamed of changing the world, and I am so grateful to be part of a place where we’re making a difference—one child at a time.
Stephen Flanery - Co-Presider and COFS parent
My family and I have been a part of the COFS community since 2018. I enjoy cooking, gardening, reading about nature, and going on walks and hikes. I spend my days as an HR Manager and my free time with my wife, daughter and our three cats.
Shannon Berry - Treasurer and COFS parent
My name is Shannon Berry. My most famous role is as Isaiah's mom. My husband, Reggie, and I are both originally from Houston but we have lived in KC for over 10 years now and call it our home.
I work in finance as a Senior Investment Analyst at American Century Investments where I pick stocks to go in investment accounts. My job involves analyzing business's strategies and financials, skills I hope to be of use in serving as the Treasurer on the Board. At home, I love to snuggle with a book, play with clay, and dabble in an endless number of hobbies. I have really been grateful to be a part of the City of Fountains community over the past 2 years.
Jill Paton - Scribe and Community member
38 years ago I discovered Waldorf education through the birth of my 2 boys with a resolve to bring that experience to them, my public school teaching, and our community. Understanding our first impulse to open a Waldorf inspired preschool/Kindergarten some 35 years ago has now taken root and grown into COFS is truly heartwarming. Finding COFS here in my neighborhood was one of the highlights since my school retirement. I am thrilled to be able to participate. Take care of your school and each other. With gratitude I return to support and serve. Anam Cara.
Layla Olberding - Faculty Chair and Lead Grades Teacher
I found COFS when my oldest daughter was beginning first grade. We sought a school that would minimize the use of technology in the classroom, encourage a connection to nature and allow for creative endeavors throughout her day. She enjoyed her first year so much I eventually utilized my background as a teacher and social worker to join her at school and begin my own Waldorf teaching journey. I have had the joy of teaching my current 4th grade class since first grade. In my free time I enjoy spending time outside biking, hiking, traveling and watching the Chiefs with my family.
Kari Cottrell - Business Manager
Kari Cottrell serves as the school’s Business Manager, in addition to her role as a parent-child teacher. She participates in our meetings as a non-voting member, providing insights and addressing inquiries regarding the school’s financial and business operations.
This post was written for our Inside the Realms series in our bi-weekly school newsletter, The Wellspring, sent to enrolled families. This series was created to share a closer look at the various realms that make our school special. From the work of our teachers and the care of our administration to the vibrancy of our Parent Association and the leadership of our Board, this column will give you an in-depth view of the many facets of our school community. Join us as we explore the unique roles and efforts that come together to create a nurturing and thriving environment for our students.
