Ben Ashfield
STAFF
After a twenty-year career as an award-winning creative director in advertising, Ben turned his attention to education. A father of three, he began to see just how many kids are struggling—and how little the conventional system is doing to meet their needs. That realization, combined with his curiosity about the growing global movement to rethink learning, led him and his wife Tammy to co-found The Village Electric in 2021.
Embracing self-directed learning himself, Ben is now immersing himself in the study of child development, psychology, and alternative education. He’s driven by the belief that too many children are suffering in environments that were never built for them—and that we can do better. His goal is to help create a space where every child feels safe, supported, and free to become who they are.
Ben especially loves sharing his interests in design, technology, fine art, sports, and hands-on making with kids of all ages—and learning just as much from them in return.
Tammy Tiranasar
STAFF
Tammy began her career as a fashion and jewelry designer, with her womenswear and jewelry collections featured in Barneys and Anthropologie. As a mother of three, she has experienced a range of educational models and feels deeply aligned with the philosophies of A.S. Neill and Daniel Greenberg, founders of Summerhill and Sudbury Valley.
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Drawing inspiration from their work, Tammy is a passionate advocate for self-directed learning, believing that children flourish when given the freedom to grow on their own terms. She is continually exploring questions about talent, genius, and how to support children in leading joyful, meaningful lives.
The Extended Team
These talented professionals lead our optional classes—offering their expertise while respecting each child's autonomy to engage, or observe on their own terms.
Corey Samuels
LEGO
A contestant on Season 1 of LEGO Masters US, Corey’s incredible builds have not only wowed TV audiences but also raised $5,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Now, Corey focuses on teaching kids and adults how to use LEGO as a tool for creativity and STEM learning. With experience leading workshops for companies like Coinbase and Capitol One, Corey is dedicated to helping everyone—big and small—unlock their imagination, one brick at a time.
Marcia LeBeau
POETRY
Award-winning poet Marcia LeBeau leads poetry class. Author of full-length poetry collection titled "A Curious Hunger" and founder of The Write Space, Marcia brings her expertise as a published poet, MFA graduate, and seasoned teacher to the classroom. With work featured in "O, The Oprah Magazine", "Rattle," and more, she’s passionate about helping kids discover the magic of words and their own unique voices.
Louis De Lauro
JUGGLING AND CHESS
Lou has taught for 34 years in NJ and PA. In 1998, he won the Governor's Teaching Award for his service at John P. Faber School in Dunellen, NJ. He also won an Outstanding Educator's Award from TCNJ in 2006. During his tenure in Dunellen, Louis has coached 4 chess teams to state championships. Louis has volunteered at camps that serve children with cancer for over 30 years, teaching juggling and chess.
Colin Beere
SCIENCE
Colin is a certified teacher who has taught globally from forest schools to main stream environments. As a result of his experiences, he has realized the value in alternative learning and wants to capture those opportunities alongside his love for teaching STEM. He tailors his classes to accommodate all ages.
Board of Directors
Our Board provides guidance and oversight, ensuring our nonprofit stays true to its mission of supporting self-directed education and a thriving learning community.