Our story: a new path for learning
We founded The Alternative Learning Environment LLC to help capable students who struggle in traditional settings, feeling unsuccessful or misunderstood. We believe every student deserves a place where they are not defined by challenges but empowered to overcome them. Our supportive community celebrates alternative learning paths as journeys to individual success. This environment is perfect for families who know a one-size-fits-all education isn't for everyone, especially benefiting those needing individualized attention, flexible methods, and a focus on their strengths. Families will find a supportive, inclusive community where their child's emotional and academic needs are met. We aim to foster self-confidence, a love for learning, and a clear path to achievement for every student.
Meet Our Founders
The Alternative Learning Environment LLC was brought to life by a team dedicated to transformative education. Driven by a shared vision, their collective experience and unwavering belief in personalized learning ensure that every aspect of our program is crafted with student success and well-being at its heart.
Haley Palmieri - Director of Student Services and Classroom Teacher
Haley holds a Bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Studies with a focus in Child Protection and has spent her career supporting children, youth, and families with complex needs. Her professional background includes working with at-risk youth through the Department of Corrections, residential treatment programs, case management, and as a behavior specialist teaching life skills, coping strategies, social skills, and parenting classes.
She has also worked as a special education assistant and most recently as a classroom teacher in the general education setting, giving her a well-rounded perspective on both individualized support and inclusive learning environments.
In addition to her professional experience, Haley is a mother to a son with severe mental health needs. This personal journey began many years ago and has shaped her work in mental health and fueled years of research, education, and advocacy. With more than 20 years in the education and mental health fields, Haley is a strong supporter of mental health awareness and is deeply committed to creating spaces where children and families feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Leah Herron - Director of Instructional Design and Classroom Teacher
Leah is a dedicated and accomplished educator who brings nearly 15 years of classroom experience to our community. Leah holds a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Marian University. Throughout her distinguished career, she has had the privilege of teaching every grade from first through fifth, giving her a truly comprehensive and well-rounded understanding of the elementary learning journey.
Leah arrives with a passion for curriculum development and a remarkable talent for transforming educational content into dynamic, engaging, and joyful learning experiences. She believes that every child deserves a classroom that sparks curiosity and cultivates a lifelong love of learning — and she brings that belief to life each and every day.
Beyond the classroom, Leah is a devoted mother of two daughters. One of her daughters has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), an experience that has profoundly deepened her perspective on teaching and learning. This personal journey has not only strengthened her empathy and understanding but has also made her a fiercer advocate for every student who walks through the door — ensuring that each child feels seen, supported, and celebrated. Leah’s passion, expertise, and heart will make a lasting impact on our students and school community.
Somer - Director of Administrative Services
With over 25 years of experience in educational retail management and more than 29 years in customer service, Somer brings a unique blend of leadership, creativity, and heart to our learning environment. Her background has shaped a deep understanding of how people learn, grow, and thrive when they feel supported and valued. A lifelong problem-solver with an artsy, creative spirit, she enjoys designing innovative learning experiences that are both engaging and meaningful.
Somer was drawn to this work through personal experience, having witnessed her nephew struggle for years with mental health challenges. This journey deepened her commitment to creating learning environments where students feel safe, understood, and supported as whole individuals. Deeply committed to community outreach, she believes education extends beyond the classroom and is strongest when schools actively support and connect with the families and communities they serve. Outside of education, Somer is a passionate advocate for rescue animals, reflecting her belief in compassion, second chances, and caring for the whole community.
Kayla - Director of Community Partnerships and Special Education Teacher
With over 15 years of experience in special education, Kayla has dedicated her career to supporting students who need something different from a traditional school setting. She has worked extensively with students who experience emotional and behavioral challenges, learning differences, and difficulties thriving in large or rigid educational environments.
Before entering education, Kayla worked with youth in a residential treatment facility, providing intensive behavioral support to students with complex needs. This early experience shaped her understanding of trauma-informed care, consistency, and the importance of building trust with students who may have struggled elsewhere.
Kayla holds a Master’s degree in Special Education, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and currently work as a part-time Behavior Consultant, allowing her to bring evidence-based strategies, behavioral insight, and individualized support into every aspect of this environment.