DIRECTOR & GRADES 3-5 TEACHER

M.Ed. Curriculum Specialist: Early Childhood

Master of Library and Information Science

B.S. Early Childhood Education

After more than 15 years in education, Susan Ralls made the decision to step away from traditional school models to create something more aligned with how children learn best.

Her work has taken her through a range of settings, including Houston ISD, St. John’s School, St. Paul’s School, as well as museums and libraries. Through these experiences, she gained a deep understanding of both the strengths and the limitations of conventional education, and a growing conviction that a smaller, more intentional approach was needed.

That vision became Northwood Cottage School: a microschool designed to be both academically strong and deeply personal. Here, students are known, supported, and challenged within a carefully curated learning environment, and families are valued as true partners in the educational process.

Susan is passionate about children’s literature and the role it plays in shaping confident, curious readers. She also believes in the power of play as a foundation for resilience, independence, and meaningful learning.

Her work is guided by a simple belief: when we design schools around children, not systems, students thrive.

GRADES K-1 TEACHER

Master of Arts in Teaching

B.A. Psychology

A quest to bring joy back to education led Ashley Jones to microschools. 

After years of teaching in public, charter and private institutions, Ashley dedicated a summer to coaching educators in Uganda. That valuable international experience inspired her to pursue positive change upon returning to the United States. 

At Northwood Cottage School, Ashley utilizes compassionate communication, and the power of choice, as tools to foster children’s sense of agency. She is committed to equipping students with the self-regulation skills they need in order to master foundational academic concepts.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT TEACHER

GRADES 1-2 TEACHER

B.S. Interdisciplinary Studies
Minors in Psychology, Sociology, and Theatre

Ivy Chagolla's passion for education is rooted in her belief that every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and capable of success. Her educational background in interdisciplinary studies, combined with minors in psychology, sociology, and theatre, has shaped her understanding of how children learn, connect, and express themselves.

Before becoming a classroom teacher, Ivy worked as a Special Education Teaching Assistant, where she developed a strong foundation in supporting diverse learners and building meaningful relationships with students. Since then, she has taught elementary students across multiple grade levels, creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that foster curiosity, confidence, and academic growth.

Ivy is drawn to the microschool model because it allows teachers to truly know their students and tailor learning experiences to meet individual needs. She believes that strong relationships, a sense of belonging, and joyful learning are essential ingredients for student success.

At Northwood Cottage School, Ivy is committed to nurturing the whole child while helping students develop the skills and confidence needed to become lifelong learners. Her work is guided by a simple belief: when children feel supported and empowered, they can achieve remarkable things.