“facilitator” (noun):
someone who helps to bring about an outcome (such as learning, productivity, or communication) by providing indirect or unobtrusive assistance, guidance, or supervision”

Facilitators support students in clarifying their intentions, getting connected to resources, reflecting on their decisions, engaging with the community, and sharing their learning. Sometimes they offer direct instruction; sometimes they offer patient encouragement to young people figuring things out on their own. Facilitators work to keep the space safe and respectful for everyone. They collaborate with students to develop a culture of care. They model clear communication, collaboration, and authenticity. They witness, model and reflect. They embody the agile roots, and they are grounded in trust.

Our environment and friends facilitate explorations. Visitors facilitate by exchanging questions, and volunteers often facilitate by bringing offerings! Day-to-day, program facilitators accompany and collaborate with young people, nurturing self-possession, curiosity, compassion and joy.

Director and Founding Facilitator Julia Cordero (she/her) has worked with students of all ages in different settings over the past 25 years. She completed her undergraduate degree at Goddard College, a self-directed learning institution. She double-majored in Video Production Education as well as Race and Ethnic Studies in Children.  She moved on to co-direct a project-based youth program for teens in video production at Atlanta’s public access television station, People TV, as well as teach video production in the elementary, junior high and high school at The Paideia School. Just prior to co-founding Heartwood she served on the board at Sudbury School of Atlanta. Find out more about Julia by viewing her interview in The Time is Right video sponsored by the Center for Civil and Human Rights.