Curious Cubs - Our Directors

Curious Cubs Learning Tree

MACKINZIE GASKINS

Curious Cubs Learning Tree is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization...

Curious-cubs.net is the official website and primary communication domain of Curious Cubs Learning Tree.

Hi! I am also a Founder and Vice President of Curious Cubs Learning Tree and a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) with experience working with children with autism and other developmental and learning differences. Through my work in the behavioral health field, I have developed strong skills in behavior support, patience, structure, and individualized learning strategies that help children succeed both academically and socially.

Before becoming an RBT, I worked as a pharmacy technician, where I developed strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the importance of helping and serving others. My transition into working with children allowed me to follow my passion for helping children grow, learn, and gain confidence in themselves.

My passion for Curious Cubs Learning Tree is also personal. I have ADHD myself and I am the mother of two children who also have ADHD. Through my personal and professional experiences, I understand firsthand that children who learn differently often need a different environment to be successful. This perspective helps me connect with students and families in a meaningful way and advocate for learning environments that support each child’s individual needs.

I helped found Curious Cubs Learning Tree after seeing a need in the community for a smaller, more supportive learning environment for children who may struggle in traditional school settings. I am passionate about creating a safe, structured, and nurturing environment where children feel supported, understood, and encouraged to grow at their own pace.

At Curious Cubs Learning Tree, I help oversee daily operations, student support, behavior support strategies, and communication with families. My goal is to help each child build confidence, independence, and a love for learning in a positive and faith-based environment.

AMBER HOCKENSMITH

Curious Cubs Learning Tree is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization...

Curious-cubs.net is the official website and primary communication domain of Curious Cubs Learning Tree.

Hello! I am the Founder and President of Curious Cubs Learning Tree. I am also a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) with a strong background in healthcare administration, surgery scheduling, insurance authorization, referrals, and medical operations management across multiple specialties including General Surgery, Advanced Gastroenterology, Breast Care, Bariatrics, Vascular, and Interventional Radiology.

I founded Curious Cubs Learning Tree after seeing a need in the community for children who may struggle in traditional school environments and need a smaller, more supportive, individualized learning setting. My passion for Curious Cubs is both professional and deeply personal. I am the mother of a 11-year-old son with autism who is now homeschooled after struggling in the public school system. Through that journey, I have experienced firsthand the challenges families face when trying to find the right educational environment and support system for their child.

That experience is what led me to help create Curious Cubs Learning Tree — a place where children are supported, understood, and given the opportunity to learn in a way that works for them, not against them. My goal is to build a faith-based learning environment where children can grow academically, socially, and emotionally, while also building confidence, independence, and a love for learning.

I am passionate about creating a program that not only supports children, but also supports families who are walking the journey of raising and educating children with autism, ADHD, and diverse learning needs.

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