Christa Niven

Christa Niven heads Journey School, a nature school in Lynnwood, Washington, founded on the principles of Reggio-Emilia, natural play and Conscious Discipline. As head of school, Christa Niven connects educational initiatives to the community and oversees a staff of 40. Prior to heading Journey School, she oversaw the turnaround of A Child's Journey School, which became recognized as a top choice in the area less than a year after she took the helm.

Over the course of two decades, Christa Niven and her husband have cared for more than 30 foster children, many of whom struggled with chemical dependencies or had been diagnosed with oppositional defiance disorder. They have hosted young moms and their children, as well as adjudicated boys.

An organic gardener, Ms. Niven ensures that Journey School relies on local and organic food.