Meet Brian and Jon

Brian M. Stack, C.A.G.S., is a New Hampshire Superintendent of Schools and nationally recognized expert in personalized, competency-based education. With nearly two decades as a high school principal, including leadership at the nationally recognized Sanborn Regional High School, Brian now partners with educators across the country to build practical, student-centered systems through his work as a Solution Tree Author and Lead Associate for V&S School Solutions. He is a dynamic speaker and consultant, co-author of Elevating Competency-Based Learning in a PLC at Work©, Unpacking the Competency-Based Classroom, and Breaking With Tradition. Brian’s leadership has earned him numerous accolades, including NH Secondary Principal of the Year (2017). He holds degrees from Boston University, UMass Lowell, and New England College, and lives with his wife and five children on the New Hampshire Seacoast.

Jonathan G. Vander Els is a national consultant, speaker, and author specializing in supporting educators to build and sustain personalized, competency-based systems that ensure high levels of learning for all students. A founding partner and Lead Associate at V&S School Solutions and a Solution Tree Author and Associate, Jonathan draws from his experience as a principal of a nationally recognized PLC and CBE model school. He has presented at conferences and institutes across the U.S. and co-authored four books, including Elevating Competency-Based Learning in a PLC at Work© and Breaking With Tradition. Jonathan holds advanced degrees in education and leadership, is certified as a superintendent, principal, and teacher, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of New Hampshire. He lives with his wife and three children on the New Hampshire Seacoast.