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Discover our story, our work, and our impact.

Our journey began with a single mission: to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Options in Education Foundation has grown from a local initiative into a transformative force serving thousands of students each year. From offering our first scholarship opportunities to launching mental health services, each milestone marks a step forward in breaking down barriers to student success. Our growth has been fueled by partnerships, compassion, and a deep commitment to equity in education.

Meet Our Team

The people behind the mission are just as important as the mission itself.

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Dr. Mike Gustin,
President/CEO

Educational Background

  • Ed.D in Educational Leadership – Ball State University
  • Ed.S in Educational Leadership & Superintendent License – Ball State University
  • M.A. in Educational Leadership & K-12 Administrative License – Ball State University
  • B.S. in Education (Social Studies) – Indiana University

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Mike joined the Options team in July 2008, bringing with him a strong foundation in education and a passion for supporting students. His career in education began in August 1993 as a Social Studies teacher and basketball and track coach at Cowan High School near Muncie, Indiana. Since then, he has remained committed to student growth and development.

At Options Charter Schools, he finds deep fulfillment in several aspects of the work. He values the board and staff’s unified commitment to the mission of serving at-risk students and holds a genuine affection and respect for each team member. He especially appreciates the unique blend of professionalism and familial warmth that characterizes the school culture, believing it creates a more supportive environment for both adults and students. One of the most rewarding parts of his role is the ability to recognize and support each student as an individual addressing their challenges and helping them develop strategies for success. The Options motto, Belong, Believe, Achieve, resonates with him on both a personal and professional level, reflecting his dedication to helping students reconnect with school culture and redefine themselves in positive, affirming ways.

Outside of Options, he enjoys a wide variety of activities shared with close friends and family. Whether relaxing at home, traveling, golfing, taking motorcycle trips, attending sporting events, or simply enjoying good food, he finds joy in spending quality time with the people who matter most to him.

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Jacob Brandau,
Vice President

Educational Background

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture with Minor in Mathematics
  • Certificate of Secondary Education (Mathematics)
  • Master’s Degree in Education Administration and Supervision
  • Licensed in Mathematics Teaching
  • Licensed Principal

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Jake joined Options in 2011, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to his role. One of the aspects he values most about working at Options is the people: he describes the staff as caring, funny, and like an extended family. Over the years, Jake has cherished the relationships he’s built with students and finds it incredibly rewarding to follow their progress even after graduation. He reflects that he feels more supported and cared for by his coworkers and supervisors at Options than at any other workplace, something for which he is deeply grateful.

Outside of work, Jake enjoys spending time with his wife, Amy, who is also a teacher, and their two children, Ava and Jack. He describes them as energetic and full of fun, keeping life exciting and unpredictable. A naturally active person, Jake considers himself a runner at heart, though he is currently competing in triathlons.

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Mirranda Adams,
Executive Director of Options In Education Foundation

Educational Background

  • Bachelor’s in Social Work, minor in Organizational Communication – Ball State University
  • MicroMasters in Data, Economics, and Design of Policy – Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification – Project Management Institute

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Mirranda brings seven years of experience in public administration, with a focus on policy advocacy and nonprofit strategy. She specializes in helping mission-driven organizations strengthen infrastructure, align with evolving policy landscapes, and secure sustainable funding. Her work reflects a strong commitment to access, equity, and long-term impact.

Prior to joining Options, Mirranda worked with the Markle Foundation to advance inclusive workforce and adult education policies across 30 states. She later provided consulting services to education organizations and local nonprofits, advising on state policy, program evaluation, and competitive grant strategies. Her focus is on helping small and mid-sized organizations turn vision into measurable outcomes, with a particular passion for building programs that empower students and support educators.

Outside of work, Mirranda is active in the arts and creative community. She enjoys attending gallery shows, writing on culture and public life, making music with friends, and spending time with her nieces and nephews.

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Karen Oliver,
Chief Academic Officer

Educational Background

  • B.S. in Journalism and Secondary Education – Ball State University
  • M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction – University of Indianapolis
  • M.A. in Educational Leadership – University of Indianapolis

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Karen joined the Options team in August 2021, bringing decades of experience and a passion for innovative education. Her career in the field began in August 1993 as a journalism teacher and advisor within Indianapolis Public Schools, where she discovered a love for engaging students through creative expression and storytelling.

At Options Charter Schools, Karen is inspired by the empowerment and trust placed in educators to think innovatively and embrace non-traditional approaches to teaching and learning. She values the flexibility and understanding that allow for a more personalized and impactful educational experience for students who may not thrive in conventional settings.

Outside of Options, Karen enjoys exploring new experiences that challenge her and push her beyond her comfort zone. She finds great joy in spending quality time with her family and enthusiastically supports her twin sons in all of their pursuits.

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Michael Dunagan,
Chief Operations Officer

Educational Background

  • Master’s of Education in Administration and Supervision – Ball State University

 

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Mike joined the Options team in June 2019, bringing with him a strong background in secondary education and a passion for student success. His journey in the field of education began in July 2006 as a high school social studies teacher, where he discovered his drive to support students both academically and personally.

At Options Charter Schools, Mike is energized by working alongside a team of educators who share a deep commitment to helping all students succeed. He finds particular fulfillment in contributing to an environment that prepares students not only for graduation but also for life beyond high school.

Outside of his professional life, Mike is a dedicated Disney enthusiast. He and his family are frequent visitors to Disney parks and enjoy collecting, watching, listening to, and experiencing all things Disney together. A passionate runner, Mike has completed several half marathons and maintains a regular running routine. He is also a devoted fan of the Indianapolis Colts and enjoys opportunities to meet the players whenever he can.

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Jack Colwell,
Chief Financial Officer

Educational Background

  • B.S. Journalism and Secondary Education – Ball State University
  • M.A. Curriculum and Instruction – University of Indianapolis
  • M.A. Educational Leadership – University of Indianapolis

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Jack joined the Options team in August 2021, bringing with him extensive experience in education and a strong commitment to student-centered learning. His career in education began in August 1993 as a journalism teacher and advisor with Indianapolis Public Schools, where he developed a deep appreciation for student voice and creativity.

At Options Charter Schools, Jack values the freedom to think innovatively and the supportive environment that embraces non-traditional teaching and learning methods. He is passionate about meeting students where they are and helping them thrive in ways that align with their unique strengths and needs.

Beyond his professional role, Jack enjoys exploring new experiences that challenge him and push him beyond his comfort zone. He especially cherishes time spent with his family and takes great pride in supporting his twin sons in all of their pursuits.

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

JoDee Curtis,
Board Member

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JoDee joined the Options Schools Board of Directors in November 2024, motivated by a desire to learn more about education and the unique impact of Options Schools. She was introduced to the opportunity by fellow board member Leah York and was drawn to the organization’s mission and commitment to student-focused learning.

Professionally, JoDee is the owner of Purple Ink LLC, a leading HR consulting and talent development firm. With extensive experience in human resources, she brings valuable expertise in leadership, team development, and organizational culture to her role on the board. JoDee is also a published author of five books centered around her signature JoyPowered® philosophy, and she shares her insights as the co-host of the JoyPowered® Podcast.

In her free time, JoDee enjoys reading and traveling, often finding inspiration for both her personal growth and professional endeavors through exploration and reflection.

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Travis Carmean,
Board Chair

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Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Stacy Segal,
Board Member

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Coming Soon!

Medical and Dental Care at Operation Care in Shelbyville, KY

Patricia Ellis,
Board Member

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Patricia joined the Options Schools Board of Directors in September 2021, driven by a strong belief in the power of personalized learning. She was drawn to Options because of its commitment to tailoring education to each student’s unique strengths, interests, and emotional needs. Patricia’s passion for education was deeply influenced by her mother, a dedicated teacher who provided individualized support to students and families. That early exposure, combined with her own experiences with inspiring educators, shaped Patricia’s understanding of the lasting impact of a student-centered approach to learning.

Professionally, Patricia works in healthcare consulting, bringing strategic insight and a service-oriented mindset to her board role. Her expertise in communication, systems thinking, and community engagement supports her dedication to helping Options Schools thrive.

Outside of her professional life, Patricia enjoys world travel, discovering new cuisines and wines with her husband, Jordan. She is also a devoted dog lover and cherishes time spent with her two shih-tzus, Stella and Daenerys.

What We Do

We focus on supporting the whole student academically, emotionally, and professionally.
Our work includes a wide range of services designed to meet students where they are. Through scholarships, mental health services, wellness initiatives, and career development programs, we equip young learners with the resources they need to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.

 

  • Scholarships
  • Mental Health Services
  • Student Wellness Programs
  • Resource Assistance
  • Career Pathways Program

Every contribution goes toward helping students feel supported and seen.

Our Journey

2002

Formed our first public school partnership with Carmel Clay Schools to support their most vulnerable students at risk of disengagement of dropout

2002

Launched our first campus, serving 65 at-risk students in need of personalized academic and emotional support

2003

Partnered with Ball State University

2006

Opened our second campus in Noblesville, Indiana

2016

Launched our virtual program to serve students outside the traditional classroom to truly meet students where they are

2021

Opened our Westfield campus

2022

Partnered with the Simon Youth Foundation to open the new SYF Options Academy

2025

Partnered with Trine University

2025

Launched Options New Vistas High School in Northwest Indiana through a new partnership with NEO

Now

Fueled by rising demand we’re now serving 1,000+ students across all 92 Indiana counties and 135 school districts, supported by 130 mission-driven staff focused on helping each learner belong, believe, and achieve.

Our Partners

Together, we make a greater impact.

Our Sponsors

Donate. Partner. Volunteer.