Inkwood Founder

Inkwood Founder Liz QuistLiz Quist, Founder 

I am passionate about helping students experience transformational education, learning that shapes both intellect and character. My journey began with a single question in high school, inspired by Jane Austen’s classical education:

"If Jane Austen was educated in the way you described, and accomplished what she did in her life, why aren’t we doing education the same way?"

That question has guided my life’s work, and I’ve spent over 20 years studying and practicing the principles of true education, mentoring students, and creating adventurous learning experiences that cultivate deep thinking, creativity, and moral character.

Resume Highlights

  • Co-Founder & K–12 Executive Director — Founded and led a network of high-performing, leadership-centered schools.
  • Curriculum Designer — Extensive experience developing curriculum for high school, college (U.S. and international), and educational technology programs.
  • College Instructor — Developed and teach dynamic entrepreneurship courses that connect real-world experience with classroom learning.
  • Award-Winning Mentor — Voted Best Mentor by both high school and college students.
  • Parent Education Coach — Guided hundreds of families in designing effective, purpose-driven education pathways.
  • Creator of Home-Based Education Courses — Developed and offer recorded online courses such as Phases of Education and How to Homeschool in a Week through Alcott Learning.
  • Education Consultant — Provide consulting for schools and education technology companies.
  • Education Speaker — Presented at conferences, on news segments, and in podcasts.

My Educational Philosophy

  • Aligning with the natural developmental stages of learning is critical for the development of the mind and moral character.

  • True education combines tailored mentorship, classic texts, creative projects, field experiences, and robust conversations.

  • Mentors and students thrive when they are engaged, supported, and inspired.

  • Too often, schools neglect the deep human desire to truly learn. My mission is to restore and support that desire through timeless principles of real education.

Personal Story & Motivation

Early in my teaching career, I saw a truth too many ignore: our education system squanders potential. Hours are wasted on busywork, curiosity is smothered by boredom, and students are left adrift - without purpose, passion, or meaningful guidance. These challenges convinced me that real learning must be built around the natural developmental phases students go through, with environments where talented mentors thrive and students are deeply engaged. I have created these kinds of environments with great success again and again, proving that when education aligns with both human development and true principles, transformation happens. I believe every student deserves mentors who bring not only expertise and real-world experience but also moral integrity. I founded Inkwood to carry forward the mentorship and educational excellence I was fortunate to receive, offering small, rigorous courses that inspire students to think critically, lead responsibly, and grow into their fullest potential.