About the Founder
Caitlin B. Knowles, M.A.Ed., M.S.Ed., is an experienced educator and the founder of Open Mind Learning. She holds a California K–12 Special Education Teaching Credential and two master’s degrees in education, including one from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education. She was also honored with a competitive fellowship from Jacobs Foundation, supporting advanced study and research focused on the development of private and community-based neurodiversity affirming programming for children. With over 20 years of experience and personal connection, Caitlin brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to her work. She specializes in supporting neurodivergent learners, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, behavioral challenges, expressive language challenges, and giftedness, through individualized and small-group academic and social-emotional support that builds confidence, skills, and joy in learning.
Our Supporting Educators
Sidney Brown, Learning Specialist
Sidney Brown is an independent tutor who supports children with special needs through personalized, engaging instruction. With over 15 years of experience, her work has spanned roles from 1:1 classroom aide to classroom teacher, supporting students from elementary through young adulthood. She focuses on building confidence, strengthening foundational skills, and adapting to each child’s unique learning style. As a mom, family is deeply important to her, and she strives to create a supportive, encouraging environment where every child feels capable and understood.
Verjai Atkins, Group and Camp Support Teacher
Verjai Atkins brings over 20 years of experience supporting children and teens with a wide range of learning and developmental needs, with a special passion for working with children ages 4–7. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing, supportive environment where children feel safe, confident, and encouraged to grow. Verjai values building meaningful relationships with both children and their families and finds great joy in celebrating each child's progress, whether it's learning a new skill, strengthening existing abilities, or developing friendships.
Outside of work, Verjai enjoys caring for her plants, traveling with her daughter, and spending quality time making memories with family and friends. She is grateful to be part of the Open Mind Learning team and looks forward to supporting every child with kindness, patience, and genuine care.
Masina Tillo, Learning Specialist
Masina is a a credentialed Special Education teacher (Ed specialist Mild/Moderate), has special training in Executive Function Support and Assistive Technology Specialist with over 20 years of experience supporting students from preschool through 12th grade. Her background includes public, private, and Montessori education, giving her a well-rounded and adaptable approach to meeting the unique needs of every learner. She specializes in one-on-one instruction, helping students access learning through individualized strategies, assistive technology, and strengths-based support. Masina is passionate about creating inclusive learning environments where students can build confidence, develop independence, and reach their full potential.
Outside of work, Masina is a lifelong ceramic artist who enjoys all things creative, as well as gardening, hiking, and spending time outdoors with her dog. She brings that same creativity, patience, and enthusiasm to every student and family she supports.
