• Tamara Eklof

    Tamara (she/her) brings experience as an English learner teacher in NYC, high school principal with 1,200 students, and current district coordinator overseeing multilingual programs, federal grants, and McKinney-Vento services in Vermont.

    As a former Master Teacher for Math for America and NY state, she specializes in inclusive instruction, trauma-informed teaching, RTI systems, professional learning communities, and leadership development.

    She holds Vermont Curriculum Director and Administrator licenses, a NYC Superintendent certificate, and is pursuing her EdD in Educational Leadership and Policy at UVM.

    Contact: tamara@oakbridgeconsultingllc.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamaraparks/

    Recent Publication: Starting From Scratch: A Rural District's Path to Supporting New Multilingual Students Without State or Federal Support, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/15554589251352374

  • Monica Desrochers

    Monica (she/her/ella) is a Latina educator and volunteer advisor for Oakbridge with expertise in developing resilient, sustainable educational programs.

    As a former dual-language teacher, current district-level administrator, and educational researcher, she brings deep understanding of both leadership and program implementation.

    Monica holds a doctorate in Education Leadership and Policy from the University of Vermont and a master's degree from Boston College. She combines precision, empathy, and expertise in her work with districts. With a strong background in education, data analysis, and equity-focused initiatives, Monica excels at helping organizations authentically engage and support diverse student populations and their families.

  • Mary Desimone

    Mary (she/her)is an experienced educator, consultant, and coach with over 20 years as an EL teacher, instructional coach, and district administrator. She specializes in creating inclusive learning environments where all students can meaningfully engage in rigorous curricular opportunities.

    Mary partners with districts and educators to build teacher confidence and competence in serving diverse learners within general education settings. Through her work, she equips educators with research-based strategies that strengthen instruction for all students while ensuring equitable access and outcomes.

    Mary is committed to fostering equitable education systems and developing confident, capable educators who can serve every student effectively.

    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mtecmarydesimone

  • Kirsten Kollgaard

    Kirsten brings nearly 20 years of educational leadership expertise, specializing in developing inclusive systems and instructional practices for all students, with particular strength supporting SLIFE (Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education) multilingual learners.

    As a former Director of Multilingual Learner Programs, she takes a strengths-based approach to curriculum development, data-driven program evaluation, and professional development.

    With WIDA certification, a Master's in TESOL, and Director of Curriculum licensure, Kirsten helps schools build equitable systems that ensure every student—from SLIFE newcomers to traditional learners—has the support needed to succeed.

Building bridges to student success for all learners

When we strengthen educational systems, we create bridges between diverse communities, innovative practices, and sustainable change. These bridges allow districts to learn, grow, and become stronger learning communities where every student thrives.

The mission of Oakbridge Consulting LLC is to partner with educational leaders in building inclusive systems that serve all students and families. We support districts of all sizes as well as state education agencies through comprehensive consulting that goes far beyond compliance to create lasting, meaningful change.

Our collaborative approach combines deep expertise in inclusive instruction, equity-centered programming, family engagement, and systems leadership. Whether you need targeted support in one area or comprehensive organizational transformation, we meet you where you are and work alongside you to achieve your goals.