Nonprofit STEAM Education Built for Underserved Students
KleverKids is an emerging nonprofit with a clear mission, a strong vision, and a real opportunity for supporters to help build life-changing STEAM experiences — robotics, coding, science, and arts programs — for underserved students.
Mission
KleverKids exists to unlock the brilliance of every child. We are committed to bridging gaps in life experiences so that opportunity is defined by talent, not zip code. We provide transformative, hands-on STEAM experiences that ignite curiosity and prepare students from underserved communities for college, career, and life.
Purpose
KleverKids exists to close educational opportunity gaps so every child's brilliance can shine. By focusing on underserved communities, we create opportunities for rigorous STEAM experiences and real-world exposure that expand what children see possible for their education, careers, and life.
Vision
A world where every child — regardless of background, neighborhood, or income — has access to the experiences, mentors, and tools they need to discover their brilliance and build their future.
Why KleverKids exists
KleverKids was born from a simple observation: brilliant, curious, creative children exist in every community — but the opportunities to nurture that brilliance do not.
Too many students in underserved neighborhoods grow up without access to the enriching experiences that shape confident, well-rounded learners. Field trips to science museums, summer STEAM camps, fine arts programs, coding workshops, robotics labs — these aren't luxuries. They're the building blocks of curiosity, creativity, and career readiness. The gap isn't in talent. It's in access.
KleverKids was founded to bridge that gap. We believe that when you put the right tools, mentors, and experiences in front of a child, something extraordinary happens. Curiosity ignites. Confidence builds. Futures change.
KleverKids was founded by Dr. Sarah Critton and Heather Bishop, two educators with over 40 combined years of experience in public education. Their firsthand knowledge of the systemic barriers students face — and what it takes to overcome them — is at the heart of everything KleverKids does.
We're building this organization from the ground up — with transparency, intention, and a deep commitment to doing this right. Every founding supporter, partner, and volunteer who joins us now is helping lay the foundation for something that will serve students for years to come.
What guides everything we do
Equity & Access
Every child deserves access to transformative learning experiences, regardless of zip code or family income.
Curiosity-Driven
We believe learning should spark wonder, encourage questions, and celebrate creative problem-solving.
Integrity & Transparency
We are honest about where we are, accountable to our community, and committed to responsible stewardship.
Community-Centered
We build with — not for — the communities we serve, ensuring programs reflect local needs and aspirations.
Excellence
We hold our programs, our team, and ourselves to the highest standards of quality and impact.
Future-Focused
We prepare students not just for today but for the careers, challenges, and opportunities of tomorrow.
The team behind KleverKids
Dr. Sarah Critton
President & CEO
Dr. Sarah Critton is a lifelong educator and visionary leader who has dedicated her career to expanding opportunity for underserved students. With deep roots in public education, she is passionate about building relationships, supporting communities, and ensuring that every child — regardless of zip code — has access to the experiences that ignite curiosity and shape futures. Sarah's career in the classroom spanned 2nd grade, 4th grade, gifted and talented programs, and a role as a math interventionist, where she saw firsthand how the right support at the right moment can change a child's trajectory. She went on to serve as an assistant principal before becoming a principal — a role she holds today, currently leading a STEM school where creativity, innovation, and hands-on exploration are at the center of every learning experience. Sarah is passionate about the power of creating opportunities for students to see the endless possibilities within their reach. Outside of her work, she is the proud mother of two beautiful girls and loves spending time with her family. An avid traveler, she enjoys exploring new places and discovering new perspectives — a spirit of curiosity she hopes to instill in every student KleverKids serves.
Heather Bishop
Vice President
With 18 years of experience in education, Heather Bishop has dedicated her career to helping children discover their unique strengths, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Her diverse background includes teaching in a variety of educational environments, including a STEAM-focused school where creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and hands-on exploration were woven into every aspect of the learning experience. Heather is passionate about creating engaging, supportive environments where every child feels valued, encouraged, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. She believes that all children deserve opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive, and her student-centered approach reflects her deep commitment to nurturing both academic success and personal development. Outside the classroom, Heather is a proud mom to one incredible child and enjoys traveling and discovering new places. She is thrilled to be part of the KleverKids team and looks forward to inspiring young learners, supporting families, and helping shape the next generation of creative thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators.
Krissy Tarwater
VP of Fundraising
Krissy Tarwater is a proud mother of three and a dedicated volunteer with more than 11 years of PTA and Community Leadership. Krissy is passionate about creating engaging events, building school spirit, and bringing communities together. Her greatest joy comes from turning ideas into memorable experiences that make students feel connected, celebrated, and proud of their school. She believes strong communities are built through meaningful involvement, lasting relationships, and opportunities that create lifelong memories for families. In addition to her volunteer work, Krissy is an entrepreneur, boutique owner, and avid Mahjong enthusiast who enjoys connecting people through shared experiences, creativity, and community engagement.
We're building — and we want you with us
KleverKids is in its founding phase: assembling the team, designing programs, building partnerships, and raising the resources to launch. This is the most critical time to get involved — because your early support helps shape everything that comes next.