Powered By Our People
Admin Staff
Meet Our Administration Team
At Embrace Learning Institute, our administration team provides the leadership, vision, and support that make our mission possible. From strategic planning to day-to-day operations, they ensure that every aspect of ELI runs smoothly and efficiently, creating a safe and thriving learning environment for students and staff alike.
Our administrators bring a wealth of experience in education, management, and student services. They are passionate about fostering a culture of inclusion, equity, and excellence, ensuring that every student receives the personalized attention and resources they need to succeed.
Whether coordinating programs, overseeing curriculum, or supporting our staff, the administration team serves as the backbone of ELI, guiding our school toward continuous growth and innovation. Their dedication and expertise allow our educators and support staff to focus on what matters most—helping students reach their full potential.
Amanda Bunch, Administrative Assistant
Amanda Bunch serves as an Administrative Assistant at the Embrace Learning Institute, where she brings compassion, organization, and a strong foundation in behavioral science to her work. With a professional background as both a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) and Behavioral Interventionist, Amanda has extensive experience supporting children and families through individualized behavioral and educational programs.
Her journey in the field began in 2019 in Reno, Nevada, where she discovered her passion for helping students thrive through patience, structure, and evidence-based intervention. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno, in 2021, gaining a deep understanding of developmental and behavioral psychology. Following graduation, Amanda continued her professional growth in Boise, Idaho, working directly with children on the autism spectrum and those with behavioral and learning differences.
Now based in Seattle, Washington, Amanda supports ELI's team as both an Administrative Assistant and Behavioral and Educational Support Specialist. Her background in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has evolved at ELI into a more holistic perspective — one that integrates emotional regulation, student-centered practices, and collaborative support. She's known for her calm, empathetic demeanor and her ability to help students feel understood and capable of success.
Beyond her professional life, Amanda enjoys spending time with her husband and their two dogs. Together, they share a love for the outdoors and can often be found backpacking, hiking, camping, or skiing throughout the Pacific Northwest. Her balance of professional dedication and adventurous spirit reflects her belief in lifelong learning, resilience, and finding joy in every season of life.
Jordan Fragoso,
Dean of Students
Jordan Fragoso serves as the Dean of Students for the Embrace Learning Institute, where he is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all learners. A proud disabled combat veteran of the Iraq War, Jordan brings a wealth of experience in leadership, behavioral support, and student advocacy to his role.
Originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, Jordan relocated to Washington State with his family in July 2021. Before his military service, he studied Communications at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he developed a passion for understanding and improving human interaction. This skill has become central to his approach in education and student relations.
Following his time in the military, Jordan worked for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) as a Lead Passenger Support Specialist. In this position, he supported passengers with special needs and disabilities at major airports, including Harry Reid and Seattle-Tacoma International. His role required compassion, discretion, and exceptional problem-solving skills, and he received specialized training in Behavior Detection Analysis and Special Needs Security Screening — experience that now informs his trauma-sensitive and empathetic approach to student discipline and engagement.
Known for his patience, sense of humor, and genuine care for others, Jordan takes pride in connecting with students on a personal level. He believes that every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and capable of success — regardless of the challenges they face. Making a positive and lasting impact on young lives is what drives his work every day.
When he's not supporting students or collaborating with staff, Jordan enjoys spending time with his family, exploring the outdoors, and working on personal development. His life and career reflect his commitment to service — whether to his country, his community, or the students he's honored to guide at ELI.
Telisa Reed,
Special Education Director
Telisa Reed brings over 20 years of dedicated experience in instructional leadership, systems management, organizational effectiveness, accountability, and special education. Her career has spanned rural, suburban, and urban school districts across the country, allowing her to develop a deep understanding of diverse student needs and the strategies required to support them effectively.
Originally from South Carolina, Telisa began her journey in education as a substitute teacher and paraeducator. Discovering a passion for helping students learn and grow, she transitioned into teaching special education, working with students facing severe emotional and behavioral challenges. Her early classroom experience laid the foundation for a career focused on supporting students with learning differences and creating inclusive, effective educational environments.
Over the years, Telisa has held leadership roles in multiple states, including Washington, Colorado, and Indiana, serving in various capacities such as Assistant Principal, Principal, Director of Special Education, Director of Assessment and Accountability, Executive Director of School Performance, Chief Human Resources and Equity Officer, and Superintendent of Schools. In each role, she has been recognized for her ability to strategically improve academic achievement, design effective organizational systems, and develop research-based, sustainable school improvement initiatives. Her approach emphasizes equity, excellence, and high performance while maintaining a student-centered focus.
As Special Education Director at ELI, Telisa leverages her extensive experience to ensure that every student—especially those with ADHD, dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), and other learning differences—receives individualized support and opportunities for success. She is highly passionate, laser-focused on doing what is right for students, and committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and high-performing learning environment.