Ashley E. Harding, MA
Founder and Educational Therapist

I am a fourth-generation educator.  

North Star Academics was founded to improve children's educational experience and outcomes.  For the past ten years, I have supported diverse children and families around the country to understand and navigate the cultural and academic demands of education.   

I was born and educated in West Los Angeles.  

My commitment to BIPOC educational achievement has taken me all over the world.  I received my Bachelor of Science from the University of Southern California and earned a master’s degree in Child Development from Tufts University. In 2012, I studied education reform in South Africa at NYU’s Steinhardt School.  And I am a 2019 Graduate Fellow of the University of Pennsylvania Social Impact program in Belize.  

I am dedicated to improving the quality of education for students and families.

My professional experience is concentrated on creating social capital and support for students and families of color in education.  While in Washington DC, I was the Director of Family and External Engagement for KIPP DC serving over 6,000 students and families.  I also co-authored multiple research publications identifying the educational disparities of Black and Latino males in educational systems around the country.   

I love Randy’s Donuts.  Eat vegan.  Wear black Chucks.  And still listen to 1990s R&B.