Rachel Tiller is the Founder of Faraday STEM Academy and brings a dynamic blend of experience, leadership, and passion to the school’s mission. A seasoned educator and entrepreneur, Rachel has founded three schools and is committed to creating innovative learning environments that meet the diverse needs of today’s students and families.

Rachel began her career in education at just 20 years old, teaching middle school Math, Bible, and Technology at a Christian school. After two years in the classroom, she took on a second job in real estate. Rachel quickly rose to lead a top-performing team, became an investor in a brokerage, partnered in land development, and gained valuable skills in leadership, operations, and strategic growth, which she would later leverage to build and lead schools.

In 2020, Rachel founded a Christian learning pod with 12 students from LTISD, including her oldest son. The following year, seeking a more permanent solution for faith-based education, she launched a full-time traditional Christian school model. Then in 2025, as her son approached middle school and his interests in STEM and innovation blossomed, Rachel again felt called to build something new and innovative. She believed deeply that education should never be one-size-fits-all, and that families deserve school options as unique as their children. That belief, along with prayer, reflection, and the support of a dedicated team of educators, led to the founding of Faraday STEM Academy.

Rachel’s educational vision is shaped by her own upbringing. She was homeschooled throughout elementary school by her mother, a Texas A&M graduate who infused STEM concepts and personalized learning into their home education. Her father is also a Texas A&M graduate in engineering, giving Rachel a strong foundation in both academic rigor and creative problem-solving from an early age.

Her passion for global education and service has also influenced her leadership. Rachel has taught English in China, helped at a school in Mexico, gone on a mission trip to Kenya with Compassion International, hiked Machu Picchu in Peru, and lived in Israel for two months with her husband and children during their family’s move from Nebraska to Texas.

Rachel is a certified John Maxwell Team Member in public speaking and coaching, and she deeply values leadership development, especially for her own children. She and her husband, Brandon, have three children and live in the Texas Hill Country. Their family enjoys traveling, kayaking, camping, reading, swimming, playing games, and gathering with friends. They are active in their local church and committed to building a lasting legacy to the glory of God.

All of Rachel’s experiences, from her time in the classroom to her background in business, her global adventures, and her deep faith, have all played a part in shaping Faraday STEM Academy. It’s a place where students can thrive academically, grow in their faith, and build the kind of leadership skills that will help them make a real impact in the world.

Dr. McMullen is a devoted educator and passionate advocate for Biblical teaching, with over twenty years of experience nurturing the hearts and minds of children. Holding a Doctorate in Education, she has served as a classroom teacher, curriculum specialist, and children’s pastor—faithfully blending academic excellence with spiritual formation throughout her career.

Her calling is to equip the next generation with a love for learning and a deep understanding of God’s Word. Whether developing Christ-centered curriculum, leading children’s ministries, or mentoring fellow educators, Dr. McMullen brings both scholarly expertise and pastoral warmth to every endeavor. Her life’s work reflects a steadfast belief that education rooted in Biblical truth has the power to transform lives and communities.

Jeanette Smiles brings a rich and diverse background to Faraday STEM Academy, where she plays a key role in shaping a thriving learning environment. Faraday is the third startup school she has helped launch, a testament to her deep commitment to building strong educational communities from the ground up.

Her journey in education began at 17 years old through a school work program. Since then, she has served in a wide range of roles, including Director, early elementary teacher, homeschool co-op founder, and curriculum coordinator. Jeanette has 27 year of education experience. No matter the role, her heart has always been centered on nurturing a love of learning in every child.

At 16, she began attending church and made the decision to follow Jesus. Since then, she has devoted her life to helping others and walking in God’s will.

Family is at the core of who she is. As a proud mom of two, she finds joy in supporting her kids in all their pursuits, with her oldest currently attending CTC. When she’s not in the classroom, you’ll find her behind a camera, diving into a good book, exploring new places, or cheering on her children. Her daughter is a competitive gymnast.

Jeanette’s passion for education is matched by her belief that when kids love to learn, they grow in every area of life—and she’s dedicated to helping make that happen at Faraday.