About

Learning Matters Educational Group (LMEG) is a leader in the operation of innovative charter schools. LMEG brings the benefits of private business practices and competition to the public school system. LMEG partners with local charter schools to yield superior academic and financial results. LMEG raises student achievement and educational outcomes using research-based school design, state of the art curriculum and industry best practices.

LMEG was founded in 2000 by Timothy and Shannon Smith. Timothy and Shannon Smith have been involved in education for over ten years having started charter schools since 1995.

Mr. Smith has a Masters Degree in International Management from Thunderbird, The Garvin School of Management and has two baccalaureate degrees in Asian Studies and Korean language from Brigham Young University.

Prior to becoming involved in charter schools, Mr. Smith worked in international business for companies such as the Hyosung Group, Pacific Chemical and First Interstate Bank.

Mrs. Smith started as the co-founder with Timothy Smith of International Studies Academy in 1996. In 1999, she sensed the need for the school to diversify and researched effective elementary school philosophies in the country. It was at this point that she found out about the Carden Philosophy and Method. Mrs. Smith then cooperated with Mr. Smith to apply for the charter school, Carden Traditional School.

Mrs. Smith has an international educational background as well. She was an ESL teacher and also was a radio disc jockey for a popular radio station in Korea. Mr. Smith also tutored young people in Los Angeles.

Mrs. Smith has a Baccalaureate degree in Elementary Education from Ottawa University. Mrs. Smith has also received specialized training in reading methodologies including the Carden Method, the Linda Mood Bell Method, Open Court Reading and PhonoGraphix. Mrs. Smith has conducted research in reading methodologies and is a strong proponent of research-based, systematic, phonics instruction.