Kiara Procter did not set out to build a school. She set out to reimagine what school could feel like for students whose curiosity has too often been overlooked.

With more than fourteen years in education and instructional leadership, Kiara has worked alongside students and families in diverse communities where academic outcomes matter and relationships matter just as much. She has led academic intervention programs, supported English Learners in reaching proficiency, and used data-driven instruction to improve student achievement.

Over time, a clear pattern emerged. Too many students were moving through school disconnected from learning, unsure of their voice, and without access to the individualized support needed to thrive academically and personally. In Henry County, some schools report fewer than one-third of students reading on grade level, reinforcing the urgency for a different approach.

Kiara began listening. Through more than 1,000 conversations with families, educators, and community members across Henry and South Clayton Counties, one message kept coming up: families want a school where students are challenged, supported, known, and inspired to think beyond worksheets and test scores.

That collective vision became The School of Curious Minds.

Rooted in inquiry, innovation, and real-world application, SOCM is designed to help students think boldly, strengthen foundational skills, and connect learning to purpose. Through the school’s 4x4 model, students experience rigorous academics alongside hands-on learning, community fellowships, intervention and acceleration, and opportunities to explore their interests in meaningful ways.

Kiara is a Build. Excel. Sustain. Fellow, former New Schools Creation Fellow, Teach For America alumna, and City Year Corps Member of the Year with more than 1,700 hours of national service.

She believes curiosity is not a distraction from learning. It is the foundation for it. At The School of Curious Minds, students are empowered to ask questions, discover their strengths, and grow into confident leaders of today.