Meet the Founder

Katrina Bernard, MS. Ed.
Founder & CEO, I by Design Academy

B.A., Psychology · M.S., Educational Leadership, K–12 · NJ Certified Principal · Arizona State University Entrepreneurial Fellow

Katrina Bernard is a strategic visionary and the founder of I by Design Academy, a learning community rooted in equity, excellence, and transformation. With over 20 years in Title I schools, Ms. B has seen firsthand how traditional systems often fail to meet students where they are—especially those from historically underserved communities.

Her mission now is different.

I by Design Academy is a bold reimagining of education—where high expectations meet deep care, and where students are given the time, tools, and support to become confident critical thinkers, creators, and leaders. With an emphasis on academic rigor, real-world learning, and restorative practices, the Academy cultivates spaces where children are not just taught but deeply known.

Ms. B’s approach blends diagnostic precision with visionary leadership. Much like the honeybee—known for its multi-faceted lens—she sees beyond the surface, identifying both learning challenges and untapped potential. Her methods have yielded exceptional results across reading, writing, math, and science, and she is widely recognized for her transformative impact.

Rooted in the truth that every child is designed with purpose, Ms. B is creating Civics and Science tracks that don’t just teach—they ignite a passion for fairness, community, and innovation. Here, students don’t just learn about the world; they are prepared to reshape it with empathy and boldness.

Ms. B’s vision for I by Design Academy is rooted in the belief that every child carries a unique, God-given blueprint. Through intentional environments, she cultivates the seeds of purpose already planted within each learner—nurturing not just knowledge, but the calling each child was designed to fulfill.

Fun Fact: Ms. B loves international travel. Her favorite landmark so far?

Stonehenge in London.

Farah Barrat, M.S. Ed.
Board Member, I by Design Academy

"Dedicated Leader Driving Positive Change in Education"

  • Proven track record as a principal in both private and public schools

  • Certified educator and administrator

Education:
– Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education
– Master of Science, Educational Leadership, K–12

Fun Fact: I ran a Girl Scout troop for over 10 years!

Meet Our Board Members

Crystal Foster, M.A.T.
Board Member, I by Design Academy

"Committed to Advancing Education and Student Success"

  • 15 years of experience in education and social work

  • Serves as a certified ESL teacher for New Brunswick Public Schools

  • Standardized test scores improved by 15–20% over three years, reflecting a strong commitment to student growth

  • Achieved a 90% family satisfaction rate as a domestic violence counselor

Education:
– Bachelor of Arts, Sociology
– Master of Arts, Teaching

Fun Fact: I enjoy weekend hikes and exploring the Appalachian Mountains, as well as attending Broadway shows or local theater performances at least once a month.