Director at REDI Lab

Tom Thorpe

Tom Thorpe is the co-founder and director of the REDI Lab at Colorado Academy. A career educator and problem-solver, he helps learners reach their full potential using creative processes and storytelling. Thorpe holds a BA in Cultural Anthropology and Religious Studies from Connecticut College and an MA in Teaching from Fairfield University. He is also completing his pilot’s license and enjoys early mornings with coffee, reflecting on ways to make a difference.

More of Tom’s Bio:

Before his role at CA, Thorpe taught at St. Anne’s Episcopal, Graland Country Day, and New Canaan Country School. He co-founded Fleissig Design, a firm focused on helping organizations find creative solutions. Thorpe serves on several boards, including Stanley British Primary School and the Rose Community Foundation, and he facilitates workshops nationally, promoting creativity as a key to problem-solving.

REDI Lab Faculty

Martha Smith

Martha Smith joined Colorado Academy in 2010 as an Upper School science teacher with a passion for chemistry. She has taught biology, chemistry, and developed the Python for Biologists course, integrating coding with DNA analysis. Inspired by her undergraduate experience at Colorado College, she joined the REDI Lab team in 2019-2020 to rethink education. Now, she teaches Entrepreneurial Mindset, a REDI Lab elective, as her focus has shifted from science to more innovative approaches. A Denver native, Smith holds a BS in Chemistry from Colorado College and an MEd in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of Colorado.

REDI Lab Faculty

Amanda Zranchev

Amanda Zranchev joined Colorado Academy in 2019 as a part-time REDI Lab instructor while completing her master’s in engineering at the Colorado School of Mines. Now a full-time teacher of Physics and AP Physics, she enjoys helping students see “math in action.” In addition to her Science Department role, she works with the Junior REDI Lab, inspired by students’ creativity and problem-solving. Before CA, Zranchev taught Physics at Deerfield Academy and Trinity School. Outside of teaching, she enjoys hiking with her dog, Chef, playing board games, and gardening with her husband.

REDI Lab Faculty

Justin Boyle

Justin Boyle is on a mission to enable all learners with the skills needed to navigate today’s complex landscape. A dedicated educator with a rich background spanning middle school to graduate-level mathematics, Justin transitioned from teaching equations to guiding Colorado’s workforce and retirees in mastering the essentials of personal finance. His human-centered, innovative approach places learning and growth at the forefront, inspiring individuals to make confident, informed investment choices. Justin’s work with REDI Lab reflects a commitment to lifelong learning and a passion for teaching alongside his students.

REDI Lab Co-Founder & Faculty

Paul Kim

Paul Kim is a designer, educator, and lifelong learner whose work is shaped by empathy, equity, and agency. The son of Korean immigrants, Paul draws on his background and a career in history education to create spaces where human potential can thrive. Known for his collaborative generosity and eye for aesthetics in food, art, and literature, Paul brings imagination and optimism to every project. With REDI Lab, he combines his skills and values to help build inclusive, empowering cultures that celebrate learning and growth.