Founder & Seed Planter

Eileen is the Founder of Mustard Seed Academy
and a mother of two boys, one of whom is
autistic with a PDA (Pathological Demand
Avoidance) profile. When traditional settings
proved overwhelming for her son, Eileen
envisioned something different—something
calmer, more natural, and deeply rooted in
understanding.

During the pandemic, she created a small,
nature-inspired schoolhouse in her home where
her son could learn and grow at his own pace.
Seeing him blossom in this nurturing space
sparked a bigger dream: a supportive, home-
based environment where other children like
him—and their families—could feel safe,
understood, and free to be themselves.

Mustard Seed Academy grew from that vision.
Guided by Eileen’s creativity, love for nature,
and deep commitment to authenticity, it has
become a sanctuary for neurodivergent children
and a place of connection and peace for the
families who walk alongside them.

Director & Seed Evaluations

Ashley Walls is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with over a decade of experience supporting neurodivergent children and their families. Since 2012, Ashley has practiced ABA and earned her certification in 2015. She is dedicated to providing respectful, individualized care that honors each child’s unique needs and interests.

Ashley specializes in supporting children who may exhibit demand avoidance behaviors. She creates low-demand, child-led environments that emphasize safety, co-regulation, and autonomy. Her approach focuses on relationship-building, collaborative goal-setting, and a deep respect for each child’s nervous system and individuality.

With a commitment to fostering growth and connection, Ashley partners with families to support their child’s development through naturalistic, strengths-based strategies. Her focus is always on meeting each child where they are and building trusting, positive relationships that encourage progress.

Outside of her professional work, Ashley enjoys exercising, trying new recipes, exploring art, and spending time with her family.

Ashley is honored to support families on their journey, offering compassion, patience, and a commitment to every child’s well-being.

Founder & Financial/Operational Nurturer

Jessica Hoppe is the heart behind Mustard Seed
Academy.

A mother of two wonderful boys, including one who is
neurodiverse, Jessica’s journey is rooted in personal
experience and a deep belief in every child’s potential.

With over 20 years of business experience — including
building and successfully selling her own company in
2021 — Jessica brings both vision and heart to Mustard
Seed’s mission of growth, connection, and lifelong
learning.

Founding Mustard Seed Academy was a dream planted
long ago: to create a space where children and families
could feel seen, supported, and celebrated — just as they
are.

When she’s not nurturing dreams at Mustard Seed,
Jessica finds joy in running, reading, laughing with her
family, and tending to the small, everyday moments that
make life beautiful.

Her commitment to building a values-driven, supportive
community is woven into every part of Mustard Seed,
making it a place where children — and their families —
can truly bloom.