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. Practicing ABA since 2012 and certified since 2015, Ashley brings warmth, curiosity, and compassion to every family she serves.

Ashley’s passion lies in helping parents truly understand and connect with their child. She believes that all children—especially those with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) profiles—deserve support that honors their autonomy, nervous system needs, and individuality.

Her approach is relationship-first and rooted in respect. Ashley uses naturalistic, child-led strategies that center each child’s strengths, interests, and readiness. She meets families where they are and adapts to what each child needs to feel safe, seen, and supported.

Ashley is especially committed to PDA-informed practices, including low-demand environments, co-regulation, and collaborative goal-setting. She knows how to follow a child’s lead and gently encourage growth when they feel ready—pushing only when it’s safe and supported by trust.

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

Ashley wants every family to feel like they have a trusted partner. She is honored to walk alongside you—patiently, joyfully, and always with your child’s well-being at heart.

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.