Our Founder

Christina Hocker is an instructional leader with over 20 years of experience designing transformative learning experiences that cultivate student agency. 

She began her career at Truman High School leading high school reform efforts and later reimagined career pathways at Raymore-Peculiar, where she designed an experiential culinary program connecting students directly with industry professionals.

As Studio Director at Startland, Christina expanded the organization’s educational impact by building partnerships, designing professional development, and equipping educators with tools to bring design thinking and entrepreneurial learning into classrooms across Kansas City.

Now, as founder of the design.ed collective and Adjunct Faculty at UMKC, Christina empowers educators to create classrooms where students learn as explorers—curious, creative, and ready to design their future. She holds an M.S.E. in Educational Administration and certification in Secondary Principal leadership.