Our team
We train school leaders to conduct clear, consistent, and defensible internal investigations.
We are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice. Instead, we focus on strengthening the practical skills administrators need to handle real-world situations with confidence—before issues escalate.
Our approach is built on over 50 years of combined experience in:
- School administration
- Law enforcement investigations
- Title IX and employee misconduct cases
This combination allows us to provide a clear, proven framework that leaders can apply immediately—from the first report to final documentation.
We don’t teach theory. We train leaders on what actually works when situations are complex, sensitive, and high-stakes. We’ve had the privilege of working with over 100 educational leaders across 40+ districts, and we’re confident in the impact of our professional learning.
But don’t take our word for it—hear directly from those who’ve experienced it through our testimonials.
Captain Tony Knox, (Ret.) - Owner/Consultant
Tony Knox brings 33 years of law enforcement experience with the Des Moines Police Department, including extensive work in criminal and internal investigations.
He served in key roles within the Division of Criminal Investigations, Sex Abuse Unit, and Identification Section, where he specialized in forensic investigations, including homicides. His experience also includes community engagement as a Narcotics Liaison.
In leadership positions, Tony served as the Chief of Police’s Executive Officer, Commander of the Police Academy, and led the Office of Professional Standards—overseeing internal investigations and officer conduct.
This background provides a practical, real-world foundation for training school leaders on how to conduct thorough, defensible investigations in complex and sensitive situations.
Tony has also completed advanced training in investigative and interview techniques, including coursework through the FBI.
John W. Elkin - Owner/Consultant
John Elkin brings over 30 years of experience in education, including leadership roles in the building, district, and state levels.
He most recently served as Superintendent of Center Point–Urbana CSD (2023–2025) and Assistant Superintendent (2021–2023) following 17 years as a high school and then middle school principal. John currently serves as Deputy Director/Chief of Staff for the Iowa Department of Education.
Throughout his career, John has led and conducted numerous internal investigations involving harassment, discrimination, student safety, Title IX compliance, and employee misconduct.
He has also served as a Title IX, EEO/AA, and Disability Rights coordinator, working closely with legal counsel and third-party investigators to ensure thorough, defensible outcomes.
John’s experience provides a direct, practical perspective on how school leaders can navigate complex, high-stakes situations with clarity, consistency, and confidence.