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. During his law enforcement career, Tony was also featured on the nationally televised series COPS while serving in the field.
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 more than 30 years of experience in public education, serving as an interim superintendent, state education executive, superintendent, assistant superintendent, high school principal, and middle school principal.
Most recently, John served as Deputy Director/Chief of Staff for the Iowa Department of Education before being named Interim Superintendent of the Bettendorf Community School District for the 2026–2027 school year. Throughout his career, he has led complex initiatives involving school operations, legal compliance, finance, governance, and organizational leadership.
John has conducted numerous internal investigations involving harassment, discrimination, employee misconduct, student safety, and Title IX compliance. 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 investigations are thorough, objective, and legally defensible.
This experience provides a practical, real-world foundation for helping school leaders conduct fair, thorough, and defensible investigations while navigating complex personnel, student, and legal issues with confidence.