Anniston Academy Featured on “Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev”

Dr. Kathryn Ruggiero DuBray and Dr. Erin Mekkaoui were honored to join Kosta Yepifantsev on his podcast Better Together, recorded right here in Cookeville. In this episode, Kosta sat down with the co-founders of Anniston Academy, Cookeville’s first therapeutic microschool designed specifically for neurodivergent learners.

“Most schools ask kids to fit the system. You built a system to fit the kids.”

That single sentence captures the heart of Anniston Academy’s mission. Kathryn and Erin have built a model that redefines what school can be — one that prioritizes emotional safety, individualized learning, and the kind of belonging every child deserves. When a student truly feels seen, understood, and supported, everything changes — for them, their families, and their future.

Growing Up Alongside Autism

Kathryn and Erin each bring deeply personal perspectives to this work. Kathryn, as a parent of a neurodivergent child, and Erin, as a sibling of one, both experienced firsthand how traditional systems often overlook children who think, learn, or process the world differently. Those experiences inspired Anniston Academy’s foundational philosophy: children shouldn’t have to change to fit school — school should adapt to fit the child.

What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent?

In the episode, Kathryn and Erin unpack the meaning behind “neurodivergent,” a term that’s often used but rarely explained. At Anniston Academy, it means celebrating the many ways brains can work — autism, ADHD, dyslexia, giftedness, and more — and building an environment where those differences are seen as strengths, not deficits.

Building a Better Future for Every Learner

Kathryn and Erin’s conversation with Kosta highlights how Anniston Academy blends evidence-based education with a therapeutic framework. From speech and occupational therapy to individualized learning plans, they have designed a school experience that supports the whole child — academically, emotionally, and socially.

You can listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform or at Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev.