Our Mission
Philo Learning Collective exists to empower children with a love of learning by ensuring they are seen, heard and known, while building strong academic foundations and practical skills that prepare them for life.
Who We Are
Philo Learning Collective was founded by our family out of a deep belief that learning should feel meaningful, connected, and balanced.
We are raising curious, capable children of our own, and like many families, we spent years searching for a learning environment that truly saw our kids as individuals. Along the way, we experienced many programs that did some things well, but none that fully aligned with what we knew our children needed: time, trust, purpose, and space to grow at their own unique pace.
Together, we envisioned a place where children are known, where learning is structured yet flexible, and where life skills, curiosity, and character matter just as much as academics. A place where days are shaped by rhythm rather than rush, where hands are busy, minds are engaged, and learning feels alive, whether that’s through reading and writing, caring for animals, gardening, or building something together.
Philo Learning Collective is that place.
Philo is not a school we created for families; it’s a collective that we built with families in mind. One rooted in community, purpose, and preparation for life beyond the classroom.
Meet the Founder
Ean Sims is the founder and lead guide of Philo Learning Collective, where he brings a steady, relational, and purpose-driven approach to education. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, which informs his strong appreciation for inquiry, hands-on learning, and real-world application, especially in nature-based and experiential settings.
With extensive experience guiding children in learner-driven learning environments, Ean is deeply committed to helping learners develop confidence, independence, and personal responsibility. His background as an elementary guide shaped his belief that children thrive when they are trusted, appropriately challenged, and supported through consistent expectations and meaningful work.
At Philo, Ean leads the daily learning experience, supporting core academic growth, facilitating explorations, and mentoring learners as they set goals, reflect on progress, and take ownership of their learning. His calm leadership and thoughtful guidance help create an environment where learners feel safe to try, fail, and grow.
As a father, Ean’s vision for Philo is grounded in real life and real families. He believes education should prepare children not just for school, but for life, equipping them with the skills, character, and confidence to navigate the world with purpose.
Co-Founder | Operations & Community Lead
Valerie Sims is a co-founder of Philo Learning Collective, a learner-driven, community-rooted learning environment built to support children and families in meaningful, real-world ways.
With an extensive background as an executive assistant, Valerie brings a deep strength in organization, operations, communication, and behind-the-scenes leadership. She is known for creating systems that run smoothly, supporting big visions with thoughtful details, and building strong relationships rooted in trust and follow-through.
Valerie is also a mom of two, and it was her own children, and her desire for an education that honors curiosity, independence, and real life, that helped shape the vision for Philo. She believes learning should be engaging, practical, and connected to the world around us, while still grounded in strong academic foundations.
At Philo, Valerie oversees operations, family communication, enrollment support, and community building. She is passionate about creating a welcoming environment where families feel known, supported, and confident in their children’s learning journey.
When she’s not working on Philo, you’ll often find Valerie with her family, caring for animals, supporting local community efforts, or helping bring new ideas to life.
