Stronger systems. Deeper connections. Thriving schools.

Stronger schools begin with connection.

Early Impact partners with schools and districts to strengthen culture, improve day-to-day systems, and create the conditions for students and educators to thrive.

THE VISION

Schools where every student feels connected, every educator feels equipped, and every system supports success.

Early Impact Consulting

Training and Support

Restorative Practices

Learn ways to build trust, address harm, and strengthen relationships across a school community. Training can include restorative conversations and circles, support for leaders navigating difficult conversations, and approaches that help staff, students, and families find common ground and work together to repair harm.

Unconscious Bias

Examine how assumptions can shape expectations, relationships, and decisions at school. Through reflection and real-world scenarios, educators identify patterns they may not have noticed and develop practices that help them respond to students, families, and colleagues more fairly.

Transforming School Culture

Create a school where people feel connected, respected, and invested in one another’s success. I work with leaders and teams to understand their current culture, strengthen communication, improve everyday systems, and turn shared goals into consistent practice.

Leading Alternative Education

Build programs that give students meaningful pathways to success. Drawing on my experience leading continuation high school and independent study, I support educators with student engagement, attendance, flexible pathways, and systems that balance individual needs with clear expectations.

Mentoring Administrators

School leadership can be complex and isolating. I offer administrators a confidential space to think through challenges, prepare for difficult conversations, strengthen their leadership skills, and make decisions with greater clarity and confidence.

MEET THE FOUNDER

Dr. Kessa Early

Educator. Leader. Community Builder


I have spent 25 years in education helping students feel respected, cared for, supported, and capable of success. I am now in my 20th year as an alternative education principal in Novato Unified School District.

Born and raised in Marin County, I have dedicated my career to advocating for students who need a different pathway. As principal of Hill Education Center, I lead our continuation high school and independent study program, and our campus also hosts adult education. In 2018, I founded Early Vibes, Inc. to extend restorative support and mentorship beyond the school setting.

My work reaches beyond my campus. I initiated and helped develop California Assembly Bill 2251 with Assembly member Damon Connolly to expand graduation pathways for students experiencing significant health challenges. I have also supported educators as a consultant with Solution Tree.

I earned my Ed.D. through UC Berkeley’s LEAD program in 2024. I hold a master’s degree in Educational Administration, a bachelor’s degree and administrative credential from Sonoma State University, and a teaching credential from Dominican University.

A commitment recognized

Selected recognition

2023

Golden Bell Award

Community Partner
Marin County Office of Education

2019

Administrator of the Year

ACSA Region 4

2016

Administrator of the Year

CCEA District III

2011

Outstanding Administrator

MCSAA