Who We Are
Ryan Cunningham | Director of Teaching & Learning
Ryan Cunningham is a seasoned administrator with nearly two decades of experience designing systems that deliver real-world, project-based learning for students. From classroom science teacher to Okoboji Middle School Principal, Teaching & Learning Director, and now Superintendent of Sumner‑Fredericksburg and Director of Teaching & Learning for Future Frontiers, Ryan has built coherent district-level frameworks that make experiential learning routine, rigorous, and equitable.
He has led the development and scaling of programs such as Midmester Academy (project-based course strands), No Boundaries (community-mentored STEM projects), Curious Minds (3D design, coding, AI, VR with STEM BEST funding), career-focused pathways serving 200+ middle graders, Capstone presentations, and internship classes for aspiring educators. These systems pair high‑quality curriculum adoption, MTSS supports, standards‑based assessment, and structured community partnerships so student projects address authentic problems while meeting clear learning outcomes.
Ryan’s approach centers on sustainability and capacity building: aligning budgets and facilities, training and mentoring educators, creating employer and community mentor networks, and embedding assessment and reporting practices that value mastery. He leads with a stewardship mindset to expand mastery‑based, project‑driven opportunities that empower students and maximize future success upon graduation.
Ryan can be reached at cunninghamr@future-frontiers.org.
Amy Miehe | Director of Outreach
Amy Miehe, a proud Davenport, Iowa native, earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Science Education from the University of Northern Iowa in 2006. She began her educational career as a Social Studies teacher at Waterloo East High School that same year, where she quickly developed a passion for helping students see the connection between academic learning and future career opportunities. She completed her Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Northern Iowa in 2013.
Amy transitioned into several leadership roles focused on expanding career-connected learning and in 2018, joined the Waterloo Career Center as Career Academy Coordinator and has since served as an Administrator, Associate Director of K-12 Career Development and now as Director of Career and Technical Education & Career Exploration. During her leadership experience, she has strengthened employer partnerships, broadened internship and apprenticeship opportunities, and aligned programming to regional workforce demands.
Amy is honored and thrilled to serve as Director of Outreach for Future Frontiers Charter School, where she looks forward to building innovative, flexible pathways that empower students to explore career interests through meaningful real-world experiences while completing high school requirements in a way that meets their individual needs.
Amy lives in Waterloo with her husband, Matt Miehe, a commercial realtor in the community, and their three children: Ellie (13), Macy (11), and Jett (7).
Amy can be reached at miehea@future-frontiers.org.
Dave Vonk | Director of Operations
Dave Vonk brings a broad background in educational leadership and business operations to Future Frontiers. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Sioux Falls and his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Dordt University. Dave began his teaching career in Canton, South Dakota, before returning to his hometown of Rock Valley, Iowa, where he served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and teacher leader. After spending time in the private sector, he returned to Rock Valley to teach third grade before transitioning into school leadership.
Dave later served as an elementary principal in Okoboji, where his leadership focused on academic improvement, student support systems, and organizational culture. He led the implementation of a comprehensive MTSS framework, schoolwide character education, and district culture initiatives, and was a member of the leadership team that successfully passed a $69 million bond referendum. In addition to his work in education, Dave has private-sector leadership experience with Valley Plating, Inc., where he led companywide process and quality initiatives, including achieving ISO 9001 certification. He and his wife are also small business owners, further strengthening his operational, financial, and people-centered leadership skills.
Dave is honored and excited to serve as Director of Operations for Future Frontiers Charter School. He is passionate about serving students across Iowa by building strong systems, positive organizational culture, and meaningful real-world learning experiences. Dave is deeply motivated by the opportunity to help meet a clear need for students and families by supporting a school intentionally designed to serve people well and help students succeed in life.
Dave lives with his wife, Tricia, and their three children: Camden (born 2008), Pacey (born 2011), and Aria (born 2013).
Dave can be reached at vonkd@future-frontiers.org.