Hi, I’m Diestene —educator, coach, and founder of Kinship Education and The Rewired Classroom.
With over 20 years of experience in education across three continents, I’ve worn many hats: class teacher, Assistant Principal, PD facilitator, curriculum writer, and coach for newly qualified teachers. I’ve led international schools through high-stakes evaluations and accreditation, while also designing and leading high-impact professional development.
I hold a BA (Hons) in Sociology and Communications and a Postgraduate in Education, from Goldsmiths University, London. My career has taken me from classrooms in London to leadership roles in New York and South Korea—and now, to my current home in Atlanta.
Today, I partner with forward-thinking school leaders through The Rewired Classroom—a science-backed professional development program that helps schools move:
→ From teacher burnout to a stable, engaged, high-performing staff
→ From emotional exhaustion to confidence and instructional impact
→ From crisis to a culture where teachers stay and students succeed,
We don’t just support individuals—we elevate the entire school community.
“ Testimonials
Kinship Education and the curriculum you created for us has greatly enhanced our programming. I think everything you have put together for A+ is really fantastic! I LOVE it all. It’s so, so beneficial to our kids! I feel so grateful to have you leading this for us. Game-changing!
Sadie Talmadge, CEO A Plus
The work Dee is doing is so necessary and has helped me in more ways than I can count. She has been a stellar asset at the school that I am currently at and has provided countless resources that have made it much easier to do my job.
She has provided countless resources for my students and for ME. Whether it be activities to curb misbehavior or strategies to help me pour into myself,
Dee has helped me exponentially in the classroom. I have been able to provide students with activities and simple projects that allow them to center their emotions and show up more fully and level-headed.
What I love about Kinship Education is that I can pour into myself simply and easily and focus on MY wellbeing.
Just today, practicing a breathing exercise Dee shared while having my morning coffee allowed me to engage with my class in a calm and intentional manner.
Kinship Education has elevated my classroom. Very grateful for Dee and her mindful expertise.
Bri Adams, Middle School Art Teacher
From the very beginning, I had a thoroughly positive feeling when I spent time with Dee - both on a professional and personal level. She is always ready with a sympathetic ear and advice. She always smiles at you and is able to make a stressful day a better one. I was lucky enough to be able to do training with her and see for myself how talented she is at slowing down your mind.
Furthermore, she is always there to support you. For example, she took over my class for a lesson to do various exercises with them. During that time, I was able to take a deep breath and take care of other things.
Neele Piepenberg, English Middle School
I’ve learned how to understand my emotions. The other day I told Miss Dee I felt infuriated, she wasn’t mad, we went through it in the classroom. Then I was ready again to get back to my work.
Maymona, 6th Grade
The High Cost of Burnout
59% of U.S. teachers report feeling burned out—the highest of any profession.
Burned-out teachers are 2x more likely to leave the profession, contributing to unstable school environments.
Teacher stress trickles down to students—increasing student stress, misbehavior, and disengagement.
The Impact on Students
Classrooms led by burned-out teachers see lower student achievement and motivation.
Teacher burnout is linked to higher student cortisol levels, meaning students absorb their teacher’s stress.
When teachers are emotionally exhausted, students are less engaged, less connected, and more disruptive.
Faculty Resilience
Teachers with higher wellbeing build stronger relationships and foster more productive learning environments.
Supporting teacher wellness leads to lower student stress and better academic outcomes.
Schools that prioritize staff wellbeing see higher teacher retention and improved student behavior.