
LAUNCH PAD TEAM

Michael Conley
Director
Encouraging and building up people is at the foundation of all I do. Being in the moment, content with who you are and what you have, always looking for ways to make an impact on people is my life's aim. Launch Pad is a vision that has invited others to contribute and build opportunity that didn't previously exist. I'm excited about the future because of who I'm surrounded by. Join us in using your talents, skills, finances and gifts for the betterment of our communities.

Kristyn Mitchell
Creative
Friday is my favorite day of the week, and it is just perfect that LaunchPad falls on Friday! When I am not homeschooling my 16 year old daughter, Irene, you can find me planning my next Disney Trip, snuggling with my cat Olaf, or keeping busy in our garage Makers Space! My husband, Dave, teaches astronomy and physics at Poly. We live in Los Osos and enjoy taking family walks at Montana de Oro, Sweet Springs, and Elfin Forest. I taught K-5th grade in the San Luis Coastal School District until our daughter was born and then worked at our church as the Director of Children's Ministries until 2022. Irene has been a part of LaunchPad since day 1, and I joined the team of amazing staff Spring of 2025. Creativity and enthusiasm is what I bring to Launch Pad along with my experience in the classroom with a Masters in Teaching. Can't wait to spend Fridays with your students.

Dan Pankratz
Challenge
Dan started his first company at 19 years old and has been an entrepreneur ever since. He is motivated by creating a company culture that would change people’s lives. Starting a business was more than just Profit and Loss it was making a difference. This is the same motivation Dan has with being a part of Launch pad. Dan’s vision is to build a nurturing and inspiring culture that will empower students to reach their full potential.
Dan is a true believer in the power of passion. Wherever he goes, passion leads the way. He approaches challenges with unwavering determination and will guide his students through obstacles so they will celebrate their achievements with thunderous applause. A father of two boys and two beautiful girls, some may say he’s crazy, but he knocks it up to healthy dose of passion and a good night’s sleep.

Jared Olson
Collaboration
In my free time, I am a Senior Program Quality Engineer for Raytheon Intelligence & Space. I graduated from Cal Poly with my undergrad in industrial engineering and political science and my Master's degree in industrial engineering. I've especially loved working with kids and teaching them about how the world works ever since I started volunteering with AWANA in 2006. In my teaching, I embrace Cal Poly's "Learn By Doing" motto to help kids learn how to work together to overcome challenges while we have fun tackling complex STEM projects together.

Ashley Anzalone
Creative
I’m a proud mom to three wonderful kids and a wife to an amazing husband. We’re now in our second year of homeschooling and loving the adventures, creativity, and everyday surprises that
learning at home brings. My journey with kids started back in my teenage years while volunteering in children’s ministry, and it’s been a passion ever since. I love helping kids discover their unique strengths, grow in confidence, and find joy in learning new things. I’m so
excited to join Launch Pad and be apart of creating unforgettable memories!
