​Leadership 

Josh Rigsby is an educational psychologist and the founder of Acton Academy – North Texas. His doctoral work focuses on cognition, learning science, and the development of attention, executive functioning, and self-directed learning—particularly for learners whose strengths are often constrained by traditional, compliance-based educational models. Drawing on years of business leadership and U.S. military leadership experience, Josh founded Acton Academy – North Texas to create learning environments where curiosity, courage, and real work replace coercion, and where young people are trusted to take ownership of their learning and discover a calling that can change the world.

Dianna Matiaco serves as an academy guide and nurse at Acton Academy – North Texas. Drawing from Montessori-influenced practice and a deep belief in learner-driven education, Dianna is passionate about creating environments where curiosity, independence, and responsibility can flourish—especially in outdoor and nature-based settings. Her background as a registered nurse informs her calm, attentive presence and commitment to well-being, supporting learners as they take healthy risks, grow in confidence, and engage fully in meaningful work.