Board of Directors

Sean LaPorta

Sean LaPorta brings nearly a decade of experience navigating legal and risk management issues in New Hampshire’s school systems, skillfully balancing the needs of schools, families, and students. He holds a J.D. from the University of Connecticut School of Law and a certificate in technological entrepreneurship from Northeastern University, combining legal insight with an entrepreneurial spirit. Sean is passionate about supporting innovators with the legal foundation to turn bold ideas into reality. As a father of twin boys, he deeply values the benefits of Wellheart’s educational approach and is a strong advocate for its mission. Believing in the school’s child-centered, curiosity-driven philosophy, Sean is committed to making Wellheart Charter Public School a thriving alternative in Hillsborough County—one that offers meaningful educational options beyond traditional public and private systems.

Mike Facques

Mike Facques brings over 25 years of experience in leadership, education, and coaching to his current role in retirement planning, where he helps clients prepare for the future with confidence. A founding faculty member of Souhegan High School in Amherst, NH, Mike played a key role in launching one of the state’s most innovative public high schools, leading efforts in student-centered learning, data-driven goal setting, and real-world skill development. As a coach, he guided Souhegan’s boys basketball team to back-to-back undefeated state championships and was named Division II Coach of the Year. Mike’s strengths in building trust, strategic thinking, and high-performance leadership now serve his financial clients well. With a Master’s in Teaching from Boston University and a B.A. in Political Science from UNH, he combines academic rigor with a people-first mindset. A lifelong New Hampshire resident, Mike is a dedicated community member, father of four, and passionate advocate for personal growth and planning.

Emily Wiete

Emily Wiete holds a Master’s in Counseling and Psychological Services from Salem State University and spent nearly a decade as a School Counselor at both elementary and secondary levels. Her career began in special education settings in Salem, Massachusetts, and continued in the Midwest until 2018, when she embraced her most fulfilling role as a stay-at-home mom to four children. In 2023, Emily returned to New Hampshire to raise her family near extended relatives and reengage with the region’s natural beauty and community values. Passionate about child-led, curiosity-driven education, she became a founding board member of Wellheart Charter Public School, where she serves as Secretary and Academic Chair. Drawing on her professional background and experience as an engaged parent, Emily champions an educational model rooted in joy, play, and nature. She is committed to creating a nurturing school community where children’s love for learning is honored and supported.

Richard Lowney

Richard Lowney is a seasoned business leader and dedicated community advocate with over 35 years of experience in IT and senior management. As Founder and CEO of Clearview Software International, Rich has driven innovation in bridging legacy systems with modern technologies, impacting over 250,000 users globally and earning Clearview New Hampshire’s Global Business of the Year Award. He also co-founded miEdge.biz, where he served as CTO and helped the company win the TechOut Startup Competition. A U.S. Army veteran, Rich began his career in systems analysis and MIS leadership, later founding three successful software companies. His service has earned national honors, including the Presidential Call-to-Service Award. He has held leadership roles across numerous nonprofits and trade organizations and has led international trade missions worldwide. A strong supporter of educational innovation, Rich serves on the Wellheart Charter Public School board and believes in expanding quality, community-driven learning opportunities.

Phillip Trudel

Phillip Trudel is a dedicated CNC programmer with close to a decade of precision-driven experience, bringing meticulous problem-solving and teamwork skills to the Wellheart Charter School board. Recently relocated to southern New Hampshire, Phillip is a proud parent of a 5-year-old in Wellheart’s pilot program and a 3-year-old eager to join the school’s nurturing environment. Inspired by Wellheart’s Reggio-inspired philosophy, which prioritizes community and child-led growth, he is committed to fostering a collaborative culture where every student thrives.

Phillip’s technical expertise and passion for innovative education equip him to support Wellheart’s mission of empowering children through creativity and connection. He is excited to contribute to building a vibrant, inclusive school community.