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Carson

Background

  • Guide at Alpha School, Austin (High School focus).
  • Described as a "non-traditional background" and the "Swiss Army knife" guide.
  • Known for being present at the school frequently and deeply involved with students.
  • Previously considered going to seminary.

Role & Responsibilities

  • Acts as a versatile support for students on various projects and needs.
  • Example: Became the go-to person for Sloan's beauty pageant masterpiece, assisting with preparation.
  • Leads tours of the Alpha High School campus for visitors.
  • Conducts regular one-on-one meetings with students (Mondays for goal setting/realignment, Weds/Fri for check-ins).
  • Provides emotional support to students alongside project guidance.
  • Manages the "Rocket Ship" program for high-achieving students.
  • Uses Notion for his own goal-tracking system with students.

Alpha School Insights

  • Explains the physical layout and use of space (main area, cafeteria, WeWork-like guide area).
  • Discusses the educational model: time allocation (e.g., Pomodoro), rebranding ("Time Back" instead of "Two Hour Learning"), upcoming shift to "Four Hour Learning."
  • Details the "Rocket Ship" program perks ($2k funding, special gifts, trips).
  • Explains the difference between the standard track and the "Honors Track" for Ivy League aspirants.
  • Highlights the flexibility for students involved in external activities (e.g., sports).
  • Mentions UATX students sometimes use the Alpha facility.

Interactions

  • 2025-04-08: Met at Alpha School campus during group conversation with Jack Oremus and Alex Mathew.
  • 2025-04-11: Mentioned by Douglas Green during a discussion about potential reality show storylines and key Alpha personnel.
  • 2025-04-18 (Afternoon): Led Gary Sheng and Mahaveer Dharmchand on a tour of Alpha High School. Introduced them to engineers Arpan Gupta and Bjorn Pagen, and guide Chloe. Explained the school's layout, model, and guide processes.
  • 2025-04-18 (Late Afternoon): Met with prospective student McCartney and his mother Devin, alongside Gary Sheng and Johnny Rapp. Discussed the Alpha model, flexibility, and focus on passion projects.

Professional Role

  • Works as a guide at Alpha School
  • Part of the team alongside Jack Oremus and Garrett
  • Appears to be a lead guide for the high school

Personal Interests & Knowledge

  • Deeply interested in comparative religion
  • Has studied Christianity, Judaism, and Islam in depth
  • Has read religious texts including the Talmud
  • Enjoys debating theological topics, particularly comparisons between major religions
  • Connects with Dustin, who was a pastor for ten years and now works at Alpha School
  • Prefers sparkling water (since visiting Europe)

Character Notes

  • Thoughtful and philosophical
  • Doesn't believe his calling is to be a pastor, but enjoys theological discussion
  • Self-reflective about his own religious practice and shortcomings
  • Open to discussing unconventional topics (showed interest in conversation about aliens/Anunnaki)

Connection Points

  • Shared religious/spiritual interests
  • Knows many of the Alpha School staff and students
  • Familiar with the Austin church scene, including Austin Ridge Bible Church
  • Key contact for understanding the day-to-day operations and student experience at Alpha High

Last Contact

  • 2025-04-18: Led tour for Gary Sheng and Mahaveer Dharmchand.

Transcripts

Transcript IDDateSummary
2025-04-18-final-conversations-alpha-school2025-04-18Alpha School tour and discussions with Gary, Mahaveer, and engineering team
2025-04-18-alpha-school-tour-with-carson2025-04-18Campus tour explaining educational philosophy and introducing engineering team