Nicky Altikulac, MS BCBA
Founder & Principal, AKF Academy
Nicky Altikulac’s journey to founding AKF Academy began with a simple but powerful belief: every child deserves to feel successful, understood, and supported in their learning environment.
Through her years working in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and special education, Nicky saw firsthand how many children with learning differences struggled in traditional school settings—not because they couldn’t learn, but because they weren’t being taught in the way they needed. She worked closely with families who felt unheard and children who were capable of so much more with the right support.
Determined to create something different, Nicky founded AKF Academy—a small, nurturing school designed specifically for children who need individualized instruction, structure, and understanding. Her vision was to build a place where education is not one-size-fits-all, where progress is measured in meaningful ways, and where each child is truly known.
In addition to leading the academy, Nicky is also the owner of All Kids First, an ABA therapy provider. This dual role allows her to integrate therapeutic strategies into the classroom, creating a consistent and supportive environment where children can grow both academically and behaviorally.
What sets Nicky apart is her deep commitment to each child and family. She believes that education should build confidence, not frustration—and that with the right approach, every child can thrive.
AKF Academy is a reflection of that belief: a place built with heart, purpose, and a dedication to helping children reach their fullest potential.
In her 20 years as an educator, Mrs. Lockett has been privileged to work with students and teachers in a variety of K-12 settings in general and special education. Mrs. Lockett received her Bachelor’s and Master’s from Alabama State University in Health Education, holds a Georgia Special Educator Certification, and is currently working on her PhD in Epidemiology at Walden University. She has worked in the special education classroom as a teacher, co-teacher, and case manager. Mrs. Lockett will serve in the capacity of Lead teacher of Instructional Curriculum here at AKF Academy. Her goal is to create academically engaging learning experiences through an environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and kindness. Mrs. Lockett is very passionate about working with young students with disabilities and helping them gain the skills they need to become lifelong learners. She firmly believes that great educators learn and grow with their students and is thankful for the opportunity to help young minds develop and flourish. In her time away from work, she loves hiking, running, kayaking, and anything outdoors with her husband, son, and grand-pup.
Bhat Vanishree
Vanishree is a dedicated Substitute Teacher/Therapist with a strong background in supporting children with special needs. She previously worked as a paraprofessional in a special education classroom with Gwinnett County Public Schools. As a mother of a child with autism, Vanishree brings personal insight, deep empathy, and hands-on experience in teaching life skills and fostering developmental growth. She is currently training to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and is passionate about educating children through patience, care, and individualized support.
Sedef Dion — Yoga Teacher & Trainer
Sedef Dion is an E-RYT 500, RCYT, and the creator of Pre-Grounded Yoga, a unique yoga program designed for children ages 3–6. With thirty years of personal yoga practice and extensive teaching experience, Sedef brings a deep understanding, passion, and respect for the practice to every class she leads.
Her personal yoga style is an integration of the many traditions, techniques, and teachings she has studied and practiced with teachers throughout the years. Her teaching reflects her dedication to preserving the sacred integrity of yoga while embracing the joy, connection, and presence that the practice offers both on and off the mat.
Sedef teaches adults Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Yin Yoga, and Meditation, as well as Pre-Grounded and Grounded Kids Yoga for children ages 3 and up.
With years of experience and a wealth of knowledge, Sedef has developed a particular gift for working with special-needs populations. She connects with her students on a deeply personal level, creating an environment that is compassionate, supportive, inclusive, and empowering. Her genuine connection and intuitive approach shine through in her teaching.
In addition to her regular classes, Sedef leads workshops, special events, and Yoga Teacher Trainings throughout Atlanta and across the United States. Through her teaching, she continues to share the transformative benefits of yoga while inspiring students of all ages and abilities to discover greater strength, balance, awareness, and joy.