Lorelli Deml

Founder of The Decker School and co-founder of Odyssey International School (Thailand), Lorelli brings over 20 years of business and education experience to the PeacePath Circle. A visionary leader and mother of four, she is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where neurodiverse children can thrive.

“Calm is not a luxury - it’s the foundation that allows every child to learn, connect, and grow.”

Background

Lorelli Deml is the founder and administrator of The Decker School, an inclusive learning community built on curiosity, character, and care. After two decades in the corporate world and international education, Lorelli recognised during the pandemic that many families were being left behind by traditional schooling. In 2020, she founded The Decker School to offer an alternative — one that celebrates each child’s way of learning and living.

Expertise

With over 20 years in business leadership and education, Lorelli’s expertise spans school creation, inclusive design, and small business development. She draws inspiration from the Finnish education model, Character Strengths, and the DuBard Association Method — integrating sound, movement, and multisensory techniques to support emotional regulation and literacy.

Connection to the Mission

Lorelli believes neurodiversity strengthens communities and that the right tools can help children reconnect with learning when legacy methods have failed. For her, “finding peace in the little sounds” means helping children link their mind and body through sensory calm - giving them a way to reset and begin again. Her corporate and educational background also allows her to translate these ideas into practical tools that families and schools can embrace with confidence.

Lived Experience & Insights

Lorelli’s understanding of neurodiversity is personal. Her brother and some of her children are neurodivergent, shaping her belief in flexible, compassionate approaches to learning. She has seen first-hand how peaceful, sensory spaces allow a child’s nervous system to settle - a “must-have” for every home or school supporting neurodiverse children.

Vision & Impact

Lorelli is excited to see the science of sound applied in practical ways that can benefit children throughout their lives. She believes the future lies in sharing these innovations widely - empowering small, inclusive schools to replicate what works and reach every child who needs it.

Fun & Human Touch

A fun fact about Lorelli? She can whistle really loudly — with her fingers!

Three words:

Optimistic · Visionary · Indefatigable