Joshua McKay founded Apogee North Idaho after a profound realization about the state of the modern education system. Joshua's journey into education was sparked by his own experience in the system and later, as a parent, observing the limitations and failures of conventional education.

Joshua, a native of Arkansas, initially pursued a career as a Firefighter/Paramedic and later experienced success as an entrepreneur in the home services space. However, his path took a significant turn when he became a father. Witnessing firsthand the one-size-fits-all approach of the current education system, which often overlooks individual student needs and creativity, McKay felt compelled to act. His background gave him a unique perspective; he understood the importance of education tailored not just for academic excellence but for nurturing individual talents, individual thinking, and ability to initiate or engage in socratic conversations.