Michael founded Priddy Learning Academy in 1996, based on the simple notion that every child is unique. Based on this premise, he created a structured but individualized learning program that enables young people to learn at their own pace and take charge of their own learning destiny. Starting with basic math and reading, Priddy has added programs over the years for all levels, K-12, as well as individualized test prep for the PSAT, SAT, ACT, and the ISEE/SSAT. In 2017, Priddy launched Priddy Learning LIVE, a real time, online tutoring and teaching service to reach students all over the world.A native Kansan, Michael is a graduate of the University of Kansas, where he majored in Economics. While at KU, he was a member of the Kansas Men's Crew team that won the Mid-West Rowing Championship in Madison, Wisconsin in 1985. Among his other activities, he was a volunteer for the Kansas Student Relay's Committee for the Kansas Relays, in which he helped organize and recruit other volunteers. He was voted by his peers, the Jeff Bland Outstanding Contribution Award, for his efforts. Michael worked his way through college by working various jobs on campus, including at the Center for International Programs, the Spencer Research Library, and at Allen Field House. During the summers, he worked at Farmland Industries oil refinery in Coffeyville, Kansas, as a laborer.Following graduation, Michael entered the graduate program of East Asian Languages and Cultures at KU. His interest in Japan was inspired by a professor and mentor, Grant Goodman. In 1989, Michael won a fellowship by the Japanese government that enabled him to study Japanese full time at Sophia University in Tokyo. It was his experience of studying and living in Japan, that Michael discovered his interest in teaching and developing learning systems, that led to his establishing Priddy Learning Academy in 1996.