After growing up homeschooled and free range, I loved learning and was so excited to share my love of learning with my students when I became a teacher. I started pursuing my degree in education at age 16, and began my teaching career when I was 20. I quickly realized that working in a traditional school wasn't a good fit for me. Being forced to give unhappy kids worksheets and make them sit still and behave made me heartbroken. When I finally learned about the forest school teaching philosophy, it resonated with me and the freedom I had in childhood as an unschooled homeschooler. I knew I had finally found a way to teach children that also honored them and their childhood. As an educator, I always want to do what's best for my students and help them achieve a love for learning that will help them be successful in everything they do.

Something about being in nature is magical. It calms us down, helps us focus, and provides endless learning opportunities. As my students' curiosity grew, they bloomed. They were so hungry for knowledge and excited to learn. I vowed I would never teach indoors again. I had finally found my true calling: preserving childhood through outdoor education. My passion for forest school led me to found Free Haven Forest School in the fall of 2021. I am currently pursuing my graduate degree in outdoor education and am set to graduate in December of 2022. My students have taught me so much about how to teach effectively, and help them love learning. I look forward to continuing to grow, and using my knowledge to be the best educator and advocate I can be.