With a passion for holistic learning and a dedication to fostering an environment where creativity and exploration can thrive, Samantha is here to guide our community into our first semester with purpose and excitement.

Samantha has always known she wanted to homeschool her children. After a decade in banking, she and her husband began their family and set their sights on providing a wholesome, child-led education from a young age. Their youngest child started attending a preschool homeschool co-op at just two years old, marking the beginning of Samantha's journey in homeschool co-ops. Since then, she has taken on leadership roles, served as a board member, and developed a thriving preschool and Pre-K program that continues to flourish.

Samantha's family has been homeschooling for several years and has actively participated in co-ops for six. Founding Wild Roots Collective has been a long-held dream, and it's now becoming a reality with the support of her incredible team.

As the Program Director, Samantha will oversee the daily operations of the co-op and make herself fully available to the community. Her role includes guiding and supporting the leadership team, ensuring the mission is upheld, and fostering a connected and supportive environment. She is genuinely excited to see the community grow and thrive together.

Kelly has a background in education and aquatics, with experience teaching a wide range of ages from 6 months to adults. Her most rewarding work has always been educating families about water safety and teaching children to swim. Additionally, she has volunteered as a Girl Scout leader and served as a lifeguard at summer day camps for many years.

Her family has been homeschooling for the past six years, valuing the flexibility to set their own schedule, travel frequently, and tailor their approach to their children’s strengths. As a family, they enjoy camping, hiking, water sports, and any adventure that keeps them connected to nature.

They were drawn to be part of Wild Roots Collective because of its dedication to learning from the natural world. As the assistant program director, Kelly is committed to supporting the leadership team and creating enriching educational and field trip experiences for the community’s families. She is genuinely excited to collaborate with this incredible group of women to build an engaging and welcoming community.

Katy graduated from Michigan Technological University with a degree in Wildlife Ecology and Management. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, she worked with Indiana Dunes State Park and National Park as well as Shirley Heinze Land Trust, gaining hands-on experience in conservation and environmental education.

Now in her second year of homeschooling, Katy loves the flexibility and freedom to take learning beyond four walls and into the world around us. Her family spends as much time outdoors as possible, enjoying camping, backpacking, and fishing—rain, snow, or shine! She firmly believes in the saying, "There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes."

As Academic Director, Katy is passionate about getting both kids and moms out in nature. She plans to incorporate outdoor classes whenever possible, taking full advantage of the beautiful property at Camp ToPeNeBee.

Jessie graduated from Purdue University with a major in Computer Graphics, specializing in 3D Animation and Video Game Design, along with a minor in Organizational Leadership. After nearly a decade in her field, she felt called to embrace a new adventure as a stay-at-home mom.

Her family has been homeschooling for three years, and she loves the freedom to tailor her children’s education to their unique learning styles. With a passion for computers and organizing data, Jessie brings both structure and transparency to her role as Treasurer—finding joy in the very tasks that keep our co-op running smoothly!

She is thrilled to be part of this amazing community and looks forward to all the learning and growth ahead. Join us in thanking Jessie for her dedication to Wild Roots Collective!

Jade earned her Bachelor of Science in Family Services & Childcare in 2017 and has a deep passion for family-centered education. Originally from California, she and her family made the move in 2022 to embrace a more rooted, intentional lifestyle. When they’re not homeschooling, you can find them experimenting and expanding their homestead, always learning and growing together.

Homeschooling has been a transformative journey for Jade’s family, allowing them to celebrate small daily victories while navigating life’s challenges as a team. With three years of homeschooling experience, she values the connection and growth that come with it.

At Wild Roots, Jade is eager to serve as Secretary, offering support wherever needed and helping our community thrive. We’re so grateful to have her on board!