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.

Jennifer is grateful to serve as Secretary & Community Engagement Coordinator for Wild Roots Collective. With two master's degree's in education, she has a deep love for learning, but her heart is in homeschooling her children. Jennifer and her husband chose this path to spend more time together as a family, personalize their children's education, and create a safe, nurturing environment. Their kids enjoy sports, and as a family they enjoy spending time with lvoed ones and exploring their community in many capacities. Jennifer is inspired by the support and connection found in Wild Roots Collective and looks forward to growing alongside this wonderful community.