Forest Kindergarten
Our Forest Kindergarten is a nature-based learning program for children ages 4–6 that brings meaningful academics into the outdoors. Children learn through a combination of hands-on exploration, play, investigation, and time immersed in the natural world. Our curriculum includes handwriting, phonics and early reading, mathematics, science, and history. Rather than separating academics from children's experiences, we connect learning to the places, seasons, questions, and discoveries children encounter outdoors.
Mornings // Monday-Friday 8:30 am-1:30 pm
Fall Term // September - Dec ($1500 per month)
Spring Term // January - May ($1500 per month)
Early bird discount till August 15 of $150 a month for $1350 per month!!!
Afternoons // Monday-Friday 12 pm-5 pm
Perfect for TK or Kindergarten aftercare
Fall Term // September - Dec ($1000 per month)
Spring Term // January - May ($1000 per month)
Full Day // Monday-Friday 8:30 am-5:00 pm
Fall Term // September - Dec ($1950 per month)
Spring Term // January - May ($1950 per month)
Early bird discount till August 15 of $150 a month for $1800 per month!!!
Pick-up and drop-off instructions will be given for each month. We meet at state and city parks. Then, each week we host, Farm Fridays provide an additional outdoor experience where children learn animal husbandry, gardening, cooking, art, and more!
Meet the Teachers
Our team is trained in education, ecology, and childhood.
Our mission is to rewild childhood to save the planet.
Melissa Eiser
Teacher
Melissa Eiser ("Ms. Mel") holds a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art and Art History from California State University Channel Islands, graduating Magna Cum Laude, and has completed extensive Early Childhood Education coursework through Ventura County Community Colleges. She is a certified Associate Teacher for ages 0-5 years.
With years of experience as a homeschool educator, caregiver, artist, and mother of two, Melissa is passionate about fostering curiosity, creativity, and connection in children. She has guided child-led learning through nature exploration, open-ended art experiences, and hands-on discovery, drawing inspiration from forest school practices. Melissa is deeply committed to creating joyful, inclusive environments where children feel safe to explore, take healthy risks, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Rachel Zook-Brimer
Teacher
Rachel Zook-Brimer (Ms. Rachel) holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, with an emphasis in Marine Ecosystems, and has spent her career designing and leading programs that inspire curiosity, confidence, and stewardship in young people. Through her work with organizations including Sea League, Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara Adventure Company, Rachel has developed a talent for creating meaningful outdoor experiences that foster wonder, exploration, and a deep connection to nature.
Rachel brings a calm, joyful presence to her work with children and believes that some of the most powerful learning happens through hands-on discovery in the natural world. As a Certified Wilderness First Responder and Lifeguard, she combines a strong commitment to safety with a spirit of adventure and exploration. Whether exploring tide pools, observing wildlife, or engaging in imaginative outdoor play, Rachel strives to create experiences that spark curiosity and empower children to become thoughtful, capable learners.
Kendall Cos, M.A.Ed.
Teacher
Kendall Cos (Ms. Kendall) brings a strong foundation in education, outdoor learning, and child development to our school. She earned both her Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction and her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Mississippi and holds teaching credentials in Elementary Education, English, Social Studies, and Mild/Moderate Disabilities. Kendall is also a certified Wilderness First Responder and CPR/AED instructor, combining her passion for education with a deep commitment to children's safety and well-being.
Her experience spans traditional classrooms, special education, and immersive outdoor education. As an Outdoor Education Instructor and Snorkel & Kayak Instructor with Naturalist at Large, Kendall has led children through hands-on adventures that foster confidence, curiosity, teamwork, and a meaningful connection with the natural world. She believes children learn best through exploration, inquiry, and real-world experiences, and she is passionate about creating joyful environments where every child feels capable, supported, and inspired to discover.
.jpg)
Melissa B. Wilder, M.S. & M.L.A
Consultant & Curriculum
Melissa B. Wilder is an ecologist and educator with 25 years in the classroom. Currently, she researches bold strategies to save half the Earth for other species and rewilding Homo sapiens. In 2019, she was awarded the “Dean’s Outstanding Thesis Prize” at Harvard University and graduated from their sustainability program with a Master of Liberal Arts. She also holds a master’s certificate in resource management, a master's of science in environmental education, a bachelor's degree in outdoor education, and an Outward Bound Educator certificate.
She is a certified mentor teacher from Harvard's Graduate School of Education and a certified maker spaces leader from MIT. She has taught in both higher education and preK-12th grade private and public schools. In 2020, she moved to Santa Barbara to be a STEM educator and later the Director of Academic Innovation at the Riviera Ridge School. In 2023, she was awarded Santa Barbara Environmental Teacher of the Year at the Earth Day Festival. She is the owner and founder of the Little Blue Creche and a faculty member at Harvard University's Extension School.
Brianne Vogel, M.A. Ed
Farm to School
Brie has a Master of Arts in Education and over eight years of experience taking children outside. Whether on wilderness trips throughout the state or in the garden creating plots and compost Brie loves using the natural world to help children discover more about themselves and the Earth. She recently finished her Early Childhood certificate from Ventura College and is a Certified Agricultural Literacy Educator, a Certified School Garden Coordinator, an Environmental Action Civics Trained Educator, and an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach.
Brie will be leading our on-site garden program and will also be managing our nature-based Summer Day Camp for ages 4-10 years old around Ventura County. Brie can often be found hiking the mountains with her baby and partner.
