Elise brings a love of simplicity, a keenness for life-long learning and a strong belief in the wisdom of children to her role as Field & Forest Programs Director and teacher. Elise began teaching at the Attic Learning Community in 2009, transitioning to the Field & Forest Programs since its inception in 2011. Teaching with this phenomenal community has given her a deep grounding in constructivist teaching and fluidity with the dance of supporting child-led learning. Elise feels that honoring our children, their passions, and their connection to the earth is the most powerful way to create a better world.
Growing up a Northwest native she spent much of her time in the outdoors living her motto - if you got wet and dirty, it must have been fun! Her educational background covers a lifetime with many topics including constructivist teaching methods, positive communication skills, child development and attachment, healthcare, mathematics, biology, ecology, primitive skills and tipi habitation, herbalism, writing, calligraphy, and equine management and massage. Elise enjoys life in a small clearing in the woods with spouse Leslie, daughter Ruth, their dog, cat, two horses, chickens and a plethora of books.