About us
ROOTS Farm & Forest School is a nature-based learning community dedicated to fostering curiosity, resilience, and a deep connection to the natural world. Located on a vibrant homestead in Georgetown, DE, we provide immersive, hands-on education through farm and forest schooling, homeschool enrichment, after-school programs, summer camps, and community classes. Our diverse programs also include yoga, stay-and-play sessions, birthday parties, bunny socials, and field trips—creating endless opportunities for exploration and growth.
At ROOTS, children thrive through child-led, project-based learning that nurtures life skills, environmental stewardship, and social-emotional development. With pollinator gardens, food forests, a nature playscape, and animal care, we offer a unique space where education comes to life. Our expert team brings a wealth of knowledge in holistic wellness and sustainable living, ensuring that every child and family benefits from a well-rounded, enriching experience. Whether through hands-on homesteading, mindfulness practices, or creative outdoor play, ROOTS is redefining education—one adventure at a time.
Where nature, learning, and community come together to nurture holistic growth and sustainable living.
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R.o.o.t.s. Community Initiative
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This training equips our team with evidence-based strategies to integrate therapeutic approaches into nature-based education, fostering emotional well-being, resilience, and inclusivity. By blending these techniques with immersive outdoor learning, we ensure that every child at ROOTS feels supported, empowered, and nurtured in their growth.
At ROOTS, we are committed to supporting the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. Talon, our founder and director, is actively training in the Therapeutic Forest School Training Program, a specialized course led by experts in occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, child psychology, and more.
Integrating Therapeutic Skills into Nature-Based Learning
This specialized training equips our team with strategies to create meaningful outdoor experiences for children of all abilities, ensuring that every learner feels supported, engaged, and empowered. With expert knowledge and a dedication to accessibility, we continue to foster a learning environment where all children can thrive.
At ROOTS, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in nature. Talon has earned the Naturally Inclusive – Engaging Children of All Abilities Outdoors certification from The Outdoor Learning School & Store, further strengthening our commitment to inclusive, nature-based education.
Naturally Inclusive - Engaging Children of All Abilities Outdoor
This certification reinforces our mission to create enriching, nature-inspired learning environments that foster curiosity, resilience, and mindfulness. With a strong foundation in nature-based education, our team ensures that every child at ROOTS thrives through hands-on exploration and meaningful connections with the world around them.
At ROOTS, we prioritize expert training to provide the highest quality nature-based learning experiences. Talon has completed the Level 1 Nature-Based Teacher Certification Course through the Association of Nature-Based Education, strengthening our commitment to outdoor, child-led education.
Certified in Nature-Based Education
Rooted in Expertise, Designed for Impact
Our Farm & Forest School is built on a foundation of child-led, hands-on learning, fostering environmental stewardship, social-emotional growth, and essential life skills. We create inclusive outdoor classrooms where children of all abilities thrive through exploration, discovery, and meaningful connections. With spaces designed to support every learning style—tactile, visual, and auditory—our program ensures authentic engagement that nurtures a lifelong love for nature and learning.
At ROOTS Farm & Forest School, we bring top-tier training and hands-on experience to create an exceptional learning environment. Our team has completed the Nature-Based Educator Training through the Association of Nature-Based Education, and both Travis and Talon are certified as Forest School Teachers and Directors through the Forest School Teacher Institute.
This expansive training, endorsed by East Tennessee State University’s Department of Early Childhood Education, reinforces our commitment to providing top-tier nature-based education. Their expertise helps ROOTS continue to grow as a place where children thrive through outdoor learning, exploration, and hands-on experiences!
We’re beyond excited to share that Talon and Travis have officially completed all three levels of certification through the prestigious Forest School Teacher Institute!
Big News—ROOTS Leadership is Leveling Up!
we are Dedicated to holistic education, nurturing both body and mind, and nature-based learning through specialized training and certifications.
Our Expertise & Credentials
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At ROOTS, Talon combines her knowledge of child development with her expertise in mindfulness and wellness to help children build strong foundations for lifelong learning. She believes that nature is the best classroom and works to ensure every child has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and develop a deep appreciation for the environment. Through her leadership, ROOTS is a place where education extends beyond textbooks, allowing children to develop independence, creativity, and a sense of community.
Talon believes in the power of play, mindfulness, and inclusion to create meaningful learning experiences. As a homeschooling mother, she integrates hands-on, experiential learning into daily life, fostering confidence, resilience, and self-discovery in children. She is deeply committed to creating an environment where all children feel seen, supported, and empowered to explore the world around them.
R.O.O.T.S. Founders & Program Director
Talon Holleman
- Forest School Teacher & Director Certification
- Nature-Based Educator Training
- Outdoor Inclusivity Training
- Therapeutic Skills for Outdoor Leaders
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Beyond his work with children, Travis is passionate about building a strong and connected community. He collaborates with local organizations, youth groups, and small businesses to create educational opportunities and expand access to nature-based learning. His vision for ROOTS is one where children, families, and educators come together to create a culture of learning, sustainability, and shared growth.
With a background in permaculture design, Travis ensures that ROOTS serves as a living classroom where children learn about ecosystems, food systems, and self-sufficiency. His approach emphasizes inquiry-based learning, using Socratic questioning to help students develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and independence. Whether teaching students about sustainable farming, guiding them through outdoor exploration, or mentoring them in environmental stewardship, he is dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of learning and nature.
R.O.O.T.S. Founders & Program Director
Travis Holleman
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When not teaching, Courtney enjoys hiking, traveling to National Parks, and working toward her goal of visiting all 50 states with her husband, Derek. She’s also an avid reader and loves spending time with her two dogs and cat who bring endless joy to her life. She is thrilled to be part of the ROOTS community, inspiring her students to explore, learn, and connect with the world around them.
She found her perfect fit at ROOTS Farm & Forest School, where she can foster meaningful relationships with students and guide them in developing confidence, problem-solving skills, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. She is passionate about helping children grow into curious, compassionate learners who are prepared for life beyond the classroom. Courtney is committed to helping each of her students grow into confident, compassionate, and curious individuals who are prepared to make their mark on the world.
Lead Teacher, Camp Director, and Nature Programs Coordinator
Courtney Brinsfield
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After becoming a mother, Heather pursued further studies in early childhood education and discovered the Forest School model, which aligns with her belief that children thrive in self-directed, nature-based learning. She is a Forest School-certified teacher and is passionate about guiding children in building confidence, creativity, and resilience. She and her husband, Nathan, are excited to be part of a community that embraces learning in its most natural form.
With a B.S. in Communications from Boston University, Heather has a strong background in movement, mindfulness, and holistic wellness. She is a yoga instructor, former studio owner, and licensed massage therapist, bringing a deep understanding of body awareness to her teaching. Her passion for outdoor learning began while volunteering at a rural school in Ecuador, where she led children in yoga, surfing, and environmental projects.
Lead Pre-School Teacher
Heather Kingree
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Outside of ROOTS, Dakotah can often be found working on various projects around their homestead, where she enjoys spending time with her family, dogs, cat, and many chickens. She is excited to continue her work with ROOTS for another year, supporting both her children’s growth and the development of other students in the community. Dakotah looks forward to further exploring and sharing the benefits of nature-based learning while building meaningful, long-lasting connections.
Her career in physical therapy has given Dakotah a deep understanding of child development and a passion for creating environments where children can thrive emotionally, mentally, and physically. Her journey with ROOTS has further reinforced the importance of fostering a sense of community and hands-on learning, both of which have been pivotal to her son’s success.
Lead Teacher - Monday Homeschool Enrichment
Dakotah Greif
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When she’s not teaching, Lauren enjoys tending to her seven-acre homestead, where she lives with her husband, Paul, their cat, Cotton, and a flock of twelve beloved chickens. She is thrilled to continue her journey with ROOTS, nurturing a love of nature and lifelong learning in every child she teaches.
A graduate of the University of Delaware, Lauren has a strong background in outdoor, experience-based education and regenerative agriculture. Her love for teaching is rooted in hands-on experiences, fostering curiosity, and encouraging children to learn through exploration. Some of her most cherished memories involve wading through vernal pools to the chorus of spring peepers, sharing silent meetings in the forests of Vermont, and savoring sun-warmed tomatoes fresh from the vine. She brings this same sense of wonder and connection to her classes, ensuring that each child feels a sense of belonging and excitement in their learning journey.
Lead Teacher - Tuesdays Homeschool Enrichment
Lauren Moser
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As a new mom I read everything I could about raising a well regulated kid. In everything I read, nature and forest school kept popping up. The more I read and researched the more I wanted this for my child. When the opportunity arose to not only have my son attend the Farm and Forest School but to work with them I could not have said yes fast enough.
I hope all the students get to develop an appreciation and respect for nature.
In college I majored in Recreation and Leisure studies with courses in outdoor education and inclusive recreation. I am a nature lover and a camping/hiking enthusiast.
Assistant Teacher- Preschool
Alexandra Scullen
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From the moment I connected with Talon, Travis, and the ROOTS team, I knew this was a place where both my children and I could grow. I’m excited to be part of a learning environment that embraces curiosity, creativity, and real-world experiences. My goal is to unlearn rigid educational structures and help children explore, create, and develop at their own pace—because education should be as limitless as their potential.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science and a Master’s in Elementary Education, along with certifications as a birth doula and nutrition coach. I’m also completing my Forest & Nature School Teacher certification to further support children in a hands-on, student-led environment. My passion for nature, sustainability, and holistic education drives my commitment to helping kids learn in a way that honors their individuality and fosters a lifelong love of discovery.
Assistant Teacher- Homeschool Enrichment
Alyssa Gerlitz
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Outside of teaching, Jennifer enjoys yoga, hiking, and camping with her family and two dogs. She is passionate about spending time outdoors, fostering meaningful connections, and creating enriching educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom. She is thrilled to be part of the ROOTS community and looks forward to inspiring children through nature-based learning.
Jennifer brings a wealth of experience working with neurodivergent children and is deeply committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where all students can thrive. She has been a strong advocate for ROOTS since its inception, playing a key role in connecting families with valuable resources and fostering a sense of community. Her background in science, problem-solving, and critical thinking translates seamlessly into her work with children, where she encourages curiosity, exploration, and confidence in learning.
Assistant Teacher- 4 Day
Jennifer Downey
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Ashley is deeply inspired by the connection between nature, community, and personal development. Her diverse experiences and passion for mindfulness allow her to be a thoughtful advocate for students, helping them build a lifelong love of learning and interconnectedness with the world around them. She is excited to be part of the ROOTS community and looks forward to guiding students in their journey of self-discovery and growth.
With a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Ashley is committed to supporting emotional well-being and fostering mindfulness in both herself and her students. In her private practice, she focuses on healing and cultivating compassion, which aligns with her belief in nurturing children’s emotional intelligence and resilience. Additionally, Ashley is a Registered Yoga Teacher, continuing her own journey of growth while encouraging others to do the same.
Assistant Teacher- Forest Days
Ashley Schorah
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She discovered ROOTS while searching for a nature-based program for her son and was immediately drawn to its mission. Now, she’s excited to share her passion for yoga, movement, and nature-based learning with children and families, helping them build confidence, connection, and a lifelong love for the outdoors.
Beyond the classroom, Tracey is a dedicated advocate for health and wellness. She is a certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and yoga teacher, specializing in Vinyasa and Ashtanga (1st & 2nd series).
Tracey holds an M.Ed in Curriculum & Instruction with a focus on Educational Leadership & Policy and is certified in Early Childhood Education and K-12 Special Education. She has worked with learners of all ages, from preschoolers to college students, and has mentored educators around the world. Throughout her career, she has witnessed firsthand the profound impact of play, movement, and mindfulness in a child’s development and well-being.
Nature Pals Teacher and Yoga Instructor (Children & Adults)
Tracey Cannatelli
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With a Master of Science in Environmental Education from Oregon State University and 15+ years of experience working with youth and adults, Lisa is excited to bring her unique blend of yoga, mindfulness, and environmental awareness to Grounded ROOTS Yoga. Whether leading a class in the great outdoors or guiding students toward inner balance, she is committed to fostering a sense of peace, purpose, and connection—both on and off the mat.
Lisa’s journey to becoming a yoga instructor was sparked by an unexpected force of nature—a hurricane. In 2017, after a devastating storm hit Puerto Rico, she partnered with her favorite yoga studio in South Carolina to create DOGA (dog yoga) classes, raising funds for The Sato Project, an organization rescuing abandoned dogs from the island’s “Dead Dog Beach.” Inspired by the joy and purpose these classes brought, Lisa pursued her 200-hour YTT certification through Uplifted Yoga, allowing her to continue using yoga as a tool for healing, connection, and service.
Yoga Instructor (Children & Adults)
Lisa Swanger
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Known for her thoughtful nature and ability to make every moment special, she has a talent for turning ordinary days into celebrations and making every child feel seen, valued, and inspired.
Faith’s love for education extends beyond the classroom. Her home is a living, breathing learning space, filled with art, animals (three dogs, two cats, six rabbits, and soon, six chickens!), and endless opportunities for hands-on discovery.
Before stepping into the world of early childhood education, Faith worked as a technician in eye doctors’ offices, developing a keen attention to detail and a deep commitment to care. Now, as a homeschooling mom, she has created a home filled with learning, creativity, and curiosity—an approach she brings to her students at ROOTS.
Nature Pals Teacher & Executive Assistant
Faith Gonzalez
Meet the ROOTS Team: Guiding Growth Through Nature
At ROOTS, our team is dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where children can thrive. Grounded in our mission, vision, and values, we provide hands-on, nature-based learning experiences that spark curiosity, foster resilience, and cultivate a lifelong love for learning.
Our programs are thoughtfully designed to support each child’s unique growth, blending proven educational approaches with immersive, experiential learning. As an alternative education option, we empower children with the skills, confidence, and connection to nature they need to flourish—both now and in the future.
ROOTS collaborates with local schools to provide immersive, nature-based learning experiences that complement classroom education. Through hands-on workshops, field trips, and customized programs, we inspire students to explore, create, and connect with the natural world.
Connecting Classrooms to the Outdoors
ROOTS partners with libraries to offer hands-on, engaging programs that connect children and families to nature, sustainability, and creativity. Through interactive workshops, story time sessions, and experiential learning activities, we bring the beauty of the outdoors into community spaces.
Bringing Nature-Inspired Learning to Local Libraries
Our collaborations take many forms—joint events, shared learning opportunities, and cross-promotions that strengthen our collective impact. Whether co-hosting workshops, providing seamless referrals to therapists and specialists, or utilizing shared spaces for nature-based education, we work together to ensure families have quick and easy access to valuable resources. By uniting our efforts, we cultivate a stronger, more connected community where every child can thrive.
At ROOTS, we believe in the power of community. Through strategic partnerships, we collaborate with organizations that share our mission to create enriching experiences, expand resources, and provide essential support for families.
Connecting families with resources, support, and shared experiences through meaningful collaborations with like-minded organizations.
Growing Together: Community Partnerships for a Greater Impact
- Benjamin Banneker Elementary School
- Traveling Tutorz
- Howard T Ennis School
- The Barrie School – Silver Spring MD
- Sussex Academy
- Laurel Elementary School
- North Georgetown Elementary
- Sussex Consortium
- Peaceful Child Montessori
- Cedar Lane Kindergarten Center
Frequently Asked Questions
Roots Community Initiative
At ROOTS Community Initiative, we’re planting the seeds of empowerment, connection, and sustainability. As a nonprofit, we are dedicated to fostering a thriving, inclusive community where every individual can grow, learn, and engage with nature. We believe in a world where diversity is celebrated, collaboration is encouraged, and people of all backgrounds and abilities come together to create a more compassionate and sustainable future. Through hands-on experiences and shared learning, we cultivate a deep sense of belonging, purpose, and stewardship for both our community and the natural world.
Our Mission
ROOTS Community Initiative is dedicated to bridging the gaps in traditional education through a community-centered approach that fosters self-sufficiency, meaningful connections, and a spirit of giving. By integrating hands-on learning, nature immersion, and service to others, we empower individuals to grow with confidence, contribute to their communities, and cultivate a more compassionate, sustainable future.
