Miss Erika is a credentialed K-8 teacher and early childhood educator with over 20 years experience teaching Preschool-2nd grade.​ She created this program when she saw a need in the community to provide a holistic, outdoor learning environment for children. She is so excited to have her ten year old daughter alongside her as a part of her homeschooling journey. She believes that learning occurs organically through children’s discoveries, passions and innate curiosities. She wants to instill a love of learning and create a community of like-minded families who share similar values.

Todd has 25 years of experience in after-school education, summer camps, and nature-based programs, and is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for children to learn through exploration and play. He has worked with children ranging from preschool through high school and also spent five years as an EMT, bringing a strong background in safety and first aid to his work. Todd’s teaching philosophy is child-led and play-based, allowing children’s curiosity and interests to guide their learning. He is also an avid backpacker and outdoor enthusiast and is excited to share his love of nature and adventure with the Nature Scouts community. This will be his third year teaching for Nature Scouts.

Julie is an early childhood educator and certified Forest School teacher with an AA in Early Childhood Development. Her approach is rooted in outdoor, play-based learning and a deep belief in the value of connecting children with the natural world. With a background in design, gardening, and nature-based education, she enjoys creating thoughtful, hands-on experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence, and connection. This will be her third year teaching for Nature Scouts.

En is a mom, certified Positive Discipline educator, and designer who is thrilled to join Nature Scouts Collective this year! With her background in design and art, she loves bringing design thinking and hands-on exploration to the outdoor classroom.

For En, nature is the ultimate space for children to slow down, get curious, and connect with the world around them. She’s excited to help create a warm, encouraging space where every child feels seen and welcome. She can’t wait to explore, discover, and learn alongside the children this year!

Danielle is a passionate early years educator with a background in Reggio-inspired and bilingual education. She’s worked as a teacher and pedagogista in progressive schools in the US and Israel and holds a master’s degree in Inclusive Early Childhood Education from Portland State University. 

Danielle is deeply inspired by the culture of childhood and sees children as capable, curious, vibrant citizens with so much to contribute! She is thrilled to be teaching in a fully outdoor program and believes that nature is the best classroom there is!

Originally from Las Vegas, Danielle has lived all over the Pacific Northwest and also spent half a decade in Tel Aviv. She’s new to San Diego, has a #1 goal of learning to surf, and is a dedicated yogi and a lover of the outdoors.

Jenna is an environmental science educator with a background in conservation, ecology, and a passion for hands-on outdoor learning. As a mother and lifelong nature lover, she believes children thrive when they explore the world through curiosity, imagination, and real scientific discovery. Her teaching blends storytelling with environmental science, helping young learners understand how land, water, wildlife, and people are connected. She focuses on child‑led exploration, stewardship, and building early foundations in ecological awareness. Jenna is passionate about guiding Nature Scouts as they grow into confident, compassionate caretakers of the Earth.

Chris is the father of an 8 yr old son and was born and raised in Oceanside, CA. He has explored the entire US and travels abroad to experience cultures through food, nature and agriculture. He has a deep rooted passion for regenerative farming, primal movements, survival techniques and natural bodies of water. 

His education includes an AA in graphic design, a BA in film production, minor studies in holistic health and a Permaculture Design Certification. Additionally, he has experience in yoga, Ayurveda, biofeedback and has worked with the Sage Garden Project as a gardening and cooking instructor for grades TK-5th.

Chris wholeheartedly believes children learn with their minds and bodies, using creativity, play, movement, and a connection to ancient practices. He believes it’s our duty as parents and educators to provide them space to confidently explore themselves and their environment, while we pass-on wisdom to help them navigate.

Angela is a Certified Forest School Teacher, Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, conscious parenting guide, holistic entrepreneur, and advocate for self-directed education. Her experience includes working in a Sudbury school, training in conflict resolution and restorative dialogue, circle practice, and facilitating learning environments that nurture curiosity and meaningful relationships.