🌿 LEAD TEACHERS 🌿

  • Ms. Marla Lead Teacher 1st - 5th Grade

    Ms. Marla 🌿 Lead Teacher 1st - 5th Grade

    I am an enthusiastic and dedicated educator with a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. My teaching journey began in Killeen, TX, where I had the honor of teaching 6th to 8th-grade science for 18 years. During my tenure, I also taught life management and teen leadership, fostering a love of knowledge, science, notable scientists, and essential life skills among my students.

    Beyond the classroom, I was actively involved in sponsoring various clubs, including robotics, gardening, recycling, and even Dungeons and Dragons. These experiences allowed me to connect with students in unique and meaningful ways, promoting their interests and passions.

    Currently, I am in my second year at the Nature School of Fairview, and it truly feels like a dream job that I never knew I wanted. I am passionate about the innovative approach we take to education, focusing on activities that nurture students' physical, emotional, and social growth. The supportive staff and the collaborative learning environment make every day a joy, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful community.

  • Ms. Racheal 🌿 Lead Kindergarten Teacher

    I am thrilled to be part of this wonderful community. I recently relocated here from a small town, driven by my passion for teaching and making a difference in students' lives. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas, Tyler.

    Before joining this school, I had the privilege of working in the special education field, where I taught students essential social-emotional skills and effective communication strategies. This experience has deepened my commitment to nurturing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students.

    Nature has always been a significant part of my life, and I have long dreamed of integrating my love for the outdoors into my teaching. I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to inspire your students, ignite their imaginations, and cultivate their curiosity about the world around them.

    I look forward to collaborating with you to help your children grow and succeed both academically and personally. Let’s embark on this educational journey together!

  • Ms. Catherine 🌿 Lead Teacher 3-5 Year-Old Classroom

    With over 24 years of experience working with children and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential obtained in 2011, I am deeply committed to the field of early childhood education. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working at various schools that emphasize the Reggio Emilia approach, a philosophy that values the child as strong, capable, and resilient.

    For the past six years, I have called Texas my home and have worked as a Preschool Teacher at the Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Dallas. My passion for early childcare education drives me every day, and it is incredibly rewarding to contribute to the growth and development of young minds at the Nature School. Helping to mold the children of our future is both an honor and an exciting challenge that I embrace wholeheartedly.

  • Ms. Hallie 🌿Lead Teacher 3-4 Year Old Classroom

    With a strong foundation in early childhood development, Hallie brings over six years of experience in guiding and nurturing young learners. As a Curriculum Advisor at The Goddard School (August 2021 - April 2024), Hallie evaluated lesson plans to ensure child-centered and developmentally appropriate activities, while coaching educators in the use of inquiry-based learning tools such as loose parts and open-ended toys. 

    Hallie holds a Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Brigham Young University-Idaho, graduating with a 3.8 GPA in December 2018. Hallie’s commitment to excellence was recognized with the Goddard National Teacher of the Year and Western Regional Teacher of the Year awards in 2021.

    Enthusiastic about expanding her impact, Hallie is excited to be working at the Nature School, where she can combine her passion for early childhood education with her love for nature and the outdoors. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor adventures and has made an annual tradition of visiting Disney.

🌿 ASSISTANT TEACHERS 🌿

  • Veneta Gaydarova 🌿 Assistant Teacher

    Ms. Veny embarked on her professional journey in education over 25 years ago. With a rich blend of international and domestic experience, she has served as a school counselor, teacher, and school manager. Her dedication to education is evident in her passion for creating an effective, high-quality learning environment for students and fostering professional teamwork between teachers and families. Ms. Veny holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Education, complemented by various educational certifications.

    As a mother of two grown boys, Ms. Veny, along with her husband, relocated to Texas nine years ago after raising their children in Glenview, Illinois. In her leisure time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and teaching mindfulness-based meditation classes. Ms. Veny is committed to working collaboratively with teachers, children, and their families to support and enhance the educational experience for all.

  • Carrie Bonds🌿 Assistant Teacher

    Ms. Carrie found her way into nature-based education after reading How to Raise a Wild Child by Scott D. Sampson. It truly changed her perspective as a mother of two young boys. She continued to educate herself with more literature from leaders in this movement. The experience of homeschooling her young son using a nature-based curriculum unveiled a deep love for teaching and facilitating a love of nature with children. She witnessed first-hand the miracle of nature immersion for a child’s physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

    Ms. Carrie is originally from the Denton area. She is currently working towards her Associated degree in Horticulture. She loves camping, hiking, making art and dancing!

  • Niqi Crump 🌿 Assistant Teacher

    I am thrilled to be a part of the Nature School of Fairview team. Growing up in McKinney, I discovered my passion for the arts through leading in a choir and exploring various art media. This passion led me to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in Studio Art and a minor in Psychology from Texas State University, which I proudly completed in 2021.

    My journey in education began with leading an elementary drawing program called Young Rembrandts, where I had the joy of nurturing young artists' creativity. I am now wrapping up my third year as an assistant teacher, where I continue to inspire and support our youngest learners.

    Outside the classroom, I am a proud dog mom to a delightful Plott hound named Wiggles. In my free time, I enjoy painting, gardening, and practicing somatic breathing exercises to stay grounded and balanced.

    I am excited to bring my artistic background and passion for child development to our wonderful community, fostering a love of learning and creativity in every child.

  • Jasmin Davila 🌿 Assistant Teacher

    I am an aspiring educator currently pursuing my Bachelor's degree in General Education at DCCCD. As a first-generation American, I take immense pride in being the first in my family to achieve a degree beyond high school. Teaching Spanish at NSF has provided me with a wonderful opportunity to enhance my skills in educating children.

    While I am not a mother, I am a proud cat mom to three mischievous furballs. In my free time, I enjoy reading, journaling, taking nature walks, and doodling.

  • Amy Obar🌿 Assistant Teacher

    I am a native Texan and mom of 2 young men. My journey in education began at the University of West Florida, where I earned a degree in Biology. This academic foundation led me to a fulfilling career in the research and biotechnology industry, where I honed my skills and passion for scientific inquiry.

    Transitioning from the lab to the classroom, I have had the privilege of serving as a day program instructor for adults with special needs and as a high school special education substitute teacher. These roles have enriched my life and deepened my commitment to supporting individuals with diverse abilities.

    Beyond my professional endeavors, I am an active volunteer at an equine therapy facility on weekends, where I witness the incredible bond between humans and horses. In my leisure time, you’ll often find me gardening or enjoying the great outdoors, soaking in the beauty of nature.

    I am dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone I work with, and I look forward to contributing to our community in meaningful ways.

  • Ameelya🌿 Wagner

    Ms. Ameelya has been a dedicated member of the Nature School family for three wonderful years. With a deep passion for all things colorful and nature-inspired, she brings a vibrant energy to our community. One of her greatest joys is playing with the children and witnessing their budding love for the natural world.

    Her enthusiasm and warm presence make her an invaluable part of our team, as she helps nurture curiosity and a sense of wonder in every child she meets.

🌿Support Staff 🌿

  • Ms. Shelia🌿Behavior Therapist

    After emigrating from Scotland to Texas in 1994 with my husband and then 8-year-old daughter I spent the first few years volunteering in different special education classes while studying sign language. The biggest need I saw was helping children communicate so I began work as an Applied Behavior Analysis therapist. I worked helping children and their families in a home for 7 years. I realized that while I could teach the students to communicate with the adults in their lives teaching them to interact with their peers successfully would require a more specific environment and teaching style.

    In 2004 I started a program that focused on social skills in a natural environment. Several of my students were working on their sensory needs and after learning more I became involved with SI Challenge running camp programs for families. I now run group and individual programs year-round where children learn skills and techniques to help them succeed.

  • Ms. Andrea 🌿Snapology

    Ms. Andrea believes that learning should be fun and that students learn best when they are actively involved in the process. Snapology's unique approach combines play with education, allowing students to explore concepts like engineering, robotics, and coding in a way that is both enjoyable and effective.

    My goal is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels empowered to think creatively and solve problems.

  • Ms. Tasneem🌿Tiny Totoz

    Born in Africa, raised in California, and having lived in Canada, Tasneem is a global citizen with a heart full of wanderlust. This mama of four is not just a devoted mother but also an ambitious entrepreneur and the founder of TinyTotoz. With an insatiable love for travel, she thrives on connecting with the world around her and embracing new experiences.

    Tasneem's diverse passions range from her love of children and science to her keen interest in esthetics and crafts. She's excited to bring her vibrant energy and creativity to Texas, where she's eager to forge new connections and create lasting memories. Through her journey, Tasneem embodies the spirit of exploration and community, always ready to inspire those around her.

  • Ms. Lynn🌿

    Ms. Lynn brings 40 years of experience as a researcher and writer, with a diverse portfolio that spans various industries. Her expertise includes crafting editorial content for Michigan-based magazines, conducting compliance research for mortgages, and managing insurance research and administration. She has also authored handbooks, policies, and procedures focused on environmental health and safety for recycling plants.

    Outside of her professional achievements, Lynn is passionate about nature. She embarks on extensive rock and fossil hunting expeditions across the Great Lakes of Michigan each year. Whether she's seeking the perfect northern beach for Petoskey stones, agates, or fossil soup rocks, Lynn remains a devoted student of Mother Nature. She eagerly shares the beauty of her discoveries with friends and family, reflecting her deep appreciation for the natural world.

🌿 ADMINISTRATION 🌿

  • Amanda Jarvis 🌿 Director

    With a robust background in Special Education and Staff Development, I am an experienced leader dedicated to fostering an inclusive and enriching educational environment. My primary goal is to rapidly grow enrollment, attract and retain exceptional staff, build a supportive and engaged parent community, and ensure that every child in every classroom receives an education of the highest standard.

    My leadership is grounded in a strong educational foundation, having graduated from Texas Woman's University (TWU), the University of North Texas (UNT), and The Montessori Institute of Denver.

    My commitment to excellence in education is unwavering, and I am passionate about creating a nurturing and effective learning atmosphere for both students and educators at Nature School of Fairview.

  • Vanessa Stuart 🌿 Director of Curriculum

    We are delighted to welcome Vanessa Stuart as the new Director of Curriculum at the Nature School. Vanessa is an esteemed education professional who brings over 31 years of dedicated experience to this role. Her illustrious career has been primarily focused on enhancing the educational journeys of students aged 3 to 12.

    Vanessa's extensive background in education is marked by her versatility and commitment. Over the years, she has successfully worn many hats, including those of a teacher, educational diagnostician, and curriculum coordinator. Most recently, she served as a principal, where she demonstrated exceptional leadership and a passion for fostering academic excellence.

    Vanessa's deep understanding of curriculum development and her ability to tailor educational programs to meet diverse student needs make her an invaluable asset to our team. Her innovative approach and dedication to nurturing young minds align perfectly with the Nature School's mission to provide a holistic and enriching learning environment.

  • Nina Marcussen 🌿 Assistant Director