Samantha is a teacher who supports children in building confidence, curiosity, and independence as learners. Her work is shaped by both scientific training and many years spent with children in classrooms, homes, and shared learning communities. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky and previously worked in drug discovery research at Schering-Plough Research Institute and Amgen, Inc. These experiences continue to inform her thoughtful, observant approach to teaching.

Alongside her work in science, Samantha has long been drawn to learning environments that honor children’s natural development. During college, she ran the after-school program at Crestwood Childcare Center in Kentucky, supporting elementary-aged children through play, rhythm, and relationships. She later co-founded the Conejo Valley Waldorf Co-op, a nature-based, Waldorf-inspired enrichment program for early childhood, where families gathered to learn together through seasonal rhythms, time outdoors, storytelling, handwork, and imaginative exploration rooted in the natural world.

While living in California, Samantha worked with Horizon Hills Preschool’s parent education program, a play-based, parent-participation model grounded in developmental science. There, she deepened her understanding of early childhood development, non-violent communication, and conflict resolution, learning alongside parents and teachers through observation, conversation, and seminars led by early childhood specialists. This work helped shape her belief that when children feel safe, seen, and supported, their learning unfolds naturally and with joy.