Our Staff
Forest Guide Family
At Woods Forest School, our forest guides are more than just educators—they are passionate professionals dedicated to fostering a rich, multi-faceted learning environment. Our diverse team brings a unique blend of expertise to the forest, holding degrees spanning Art, Psychology, Early Childhood Education, Marketing and Family Therapy.
This cross-disciplinary approach allows us to cultivate a curriculum that is not only grounded in developmental milestones but is also inherently creative, emotionally supportive, and effectively communicated. By integrating these varied perspectives, we ensure that every child's experience is holistic, nurturing their curiosity, resilience, and individuality in the heart of nature.
Nikki - Founder, Director
Nikki is a highly experienced professional with a diverse education in Psychology, Arts, and Administration with a human resources background. She earned her BA in Ealry Childhood Studies locally at CSUCI. With a strong focus on creating positive experiences and fostering a sense of community, Nikki has made significant contributions to various organizations before launching
Woods Forest School.
Throughout her studies, Nikki has focused on early childhood-aged children's emotions, behaviors, healthy communication, and learning and development through play-based learning.
Nikki is a dedicated teacher who is passionate about creating positive learning experiences, supporting education, and fostering a sense of community.
Summer - Assistant Director
Summer is an educator with a degree in Liberal Studies in Education from California Lutheran University. With a deep passion for early childhood development and the natural world, Summer is dedicated to creating nurturing, supportive environments where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore the world around them.
Her teaching philosophy is rooted in the joy of discovery and the belief that every child is unique, bringing their own distinct strengths and personality to the classroom. Summer is committed to meeting children where they are, helping them build confidence and independence through real-world, hands-on experiences, while encouraging them to take age-appropriate risks and learn from their challenges.
Outside of the classroom, Summer is an avid nature enthusiast. She can often be found hiking local trails, visiting the beach, or volunteering with the Conejo Open Space Foundation. She brings this love for the outdoors directly into her work, inspiring a sense of wonder, curiosity, and adventure in all the children at Woods Forest School.
Beth - Woodpecker Class Guide
Beth holds a bachelor's degree in Agricultural and Environmental Education from UC Davis and has over a decade of experience working with children in diverse outdoor environments. From urban gardens to the Los Padres National Forest, Beth has held various roles, including Naturalist, Farm Director, Outdoor School Instructor, Garden Manager, and Kayak Guide. She firmly believes that exploring and playing outdoors greatly benefits our physical, emotional, and mental health, regardless of age.
Candice - Towhee Class Guide
Candice Joiner is an enthusiastic educator eager to bring her passion for nurturing childhood learning and exploration to Woods Forest School. With a background as a Communications Specialist, she is a creative expert with exceptional communication skills. She is highly experienced in child-led and play-based learning and looks forward to implementing creative, play-based, and exploratory activities to support the growth of each individual child.
Valerie - Towhee Class Assistant Guide
Valerie Alcazar is a dedicated student at California State University Channel Islands, where she is pursuing her passion for fostering young minds in natural settings. With a strong commitment to respectful, play-based learning, Valerie is devoted to helping children build confidence, curiosity, and a deep connection to the outdoors through hands-on exploration. She is thrilled to join the Woods Forest School team and looks forward to supporting each child’s unique journey of discovery.
Lisa - Parent Educator
Lisa is a highly experienced and dedicated professional in the field of early childhood education. With a passion for supporting the development and well-being of young children and their families, Lisa's extensive background and training make her a valuable asset to any program.
As Lisa's career progressed, she transitioned from owning a home daycare business to a structured school setting. She then took on the role of Director of an Early Childhood Program, overseeing the well-being and development of 120 families. In this position, Lisa honed her leadership skills and gained valuable insights into the dynamics of running a program.
In pursuit of further professional growth, Lisa recently obtained her Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks. This educational achievement has allowed her to work more strategically with children, adults, groups, and systems, recognizing the interconnectedness between the individual child, their family, and the community.
Cheri - Parent Educator
Cheri LaGrotta is a highly experienced professional who brings over 25 years of expertise to her work with young children. She is deeply passionate about creating a supportive and engaging classroom where curiosity is encouraged and confidence can flourish.
Cheri’s philosophy centers on nurturing the whole child, believing that education is about more than academics. She focuses on inspiring young minds, encouraging creativity, and empowering children to become lifelong learners and future leaders.
Cheri holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development from California State University, Northridge. Beyond the classroom, Cheri is the proud parent of two children and a devoted grandmother to five grandchildren. These roles continue to inspire her passion for teaching and growing young minds.
Madison - Parent and Me Class
Madison Kraus comes from a background in Psychology and is currently teaching her own local art program with her family. She is kind, creative, and possesses a remarkable talent for working with children. We feel fortunate to welcome her and her family to Woods Forest School. She is also one of th founders of Conejo Art in the Park!