People

When their firstborns were one, Carla and Julia started a Spanish immersion playgroup for families in Atlanta’s intown communities. This experience sparked conversations about children, education, and language learning—ultimately inspiring their vision for Atlanta’s first nature-based Spanish immersion school.

Over the next two years, Carla and Julia developed the school’s curriculum, drawing on their expertise in Waldorf education, language acquisition, child development, music education, and nature connection. What began as a two-day toddler program in their homes soon grew into a full early childhood education program.

Primavera found its first home in Candler Park at the Old Stone Church, where the First Existentialist Congregation welcomed them with open arms. The school transformed the church basement into a creative learning space and used the community garden and woodland sanctuary as outdoor classrooms. A natural partnership grew from shared values of education, cultural diversity, and community.

I am the Education Program Coordinator for the Alabama Forestry Foundation and the State Coordinator for Project Learning Tree. I lead many environmental education programs for K-12 and teachers.

I have my degree in Natural Resources Management and Nature-based Recreation through the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University. I was active during my time in college; as president of the Society for Natural Resources, a member of the Forest Environment Wildlife Leadership Academy, was awarded Natural Resources Student of the Year and graduated Cum Laude. 

In the past, I have worked in nature-based education and recreation. I have a passion for outdoor education and environmental interpretation. I am proud to be an advocate of our natural world. What a privilege it is to work with the planet Earth!

Dr. Lauren Madden is a Professor of Elementary Science Education at The College of New Jersey, where she also coordinates programming in Environmental Sustainability Education. Her research has been supported by grants from the New Jersey SeaGrant Consortium, National Science Foundation, and US Environmental Protection Agency. She has written more than 50 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters on science and environmental education. Her current work focuses directly on climate change education; she was the lead author on the New Jersey School Boards’ Association & Sustainable Jersey For Schools’ Report on K-12 Climate Change Education Needs in New Jersey. Her most recent book, Climate Change Education Across Disciplines K-12:  New Jersey and Beyond, shares advice and recommendations from 42 author-experts in an edited volume, due came out in February 2025.  Dr. Madden’s expertise has been featured prominently in many media outlets including the New York Times, Washington Post, The Guardian, NPR, and the Star Ledger.

My life has been around a constellation of influences within and around the natural world.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education and a Master of Science in Environmental Sciences & Teaching Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. I hold certificates as a Certified Interpretive Guide and Environmental Education Certification.

Keeping myself grounded to the Land, I strive to create positive outdoor experiences for the community.

I am a wildlife ecologist and science educator. I run the public programs (K-12 field trips, in-class programs, curriculum development, citizen science projects, adult learning and volunteer opportunities) at the Univ. of Minnesota's Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve.

Hi I am Katie a small business owner and photographer.  I am an avid hiker, adventurer and explorer.  I have a BA in Anthropology and a MA in Environmental Studies.  I am a mother to two young boys and focus on providing them with educational opportunities to explore nature and our state and national parks.  I also run a trail group specifically for moms looking to opt outside and connect with other families that prioritize hiking, and being in nature.

Katie Boyd is a community engagement specialist at the Washington State Climate Office in the Climate Impacts Group at the University of Washington. Her background is in atmospheric science, ecology, and education research. She engages in climate education, communication and training, helping build more resilient communities. She also does research and evaluation on educational projects and helps develop educational materials.

I am a Va Master Naturalist, a long-time teacher from pre-K to college to adult.

I am a Professor in Environmental Studies with a focus on place-based environmental education and healthy and sustainable communities, primarily through The Engagement Lab. I am interested in cultural inclusion and participatory practices with particular interest in coastal California and Mexico.

Renee Strnad is the Environmental Educator for Extension Forestry, housed in the
College of Natural Resources at NC State University.  She is the state coordinator for Project Learning Tree, has responsibilities for 4-H natural resource
programming statewide, and is a North Carolina Certified Environmental Educator. 

She has served on the board of Environmental Educators of North Carolina (EENC), the Southeastern EE Alliance's (SEEA) Leadership Team, and the NAAEE Affiliate Network Steering Committee.  She also works closely with the North Carolina Office of Environmental Education by serving on the Certification Committee and Environmental Literacy Plan Committee. Being at NC State University has allowed her to work with faculty with a growing interest in EE research, and helped create and pilot NC State's EE minor for students in any discipline.

Renee was awarded the Governor’s Award for Environmental Education from the NC Wildlife Federation in 2010, Project Learning Tree’s Gold Star Award in 2013, and the EENC’s Melva Fager Okun Lifetime Achievement award in 2014. She completed her Masters degree in Ecological Teaching and Learning from Lesley University in 2015. In her free time, she enjoys traveling (just one more state to go!), gardening, exploring, relaxing in her hammock, and spending time with family and friends.