Hi ! My name is A’laeyah! I was born and raised in Kalamazoo Michigan. I am studying biology at KVCC. I'm so glad to be a teacher's assistant at Kazoo with Dara. I truly enjoy connecting with the children. In my free time I enjoy art, knitting, and crocheting and learning to enjoy nature a lot more!!

My goal is to encourage kids to ask more questions and help them be in tune with their feelings and have self awareness.

I can’t wait to see and meet all of you. We are going to have an amazing school year!!!!

Kazoo School Faculty since 2019

Email Brynn

I am the parent of three Kazoo Kids. I have a Master’s in Social Work and have spent many years working with children who have experienced trauma. I also have ran children's programming in both Chicago and Detroit, and spent a year as the preschool teacher at Kazoo. I am passionate about progressive education and am excited to step into the role of Vice Head of School.

Education

B.S. in Psychology from University of Michigan

Master’s in Social Service Administration from University of Chicago

Email Catty

I am so excited to be a part of the Kazoo school community as a co-teacher with Kathleen this year. Last year I worked as a preschool aid in Hannah’s classroom. I learned so much throughout the year about outdoor schools and how wonderful they are for the child as a whole, and I truly fell in love with the way that Kazoo incorporates and fosters a love for and care of nature into everything we do. I have always loved working with children. Watching children learn, grow and move about the world is such a beautiful thing. I love the childlike wonder with which young minds explore the world and I hope to let that flourish in our classroom.

My goal first and foremost is to create a safe, supportive, and loving environment for our natural learners. We use a restorative justice framework to our classroom, and I have learned trauma-informed teaching practices that help me approach my teaching with kindness, observation, flexibility, and openness to learn and grow.

Growing up I attended Waldorf schools that emphasized play, art, and creativity and that is something I bring into my teaching and classroom. I believe that a child's work is a child's play and our classroom follows this belief wholeheartedly. Through play we explore big feelings, navigate difficult conversations, learn to compromise and work together while holding space for each child to be authentic to themselves. Play allows us to hold space for each child’s individual experiences to be honored.

During my freetime I love to play frisbee, go on walks, go birding, listen to music, and spend time with my friends. I love to incorporate my interests into the classroom setting and I bring patience, enthusiasm, compassion, and excitement to the classroom. I look forward to this new adventure!

Education

B.S in Psychology with a Concentration in Film and Media Studies from Kalamazoo College

Member of the Kazoo School Faculty since 2024

I am excited to “officially” join Kazoo as the music & elective teacher. I will also be assisting in OE and continue our amazing Rock Band. I am also going to do a bit of marketing for the school. It is going to be an amazing year!

Member of the Kazoo Faculty since 2022

Email Corey

Corey graduated in 2014 with her MSW from the University of Michigan. While there, Corey focused on experiential and adventure-based therapeutic practices in multiple settings with diverse populations. She helped facilitate activities with individuals, ages ranging between 10-50.

Corey moved to Colorado in late 2014, and started working as a facilitator, facilitating high/ low ropes, interactive activities for organizations, corporate groups, families and schools. She also got her first professional job as an outpatient therapist. Corey is a clinical social worker and has been practicing as an LMSW for the last 8 years. Corey’s experience ranges from school-based therapy, outpatient therapy, to adventure-based therapy.

Corey’s previous job was working in a district as a Wraparound Facilitator in a high school, supporting students with behavioral health, mental health and substance abuse struggles while navigating resources with the students and families. Corey is also certified in EMDR and Restorative Justice techniques and continues to expand her education, modalities, and experience to stay informed and provide the best support she can to the community she serves.

Corey is now back in the great state of Michigan, where she is closer to family. Corey has been with The Kazoo school for the past year. She has been building rapport with students and families,collaborating with staff, creating a resource page for the school and community, running adventure therapy groups and building a curriculum to implement into the school to best support the mental health of the students. When Corey is not working, she is outside enjoying nature by mountain biking, hiking, swimming, paddling, landscaping and gardening, training and loving on her golden retriever-Barley.

Education

B.A in Psychology

Masters in Social Worker

Kazoo School Faculty since 2021

Email Dara

I’m so excited to be returning for another year of discovery with the half-day Natural Learners! This is my third year teaching the half-day program and I enjoy sharing my love of nature, crafting, gardening, books, and community with my class. I’ve enjoyed previous careers as a part-time farmer, costume designer/technician, and zoo keeper! I like to travel with my family, watch and play sports, and snuggle with my cat, Uli.

Education

B.A. Art-emphasis in Ceramics, Minor in Interior Design (May 2003) from Minnesota State University Moorhead

Member of the Kazoo School Faculty Since 2024

I am so excited to be a part of Kazoo School this year, helping in different classrooms as a “floater” & patterning with Paul's group! My family just moved here this summer from Charlottesville, Virginia, where I was the Visual and Performing Arts teacher at CBI Forest School. Teaching and being outdoors are two of the things I love most, so being a part of the team at Kazoo is a dream come true! When I’m not teaching I enjoy making and listening to music, cooking, and visiting new places with my family.

Kazoo Faculty since 2021

Email Hannah

Since my own kindergarten education began at Kazoo School, I have been deeply influenced by my experiences as a Kazoo kid. During my time as a student here, I learned empathy, curiosity, self-confidence, honesty, commitment, and the importance of care—and had many amazing and challenging experiences in the classroom and in Kleinstuck. After Kazoo, I unschooled myself through high school and found college experiences that led me to grow as a writer and scholar focused on thinking critically about gender, culture, and social justice. In 2021, I joined the Kazoo faculty as a preschool teacher.

My educational philosophy and practice are guided by curiosity and connection. I am deeply committed to progressive education and teaching the whole child. I see students as creative problem solvers who learn actively and enthusiastically when they have agency in their learning and opportunities to connect their interests to the broader world. I am passionate about nature-based learning and love teaching at Kazoo where outdoor education is embraced and supported for all students.

When I’m not at Kazoo, you can find me wandering in the woods, reading, rock climbing, honing my photography skills, and making soup to share with friends and family.

Education

B.A. in Anthropology and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from The College of Wooster

Child Development Associate

Member of the Faculty Since 2023

Email Jose

I am thrilled about the opportunity to teach Spanish this year at Kazoo! I moved to the US from Mexico in 2013 and have been living in Michigan since. My two kids also attend Kazoo, and I greatly appreciate the positive influence the school has on their development. My goal for this year is to inspire the kids not only to learn how to speak, write, and understand Spanish but also to gain an appreciation for the diverse cultures of Latin American countries. I hold a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, an MBA, and an MS in Supply Chain Management. In addition to being a Spanish teacher, I am also a passionate life and health coach, dedicated to helping individuals achieve personal transformation and well-being. I believe that a holistic approach to education involves nurturing not only language skills but also fostering personal growth and mindfulness among the students.

Member of the Kazoo Faculty since 2024

Email Kanequewa

Kanequewa (Kiki) joins Kazoo as Primary Assistant. She previously was a lead care giver in a child care setting. She is excited to join Kazoo.

Member of the Kazoo Faculty since 2024

Email Karissa

Karissa joins Kazoo as a Primary Assistant. Guiding and supporting young people has always come second nature to her. While growing up she often assisted teachers and group leaders with younger children. Taking care of children was her primary work until the pandemic. She is looking forward to working with children again on a full time basis.

Kazoo Faculty since 2014

Email Kate

I am so happy to be back for my ninth year teaching science at Kazoo School! We are in such a wonderful place to explore science and the environment. I am passionate about hands-on learning and making connections with young people.

A little about what got me here- I studied biology at Hope College. As a student, I had a couple of professors who were both inspiring educators and my mentors as a research assistant. This left me with no idea whether I wanted to focus on research or teaching after graduation, so I did both.

I spent many years working in the most amazing places as a wildlife field technician and as a science educator in outdoor schools all over the country. Eventually, I settled in Connecticut where I was a marine science educator and waterfront/sailing director for seven years. In 2014, I moved back to Michigan, closer to my family. When I found Kazoo, I couldn’t believe that I had the opportunity to teach experiential science in a school!

Outside of teaching, I love spending time with my husband, Rob, our son Nolan, and our sweet dog, Charlie. We like to hike and go on walks together, camp, and work in the garden. I love Michigan trips “up north” and to Lake Michigan. We really enjoy our Kalamazoo and Kazoo School communities!

Education

BS Biology, Hope College

Member of the Faculty Since 2022

Email Kathleen

I am thrilled to be co-teaching our Natural Learners with Catty! Because we are working with the youngest students at Kazoo, my goal is to give them a gentle, nurturing experience at school. I work to instill a deep love for nature, a vigorous curiosity for the world around them, and an attitude of stewardship towards Kleinstuck. Our class is a community, where kids have a safe space to explore friendship, share their identity, and learn from each other. We celebrate each child and encourage them to discover their own educational interests. We build independence as we play, climb, jump, and cherish the natural playground that Kleinstuck provides.

This is my second year at Kazoo and my first year as lead teacher after working as an aide in preschool. I studied at DePauw University for four years. I come from a big family in Northwest Indiana and have worked with kids of all ages for several years. Kazoo School blends my love of teaching with my love of the outdoors and I am grateful to be a part of the Kazoo community.

Faculty since 2018

Email Kelly

I’ve always loved being around and working with children, so teaching elementary school was a natural decision. Their inherent curiosity and enthusiasm brings me great joy. Once I learned about progressive education, I was hooked. It has been a dream to teach within a school that supports that method of teaching and learning, so teaching at Kazoo School is a dream come true.

I have taught in urban, rural, and suburban areas in Kalamazoo and in North Carolina, which has given me the opportunity to work with a diverse array of students. Those experiences have further solidified my commitment to progressive education. When the whole child is supported, they can move mountains.

Education

B.S. in Elementary Education and Spanish from Western Michigan University

Member of the Kazoo Faculty since 2024

I am excited to join Kazoo as an assistant for Catty’s group! I previously worked at Jumpstart Childcare as an assistant. I love to be outdoors, so joining Kazoo allows me to bring my two passions together– working with preschoolers and the great outdoors. 

Member of the Kazoo School Faculty since 20204

Kazoo School Faculty since 2017

Email Mel

Paolo Freire wrote that “Knowledge emerges only through invention and re-invention, through the restless, impatient, continuing, hopeful inquiry human beings pursue in the world, with the world, and with each other.” After teaching writing and literature at the university level and teaching at Kazoo School for six years, I have come to the understanding that a sense of community and critical co-investigation are essential to a successful classroom. My hope is for students to ask questions, to engage in dialogue, and to know that their voices are important. One of my goals in the classroom is for students to take ownership of their writing and to claim a place within the classroom and within a larger community of writers, readers, and citizens.

Apart from writing and reading, my interests include playing music, riding my bicycle, cooking, gardening, and kayaking.

Education

B.A., English Moorhead State University
M.A., English University of North Dakota
Ph.D., English Western Michigan University

Email Nathan

Kazoo Faculty since 2021

Email Nathan

ALL HANDS ON DECK! Who’s ready for another great school year outside? As the Outdoor Leadership teacher, I encourage teamwork and self reliance for all students.

My name is Nathan Bidwell- my goal is to create a space that is fun, safe, and full of teachable moments where students are excited to come to class each day.

In my spare time, I love to spend time at the beach with my energetic puppy. I am a photographer, so I am often found with a camera in my hands. I am excited to be a part of the Kazoo faculty and can not wait to meet you all!

Education

Combat/Civil Engineering from U.S. Marine Corps

Member of the faculty since 2020

Email Niki

Education

MA, Educational Leadership, WMU

Member of the Kazoo Faculty Since 2023

Email Palin

I graduated with my occupational therapy degree in 2017. Since graduating, I have worked in several different practice areas to expand my expertise in working with children. I am trained in Handwriting Without Tears, the Zones of Regulation, Social Thinking, & Structured Literacy. I have extensive knowledge on trauma based approaches. Some of you may already know me from last year, when I began partnering with the Kazoo School to provide school-based occupational therapy services. During this time, I fell in love with the mission of the school and am excited to deepen my connection by teaching 1st & 2nd grade.

I am deeply committed to providing a safe place for all who enter the classroom (or outdoor space) and view each child as unique, individual, and full of wonder. I believe in teaching the WHOLE child for exactly who they are. One of my favorite quotes is “children do well if they can” and it is my mission to support our children to learn and become the best versions of themselves.

I live in Kalamazoo with my wife, Kasey and our 4 pets, Winston, Aurora, Bee, and Maple. I enjoy hiking, playing video and board games, gardening, cooking, reading, and visiting with friends and family.

Education

Associate of General Studies, Kellogg Community College

B.S. in Interdisciplinary Health, Western Michigan University

M.S. in Occupational Therapy, Western Michigan University

Member of the Kazoo Faculty Since 2024

Email Pat

I am happy to return to Kazoo School this year! Over the past eight years I have been part of the Kazoo School Community in various ways: teaching art & photography in the Extended Day & Summer program, as a parent, & as part of the school photography team.

I am a professional photographer and artist in the Kalamazoo Community. My specialties are in art and narrative storytelling. If you are looking a great conversation about TTRPGs(like DnD), science fiction (nerds are my people), books, and music I will be more than happy to chat. I also loved to travel with my family to see and try new things. This gives me experience to apply real world adventures into learning outcomes for all ages.

Education

Associates in Applied Arts and Sciences, Kalamazoo Valley

Kazoo School Faculty since 2022

Email Paul

I've always enjoyed being active and being outdoors, which comes from growing up on my parents’ farm. I remember spending the whole day outside, whether it was building forts in the woods or camping during the summer and sledding in the winter. As a parent, I've tried to instill that enjoyment of nature with my children. Needless to say, I'm thrilled to have found a school that incorporates so much outdoor time into their teaching. I know I would have loved to attend Kazoo School growing up and my children are enjoying their time here.

My previous work was dedicated to the science of fitness and physical education. I worked with individuals on their own fitness journeys and with groups of teens to build self esteem through positive physical fitness activities. I know that movement, physical activity and outdoor learning are essential to developing healthy, happy young people.

Prior to coming to Kazoo School, I was a full-time Dad with my two kids. As I worked through my kids’ various struggles I learned a lot about patience and meeting the unique needs of all children. When in the classroom I see each child as an individual on their own educational and social emotional journey.

I began my teaching experience at Kazoo as a substitute teacher and a classroom aide, and then as a full-time assistant and intern in the Primary Classroom (Kindergarten/First Grade). In addition to growing my classroom management skills during this time, I have also been trained in trauma informed teaching practices, structured literacy, restorative justice, and the Engage New York mathematics curriculum.

My educational philosophy can be summed up with this simple but meaningful phrase, “You need to reach me, before you can teach me.” As an educator, I strive to make meaningful connections with my students so they can be seen and honored for who they are as individuals. I also bring a calm, patient, and understanding presence to the classroom. This helps kids feel safe so they can do the hard work of learning new things.

Education

BS in Digital Animation and Game Design from Ferris State University

Associates in Exercise Science and Technology from Oakland Community College

Kazoo School Faculty since 1996

Email Rose

Prior to moving to Kalamazoo in 1996, I lived and taught in Eugene, Oregon and Madison, Wisconsin. I graduated from Kalamazoo College in 1986, having completed an internship teaching at Stone Environmental Schools in Maine and Massachusetts. I received a Fulbright Scholarship for Teaching English, which took me to Strasbourg, France, where I lived and taught English to high school students at the Lycee Louis Pasteur. Upon returning to the U.S. I picked up my outdoor education interests to teach at another residential environmental school, Nature’s Classroom in Connecticut.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1990 with a Master’s degree in Social Work, specializing in Children, Youth and Families, and in 1992 with a second Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.

When I moved back to Kalamazoo, I began teaching at Kazoo School in a 1st/2nd grade basegroup. Over the years, I have taught all levels from 1st through 8th grade at Kazoo School and currently teach Upper Elementary students.

Kazoo School has been a perfect fit for my progressive teaching style and philosophy. I see students as active participants, problem solvers, and planners of their own learning. My role is to guide the children on their individual journeys as they become thoughtful problem solvers, motivated critical thinkers, active leaders, respectful collaborators, kind friends, and lifelong learners.

Education

B.A. in Psychology from Kalamazoo College

B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin

M.A. in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin

Kazoo School Faculty since 2021

Email Ruth

Ruth runs the Front Desk, is an Extended Day teacher & Elective Teacher and with our Middle School students on the yearbook. She has a particular love of intermixed traditional and new media art techniques. She loves cats, reading, and the outdoors. Between her front desk duties, Ruth always loves to take the time to connect youth to meaningful and relevant artistic experiences, through graphic design, illustration, photography, animation and video production. 

Education

Associates in Animation/Time Based Media KVCC, 2014

Kazoo School Faculty since 2008

Email Sonita

“Education is a journey, not a race.” – Rudolf Steiner

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey

These two quotes are my inspiration as an educator. I believe that all children need an educational space where they can feel ownership, have their thoughts heard, and have their ideas respected. When you walk into a Kazoo classroom, you will often see teachers actively listening to the students; writing observations; listening to the connections the children make; and documenting the important learning that is happening.

Each child learns in their own way. The Kazoo School team feels it is our job to help each child be an intrinsically motivated learner, actively seeking knowledge. That, to us, is a Kazoo School kid.

I am a Kazoo School kid. My brother entered Kazoo School halfway through his Kindergarten year – the year of my birth. My earliest memories are of the Kazoo School community. My mom and stepdad met through Kazoo School. I have found in my life that all roads lead back, not to Rome, but to Kazoo School. Kazoo School is a wonderful place for families to grow and learn. Enjoy the journey!

Education

B.S. in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University

Member of the Faculty since 2022

Email Stella

As a former Kazoo School student, I am happy to be back as our Middle School Math Teacher. I am a recent graduate of Purdue University where I spent time researching the effects of forever chemicals in our drinking water sources. I have studied violin for 18 years and have enjoyed teaching private violin lessons. In my classroom, I hope to demonstrate a connection between mathematics and the natural world around us while supporting my students to become accomplished mathematicians.

Education

BS Chemistry, minor Environmental Policy & Politics

Purdue University

Kazoo School faculty since 2021

Email Steve

I am grateful to be back at Kazoo. I previously taught natural science as part of a collaboration between Kazoo School and Western Michigan University. I was able to teach Kazoo students in 4th-8th grades on a weekly basis during that five year partnership.

I am a New York native from the upper Hudson River valley and am now a die-hard naturalized Michigander after having extensively explored these beautiful peninsulas of Michigan. A 33-year resident of Kalamazoo, I have been happily married to my accomplished wife Carol for 37 years. I have two grown sons; the younger a hydrogeologist in New York and my older son is married and lives in Michigan working as a statistician.

I have been involved in the sciences my entire life. I attended Michigan State University where I received two Bachelors of Science degrees in wildlife management and animal science and a Masters Degree in poultry science. I've worked in the poultry industry both in production and research. I have 25 years horticultural experience in wholesale and retail greenhouse production with a specialization in Michigan native plants.

I recently retired from the Western Michigan University Landscape Management department as natural areas manager where I oversaw the Kleinstuck and Asylum Lake preserve for 11 years. While at WMU I was able to work with many school groups in the greater Kalamazoo area. I take great pleasure in the opportunity to share what I've learned. From preschool to professionals, college to campers, formally or informally I have found myself sharing information with others of all ages, and that brings me great joy.

I am happy that Kazoo is focusing more on outdoor education. Connecting with the natural world is a great way to help us all navigate difficult times, especially with more than our share of difficult situations and decisions to overcome in the past months.

I will continue to use my extensive years in outdoor education to make these concepts interesting and real for students so that they may take this knowledge forward through their educational career. I'm a great believer in the teachable moment and will use each day, each place we visit to make the students aware of the science that surrounds them.

Member of the faculty since 2021

Email Sue

Member of the Kazoo Faculty since 2024

 I am excited to join Kazoo as an assistant for Kathleen’s group. I am a KVCC student studying Early Childhood Education. I joined Kazoo as a Summer Session facilitator- the school has given me a chance to learn and work while also reconnecting with nature and preparing me for my future. I’ve always wanted to be a teacher and this position has truly given me so much to look forward to. As a future educator of children so young my goal is to help guide them and prepare them for their future while also showing them the beauty of nature. I am truly so thankful for this opportunity and can’t wait to meet and connect with all the great kids along this journey.