Question 1

DANA BROWN

Accepted Answer

I have lived in the beautiful hills of Madison County since 2010. I feel fortunate to call this extraordinary place my home!  One of my biggest life passions has been working with children. From a young age, I began babysitting and camp counseling. I then decided to make the education of children my career and graduated college from SUNY New Paltz in upstate NY with a degree in elementary education.   Since then I have taught in a variety of environments and teaching methodologies, including Reggio Emila, Montessori, and Waldorf.  My teaching style is one of listening to the student. I love to find the things that children are excited about and expand their learning through their own natural curiosities. Being with children in the forest is one of my favorite ways of teaching. There are so many things to explore that can pique the inquisitive nature of us all, young and old. I also love reading and storytelling. I feel like children are natural storytellers and I believe that listening to stories will wake up our imaginations and allow us to embark on journeys near and far!  I was fortunate to teach at Woodson Branch during the first year that it opened in 2016 as a Kindergarten teacher. Since then I have had the pleasure of homeschooling my daughter and helping to facilitate enrichment programs in the community like our homeschooling theater group "The Appalachian Actors." For the last three years, I have had the unique experience of virtually teaching children English to Chinese students.  Now I am excited to bring my excitement, experience, and passions to the after-school program at WBNS! I will look forward to meeting, playing, and learning with your child!

Question 2

BRITTANY DEESING

Accepted Answer

I have lived in a few different places around the USA, but when I first came to the mountains of WNC, I fell in love! I have lived in this beautiful area since 2012, originally coming to Asheville to finish my Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science. When I gave birth to my son in 2013, I knew it was the perfect place to raise him and turn my passions into a career.   After graduating from UNCA, I worked for Asheville Greenworks, creating and teaching environmental education programs for elementary schools all across Asheville. My passion for teaching children how to be stewards of our Earth blossomed.  The first time I taught at WBNS I did a vermicomposting workshop for the Summer Camp program kids and built worm bins with them. As soon as I stepped foot on the WBNS campus, I knew I had to be more involved with this school! Soon after my workshop, I moved closer to WBNS and started as a teacher assistant for the 3rd and 4th graders. The following year, in 2018, I got to start sharing my passion for Science, Math, Reading, and the Arts with my very own 3rd-grade class. I have been the lead 3rd grade (and sometimes 4th grade) teacher ever since, and love it!   WBNS is such an inspiring and magical place to guide children on their journey through life. I look forward to joining Clubhouse Kids on Mondays where I can help enrich children's imagination and curiosity, provide tools and knowledge to encourage their growth and be a part of some precious memories!

Question 3

KATI PUGLISI

Accepted Answer

I have lived in WNC for 15 years; I originally moved here to learn about herbal medicine & wildcrafting, and to raise my kids in nature.  I have worked with and around kids, my whole life held child care programs and summer camps on my property in the past worked for YMCA Afterschool, and more.    My teaching style is centered around small doses of demonstration and inspiration, followed by ample time and support for children as they experiment, create, brainstorm, and play.  I provide the tools and materials, then let loose!  Woodson Branch is by far my favorite environment for teaching and learning.  The 30-acre campus of forest and farm is beautiful and wild; it inspires so much curiosity & creativity!  I have been working at WBNS since 2016 (our school’s inception).  In that time, I have taken on a lot of different roles, such as Enrichment Program Coordinator, Afterschool Club Counselor, Outdoor Education Teacher, Elementary Art Teacher, Campus Tour Guiddess, Adventure Playground Facilitator, among many other assistant positions with Elementary students around campus (my favorite is being in “Forest” with students, which is what we call recess at WBNS).  And now, I am super excited to open up the campus of Woodson Branch to the wider community of public school & homeschool students, with ClubhouseKids!

Question 4

Heather Maness | KINDERGARTEN TEACHER

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience:
I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education at Appalachian State University. This qualifies me to teach grades K-6. I taught in NC public schools for 9 years, 8 in Kindergarten, and 1 year of 4th grade.  I also spent 4 years as a museum & garden educator at a children's museum.  This time here was very valuable as I expanded my experience in other areas of education through music & movement, mindfulness/yoga, cooking, farm, garden, and art.

Teaching Philosophy:
"Play is the highest form of research".  -Albert Einstein 
 Favorite thing about kids:
Kids have an innate curiosity about the world around them as they explore with their senses.  In doing so, one must be present & in the moment which children instinctively know how to do.  Being able to witness this every day and be a part of their learning, continuously teaches me how to get back to this. We are always learning from one another! 
 Favorite thing about working at WBNS: While there are many perks of working at WBNS, being able to utilize nature and the outdoors at any given moment of our day,  is the most rewarding experience I have had as an educator.  Every day, I am grateful as I look around the mountainside and remember "not all classrooms have four walls."

Question 5

Olivia Keener | 4th Grade Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience:
I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Integrated Education, which qualifies me to teach Elementary Education for grades K-6 as well as Special Education for grades K-12, from Mars Hill University. I completed my student teaching and edTPA requirements in a 4th-grade classroom in Yancey County schools. After graduating, I chose to further my education in this field and I am currently enrolled in Mars Hill University’s graduate program to obtain a Masters of Education. It is so rewarding to dig deep into concepts in my graduate program and implement the strategies in my classroom to better serve my students.

Teaching Philosophy:
My teaching philosophy is heavily influenced by Abraham Maslow's humanistic approach and Hierarchy of Needs. It is my goal as an educator to ensure students' basic needs are met in the classroom so that they feel happy, comfortable, safe, and welcomed into the classroom. When students' basic needs are met, they are able to focus on learning and personal development. Additionally, I also set high expectations by promoting growth mindsets among my students. Students know that I expect them to try their hardest and strive for improvement each day. 
 Favorite thing about kids:
My favorite thing about kids is their resilience. I admire them so much when students are willing to try a math problem again or get back up and keep running after taking a tumble in the mud.   
 Favorite thing about working at WBNS: My favorite thing about teaching at Woodson Branch is getting to live out my teacher dreams that I have worked so hard to accomplish, and educate in an environment that is welcoming, happy, and filled with elements of nature and in the Appalachian Mountains that are so dear to me.

Question 6

Stacey Woods | 1st Grade Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Stacey has been working in the education field for over 25 years. She has earned a B.S. in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood, and is currently licensed by the state of North Carolina K-6.   Teaching Philosophy: You cannot be who you do not believe yourself to be....Believe in yourself!   Favorite thing about kids: Kids are brilliantly open and imaginative. They are seedlings loaded with the ability and potential to do anything. I love watching kids learn about and navigate the world. Also, they make me laugh often!   What I love about teaching at WBNS:   I love teaching at WBNS because I love my team... a dynamic group of educators who are working together to create an authentic, holistic experience and education for our students. I also love the close connection and collaboration that we have with the students and their families. Plus the the setting is fantastic :)

Question 7

Rob Beddingfield | 1st Grade Assistant

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Rob has degrees in Forest Management, Philosophy & Religion, as well as English Literature & Language. He holds additional certifications as a Natural Resources Specialist, Wilderness First Responder, Wildland Firefighter, LNT Trainer, and ESL instructor. He has over a decade of experience as an outdoor educator and behavioral health specialist in addition to being an NC QMHP. He owns and operates a small farm in the Shelton Laurel valley where he focuses on regenerative horticulture, agroforestry, and raising his family.  Teaching Philosophy: “Teach the children. We don’t matter so much, but the children do. Show them daisies and the pale hepatica. Teach them the taste of sassafras and wintergreen. The lives of the blue sailors, mallow, sunbursts, the moccasin-flowers. And the frisky ones–inkberry, lamb’s-quarters, blueberries. And the aromatic ones–rosemary, oregano. Give them peppermint to put in their pockets as they go to school. Give them the fields and the woods and the possibility of the world salvaged from the lords of profit. Stand them in the stream, head them upstream, rejoice as they learn to love this green space they live in, its sticks and leaves, and then the silent, beautiful blossoms. Attention is the beginning of devotion." - Mary Oliver  Favorite thing about kids: I love their raw individuality, their sense of humor, and how they look up when planning mischief to see if you are watching. I admire their resiliency in the constant work of learning and growing.  Favorite thing about working at WBNS: Having moved out to one of the most remote locales in Madison County, my wife and I were ecstatic to discover a school that mirrored our values while simultaneously providing the strong academic foundation we believe is necessary to set our children up for success in the modern world. As a WBNS parent, I am excited that my children will get to have such a wonderful education. Now as an educator, it has been my privilege to see the depth of intention and research involved in the design of the curriculum as well as its implementation. My favorite thing about working at WBNS is being a part of this community of truly wonderful human beings who have come together to make it all possible for the best of reasons: our children.

Question 8

Kate Eckhardt | 1st Grade Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Kate has a Master's Degree in Environmental Leadership from Naropa University. She has taught preschool, environmental education, kids' yoga, and creative movement for many years. Interspersed with her time teaching, she has worked for several environmental nonprofits, recently running a Farmers' Market in Asheville. She has studied permaculture and herbalism, and has worked on several farms in WNC. Teaching Philosophy: "The courage to teach is the courage to keep one's heart open in those very moments when the heart is asked to hold more than it is able so that teacher and students and subject can be woven into the fabric of community that learning, and living, require." Parker Palmer Favorite thing about kids: Their joy & enthusiasm is contagious!

Favorite thing about working at WBNS: TI have found my dream job at WBNS! We have a fabulous school community, and I get to share many of my passions in the realms of farm, arts, and forest with the kids.

Question 9

Amanda Wilder | 2nd Grade Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Amanda has worked with a variety of age groups in a preschool/daycare setting, including afterschool care for children up to 12yrs old for five years prior to WBNS. While working in the field, she completed extensive training for the Early Childhood Education Certification, including Early Literacy and Mathematics. When she moved to Madison County, she served as the Children's Librarian in all three branches of the public library. After her children were born, she primarily focused on raising them. She homeschooled her boys up to the fifth grade and was involved in a homeschool co-op, where she participated as a parent teacher. The classes that she taught included Science, History, Writing Workshops, and various art and handworks. After her children were enrolled in public school, she completed the Effective Classroom Management course through AB-Tech. She was hired as the Lead Teacher at Little Ivy, a homeschool enrichment cooperative for children ages 5-7. Since the beginning of WBNS, she have served as the second grade teacher.  Teaching Philosophy: Kids need to use their bodies and minds throughout the day in order to do their best.   What I love about teaching at WBNS:  
My favorite thing about teaching at WBNS is the small size that allows for all of the staff to really know the students and truly support growth for everyone. I also love being outside throughout the day and our dedication to the students having unstructured time in the woods, every day.  Favorite thing about kids: My favorite things about children are their playful imaginations and joy in small pleasures.

Question 10

Cassandra Lewis | Animal Science Agriculture Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: I have a BA in Anthropology/Geology from SIUC and have taken several graduate level classes in City Planning and Geographical Informational Systems. I love maps, old bones and interpretating how people preceding written history lived and how their history can be seen on and within the landscape on which we now live. I worked as an Archaeological field/lab technician and attended graduate school in Columbus, OH before moving to Marshall in 2002. After moving to Marshall, I started a small farm raising dairy goats, chickens, and ducks. I grew produce for farmers markets, baked for local businesses and made handmade paper from excess produce plant fibers. I began my teaching career at HSCLC in the after school program in 2009. I continued my path with HSCLC for many years and taught in many capacities while there including: teaching with Ms. Lou in transitional kindergarten, summer camp counselor, and after school teacher. When WBNS opened its doors, I gladly signed on as the Agriculture Specials Teacher and Livestock Coordinator, adding goats, rabbits and chickens to the school grounds.  Teaching Philosophy: For me teaching is not showing a child how to do something, that’s training; but inspiring children to teach themselves is invaluable. Acknowledging and uplifting every student's potential to learn as well as their potential to teach is a value I hold high for myself. I value the belief that educating children outdoors through nature is an irreplaceable experience that all children deserve. The popular bumper sticker says it simply, “Children grow better outside.”  “As a child, one has that magical capacity to move among the many eras of the earth; to see the land as an animal does; to experience the sky from the perspective of a flower or a bee; to feel the earth quiver and breathe beneath us; to know a hundred different smells of mud and listen unselfconsciously to the soughing of the trees.” Valerie Andrews  Favorite thing about kids: Their inquisitive and curious minds and how they naturally interpret the world through play.

Favorite thing about working at WBNS: Having the freedom to explore and experiment with an assortment of multi-sensory teaching strategies and beinq able to teach within our natural outdoor world. And working with an amazing group of teachers and families also makes teaching at WBNS exceptional!

Question 11

Paul Mundy |  Middle School Physical Education & Outdoor Education Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience:  I have coached youth sports for 13 years from kindergarten to 8th graders.  I have also coached Madison Middle School girls basketball team for a year. I have been at Woodson Branch for the past 2 years teaching the physical education classes and assisting in 5th/ 6th grade specials.  Teaching Philosophy: Success is not a good teacher, failure makes you humble.... Shah Rukh Khan Favorite thing about kids: Joy, resiliency   Favorite thing about working at WBNS: Getting to hang out with kids...

Question 12

Anna Littman | Social Studies Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Anna holds a Bachelor of Arts In International Studies with a concentration in education and the arts. Anna was the Executive Director of Arts For Life for ten years where she directed educational pediatric arts programs at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Duke Children's Hospital, Mission Hospital, and Presbyterian Hospital. She worked at the organization ASAP for five years in their Farm to School Program where she integrated food and farm-based information into coursework for students at Western Carolina University and managed Farm to School learning labs in public elementary schools and head start centers. In addition to teaching, Anna currently owns and directs Ivy Creek Family Farm where she grows seasonal vegetables for market, an 80 member CSA, and restaurants.   Teaching Philosophy: Let's make learning memorable, magical, and motivating!   Favorite thing about kids: Everything. I love everything about kids: their curiosity, their potential, their growth, their viewpoint, their struggles. I love how different every child is. I love the dynamics between them. I love their questions and insights. I love it when they wow me with their smarts, and I love it when they give me the opportunity to fill their minds with curiosity about the world around them.   Favorite thing about working at WBNS: Woodson Branch has created an environment where teachers can share what they love, explore what children love, and teach, discover, and learn with students in an authentic, supportive community. Being able to teach the foundations of history in the classroom and then following that book learning with hands-on projects outside in a real environment is a dream come true.

Question 13

Brittany Deesing | 3rd Grade Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: I have always been interested in science, the arts, and working with children. When I first began college, I wasn't sure how I could incorporate my top three passions into one promising career. Throughout my college journey, starting at a community college, then Warren Wilson, and then graduating from UNC Asheville, I found joy in tutoring my peers, helping them understand concepts and gain confidence within themselves. I interned for UNCA, starting a campus-wide recycling/composting campaign study, where success was statistically measured, and recycling/composting efforts were at an all time high. After I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, I went to Asheville GreenWorks, an environmental non-profit in Asheville, where I helped create fun games, lessons, and projects to actively teach elementary students about recycling and composting. I was also the theatrical "Compost Queen", with a homemade fruit crown and cape, and would visit schools inspiring kids to care about their environmental impact. I was getting closer to finding what I was looking for. Then, I met Debbie at Woodson Branch for originally a discussion about composting. The moment I stepped onto the property, I had an epiphany, and the discussion became an interview. I soon after began my teacher assistant position with the 3rd and 4th grade. I fell in love with the kids, the school, the whole community, and the hands on creative, yet scientific teaching philosophy of Woodson Branch. The following year, a lead teacher position for 3rd and 4th grade was offered to me, and I gladly accepted the opportunity. I finally found what I was looking for all along - a career where I can help kids blossom, not just academically, but also in self confidence, persistence, and social and environmental responsibility, using creativity, science, and my own experiences as tools to teach and inspire our youth.  Teaching Philosophy: "It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge." - Albert Einstein "Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn." - Benjamin Franklin   What I love about teaching at WBNS: 
My favorite thing about teaching at Woodson Branch is that I am always challenged, and I am always encouraged to be myself. I love a good challenge, and as I overcome them it helps me grow as a teacher, and as a person. This models perseverance and helps build character within my students as well. I am encouraged to use my competitive nature, creativity, problem solving skills, persistence, sensitivity, and love for knowledge as tools to teach my students about academic and life lessons. My favorite part of being a part of this community is the phenomenal support and love I receive. I always feel supported when facing a challenge, and I am so grateful to be part of this family!  Favorite thing about kids: My favorite thing about kids is their imagination! As adults, we tend to get wrapped up in our daily challenges and sometimes lose sight of things outside that. Kids brighten life with their imagination, and energize my own creativity. They remind us to live in the moment and cherish life's small moments. I also love their curiosity and excitement towards learning. I think kids inspire me as much as I inspire them.

Question 14

Naomi Dunn | Elementary SPECIALS Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: A graduate of Warran Wilson and NC Outwardbound School, Naomi is a Nature Mentor whose focus is to nurture connections with students, develop skills and stewardship, who brings 6+ years of experience in Outdoor and Experiential Education.  Teaching Philosophy: Not all children learn the at the same pace or in the same way.  Its important to figure out how they learn and what works best for them.   Favorite thing about kids: Children are unique, amazing individuals.

Favorite thing about working at WBNS:  The sense of community and how we all interact and work together. I love learning right alongside the students about agriculture, the history, and the heritage of WNC.

Question 15

Kati Puglisi | Elementary SPECIALS Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Kati Puglisi has been working with children of all ages, in many different settings, for over 15 years. She ran her own home-based preschool, organized several after-school programs and summer camps, and has been a substitute teacher for many different schools. Her expertise and experience is mostly earth-based, including organic farming and permaculture, animal care & wellness, herbal medicine and plant ID. She is artistic and loves to create with children. She has three sons who were primarily homeschooled during their early education, five cats and four dogs. Her favorite topics to teach are Outdoor Education and Art.  Teaching Philosophy: Kids learn best through playful experiences.   What I love about teaching at WBNS: The freedom! I love having access to 30 acres of beautiful forest or the choice of several different buildings to teach in and around. Also, the staff and the administration!  Favorite thing about kids: They know how to have FUN!

Question 16

Keisha Rathbone | 5th Grade Homeroom Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education for grades K-6 from Western Carolina University and completed my internship/student teaching in a 5th-grade classroom in Haywood County schools. After graduating, I taught 5th grade at Meadowbrook Elementary School before deciding that teaching in a public school environment was not necessarily for me. I explored a number of other career options over the years but eventually found myself being drawn back into the teaching field as my daughter, River, was in preschool at Woodson Branch. My passion for teaching children stems from a few wonderful teachers that I had in both elementary schools and in high school that were the inspirations that I truly needed growing up; who believed in me and helped me see the potential in myself that inspired me to excel and succeed. Each day, I strive to be that "ray of sunshine" that every child needs while helping them to grow academically and become wonderful human beings.     Teaching Philosophy: "One becomes a well-balanced adult, only if one has fully been a child." - Maria Montessori    Favorite thing about kids: My favorite thing about kids is their wonder, curiosity, and their innate thirst for knowledge, and the connections that can be made with a child through exploring nature.    Favorite thing about working at WBNS: My favorite thing about teaching at Woodson Branch is how the schedule is aligned with the philosophy of letting a child still be a child and getting the opportunity each and every day to explore nature while also learning.

Question 17

Dana Stauffer | Middle School Math & Science Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Dana earned a Bachelors of Science from the University of Vermont and then went on to pursue a Master's Degree in Agriculture and Extension Education from NCSU and a post Baccalaureate certificate in Middle School Science Education from Western Carolina University.   Teaching Philosophy: Understanding is never complete, for we can always add more knowledge, another episode, or refine an image or see new links between things we see.  Favorite thing about kids: I love working with Middle School aged students. I love their unique and honest perspectives, their ability to turn anything into a joke, and their genuine curiosity about the world around them. I am honored to support them through all of these experiences and the complicated nature of young adulthood.   Favorite thing about working at WBNS: Staff, staff, staff and the freedom to be creative and individualistic in my teaching. The campus is pretty darn sweet too!

Question 18

Josey Gironda Dixon | Middle School ELA Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: My first memories of wanting to teach can be traced back to my early years when I was being home-schooled by my family on a farm on the outskirts of Hot Springs, North Carolina. My experiences being home-schooled gave me a deep appreciation for experimental and hands-on learning, as well as a love for the arts, creative education, and nature-based learning experiences. I received my Bachelor's degree in English Language Arts while studying at the University of North Carolina Asheville. While at UNCA, I also received my teaching license and graduated as a highly qualified educator in English Language Arts and am currently certified in grades 6th through 12th. I completed my student teaching at Madison County Early College and am now a happy member of the Woodson Branch family. As an educator, my passion lies in building personal relationships with students and the collaborative exploration of language and the literary world.  Teaching Philosophy: "A child does not care how much you know until they know how much you care."
- Theodore Rosevelt  Favorite thing about kids: My favorite thing about kids is watching their confidence in themselves grow as they gain new experiences and understanding.   Favorite thing about working at WBNS: My favorite thing about teaching at Woodson Branch is creativity and flexibility that is threaded throughout the entire curriculum.

Question 19

Marcus Meskil | Middle Math School Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Marcus is rated as highly qualified in special education and mathematics. He worked several years in the public school system before becoming a teacher at Woodson Branch. While in public education much of his work focused on the exceptional children's program. He served as a job coach in high school and behavioral assistant throughout the county before obtaining his teaching licensure. He has taught a variety of subjects at Woodson Branch since its beginning, and mainly teaches middle grades mathematics.  Teaching Philosophy: I want every student to feel successful in their own way.   This means that my expectations are very much based on the individual and not the class as a whole. I hope that my students can take what they learn in my classroom and apply it to the world around them.  This may be evident in other classes or it may be in more practical applications in life.  Favorite thing about kids: My favorite thing about a room full of students is the energy and enthusiasm that I can feel. Math can be a scary thing when not approached from the correct pathway.  Math should be seen as a journey and I see myself more of a guide than a teacher.  Each student looks at a problem differently and I really enjoy helping them see all the varied approaches to a solution.  In my class it's not about right or wrong but about understanding how you got there.   Favorite thing about working at WBNS: I suppose to answer this questions on a very basic level I would say that my favorite thing about teaching at WBNS is in fact our immersion into the natural world. My favorite thing about having a child who attends the school is knowing that she is getting an education that centers on many of the beliefs I hold to be true.

Question 20

Pascha Solomon | Middle School Arts Teacher

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Pascha is a graduate of U.C. Berkeley with a degree in Forensic Archaeology and Near Eastern Studies. After receiving her degree she ran away with the circus and spent 15 years as a co-creator and producer of customized special event entertainment that combined theater, music and circus. She became involved in education in the 1990’s as a classroom tutor and volunteer for underserved middle school students in San Francisco and worked as the Educational Director at a historical museum in Los Angeles. Her love of teaching and the creativity of young minds led her to create fun interactive after-school enrichment programs in Wizarding, Mythology and Theater.  Teaching Philosophy: Pascha brings a love of play and encourages young students to dive deep to explore the beautiful and sometimes messy intricacies of the arts within themselves and as part of a global community. Her lessons are a tapestry of visual, performing, musical and natural art forms that encourage a deeper relationship with the history of our local region, a synchronistic relationship with our natural environment and an empowered development of the uniqueness of self. When not teaching students, she is a facilitator and lecturer, a program developer and counselor with Mountain Wisdom Camps, and owner of Of Wand & Earth in Marshall, NC.    Favorite thing about kids: Their endless creativity and problem solving abilities.   Favorite thing about working at WBNS: That each child is valued and their voices are listened to by all.

Question 21

Dana Nagle | Middle School Conflict Resolution, Legacy, and Agriculture Teacher"

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: I studied Environmental Education at Warren Wilson College, graduating in 1999. After college, I designed a garden-based environmental education program for Hall Fletcher Elementary School in Asheville and taught there for 5 years. That program was focused on matching garden lessons with the NC Standard curriculum in science, math, language arts, and social studies. That program is still running 17 years later. At Woodson Branch I find it liberating to work toward the goal of teaching children how to successfully grow food as both an educational end and mean.  Teaching Philosophy: Salience is key to learning. Finding out what is personally meaningful to each child and nourishing that passion is something that I am so glad we have the capacity to do at Woodson Branch.  Favorite thing about kids: Their sense of wonder and discovery   Favorite thing about working at WBNS: Being a part of an educational community that shares the values of wholistic education and living, respect of different learning styles, and respect for all of nature.

Question 22

Josie Mundy| Director of School Operations

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: Josie has an Associates Degree in Educational Sciences for Early Childhood, and has been teaching preschool for 11 years. She also is a Level 2 Administrator and is in her 2nd year of being the Administrator for The Hot Springs Community Preschool. She will be starting her journey to earn her BA in Early Childhood Administration this fall.  Teaching Philosophy: "A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.” ---Brad Henry  Favorite thing about kids: I love the children's spirits. I love that being around them everyday makes me the happiest I've ever been at a job, if you wanna call it that. I love their sense of wonder and imagination. I love when they show their excitement because they accomplished a task or learned something new. I'm thankful that so many parents share their children with me to help them grow and learn in a fun, hands on, experience.

Question 23

Deborah DeLisle | Founder and Executive Director

Accepted Answer

Education & Experience: I earned an Associates of Science in Art & Engineering from Monroe County Community College in Michigan, and a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood, plus a K-6 teacher license from Western Carolina University.  I have completed some graduate work in Early Childhood Administration with the University of North Carolina and I am currently working on graduate work in Experiential Learning with Concordia University.  I am a grass-roots innovator with a deep love for small town community living and have designed several businesses over the years to help meet the needs of it's people.   I have been working with children for over 25 years and plan to do so for at least 25 more!  Teaching Philosophy: "Give a Man a Fish, and You Feed Him for a Day. Teach a Man To Fish, and You Feed Him for a Lifetime" ― lots of people claim this one!   Favorite thing about kids: I love the way they dress.   Favorite thing about working at MCCLC: I am truly in love with this community.  In all its "realness", with our differences, our creativity, our bold bravery and commitment to children, I am continually amazed, inspired, and energized by this project and the people who fuel it.

Question 24

First Bank

Accepted Answer

Neighbors you can count on. We’re an independent, full-service community bank that’s been trusted for generations.   *First Bank is WBNS's preferred bank!  We simply would not be in existence without them.  They approved the loan for the classroom units AND they admisntered our PPE during the COVID crisis.  These folks are the real thing!  They are kind, helpful and generous with their time.  We highly recommend banking with them as we have experienced nothing short of excellence from them at every turn. We love First Bank (honorary Business Sponsosrs) !!!

Question 25

Zen Tubing

Accepted Answer

*zentubing.com Zen Tubing is a groovy tubing outfitter that offers two differnt trip options along the French Broad River, in Asheville, NC.  “If you are thinking at all about taking grandchildren, or yourself down the river at Zen Tubing, stop thinking and go!”– Melody W – TripAdvisor

Question 26

French Broad Adventures

Accepted Answer

https://www.frenchbroadrafting.com The Hampton Family began their career in the outdoor industry nearly twenty-five years ago on the rivers of the southeast. After working as professional raft guides and managing for other rafting companies for many years, they opened their own company in 2002. A year later they merged with two other rafting companies, including the venerable French Broad Rafting Company, taking over for retiring owners Ron and Sandy West. Continuing the tradition of their family-owned, locally-focused business, the Hamptons grew French Broad Rafting every year, and recently became the largest outfitter on the French Broad River. Their reputation in the industry is bolstered by the high level of expertise that comes with having such a veteran staff (many of the river guides on staff have been with the company for decades) as well as their focus on the personal experience and outstanding customer service you’d expect from a small business.

Question 27

Buchi

Accepted Answer

https://www.drinkbuchi.com Buchi makes delicious, nutrient-dense drinks, like Kombucha and Kefir Soda following a radically traditional open-air fermentation process. Embrace the wild ...

Question 28

Red Shed Woodworks and Construction, Inc."

Accepted Answer

*redshedworks.com Red Shed Woodworks is a custom home builder serving Madison County, Haywood County, Buncombe County, Henderson County, Yancey County, and surrounding areas. We believe there are no limitations for your home; our team can take any new home design and expertly build it from the ground up. Our Portfolio page showcases some of the past projects completed by the Red Shed Woodworks team.

Question 29

MCC Development, Inc."

Accepted Answer

*hazmatbuildings.com MCC Development has been a premier designer and installer of prefabricated hazardous material storage buildings since 1983. It's custom designed HAZMAT buildings and design/build services afford cost-effective solutions for achieving regulatory compliance, supporting manufacturing operations, addressing property loss prevention initiatives, ensuring personnel safety, and providing portable “control rooms” for hazardous and flammable liquid storage.MCC Development has been a premier designer and installer of prefabricated hazardous material storage buildings since 1983. It's custom designed HAZMAT buildings and design/build services afford cost-effective solutions for achieving regulatory compliance, supporting manufacturing operations, addressing property loss prevention initiatives, ensuring personnel safety, and providing portable “control rooms” for hazardous and flammable liquid storage.

Question 30

HUMAN ECOLOGY

Accepted Answer

humanecologyllc.com   Specializing in forest/property management and planning, water quality monitoring, and stream ecology.

Question 31

NOTORIOUS COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY, LLC."

Accepted Answer

notoriouscoffee.com/   Located in Madison County, NC, close to Asheville and Hot Springs. We are dedicated to the craft of artisan coffee roasting. We recommend different roasts to bring out the best flavors of our different coffees and can also custom blend a coffee that suits your own unique tastes.    We invite you to choose from a variety of popular coffee beans from around the world, we'll roast them carefully in small batches, and we'll ship the whole or ground beans (to your order) directly to you usually within 48 hours. That way you can enjoy notoriously good coffee in your own home!  ​ Unlike other roasters that price their pounds based on unroasted bean weight, Notorious Coffee bags in full 16-oz. pounds. If you order 5 pounds or more of one type of coffee, you’ll receive the wholesale price.

Question 32

OUTPOST

Accepted Answer

outpost-marshall.com 62 South Main St, 1st Floor Marshall, North Carolina  ​Thursday - Saturday 12 - 6   Special events per calendar

Question 33

~Gardenlea~ Fine Gardens

Accepted Answer

Gardenleagardens@gmail.com   Naturalistic Design and Garden Restoration with Chris Howells, Professional Estate Gardener, BA Natural Sciences/Biology, Horticulture Certified.   Detailed Garden Care and Evolved Design, Custom Plant Propagation and Pruning, Garden Research and Sustainability Consults, Natural Science and Horticulture Programs

Question 34

BUILD DWELL, INC."

Accepted Answer

builddwellinc.com   Builddwell, Inc. is a local family run company that specializes in custom building projects that require a hands on approach to home building, remodeling and restoration. Builddwell is owned and run by Rane Adamson and Jonathon Woods who have a combined experience of 40 years in building. We have kept our company small by design to allow us to focus on the individual needs of our clients. We believe true sustainability is achieved by an attention to detail and craftsmanship as well as the use of sustainable materials. We strive to make all our projects as green as possible, but we understand not everyone can afford an ”Uber green” home. We will work with you to customize the level of green for your project. We also offer a Green home incentive discount program based on the level of certification you achieve in several Green building certification programs. If you are looking for increasing your efficiency, remodeling or restoring your current home, we have considerable experience in all these areas of construction. We take pride in our work and it shows in the finished product. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you with your next project.

Question 35

STARR DESIGN

Accepted Answer

starrdesignteam.com   We design branded environments that work.  We create the all-important touch point, the physical interaction between people and brands. We believe in simplicity, clarity & purpose.  We also believe in the tilted head, the smile of surprise that comes when something simply is right. It plays on the senses. It feels good. It's engaging & surprising. For we know that great design is directed at the heart more than at the brain.

Question 36

NANOSTEAD

Accepted Answer

nanostead.com   Nanostead is a leader in providing turn-key opportunities for people to achieve a more self-sufficient lifestyle. With vast experience in Green Building, Agriculture and Sustainability, Nanostead specializes in custom built Tiny Homes, Accessory Dwellings, Small Cabins, and Design services. Nanostead is a leader in providing turn-key opportunities for people to achieve a more self-sufficient lifestyle. With vast experience in Green Building, Agriculture and Sustainability, Nanostead specializes in custom built Tiny Homes, Accessory Dwellings, Small Cabins, and Design services.

MCCLC Staff