WHO WE ARE
The Forest School Foundation is a 100% volunteer-led organization. Our Board of Directors includes talented professionals from a variety of backgrounds and locations, all working together to promote the mission of forest school advocacy and awareness.
Board President
Michael Torres
Dr. Torres has worked as an educator and biochemist since 1970, devoting his career to teaching and research in higher education in the US and abroad. Now retired, Michael pursues his passion for travel, photography and the natural world. In 2016 he helped to establish the Forest School Foundation in Asheville, NC.
Director
Katie Wilson
Katie Wilson is an educator with a heart for linguistic, cultural, & community development.
"I value education as a sacred practice that supports a culture of belonging and connection. From my youngest days, I found the natural world to be a place of joy, growth, and safety. Learning, exploring my own capabilities through play, a drive for freedom and independence, and a desire to support others along the way have been the driving forces of my entire life. As the years progressed I understood that I was not only fed by the act of being a student, but also by the opportunity to teach others. This collaborative approach remains central to my approach to leadership."
Board Member
Camilo Ramirez
​Camilo A. Ramirez is a parent who cares deeply about nature-based learning and the role it plays in helping kids grow into confident, curious, and resilient people. He brings a background in strategic planning, organizational development, and communications and is excited to support the long-term sustainability and growth of the Forest School Foundation.
Board Member
Rachael James
Dr. James is a licensed clinical psychologist. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from Cornell University and her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Hofstra University. In 2023 she relocated with her husband and two kids to Asheville N.C., where they enjoy extensive opportunities to have fun outdoors together. She joined the Forest School Foundation Board in 2024 due to her personal and professional interest in holistic, child-centered, and nature-based learning.
Board Member
Amanda Compton
Amanda has a lifelong passion for nature and has worked professionally in fundraising, event planning and revenue development with a focus on protection for animals and wildlife in the U.S. and Canada. Her specialties lie in community and digital fundraising, graphic design, and marketing. Her goal is to inspire the community to support the next generation of nature lovers through the Forest School Foundation, like her young daughter who is currently a Growing Wild student.
Board Members Needed!
Your Name Here
Send your resume and letter of interest, we would love to connect with you:
To learn more about the educational and administrative staff we work with, please visit the Growing Wild Forest School.
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Interested in getting involved with our team? Check out our current volunteer opportunities.