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.
Board Member
Katie Wilson
Katie Wilson is an educator with a heart for linguistic, cultural, & community development.
Over the past decade, she has developed and directed several educational initiatives, promoting “global learning” through foreign language, supporting nurturing environments for Early Childhood Development, and integrating arts education. She has a passion for art, languages, and of course, our connection to the natural world.
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 Growing Wild Forest School Foundation Board in 2024 due to her personal and professional interest in holistic, child-centered, and nature-based learning.
Board Member
Heidi Vaught
Heidi has a background in Early Childhood Education and is the parent of a soon to be Growing Wild Forest school graduate (+2 future forest school participants). She serves as the board's parent liaison and parent advisor. Being a forest school parent has made it even more obvious how important it is for children to learn outside starting at an early age. Serving as a board member has been a great way for her to help ensure that this vital growing and learning environment is available to generations of children to come.
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.