If you're intersted in joining our Forest Leader team, email Sarah at [email protected]
Welcome to Chesterbrook School of Natural Learning! We are an Attendance Approved K-3 Nonpublic
school with the NH Department of Education as well as a unique, fully licensed CCLU program. According to NH Child Care Licensing, our
program is “paving the way” for forest schools in NH! Our nature-based program is centered on the principles of respect,
responsibility, and community. This is a place where children can spend their days exploring
and discovering the world around them with naturally integrated learning opportunities. We strongly believe
that exploration and outdoor play is important to a child's growth, health, and development.
The child's interests and their natural surroundings guide the curriculum. Our unique "Reggio-inspired, Montessori-motivated,
and wishfully-Waldorf" teaching philosophy is a built on our core nature-based foundation. We are our own conglomeration and
love it that way!
At Chesterbrook School of Natural Learning we base our curriculum off of three core values:
All of our educators at Chesterbrook School of Natural Learning, Nature Preschool through Lower Elementary, are highly qualified and enthusiastic life-long learners. The CSNL Team participates in a variety of professional development regularly to ensure we are giving our students the best educational experience possible. Our Forest Leaders are committed to creating an enriching environment where all children feel safe, loved, and happy. Only then can a child truly learn!
- Owner - Director - Lower Elementary Forest Leader -
My name is Sarah Drowne-Surrette. I have been a primary educator for over 18 years. I absolutely love working with children and watching them enjoy experiences in the classroom and in our natural environment. I graduated Plymouth State University with a BS in Childhood Studies with a focus in both reading and integrated arts. I went on to teach private kindergarten in Bedford, NH at the Bedford Village Morning School. I had the privilege to teach 1st grade in Gilford, NH for 8 years. Within that time I had the opportunity to collaborate with NH Fish & Game to align our math and science curriculum with the state standards. This was the beginning of my journey in outdoor education. For 4 years I had a wonderful experience teaching first grade in Hopkinton, NH. Currently I am working toward completing a master’s degree in Nature-Based Early Childhood Education at Antioch University as well as build a rich, high-quality natural learning experience for young children in our community.
- Nature Preschool Coordinator - Nature Preschool Forest Leader -
Ms. Kassie has been an educator at CSNL since Winter 2017. She has 8 years experience in education with ages 12 months through 5 years and graduated from Keene State College with a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Development and Education. She is passionate about creating a loving, supportive environment where children feel safe taking risks and growing into independent learners. Her favorite aspect of teaching in a Nature-Based program is mud exploration in the spring! There is nothing better than making mud pies and walking barefoot in the mud! Outside of school, she enjoys going on hikes and exploring new trails with her husband, Adam, and her dog, Hanzo!
- Forest House Coordinator - Forest Kindergarten Forest Leader -
Hello, my name is Ms. Marissa. I have been a Forest Leader here at Chesterbrook School Of Natural Learning for 3 years teaching Forest Kindergarten.Prior to CSNL I worked at a Reggio Inspired school in Massachusetts for 9 years. In my spare time I enjoy taking my two dogs Rufus and Abby on walks,cooking, gardening in the summer and snowboarding in the winter. Being outside, I truly enjoy the hands-on experiences of nature.Outdoor environments provide us with a natural way to use our senses to learn. While outside with the Forest Kindergarten we enjoy tracking animals, observing birds, going on sensory walks and using nature to create art.
- Wellness Educator -
Hi!!! I’m Ashley and I am the Forest Kindergarten and Lower Elementary Wellness teacher this year! I live in Candia, NH with my husband, 3 kiddos, and 2 awesome pups. Prior to having my children I taught Health and Physical Education in Weare, NH. I graduated from Plymouth State University in 2009 with a degree in PE/Health Teacher Certification. Throughout my childhood I was a competitive gymnast which I did through high school. In college I dove a little and then finished out my years as a competitive cheerleader. I was also a certified CrossFit instructor and was competitive up until having my first little guy in 2013. I have coached gymnastics, cheering, and CrossFit throughout the years as well. My passion is to help others become the best version of themselves in a very fun way. Through fitness, proper nutrition, and personal growth, I believe anyone at any age can flourish and enjoy living an active and healthy lifestyle throughout their lives.
- Nature Preschool Forest Leader -
Miss Lori has 20 plus years experience in the Early childhood education field. She attended Keene State College, spent several years on the board of education at The Childrens Place and 19 years as lead teacher in a 3-5 y/o multiage program. She is passionate about the importance of early childhood, learning through play and treating each child as an individual through differentiated instruction. She is also an avid outdoors person and believes children thrive when spending time in the natural environment. When not at Chesterbrook, Lori spends time hiking, biking, skating, and spending time with her 7 grandchildren.
- Forest Leader -
Ms. Caitlin has spent the past 15 years working with children ranging in age from 5 months to 18 years. During that time she has worn many different hats including tutor, after-school care coordinator, preschool teacher, nanny and children’s yoga instructor. She has a Masters in Elementary Education from the University of NH - Durham as well as training in the Montessori method and ChildLight Yoga. Ms. Caitlin loves when learning happens naturally through experiences, play and thoughtful conversation. Her favorite part about working at a Nature School is showing children that there is fun to be had outside no matter the weather. When not at school, Ms. Caitlin enjoys woods walks with her husband and his service dog, Buddy, and anything on the water, especially kayaking. Her goal for summer 2021 is to learn to waterski!
- Lower Elementary Forest Leader -
Hi there! I am Ms. Megan and this is my first year teaching! Last year I graduated with my masters in Elementary Education, and certifications in Elementary and Special Education. In 2020 I graduated with my bachelors in child development and a minor in Environmental Conservation. There is nothing greater than being in nature, and learning new things. I love encouraging curiosity and discovery, and look forward to all the outdoor adventures to come!
- Music Educator -
With years of experience performing and teaching, Mr. Aaron brings unparalleled energy, enthusiasm and creativity to his classes, concerts, albums, and videos. He was recently named "Best Children's Performer of 2020" by New Hampshire Magazine. After nearly 10 years as a professional musician in New York City, Jones and his family moved to Concord, NH, to have a baby and open a recording studio (Rattlebox Studio). Mr. Aaron has delighted and inspired kids and families all along the east coast. When he's not performing for kids, he performs with his electronic duo Bosey Joe, and tours with 90's alt-rockers Luscious Jackson, with whom he has been seen on The Late Show with David Letterman, and VH1.
