Meet Our Staff
At Neptune’s Forest, our forest school teachers are passionate educators who believe children thrive when learning is rooted in nature, exploration, and curiosity. As a leading forest preschool, we embrace a child-led philosophy that encourages independence, creativity, and hands-on discovery. Our team blends experience in early childhood development with a deep understanding of how the natural environment enhances growth across social, emotional, and cognitive domains.
Through thoughtfully guided outdoor education, we provide children with opportunities to problem-solve, collaborate, and build resilience in an engaging, supportive setting. Families in Virginia Beach VA choose Neptune’s Forest because our educators are not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to nurturing confidence and lifelong curiosity in every child.
Jennifer, Founder and Lead Teacher, brings more than 15 years of experience in early childhood education and literacy instruction. Her leadership shapes the foundation of our forest preschool program and ensures that our forest school teachers deliver meaningful, developmentally appropriate experiences every day.
Her vision for outdoor education is centered on building strong community connections, supporting military and local families alike, and creating a safe, welcoming space where children feel valued and inspired to explore.
Jennifer is a dedicated early childhood educator and literacy specialist with over 15 years of experience spanning preschool, kindergarten, and instructional coaching across multiple states. She holds a Master of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Mary Washington and a Master of Education in Literacy from George Mason University.
Passionate about child-led, outdoor learning, Jennifer believes that nature is the most powerful classroom. Her vision for Neptune’s Forest is shaped by her own experiences as a military spouse and a mom to a toddler, giving her a deep understanding of the value of community, stability, and meaningful early learning, especially for families navigating frequent moves or deployments.
Jennifer’s approach fosters curiosity, confidence, and independence, allowing children to explore and grow in a supportive, nature-rich environment. She is committed to creating a warm, welcoming space where every child feels seen, heard, and inspired to learn. Outside the classroom, Jennifer enjoys beach outings, hiking, and exploring nature with her family. She is thrilled to bring Neptune’s Forest to life and to guide families on a journey of joyful, hands-on learning in the great outdoors.
Camden is a recent graduate of the University of Virginia, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Global Sustainability. During his time at UVA, he explored environmental education and sustainable development, deepening his understanding of the importance of connecting people with nature in meaningful ways.
Growing up, Camden spent much of his childhood outdoors, often knocking on neighbors’ doors to gather friends for games and adventures. Whether inventing new games, building forts, or simply exploring, he frequently returned home muddy, tired, and full of stories. These experiences helped him develop a deep appreciation for the natural world while building creativity, confidence, and the social skills necessary to form strong friendships.
At Neptune’s Forest, Camden hopes to help foster a love of nature, learning, and exploration in young children. He is passionate about creating opportunities for children to connect with their environment, develop curiosity, and grow into thoughtful stewards of the natural world.
Believing that environmental stewardship begins with everyday actions, Camden practices sustainability through activities such as recycling, composting, and helping his parents maintain their family garden. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, cooking, baking, and singing.
