Samantha is a teacher who supports children in building confidence, curiosity, and independence as learners. Her work is shaped by both scientific training and many years spent with children in classrooms, homes, and shared learning communities. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky and previously worked in drug discovery research at Schering-Plough Research Institute and Amgen, Inc. These experiences continue to inform her thoughtful, observant approach to teaching.

Alongside her work in science, Samantha has long been drawn to learning environments that honor children’s natural development. During college, she ran the after-school program at Crestwood Childcare Center in Kentucky, supporting elementary-aged children through play, rhythm, and relationships. She later co-founded the Conejo Valley Waldorf Co-op, a nature-based, Waldorf-inspired enrichment program for early childhood, where families gathered to learn together through seasonal rhythms, time outdoors, storytelling, handwork, and imaginative exploration rooted in the natural world.

While living in California, Samantha worked with Horizon Hills Preschool’s parent education program, a play-based, parent-participation model grounded in developmental science. There, she deepened her understanding of early childhood development, non-violent communication, and conflict resolution, learning alongside parents and teachers through observation, conversation, and seminars led by early childhood specialists. This work helped shape her belief that when children feel safe, seen, and supported, their learning unfolds naturally and with joy.

Samantha has also been deeply involved in the homeschool community, helping to create thoughtful, experience-based learning opportunities for children, including her own sons, Benjamin and Sebastian. Through homeschool co-ops and learning groups such as OC Homeschool Group, Conejo Valley Homeschoolers, MakerSTEM Co-op in North Andover, and the LACI Homeschoolers’ Association in Shrewsbury, she has helped design programming, teach classes, and support these communities through leadership and service. She served as Treasurer of MakerSTEM and as Treasurer and Board Member of the LACI Homeschoolers’ Association, contributing to both the educational vision and the steady stewardship of these organizations.

Since 2019, Samantha has taught science and math at Symbiosis, working with students across ages and learning styles. She also tutors math and science from elementary through college-aged students, offering individualized support that encourages independence, confidence, and a steady sense of accomplishment.

Outside of teaching, Samantha enjoys being with her family, reading, listening to music, knitting and crocheting, caring for animals on her small farm, and returning often to Indiana and Kentucky to spend time with family and stay connected to her roots.