Our Origin and Vision
Our Founding Story
Varied Learning Styles
Core of RootWise Academy
RootWise Academy was born from a vital need for a progressive, secular school that prioritizes academic excellence with a focus on progressive education while allowing kids to grow in independence and learn in ways that make sense for them.
We recognize that every student learns differently. Rather than expecting children to sit behind a desk all day, we create a flexible learning environment that allows them to move, engage, and grow. Lessons are adapted to support each student’s individual learning style.
Our community honors diverse perspectives through an inclusive, logic-based approach that empowers children to learn authentically and grow independently.
Melissa
Lead Educator, Board Member
Melissa is the Head Teacher and a Board Member at RootWise Academy. She holds a dual master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership and Management with 15 years of teaching experience. She is passionate about hands-on exploration and creating an environment where children can thrive, discover, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Destiny
Para-Educator
Destiny is an assistant teacher at Rootwise, grateful to support students in their individual learning needs while building community with students, staff, and their families.
Haeleigh
Teaching Assistant
Haeleigh is a Teaching Assistant at RootWise Academy, where she supports the Kindergarten program and helps create a welcoming, engaging environment for young learners. She is currently working toward her Associate in Arts degree while pursuing her goal of a career in nursing. She is passionate about supporting children’s growth, curiosity, and love of learning through play and hands-on exploration.
Irene
Spanish, Art, Taekwondo
Irene is the Art, Spanish, and Taekwondo teacher at Rootwise. She has a passion for working with children, mentoring younger generations, and encouraging students to explore their creativity, culture, and confidence.
Irene loves bringing her different passions together and creating spaces where students feel inspired to learn, express themselves, and grow. Above all, she hopes to show her students that with dedication and an open mind, the things they set their minds to are achievable.
Chet
ASL, Co-Head of School, Board Member
Chet serves RootWise Academy as Co-Head of the Co-op, a Board Member, and an American Sign Language (ASL) teacher.
As a RootWise parent himself, Chet is personally invested in helping the community thrive. He brings more than 10 years of experience owning and managing businesses to his leadership role.
Chet focuses on long-term planning and ensuring teachers have the support and resources they need.
Daniel
Health Sciences, Co-Board Chair
Daniel serves as Co-Board Chair of the RootWise Academy Co-op and teaches Health Sciences, with a focus on mental and emotional health.
He is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of leadership and business management experience, he brings both clinical expertise and practical insight to the community. As a RootWise parent, Daniel is personally invested in helping the co-op and its families thrive.
Anja
Music
Anja loves teaching music and brings multi-lingual magic and joy to learning with kids of all ages. Anja grew up singing and playing the piano, playing flute in marching band, strumming ukulele as an au pair, and is eager to figure out any instrument, including making them out of recycled materials. After graduating from the University of Washington with a degree in Early Childhood & Family Studies in Teaching & Learning, she taught in Germany and Spain, and has been teaching and performing in Vancouver and Portland over the past decade.
Anthony
Teaching Assistant
Anthony is a Teaching Assistant and helps support the kid's growth and development. He is also a parent at RootWise Academy and passionate about seeing RootWise thrive.
Anthony has previously worked with underprivileged youth in mentorship programs and career development. Anthony recently completed his state initial certificate for early childhood education and is currently enrolled in Portland State University as he pursues his graduate degree in early childhood education with a specialization in Constructivism.
RootWise Board Members
In addition to the Board Members who are also instructors:
Nicole
Co-Head of School, RootWise Parent
Nicole is Co-Head of the co-op and Board Member. She is one of the founding members of RootWise, and is excited to create a student-centered learning experience where teacher, parents, and families can grow.
Alex
Board Member, RootWise Parent
Alex is a Board Member who advises on information technology. He is a RootWise parent and one of the school's founding members. He is delighted to work with this nurturing, vibrant community, full of learning and wondrous adventure.
Jessica
Co-Board Chair, RootWise Parent
Jessica is a parent, founder, community leader, and member of the Board of Directors at RootWise. Jessica is deeply rooted in budget maintenance and relationship management, she is dedicated to fostering a strong school community that extends beyond the household. Fisher advocates passionately for an academically rigorous education that preserves vital programs like SEL, music, and the arts. In her free time, she enjoys pollinator-friendly gardening, her dogs, and hosting events that build community bonds.
Kaitlyn
Board Member
Kaitlyn serves on the RootWise Academy Board. With experience in education and equity, she is eager to help shape a school grounded in high-quality learning, collaboration, and respect for every student and family.