Travis Holleman, Master Gardener and Naturalist Travis brings his extensive experience as a Master Gardener and his training as a Naturalist to ROOTS. He has completed the Forest School Teacher Institute's Teacher and Director Training. He specializes in regenerative agriculture, permaculture design, and sustainability. Travis manages the homestead's operations, ensuring it serves as a dynamic, living classroom. He practices Socratic questioning with the children, encouraging critical thinking and independent problem-solving, inspiring a culture of self-reliance and environmental stewardship at ROOTS.

Shared Vision and Commitment

Together, Talon and Travis have been homeschooling their two children, Bella and Emmett, for the past seven years, applying lessons to real-life experiences through outdoor play, role-playing, and hands-on learning. They emphasize practical life skills, self-care, mindfulness, character building, critical thinking, problem-solving, and student autonomy. Their personal and educational philosophies align with the ethics of permaculture: "Care for the Earth, Care for People, Share the Abundance, and Education."

Their vision for ROOTS is to offer inclusive educational opportunities to all children, including those in foster care or underprivileged circumstances, through scholarships. They actively partner with local youth groups, small businesses, libraries, and more to enhance community outreach efforts. Talon and Travis are present during workshops, teaching, directing, and building relationships with children and their families, fostering a collaborative community aimed at empowering the next generation.

Their dedication to creating a nurturing, stimulating, and welcoming learning environment is evident in their efforts to bridge gaps in traditional education, teach self-sufficiency, and promote altruism within the local community. They believe in the power of a collaborative community to change the world, starting with the lives of children.

Talon and Travis look forward to watching and helping children grow outside of their comfort zones, consistently applying lessons to real-life experiences and encouraging exploration and learning in a supportive environment.

ROOTS Farm and Forest School

ROOTS cultivates lifelong learners and leaders through immersive, child-led, nature-based education on our vibrant homestead. Guided by the changing seasons and rooted in project-based learning, we nurture curiosity, exploration, and service. Our programs empower children to care for themselves, their community, and the environment, fostering resilience, compassion, and essential life skills to thrive in diverse settings and contribute meaningfully to the world.

ROOTS does this through farm and forest schooling in homeschool enrichment programs, summer camps, after-school programs, yoga & SEL classes, field trips, school & community collaborations, birthday parties, toddler nature exploration classes, and soon: a 4-day nature school. Our vibrant learning environment includes pollinator gardens, food forests, nature playscape, and children's gardens, alongside the care of animals like goats, chickens, ducks, and rabbits.