Who we are
Boots & Branches is a nature-based Pre-K program registered with the state of Pennsylvania as a camp. We provide a caring and positive atmosphere in which children can learn in an outside environment. Students will learn through exploration and hands-on activities that are both child-centered and teacher-directed. We introduce social, emotional and physical skills as well as language and math competencies.
Our Mission
Our mission is to cultivate a lifelong love of learning and nature in our young explorers. We are dedicated to fostering curiosity, creativity, and resilience through hands-on, outdoor experiences. We believe in the power of play, discovery, and connection to the natural world as the foundation for holistic development. Our nurturing environment empowers children to grow into confident, compassionate, and environmentally conscious individuals who will contribute positively to their communities and God’s kingdom.
Value Statement
We cherish the unique and beautiful creation of God as the foundation for our learning. Our values are rooted in faith, love, and stewardship of the Earth. We aim to nurture each child's spiritual, emotional, and intellectual growth through immersive nature experiences that reflect God's wonder and grace.
We are committed to:
Faith: Instilling a deep love for God and His creation in every child.
Love: Fostering a caring, inclusive, and compassionate community where every child feels valued and loved.
Stewardship: Encouraging respect for the environment and teaching the importance of caring for God's Earth.
Wonder: Inspiring curiosity and a sense of wonder through hands-on exploration and discovery.
Integrity: Cultivating honesty, kindness, and responsibility in all our interactions.
Together, we strive to create a nurturing environment where children can grow in their faith, develop a love for learning, and build a strong foundation for a lifetime of stewardship and discipleship
Meet the Team
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FounderKelli is a Prek-4 certified teacher in PA and has obtained a nature-based teacher certification. She’s taught behavioral elementary education for 5 years with the Chambersburg Area School District. Before that she was a social worker and behavioral therapist helping families and kids with their social and mental challenges.
After experiencing so many kindergarten and first grade students struggle with the challenges of adapting to the structure of school, she wanted to establish a program that could help kids learn and grow in an environment that could allow them to explore but also instill in them the skills necessary to exceed in elementary schools.
Kelli also has a daughter that has increased her love and appreciation for the outdoors. Her toddler absolutely LOVES to be outside in every type of weather, which is one of the reasons Boots & Branches was created. There’s nothing like seeing her daughter’s eyes light up when she’s outside, digging for worms and bugs, asking questions, jumping in muddy puddles, her sense of wonder amplified…childhood being re-established as it should be. All of that is SO worth it, and Kelli wants to offer that same opportunity for children throughout the community.
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Finance DirectorChase is a Financial Advisor and has navigated the challenges of operating a business for over 10 years. He loves the outdoors after growing up in Alabama and spending his childhood in creeks, woods and on the lake. He enjoys hunting and fishing and wants to help kids learn to appreciate the outdoors.
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Class Teacher“To see the wonder in a child’s eyes when learning in nature is a gift that is anew every single day, in every single moment. What could be better?"
Andrea is a mom of two that has gained some interesting experiences throughout her parenting with a daughter who is autistic. Andrea was blessed to be able to stay at home with her children for 5 years. During that time she spent most, if not all, of their time outdoors exploring at parks, lakes, forests, fish hatcheries, jumping in all the muddy puddles, and experiencing unique adventures in their own backyard. She enjoys guiding children through song, reading, and getting their hands dirty in nature!
Andrea enjoys singing, reading, and writing music. She is passionate to the core for all humans and advocating for all types of minds. Working with children in an outdoor environment has awakened her wonder, and it allows her to seize priceless moments in nature as an opportunity for teaching. Andrea hopes to spark a love and curiosity of nature and learning in children and their families.
