Meet Our Team
Sydney
Sydney, the dedicated director and founder of Brooklyn Trails, emanates a warmth that has illuminated her work in education for over a decade. Her unwavering commitment to compassionate and thoughtful learning is vividly expressed through holistic and creative methods, showcasing more than ten years of transformative dedication to the art of education.
During her time at Pitzer College, Sydney's passion for teaching ignited as she led food justice classes, GED preparation courses, and creative writing classes for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women.
After her study abroad program, Sydney spent a year in Nepal studying under a local midwife. Upon returning to the United States, she embraced roles as a birth and postpartum doula, concurrently teaching parent-child play classes at Union Square Play and in private homes throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was during this time that she developed a profound love for early childhood education.
Having taught Waldorf-based nature classes in Central Park with Brooklyn Forest, Sydney's vision materialized in 2020 with the establishment of Brooklyn Trails—a captivating art-based nature program nestled in the enchanting surroundings of Prospect Park.
Sydney's teachings, firmly grounded in principles of consent, open-play, autonomy, and skill-building, exemplify her commitment to nurturing holistic growth in her students. As a perpetual co-learner in every educational role, she employs innovative approaches using recycled, low-waste and natural materials, fostering an environment that encourages exploration, observation, and tinkering.
Her overarching goal as an educator is to ignite curiosity and cultivate a profound love for learning, art, imagination, and play. Through her unwavering dedication, Sydney continues to inspire and shape the future of education, leaving an enduring legacy as a warm, trustworthy and kind leader in the field.
Alyssa
Alyssa is a dedicated youth educator, urban gardener, and community herbalist with a passion for guiding others in deepening their connection with themselves, their community, and the natural world—even within the bustling confines of a big city. Holding a degree in Science, Technology, and Society from Vassar College, Alyssa's journey in education began during the last three years of college as a Garden Educator at Poughkeepsie Farm Project, closely engaging with school-age children.
Upon graduating, she brought her determination back to New York City, focusing on continued work with children outdoors. For two years, Alyssa facilitated parent-child classes with Brooklyn Forest, providing a platform for children to explore nature and their senses in the scenic landscapes of Central Park and Prospect Park. Simultaneously, she worked with children with developmental disabilities, enhancing their skills in emotion regulation, socialization, and communication. Alyssa's approach involves creating educational and engaging activities tailored to each child's interests, fostering a dynamic learning environment.
Every child brings new curiosities and questions, and Alyssa finds joy in the process of shaping educational experiences that incorporate the unique interests of each individual. Through this, she has discovered the profound joy of staying present with youth and viewing the world through their curious eyes.
Beyond her work with children, Alyssa dedicates her time to supporting a growing community of BBIPOC herbalists. She offers avenues for reconnecting with the earth through educational classes, song, art, and nature study, contributing to the development of a vibrant and connected community. Alyssa's multifaceted commitment to education, nature, and community reflects her vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication to fostering growth and connection in diverse settings.
Katherine
Katherine is not just a poet and educator; she is a lifelong custodian of the natural world. Growing up in rural Tennessee, her days were shaped by foraging, running around barefoot, and immersing herself in the solitude of the woods. With a decade of experience working with children, Katherine has crafted a teaching practice rooted in non-hierarchical learning principles. Her approach prioritizes the sharing of knowledge and power, environmental stewardship, reciprocity, and the affirmation of diverse forms of expression.
Her introduction to Forest School occurred while working as an assistant teacher in a Kindergarten classroom at the Co-op School, where she dedicated four years of her teaching career. Later, she co-created and led a mixed-age Forest School-inspired playgroup called Albemarle School. During her time at the Co-op School, Katherine developed a curriculum for summer camp classes in writing and bookmaking.
In addition to her work at the Co-op School, Katherine teaches poetry workshops and literature courses at Brooklyn College, where she earned her MFA in poetry in 2019. Beyond the classroom, you'll find Katherine tending to her stoop garden, expanding her bird species life list, or delving into the world of fiber arts. Her multifaceted pursuits reflect a deep connection to nature, a passion for education, and a commitment to fostering diverse forms of expression in the world.
