Head Teacher: Chanda Mills
Chanda graduated Summa Cum Laude from McKendree University in 2011 with a B.S. in Elementary Education. Chanda completed her
middle school endorsement classes thereafter. In 2015, she graduated from Perdue University with a MA in Educational Administration.
Chanda has taught students from grades Kindergarden to High School. She has taught in a variety of intersting places that has open her mind to different styles of teaching. Teaching in South Korea gave her a whole new outlook on other cultures and an interest in researching educational systems throughout the world. Teaching out west on the Arizona/California border opened her eyes to the amazing opportunities that we as midwesterners take for granted. Teaching in the inner city of St. Louis showed her how much kids really want to learn outside of the four walls of the classroom.
Chanda has dreamed of opening her own micro farmstead school for many years. After having two boys of her very own and running a successful Dressage and Hunt Seat Equestrian Program, she is now ready to make that dream come true - combining her love for teaching in the classroom with her love of teaching on the farm. Join her in learning about Kalina the Dexter Cow, Buddy the Shetland Pony, Bawk Bawk the Astrolarp Chicken, building a greenhouse, the science of how plants grow, the history of flight, and SO much more!
Teacher: David Anderson
David
graduated Magna Cum Laude from McKendree University in 2011 wih a B.S. in Elementary Education, B.A. in Church Music, and a minor in History. He obtained his middle school endorsement coursework from Greenville University, and a Master's in Educational Administration from Perdue University in 2015.
Like Chanda, David taught several years in Arizona, teaching fourth graders. He also had the opportunity to travel to South Korea and teach English for a brief time, as well as working with middle schoolers in North St. Louis.
For over 15 years, David has served in various roles in churches, directing choirs, playing the organ and piano, and overseeing fine arts programs. He currently serves as Director of Music at St. Peter's UCC in Ferguson, Missouri. When he isn't in the classroom assisting Chanda with activities, David can be found around the farm doing various tasks related to the operations of the physical plant.
Teaching Assistant: Ellie Cone
Ellie graduated cum laude from SIU-Carbondale with a Bachelor of Science Degree where she majored in Agriculture and Equine Studies. Ms. Ellie worked a few years under a Veterinarian, before deciding to become a teacher. She has substitute taught in the Highland Illinois School District .
Ellie is married with three children. She also has several dogs and horses that she considers family. Animals have been a passion since she was a small child. Ellie enjoys sharing her experiences and knowledge with others.