Hearts and Minds Learning Community - Team Leaders
EMILY DRELLING - Early Childhood Education Lead
Emily is the education lead at HMLC. She began in the role of early childhood education lead, leaning on her years of experience as a lead teacher for children ages 3-5. Emily is an early childhood and elementary educato who believes in the power of music, kindness and fostering an environment that will allow each child to feel safe and seen.
Emily believes that the key to each child’s developmental success starts with exploration. By giving them the necessary tools and allowing them to make their own choices/choose their own path, we allow them to reach their fullest potential. This is why she is a strong believer in the student-led education model and is an advocate for mixed-age, outdoor/forest style curriculum.
“Within the child, lies the the fate of the future” – Dr. Maria Montessori
She looks forward to building and fostering relationships with each child and their families in the Hearts and Minds Learning Community.
TANYA RAE-SCHMIDT - Early Elementary Education Lead
Ms. Tanya leads HMLC’s mixed-age early elementary class for learners ages 6-9. After a decades-long career as a public elementary educator, she brings her creative, outside-of-the-box thinking to educate and delight early elementary learners.
Tanya focuses on collaboration and listens first then leads with heart. Teaching at HMLC sparks her joy.