Flower Farms Microschool is composed of three guides with a combined experience in the fields of education, library and human services. We share a passion for collaborative experiential learning and play.
Paige Rider is a dedicated educator entering her 6th year in the education field. Her educational philosophy takes a balanced approach using a combination of teacher led and student led methods to give students a formal, but interactive and applicable educational experience. It is important to Paige that the child is observed using the "whole-child" perspective, so that she may guide her students on a journey of discovery both inwardly and outwardly.
Born and raised in Phoenix Arizona, Dannette not only loves spending time with her family but also enjoys art, reading and gardening. Dannette was first introduced to Waldorf and holistic teaching methods when searching for learning resources that fit best for her own children and uses a blended approach in her teaching style. As both a mother and children's librarian Dannette developed a love and passion for teaching children. Through the years she realized that each child learns differently and in order for them to have a successful education they need to be comfortable with a safe adaptable learning environment and has committed herself to doing just that. Dannette believes that in addition to core academics, it is important to place emphasis on learning practical life skills and to encourage children's natural curiosity, creativity and imagination. Dannette feels blessed to be a part of the Flower Farms team and looks forward to building trust and lasting relationships with our community but most of all to continue watching our students learn, thrive and grow.
With combined 15 year experience in human services and education, Tamara is a passionate life learner. She is also a firm believer in the philosophy that nature is the best teacher. Being in nature is a whole body sensory experience that relaxes the nervous system. Being in nature enlivens curiosity, imagination and inquiry. And, being in nature promotes relational understanding between a child's experience and core subject areas. As a guide, Tamara is committed to a "whole-child" approach where daily experiences guide lessons that inspire creativity, compassion and a growth mindset in our young people.