Educators
Where is the book in which the teacher can read about what teaching is?
The children themselves are this book. We should not learn to teach out of any book other than the one lying open before us and consisting of the children themselves. -Rudolf Steiner
Stephanie Seliga-Soulseed
Director, Grades Lead, Parent Educator and Innate Postpartum Care Instructor
I am transitioning to the lead grades teacher position, as the founder, and admin at Heartsong. With a degree in Philosophy and Women's Studies, I found my calling in Waldorf Education. At Heartsong, we create a nurturing and beautiful environment where children can grow and thrive. Our mission is to inspire curiosity, wonder, and creativity in each child. I believe our children are the hope for the future, and it is an honor to be part of the family journey through childhood and parenthood. With a dedicated team, we strive to instill reverence, family connection and a lifelong love for learning.
Michael Seliga-Soulseed
Farm & Forest Friday, Garden Teacher, Main Lesson Support and communications support.
At Heartsong, I cherish imparting outdoor skills to children in the classroom, farm, garden, and forest. My journey into Waldorf education was inspired by my children and wife, seeing the benefits of embodied holistic education beyond the “Three Rs”. Because each child is on a special journey of the spirit, I see it as my task to offer them oppotunities to learn in various manners, and work to provide age-appropriate educational activities and challenges. My experience with both natural and built landscapes and native and edible plants is something I love to share and engage the kids in learning how to be in, nuture, and steward various environments.
Kate Young
Kindergarten, Handwork and More.
As a teacher, my goal is to share the beauty, simplicity, and wonder of nature to learning as I had experienced as a child in a holistic, child centered way. I focus on creating a rhythm & relationship that aligns with the Earth, the children’s own ancestry, and the traditions of the land on which we walk.
I am passionate about herbalism, land restoration, fiber arts, wild foods, native plants, nourishing community, child development and protecting play in its most open form. I strive to bring all of this into our days and am always looking to learn, grow & be inspired.
Tom Binder
Substitute, Music Teacher.
Greetings, I'm Tom Bender, Heartsong's music instructor, blending a unique background into my role. My 20s immersed me in Trout Lake Valley's woods work, from firefighting to tree planting. Decades of playing music led me to share my love for the ukulele with Heartsong's children. Beyond teaching, I contribute actively, serving on the board of Friends of the White Salmon and substituting in local schools. Academically, I hold degrees in Nutritional Sciences. Formerly a clinical nutritionist and college-level instructor, I retired to Trout Lake in 2016. Now, I find joy in nurturing young minds through the harmonies of music at Heartsong.
Melodie Ruppel
Kinderforest Lead Teacher
I am a dedicated preschool teacher and proud mother of four. My journey with Waldorf education changed my life profoundly, infusing my teaching with a holistic and creative approach. As an herbalist, I bring my love for nature into the classroom, nurturing young minds to appreciate the world around them. Encouraging imaginative play and storytelling, I create a warm and inclusive space where children thrive emotionally and intellectually. Waldorf education has inspired me to blend my passion for teaching with herbalism, empowering the next generation with knowledge, compassion, and a deep connection to nature.
Elizabeth Rogers
Kinderforest Programs Assistant (ages 3-6)
As a devoted mother of two and a trained postpartum care provider, I am delighted to join the Heartsong community. Discovering the curative curriculum here has been a source of healing, not only for the children but for myself. The focus on preserving and protecting early childhood resonates deeply with me. I am expanding my foundation in physiological postpartum care to encompass the physiological impulses and imperatives crucial for safeguarding childhood. My journey at Heartsong is a beautiful blend of learning, growing, and appreciating the profound value and the fine tuned tools necessary to nurture the essence of childhood.
Julia Forester
Kinderforest, Assistant & Aftercare Provider
My journey into early childhood education began at the Suquamish Reservation Head Start in Kitsap County, Washington, where I honed my skills. I'm furthering my expertise at the Micha-el Institute in Portland, Oregon, as I serve as a preschool aide and aftercare provider at Heartsong. Raising five children has granted me a holistic perspective on life, which I integrate into the classroom. My passion for music and martial arts enriches my presence, and my Chi Gong practice keeps me nimble. I have a deep connection with the natural world through gardening and fishing, I humbly pass these passions on to the next generation along the banks of the White Salmon River.
Crystal Luster-Pitz
Substitute, Aftercare, Safety and Emergency Programs, Community Liaison.
I come to Heartsong with a diverse background in the medical field. As the first assistant in the Kinder Program, I have worn many hats at Heartsong: led the grades initiative, and seamlessly filled in the gaps to ensure Heartsong runs smoothly. As a true Jane of all trades, I thrive on supporting the intricate tapestry of Waldorf education. My passion extends beyond the classroom—I'm an expert community builder and networker, cherishing the connections that make Heartsong a thriving educational haven. Embracing the holistic philosophy, I take pride in fostering an environment where each child can flourish and learn harmoniously. When I am not at Heartsong, I am organizing the children’s program at Bethel Church in White Salmon.