Stephanie Seliga-Soulseed

Director, Kinder Programs Lead, Parent Educator and Innate Postpartum Care Instructor

I am the lead Kinderforest teacher, 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

Third and Fourth Grade Main Lesson, Farm & Forest Friday, Grounds Manager, Special Ops.

At Heartsong, I cherish imparting outdoor skills to children in the farm, garden, and forest. With a degree in Urban Planning and two decades of plant knowledge, teaching, and training experience, I bring a wealth of expertise. My journey into Waldorf education was inspired by my children and wife. Having grown up in an urban setting, I understand the significance of embodied education. My aim is to engage the children with clear thinking, peaceful feeling, and respectful willingness, fostering a deep connection with nature and holistic learning. Together, we embark on a fulfilling journey of discovery and growth at Heartsong.

Dessiree Trapalis

First and Second Main Lesson, Handwork and Music.

I'm a homeschooling mom to three incredible boys, weaving my background in dental hygiene and myofunctional therapy into our ongoing educational journey. Fueled by a passion for new skills and wisdom discovered during our global travels, I'm dedicated to kindling the flame of curiosity in my children. This year, we've found ourselves within the embrace of an outdoor, Waldorf-inspired school. The magic of learning is already flourishing, making this juncture in our educational adventure truly wonderful. In this space filled with nature's inspiration and Waldorf's enchanting principles, I'm joyfully guiding my and other children's growth, savoring each moment of our remarkable journey.

Jonit Greenberger

Grades Main Lesson and Handwork Teacher

Greetings, I'm Jonit, a proud parent and veterinarian residing in the Gorge for the past decade. My extensive engagement in environmental and outdoor education spans a lifetime, and I hold a deep commitment to instilling a profound sense of wonder in my students. With a robust academic foundation and an unwavering passion for the developing mind, I am thrilled to embark on this opportunity to navigate children's capacities for thinking, feeling, and doing. The clarity of purpose at Heartsong resonates with me, and I am eager to bring my skills to further enhance the enriching educational experience for each child.

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

Kinder Programs Huckleberries Lead (ages 2.5-4)

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

Kinder Programs Assistant (ages 2.5-4)

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

Kinder Programs 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, worn many hats over the last four years, 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.