Daniel, our lead teacher at Little Finch, brings a wealth of experience, having taught at our school for the past 5 years. Following the principles of the Coyote Guide, his curriculum focuses on connecting children with nature. Daniel's favorite activities with the kids include exciting adventures like mushroom hunting, fort building, engaging in reflective practices, singing songs, and sharing stories—activities that align perfectly with Little Finch's core values as a forest school. Additionally, Daniel has completed his Level 2 training with the Forest Kindergarten Teacher Training Program at the Academy of Forest Kindergarten, further enriching his expertise in nature-based education.

Cristina, the founder of Little Finch Forest School, has been passionately involved with the school since its establishment in July 2018. Having a background in Child and Adolescent Development, she holds a BA in Early Childhood Development and a later MA in Elementary Education from San Francisco State University. Prior to starting Little Finch, Cristina taught at Montessori and Reggio Emilia inspired private schools in San Francisco for several years.

Her journey as an educator led her to be deeply inspired by Richard Louv's book, "Last Child in the Woods," which highlighted the growing disconnect between children and nature. This realization motivated Cristina to create an all-outdoor program that nurtures a strong connection to nature, as she firmly believes that nature provides the ideal learning environment for children at any stage of their development.

Through her years of directing and teaching at Little Finch, Cristina has observed and documented the profound impact of nature on children's learning and development. She considers herself fortunate to be able to offer a program that fosters a meaningful relationship between children and the natural world.

Though Cristina has stepped out of her directorial role, she remains actively involved in the administrative aspect of Little Finch Forest School. Her dedication to nurturing a love for nature in children and providing them with a holistic learning experience continues to be the guiding force behind the school's mission.

Madison Pettis is thrilled to be a part of the Little Finches team, bringing her diverse background and love for outdoor imaginative play. With experience as an actor, teaching artist, farmhand, and nanny, Madison's connection to nature was fostered at an early age while playing make-believe in the woods. Prior to moving to Los Angeles, she spent four months on Maui, tending to Mana Ohana Kai, a regenerative organic fruit farm owned by Arran Stephens of Nature's Path.

Madison holds a Masters in Acting from the University of Houston, where she received comprehensive training in Movement, Voice, and Communication. She has taught students at various levels, designing her own curriculum for semester-long undergraduate courses and leading arts-integrated workshops while touring with Montana Shakespeare in the Parks. Additionally, Madison directed a summer session with the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, guiding a group of 15 students in their own production of Romeo and Juliet. Her nurturing nature extended to her role as a nanny in Ohio, Montana, Maui, and New York City, where she engaged with young children.

Passionate about helping students discover their unique expressions while fostering empathy for others and the planet, Madison feels fortunate to have found her place at Little Finches Forest School as she establishes roots in Los Angeles. She eagerly looks forward to embarking on learning adventures with the Little Finches community and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of it.