Our Team
Bianca
Founder
Director- Operations
Parent Life Coach, Family Behavioral Coach, Instructional Support Coach
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M.S. Educational Leadership and Policy Studies – Director, Instructional Specialist, Parent Life Coach, Family Behavioral Coach, Private Instructor and Tutor, Professional Organizer
The Rooted Learning Collective
With over 20 years of heartfelt experience in education, Bianca Schuster has touched the lives of children and families both in the classroom and at home. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington, along with various certifications in traditional and Montessori education. Bianca has worn many hats over the years—from guiding students in elementary classrooms to serving as an Instructional Specialist and Parent Coach. She continues to offer private tutoring and hosts summer enrichment camps, staying closely connected to the communities she serves. One of her greatest joys is designing learning spaces that are both beautiful and functional—places that bring peace, spark curiosity, and encourage meaningful connection at home.
Her work across traditional classrooms, Montessori, Classical, and homeschool settings opened her eyes to the incredible potential for something more intentional and personal in the Fort Worth area. Inspired by long-standing relationships with trusted, deeply respected professionals, Bianca founded The Rooted Learning Collective, Inc.—a place where collaboration, whole-child growth, and the empowerment of parents are at the heart of everything. Her passion extends beyond supporting families; she’s equally devoted to uplifting fellow educators and professionals by creating space to share their gifts, grow together, and make a lasting impact in the lives of children.
Outside of her work, Bianca finds joy in simple things—running, gardening, and being with her two children and family. She treasures quiet moments that bring peace and reflection, believing they help her show up with love and intention. Her heart for service is rooted in empathy, creativity, and faith, guided by the words of 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
Ashley
Director - Child Development
Director - Child Life Services
Certified Child Life Specialist, Child Life Sessions, Child Development Sessions
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M.S. and CCLS — Certified Child Life Specialist
The Rooted Learning CollectiveAshley brings over 15 years of experience as a Certified Child Life Specialist, offering emotional and psychosocial support to children and families facing life’s toughest moments. With a background in both hospital and camp settings, she uses play, education, and therapeutic interventions to help children understand their experiences, express their emotions, and build healthy coping skills.
Ashley is especially passionate about helping children realize they can do hard things—and equipping them with tools to face future challenges with confidence. She meets each child and family where they are, honoring their unique story and supporting them toward healing and growth.
Ashley holds degrees in Community Health and graduate studies focused on grief, bereavement, and play therapy—giving her a broad, compassionate view of what impacts a child’s well-being.
Outside of her work, Ashley enjoys reading, writing, walking, and biking. She’s inspired by the words of Fred Rogers: “Each of us has something that no one else has—or ever will have—something inside that is unique to all time.” and that belief shines through in all she does.
Markie
Director - Education
Director - Family and Home Support Services
Homeschool Curriculum Coach, Homeschool Teacher/Tutor, Professional Cleaning Services
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Director - Education
Director - Family and Home Support Services
The Rooted Learning Collective
Markie brings a nurturing, hands-on approach to her roles as both a Tutor and Professional House Cleaner at Rooted Learning Collective. A homeschooling mom since 2013, she’s walked the educational journey with her own four children—two of whom she’s already graduated—which gives her a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs families face. Whether she’s helping a child gain confidence in their studies or easing a parent’s load by creating a clean, peaceful home, Markie’s work is grounded in care and service.
In 2020, Markie and her family launched a thriving cleaning business, driven by their shared desire to support others. She approaches every task with the same heart, guided by the scripture: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” — Colossians 3:23.
Parents appreciate Markie’s encouraging presence, practical wisdom, and thoughtful attention to detail. When she’s not working, she enjoys knitting, gardening, and finding beauty in life’s simple rhythms.
Daniel
Certified Child, Youth, and Family Counselor, 1:1 or Family Sessions, Social Emotional Assessments, Case Management and Mental Health Advocacy
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Daniel Tiblats, MSW, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Private Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Family CounselorDaniel brings a unique blend of business leadership, clinical expertise, and compassionate care to the children, individuals, and families he serves. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing before pursuing a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Children and Family Services. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is passionate about walking alongside others through life's challenges with compassion, wisdom, and hope.
Daniel's professional journey began in marketing and small business management, where he developed strengths in communication, leadership, relationship building, and strategic problem solving. While serving as a volunteer mentor and advocate for young adults transitioning from foster care into adulthood, he discovered a calling to serve individuals and families more directly. That calling led him into social work, where he has dedicated his career to counseling, care coordination, and supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families through seasons of growth and healing.
Daniel has experience working with individuals and families navigating family conflict, school related concerns, foster care, addiction, grief and loss, homelessness, criminal justice involvement, and more intensive mental health needs. His counseling approach is evidence based, trauma informed, strengths focused, and rooted in a Biblical worldview. He believes that lasting healing comes through addressing the whole person—mind, body, relationships, and spirit—and seeks to provide a safe, grace filled environment where clients feel seen, valued, and supported.
Daniel is passionate about helping individuals and families build resilience, strengthen relationships, develop practical tools for everyday life, and discover hope, healing, and purpose. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they pursue restoration and lasting growth.
Ta’Quonna
Certified Child, Youth, and Family Counselor, 1:1 or Family Sessions, Social Emotional Assessments, Case Management and Mental Health Advocacy
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Ta’Quonna Spain, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive clinical experience providing mental health and behavioral health services to children, adolescents, individuals, and families across school-based, outpatient, crisis, and community settings.
Ta’Quonna earned her Bachelor’s in Human Services before pursuing her Master’s of Social Work with a concentration in Children, Youth & Families.
Ta’Quonna utilizes evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing while also incorporating faith-based principles to support clients in developing coping skills, emotional regulation, problem-solving abilities, and improved overall functioning.
Ta’Quonna’s clinical practice is grounded in a strengths-based, client-centered approach focused on meeting individuals and families where they are and supporting meaningful, sustainable change.
Ta’Quonna is passionate about helping others reconnect with their strengths, set healthy boundaries and rediscover joy and fulfillment in their lives. She is committed to walking alongside those she serves so they can move from simply coping to flourishing.
Kristen
Certified Child Life Specialist, Child Life Sessions, Child Development Sessions
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B.A. -Psychology, Minor in Family Studies Certified Child Life Specialist The Rooted Learning Collective
Kristen has served as a Child Life Specialist since 2007 and has loved providing psychosocial care to children and families in a variety of areas within the hospital setting. She has served as a STEM Educator since 2017, building kids skills and confidence utilizing the Engineering Design Process while encouraging social development through the modeling of teamwork and collaboration. She has also had experience teaching children’s music classes and Private Voice, collaborating in Children’s Ministry, and writing T.V. scripts to promote education and coping for hospitalized children. She has homeschooled her 2 daughters for over 10 years and is passionate about promoting a love of learning.
Kristen values play based learning in order to provide children and families with the tools they need to thrive in all of life’s journeys. She loves working with children of all ages and abilities and desires to partner with parents to provide support and establish healthy family dynamics. In her personal time, Kristen enjoys spending time with her family (including hilarious dog Huckleberry), singing in the church choir, listening to audiobooks, and gardening. She humbly hopes to utilize the gifts God has given her to serve others.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
1 Peter 4:10
Noemi
Child Life Assistant, Child Development Assistant, Special Needs Coach
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B.S. Human Development and Family Science — Child Life Coach
Rooted Learning CollectiveAt The Rooted Learning Collective, Noemi serves as a compassionate and committed Child Life Coach, supporting children and families through individualized coaching, life skills development, and hands-on learning experiences. She works closely with both children and their caregivers, helping them build confidence, resilience, and meaningful connections in everyday life.
Noemi holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science from the University of North Texas. Her professional background includes four years as a special education paraprofessional, where she specialized in childhood development and worked extensively with children with special needs. Her calm presence and heartfelt advocacy ensure that every child feels seen, supported, and valued.
What Noemi loves most about her work is forming strong, lasting relationships with children and families. She finds joy in watching kids grow—both emotionally and socially—as they gain new skills and confidence in themselves. Whether it’s a breakthrough moment or a quiet win, each success fuels her passion for helping kids thrive.
Outside of her work, Noemi enjoys spending time with her family and her sweet dog, Milo. These moments of rest and joy help her stay grounded and energized for the important work she does.
Noemi is inspired by the simple but powerful reminder:
“You were made to bloom.”
She brings that spirit into every interaction—believing deeply that with the right care, every child can flourish.
Melanie
Child Life Assistant, Child Development Assistant, Special Needs Coach
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A.S. - Child Development and Child Life Assistant
The Rooted Learning CollectiveMelanie Tellez holds an Associate of Science in Child Development from Tarrant County College, where she also obtained her Preschool Provider Certification. In addition, she holds certifications in medical assisting and after-school care. With 10 years of experience working with children of all ages, her background spans pediatric medical care, early childhood education, and various roles supporting children’s growth and development.
Melanie has had the privilege of working with respected organizations, including First United Methodist Fort Worth Day School and Children’s Medical Center Dallas, where she gained valuable experience and exposure to exceptional child development programs. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Child Development and Family Studies at Tarleton State University, with a concentration in Child Life and the goal of becoming a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS).
What Melanie loves most about working with children is witnessing their growth and seeing them thrive with the right support and interventions. She finds great fulfillment in helping children reach developmental milestones, overcome challenges, and build the skills they need to succeed. She considers it an honor to play a role in their development and be part of such an important journey in their lives.
Outside of work and school, Melanie enjoys traveling the world with her husband and exploring new cultures, languages, and cuisines. These experiences broaden her perspective and remind her of the beauty of learning from others.
Her favorite Bible verse is Psalm 118:24: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” This verse serves as a daily reminder to remain grounded in her faith, find joy in each day, and trust in the Lord, even during life’s most challenging seasons.
Lauren
Certified Academic Language Therapist: Reading Screening and Coaching
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M.Ed. CALT— Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT)
The Rooted Learning CollectiveLauren is a passionate and experienced dyslexia therapist who specializes in supporting children with challenges in reading, writing, and handwriting. As a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) and Texas-certified teacher, she provides personalized, strengths-based instruction designed to meet each child exactly where they are—helping them build both skills and confidence.
With a Master’s in Education from Tarleton State University and five years of focused experience, Lauren understands the emotional and academic hurdles that come with reading difficulties. She takes great joy in helping children not only improve their literacy skills but also develop a genuine love for learning. Her work is guided by the powerful words of Dr. Louisa Moats: “What drives me? It is the whole realization of the difference between what is and what could be for kids’ lives…”
Parents appreciate Lauren’s nurturing approach, clear communication, and unwavering commitment to their child’s growth. Outside of her professional life, Lauren enjoys camping, hiking, and spending quality time with her family and their dog.
Karen
Student Advocate for Special Services & Needs, Math Screening and Coaching, Homeschool Teacher and Academic Tutor
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M.Ed., Reading Specialist
Montessori Certifications (Grades 3–6 and 6–9)
Special Education Endorsement (K–12)
Rooted Learning CollectiveKaren holds a Master’s degree in Reading and brings a wealth of expertise through her Special Education endorsement and Montessori certifications. With 44 years in the field of education, she has supported students across all content areas, including ELA, reading, and mathematics, and has worked in a wide range of instructional settings such as resource, self-contained, and inclusion classrooms.
Throughout her career, Karen has served in multiple leadership and support roles, including FWISD’s ECSE (Early Childhood Special Education) Program Manager, Professional Developer, Teacher Trainer/Coach, and ELA and Math Tutor/Coach. Her work has consistently emphasized advocacy, supporting parents, educators, students, administrators, and evaluators alike.
Karen’s decades of service have reinforced a core belief that guides her work: every child can be taught, and every family can be supported. While education often brings many perspectives, Karen grounds her practice in firsthand experience and observation. She believes true success is achieved through a collaborative, team-based approach, where parents, teachers, and administrators work together in partnership for the child's benefit.
Outside of her professional work, Karen enjoys traveling and has a personal goal of visiting all U.S. states and territories. She also cherishes time spent with her beloved Morkie, Luv, and her only grandchild, Maggie. Above all, Karen treasures diversity and inclusion, finding joy in meeting new people, learning new ideas, and exploring different ways of approaching life; gifts she considers God-given blessings.
Lindsey
Certified Educational Diagnostician
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M.Ed. Special Education
Certified Educational Diagnostician
Lindsey has 20 years of classroom experience teaching students from pre-K through high school in a variety of settings. Over half of those years were spent as a Special Education Resource teacher, working with children diagnosed with a variety of learning disabilities, Autism, and emotional/behavioral needs in both inclusion and small-group/pull-out programs. As an educational diagnostician, Lindsey utilizies her classroom experience to bridge educational assessment results directly to classroom outcomes, helping families understand their child's strengths and learning needs.
Lindsey is dedicated to understanding each child's unique learning profile, including how they take in, process, and apply information. By integrating data from multiple sources, she identifies the underlying factors affecting a student's academic performance and translates complex evaluation results into clear, meaningful insights for families. Lindsey provides practical, individualized recommendations for interventions, accommodations, and supports that help students thrive both academically and personally.
Outside of work, Lindsey enjoys spending time with her husband and two elementary-aged sons, along with their golden retriever, Rosie. In her free time you can usually find her reading, baking, or gardening. She loves to explore new restaurants and museums, and tries to escape to the beach whenever possible.
New to
The RLC
Coming Soon!
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More info coming soon!
New to
The RLC
Coming Soon!
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Melanie Tellez holds an Associate of Science in Child Development from Tarrant County College, where she also obtained her Preschool Provider Certification. In addition, she holds certifications in medical assisting and after-school care. With 10 years of experience working with children of all ages, her background spans pediatric medical care, early childhood education, and various roles supporting children’s growth and development.
Melanie has had the privilege of working with respected organizations, including First United Methodist Fort Worth Day School and Children’s Medical Center Dallas, where she gained valuable experience and exposure to exceptional child development programs. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Child Development and Family Studies at Tarleton State University, with a concentration in Child Life and the goal of becoming a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS).
What Melanie loves most about working with children is witnessing their growth and seeing them thrive with the right support and interventions. She finds great fulfillment in helping children reach developmental milestones, overcome challenges, and build the skills they need to succeed. She considers it an honor to play a role in their development and be part of such an important journey in their lives.
Outside of work and school, Melanie enjoys traveling the world with her husband and exploring new cultures, languages, and cuisines. These experiences broaden her perspective and remind her of the beauty of learning from others.
Her favorite Bible verse is Psalm 118:24: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” This verse serves as a daily reminder to remain grounded in her faith, find joy in each day, and trust in the Lord, even during life’s most challenging seasons.
Amy
Dyslexia Tutor, Academic Tutor, Montessori Family Coach
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B.S. Early Childhood Education— Dyslexia Teacher, Tutor, & Montessori Family Consultant
The Rooted Learning CollectiveWith over 28 years in public education and a deep commitment to child-centered learning, Amy brings a rich blend of experience, compassion, and expertise to her work at The Rooted Learning Collective. As a Dyslexia Specialist, Tutor, and Montessori Family Consultant, Amy is passionate about walking alongside children as they discover what they can do—fostering confidence, independence, and a love of learning.
Amy has taught across a range of Montessori levels for over 15 years, from Kindergarten through Lower Elementary (grades 1–3), and has spent the past five years specializing in dyslexia intervention. She currently serves as a Provider of Dyslexia Services (PDI) in Fort Worth ISD and is known for her creative, student-focused approach.
She is deeply inspired by the words of Maryanne Wolf:
“Dyslexia is a different brain organization that needs different teaching methods... It is never the fault of the child, but rather the responsibility of us who teach to find methods that work for that child.”Amy believes in creating lifelong learners, not just strong students. Her work is also guided by a favorite quote from Dr. Maria Montessori:
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher... is to be able to say, the children are now working as if I did not exist.”Outside the classroom, Amy is a proud mom of twin nine-year-olds, a Girl Scout leader, and a devoted Texas Rangers fan. Whether she’s cheering from the bleachers or guiding a young reader, Amy brings joy, energy, and purpose to everything she does.
Suzanne
Reading and Writing Intervention Teacher
Literacy Acquisition Coach
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Suzanne Alvarez is a dedicated educator passionate about helping children become confident, capable readers and writers. Through personalized, evidence-based instruction, she meets students where they are, helping them build strong literacy foundations while recognizing their unique strengths and learning needs.
Suzanne holds a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies and a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. Her experience spans classroom teaching, literacy acquisition, reading intervention, and individualized instruction in traditional, virtual, and homeschool settings. She also provides literacy coaching for homeschool parents, equipping families with practical strategies and guidance to support their children’s learning at home.
At the heart of Suzanne’s work is the belief that education should feel welcoming, not overwhelming, and should fit into a child’s life rather than consume it. She values meaningful partnerships with families and strives to create an encouraging learning environment. Her ultimate goal is to equip students and parents with the skills, strategies, and confidence to no longer need her services, empowering them to continue learning and growing independently.
Leslie
Early Childhood and Elementary Tutor, Montessori Family Coach
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Leslie Daniels is a retired educator with 38 wonderful years of experience working with children and families. She is a wife of 32 years, mother of two adult children, and proud Gigi to a beautiful granddaughter. Leslie loves spending time with family and friends, reading, traveling, enjoying her daily devotionals, and escaping to her happiest place, the beach in Florida.
Leslie earned her undergraduate degree in Family and Child Studies with Early Childhood and Elementary certification from Texas Christian University and her Master’s in Early Childhood Montessori Education from Dallas Baptist University. She also holds an AMS Certification in Montessori Early Childhood and a CME in Montessori Lower Elementary Education.
Throughout her career, Leslie has had the privilege of touching the lives of countless children and families while building meaningful relationships with fellow educators. Many of those relationships have continued well beyond the classroom and remain treasured friendships today.
Leslie devoted her career to Montessori education and remains deeply committed to its philosophy of valuing the whole child, developing independence, and nurturing a lifelong love of learning. Her heart is especially full when she has the opportunity to support Montessori classrooms and share the Montessori philosophy with children, families, and educators.
For Leslie, teaching has always been more than a profession. It is a calling and one of the beautiful ways she serves God. Today, she continues that calling by substitute teaching at a Montessori school within Crowley ISD and tutoring children in Early Childhood and Lower Elementary who need additional support in reaching their academic goals.
Leslie brings a wealth of experience, a nurturing spirit, and a genuine love for helping children grow in confidence, independence, and a love of learning.
“It is true that we cannot make a genius. We can only give to each child the chance to fulfill his potential possibilities.”
Maria Montessori
Sandra
Homeschool Teacher, Academic Tutor
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Private Tutor and Teacher
BLA: English major, Math minor
Sandra brings over 16 years of teaching experience from diverse Title I public/charter schools where she helped students learn to love math, applied mathematics to the real world, and bridged learning gaps.
She helped individual students succeed by working one on one, and by creating stations where she taught students how to work together socially and academically, as she increased the rigor. She created hands-on activities, used manipulatives, and technology resources. She primarily worked with students who were 5th-8th grade.
In addition to public/charter school she homeschooled her three older children through 6th grade during her retail working years. For her fraternal twin son, Jeremy, she tried a variety of phonic reading programs and lastly used a phonic program and tutor from Key Learning School.
She was also a math tutor for East Texas State Math Department, where Dr. Stuart Anderson commended her on her level of patience and her ability to break down the material into easier to understand concepts and language.
She has always loved the outdoors. The vegetable gardening she learned from her dad puts her in touch with nature as she sees God’s work up-close. She loves sports, especially tennis.
A lot of her leisure time is spent with family: her five grown children and seven grandchildren.
Christy
Homeschool Teacher, Academic Tutor
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More info coming soon!
Brie
Professional Organizer, Drama Teacher, Music and Movement Instructor
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MAT and CPO— Professional Organizer
The Rooted Learning CollectiveBrie is a certified professional organizer passionate about helping individuals and families create calm, functional spaces that reflect their unique needs. With a background in theatre education and over a decade of experience managing complex productions solo, Brie brings creativity, efficiency, and a personalized touch to every project. Whether clients prefer stylish upgrades or making the most of what they already have, she tailors each system to fit their lifestyle.
Her favorite part of organizing is seeing the relief and joy clients feel when their spaces finally work for them. Inspired by the words, “Stop waiting for the perfect time to get organized. Take this moment and make some progress.” — Heidi Leonard, Brie believes in the power of small steps to create lasting change.
Outside of organizing, Brie enjoys volunteering at her children’s schools, reading, dancing with her husband, and staying connected to her love of theatre.
Rachel
Homeschool Teacher, Academic Tutor, Special Needs Coach, Enrichment Teacher and Extra-Curricular Coach
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B.S. Biology, Minors in Chemistry and Business Certified Teacher Math/Science 4-8 — Educator, Tutor, and Enrichment Instructor
Rachel is an educator with seven years of classroom experience teaching 4th, 5th, and 7th grade math and science students. She is passionate about helping children experience the joy, confidence, and curiosity that come from meaningful learning. With a strong foundation in science and mathematics, she enjoys making academic concepts accessible and engaging while also creating opportunities for students to connect learning to real life through hands-on activities, critical thinking, and practical life skills.
Rachel believes that every child is uniquely created with purpose and deeply loved by God, and she strives to help students recognize both their value and their potential. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in meeting students where they are, nurturing their individual strengths, and creating a learning environment where they feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow in both character and confidence. She aims to cultivate not only academic growth, but also a lasting sense of identity, curiosity, and joy in learning.
Outside the classroom, Rachel enjoys spending time with friends and family, learning new skills, and finding creative ways to bring learning to life. She is continually inspired by the truth of Scripture, that each person is “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14), and she considers it a privilege to help children grow into who they have been created to be.
Norma
Spanish Teacher, Rooted Childcare Provider, Camp Counselor
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Childcare Provider and Ministry Support
The Rooted Learning CollectiveWith over a decade of loving childcare experience, Norma brings warmth, dedication, and a heart for service to her role at The Rooted Learning Collective. She supports families as both a Childcare Provider during consultations and a Ministry Support team member, offering care and encouragement to mothers and children alike. As a Camp Counselor at Summer Quest, she’s spent years building meaningful relationships with children, celebrating each step in their growth.
A devoted mother of three and proud grandmother, Norma finds deep joy in walking alongside children as they grow and thrive. Her faith and compassion guide her daily, inspired by “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13.
When she’s not serving families, Norma enjoys time with loved ones, staying active in her church, and vacationing whenever she can.
Laurie
Special Education Teacher, Homeschool Teacher and Tutor
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Laurie Rubino, M.Ed.
Certified Educational Diagnostician
B.A., Education
M.Ed., Educational Leadership
Certified Educational Diagnostician
Certified Special Education TeacherLaurie Rubino brings extensive experience in special education, educational diagnostics, behavioral support, educational leadership, and teacher development to The Rooted Learning Collective. Throughout her career, Laurie has devoted herself to helping children be understood, supported, and equipped to reach their fullest potential.
Her professional journey includes serving students in self contained and inclusion settings, as well as supporting children with significant emotional and behavioral needs. Laurie has served as a Special Education Instructional Specialist and Special Education Consultant, working alongside general education teachers to strengthen instruction, accommodations, interventions, and support for students with diverse learning needs.
Her passion for developing educators has also led her to serve as a teacher mentor, trainer, and coach and to provide professional development for teachers and educational teams. Her experience includes serving as Program Manager for All STARS, a preventive behavioral program for students, as well as serving as a Boys Town Trainer and CPI Trainer. These experiences have given Laurie a unique perspective on the important connection between learning, behavior, relationships, environment, and student success.
As a Certified Educational Diagnostician, Laurie brings together her extensive classroom experience and expertise in special education, assessment, behavior, and educational leadership to help families better understand how their child learns. She believes an evaluation should provide more than scores or a diagnosis. It should help uncover a child's strengths, identify areas of need, answer meaningful questions, and provide families with practical recommendations and a clear path forward.
Beyond her professional work, family is one of Laurie's greatest joys. She especially treasures her role as a grandmother and the time she spends with her grandchildren. Laurie is also a woman of faith, and her relationship with Christ is an important part of who she is and shapes the compassion, purpose, and care she brings to serving children, families, and fellow educators.
At The Rooted Learning Collective, Laurie is passionate about coming alongside families with knowledge, encouragement, and individualized support so that children feel known, understood, appropriately challenged, and empowered to grow with confidence.
Whitney
Special Education Teacher, Camp Summer Quest Lead Teacher
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B.S., Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Special EducationCertified Special Education Teacher
Certified EC–4 General Education Teacher
Certified ESL Teacher
Whitney McKimmey began her career in Irving ISD in 2008 as an Early Childhood Special Education teacher. In 2019, she spent a year teaching an elementary functional academics class in Aledo ISD before returning to her original position in Irving in 2020. Her return reflected how deeply she valued the relationships she had built with coworkers and families.
Whitney is passionate about early childhood education and believes every child learns and grows in their own unique way. She strives to create a supportive, encouraging environment where children feel confident, curious, and excited to learn. She also values building strong relationships with families and helping them support their child at home, recognizing the lasting difference family involvement makes in a child’s learning and development.
Outside of work, Whitney is a busy mom who enjoys supporting her children’s interests in Scouts, gymnastics, dance, and band. Her family loves movie nights, learning and playing games with friends, and spending time on outdoor adventures.
A verse dear to Whitney’s heart is Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” This verse reflects the care and dedication she brings to special education, encouraging each child’s unique abilities and partnering with families to help their children learn and grow.
Beth
Art Instructor: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Lessons, Camps, and Custom Experiences
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More info coming soon!
Sophie
Music Instructor, Rooted Childcare Provider, Academic Tutor, Camp Counselor
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Music Instructor, Tutor, Childcare Provider
The Rooted Learning CollectiveSophie is a dedicated high school student with a passion for supporting and educating children. In her roles as a music instructor, tutor, and childcare provider, she brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a thoughtful approach to every family she serves. An accomplished Suzuki violin student, she’s working toward her certification as a beginner Suzuki teacher and shares her love of music through lessons and volunteer work at Summer Quest, MusiCamp, and Vacation Bible School.
Inspired by ”First character, then ability.”--Suzuki, growing up with two younger siblings sparked Sophie’s natural gift for connecting with children, whether she's helping with homework, teaching music, or offering a nurturing presence. Sophie finds joy in making a difference—whether it's helping a child master a new skill or giving a parent a well-deserved moment of rest. For Sophie, it’s all about building meaningful relationships and showing up with care.
Anna
Camp Counselor, Rooted Childcare Provider
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Anna is a dedicated high school student with a heart for helping children grow in their confidence, creativity, and passions. She has always loved working with children and looks for opportunities to encourage, support, and invest in the kids around her.
Anna has experience serving children in a variety of settings, including as a camp counselor, a Grow Group leader for fourth- and fifth-grade students at her church, and a Vacation Bible School leader. She has served through VBS programs at both her home church and Doxology Bible Church. As an older sister, she also enjoys encouraging and helping her younger brother whenever she can.
Anna brings energy, kindness, and a genuine desire to help children feel valued and encouraged. Her creativity, enthusiasm, and ability to connect with children make her a wonderful addition to Camp Summer Quest at The Rooted Learning Collective, where she helps create a safe, welcoming, and fun environment for children to explore their interests, build confidence, express their creativity, and simply enjoy being kids. We are grateful for the care and positive energy she brings to the children and families we serve.
Favorite Bible Verse
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind... And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Matthew 22:37–39
Lily
Camp Counselor, Rooted Childcare Provider
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Lily Caivano is a dedicated high school student who is passionate about helping children reach their full potential and develop confidence in themselves as learners. A straight-A honors student, Lily understands the value of hard work, perseverance, and encouragement and enjoys sharing that love of learning with others.
Lily has experience tutoring students and supporting them as they strengthen their academic skills and discover that learning can be both meaningful and enjoyable. Her favorite subject is English, and she is currently enjoying expanding her own skills through the study of Spanish.
Outside of academics, Lily enjoys staying active and spending time with friends through volleyball, basketball, and softball. She brings a positive, encouraging, and relatable presence to the children she works with.
At The Rooted Learning Collective, Lily brings patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to see children succeed. She is committed to helping create a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment where children feel comfortable asking questions, trying new things, building confidence, and celebrating their growth. Her ability to connect with younger students makes her a valued part of the support we provide to the children and families we serve.
Connect With Us
We want to work with your family!
If you would like more information on our services or to hire one of our providers, please fill out the contact form.
In addition, if you are interested in joining our team, please fill out the form and we will be in touch with you soon.