About Rooted Together Academy
Where Learning Begins With the Child
Rooted Together Academy was created from a deep belief that education should be designed for children — not around systems that ask them to adapt or fit in. Every decision we make begins with the child in mind.
Meet The Founders
Rooted Together Academy was created by two women who share a deep belief in nurturing the whole child. Nicole and Katie bring together decades of experience in education, child development, and emotional wellbeing to build a learning environment where children feel safe, capable, and deeply rooted in community.
Nicole — Founder & Lead Educator
Nicole is a Certified Primary/Junior Teacher with over 10 years of experience and a heart deeply rooted in care and connection. She believes each child is created with purpose and deserves a learning environment where curiosity, confidence, and joy are encouraged every day.
Known for her patience, warmth, and playful spirit, Nicole meets children where they are while guiding them toward meaningful growth. She believes learning should be joyful, active, and deeply relational — often bringing music, laughter, and sunshine into the classroom whenever possible.
Nicole is passionate about creating spaces where children feel loved, supported, and empowered to grow into who they are meant to become.
Katie — Founder & Lead Educator
Katie is a Registered Social Worker (MA, RSW) with over 15 years of experience in children's mental health and 10 years working as a child therapist. As a clinic owner and operator, she has dedicated her career to restoring emotional wellness in children and strengthening the family unit.
Attachment-trained and relationship-focused, Katie believes the bonds children build with trusted adults form the foundation of lifelong wellbeing. When children feel safe and understood, they are free to explore, grow, and thrive.
Known for her authenticity, empathy, and playful energy, Katie brings a nurturing presence that helps children feel instantly seen, supported, and valued.
Aleena — Seedling Teaching Assistant
Aleena is delighted to be serving as a Teaching Assistant with Rooted Together. With experience in forest school education, she loves guiding children as they explore, play, and learn in the natural world. She is especially passionate about nurturing curiosity, wonder, and connection to nature, with a particular love for the insect world and the small wonders children discover outdoors.
Aleena holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University and has completed Part One of Foundation Studies at Rudolf Steiner College Canada. She is currently studying to receive a certificate in teaching English as a foreign language.
Outside of school, Aleena enjoys birdwatching, hiking, crocheting, sewing, and reading. She is grateful to be part of the Rooted Together community and looks forward to supporting children and families on their journey together.