Embedded Files
Community Director, Festivals, Field Trips and Cottage School Teacher
Community Director, Festivals, Field Trips and Cottage School Teacher
Hi! I'm Karyssa Tilden. In August 2024, my family and I moved to King, North Carolina, and it quickly felt like home. We’ve fallen in love with the beauty of the area and the kindness of the community.
I'm married to a wonderful man who shares a passion for helping others — through both therapy and outdoor adventure, and guiding rock-climbing experiences. Together, we homeschool our three adventurous daughters and spend much of our time learning and exploring outside.
For over seven years, I’ve been leading outdoor classes for children, blending nature, creativity, and connection. In 2020 I founded a Nature School for children ages 0–10 that expanded across three different states and still continues today.
As a homeschooling mama, my approach is deeply rooted in Waldorf education, which I have studied passionately for the past five years. Nature, rhythm, and imagination are at the heart of everything I teach and create.
Creative/Organizing Director, Secretary
Creative/Organizing Director, Secretary
Jessi Bass
Social Media and Site Coordinator
Social Media and Site Coordinator
Hi! I’m Toshia, a homeschool mama of two girls. I’m passionate about creating a joyful, connected, and nurturing home where my kids can grow in curiosity, kindness, and confidence. As a family, we love being out in nature camping, hiking, mountain biking, or spending time by a lake or river. I’m on a learning journey right alongside my kids growing in how to nourish my body with whole foods, grounding myself in nature, and embracing the simple, meaningful rhythms of life. I’m so grateful for my husband Caleb, who supports and encourages our family’s adventure. And I truly love being part of this beautiful community of amazing mamas, we’re better together!
Treasurer and Cottage School Teacher
Treasurer and Cottage School Teacher
Hello! I’m Adele Thomas. I was born and raised in South Africa and moved to North Carolina to attend school in 2007.
After spending 10 years as a massage therapist in 2022 I chose to be home full time with my 4 beautiful children, immersing in the adventure that is a Waldorf inspired homeschooling approach. We enjoy many artistic endeavors, and spend a lot of time outdoors gardening, playing, learning and exploring.
Parent/Volunteer Coordinator
Parent/Volunteer Coordinator
Hi I’m Lauren! I spent my childhood hiking and camping in Yosemite national park with my grandparents. Those outings were some of my happiest memories, and I've always wanted to raise my children with the same love and respect for the outdoors my grandparents showed me. I've called North Carolina home for 11 years now and have two young children. I've found the Maple Woods community full of amazing opportunities and friends, who share my values and passion for child rearing.
Family Adventure Specialist and Landscape Manager
Family Adventure Specialist and Landscape Manager
Michael is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Recreation Therapist (CTRS), and AMGA-SPI Climbing Instructor with over 13 years of experience in traditional therapy, wilderness therapy, and high-adventure programs. He has created three successful therapeutic adventure programs for at-risk youth and families and has worked extensively with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families.
Michael believes in meeting students with empathy and confidence, focusing on healing the heart and mind, strengthening relationships, and improving environmental factors.
Outside of work, Michael is a proud husband and father of three girls. He enjoys spending time with his family exploring places like Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock, the Tetons, and Moab. His outdoor passions include climbing, canyoneering, mountain biking, trail running, and adventure racing.
Certifications:
AMGA-SPI
LCSW
CTRS
LNT (Leave No Trace)
Swift Water Rescue
First Aid/CPR
Stop the Bleed
Nonprofit and Mission
Nonprofit and Mission
Maple Woods Community Incorporated is a registered Nonprofit. At Maple Woods, we believe childhood is a sacred time. Our mission is to offer programs that allow children and families to learn and play in nature, helping them discover a sense of wonder, build strong roots in the community, and grow like the trees around them.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse