Maria Arefieva
Founder, Director
3-6 Grades Lead Teacher
Forest school lead instructor
- CBI background check
- First Aid & CPR training
- Bachelor Degree in Applied Physics and Mathematics
- Extensive experience in outdoor education
Hello, I’m Maria, the founder and Executive Director of Real Red Riding Hoods educational programs. I homeschool my two boys because I believe in the unique opportunity it offers for personalized education that nurtures children’s interests.
I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Mathematics and Physics from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. Before motherhood, I owned a web design business. Although I found science and software engineering fascinating, my true passion lies in working with people. A few years ago, I established an educational program for young children to provide a holistic learning environment emphasizing hands-on experiences, the integration of science and arts, and fostering connections with nature and the world around us.
I’m dedicated to nurturing a love for learning and discovery in children through our programs.
Milana Schaffer
Assistant Director
PreK, K, Gr 1 Lead Teacher
- CBI background check
- First Aid & CPR training
- Real Red Riding Hoods teacher apprenticeship
Ms. Milana has been part of our educational programs since the first year. She plays a crucial role in administration, handling emails and inquiries, and she is also a wonderful teacher for our youngest grades, making the nature school experience magical for the little ones.
With years of experience in our program, Ms. Milana embodies our values by instilling a love for nature and learning in young children. Under her guidance, our youngest students explore local animals and plants, marvel at the world around them, take their first steps towards discovering the secrets of the universe, engage in cooking and baking activities, and spend ample time playing outdoors in the forest by the creek. This fosters a deep connection with nature and helps build resilience from an early age.
Colin Farnsworth
Music Teacher
- CBI background check
- University of Colorado at Denver with a degree in Recording Arts
- Piano, guitar, ukulele, drums
Our music teacher, Mr. Colin, graduated from the University of Colorado at Denver with a degree in Recording Arts. He is skilled in teaching piano, guitar, ukulele, and musical engineering.
Mr. Colin approaches his lessons with a friendly and upbeat attitude, offering a diverse range of musical skills. This allows children to explore instruments such as piano, guitar, drums, or electronic musical apps like GarageBand.
Under Mr. Colin’s guidance, children have the opportunity to learn individual instruments, participate in band practices during our instrument lessons, and sing together during our group music sessions.
We are excited to have Mr. Colin share his passion for music with our students, fostering both individual growth and collaborative musical experiences.