Learning, Teaching, Belonging—Why We’re Here

Meet the People Behind the Learning

jesse snider aka ‘mr. jesse’ (he/him);

LEAD teacher, sweet fern class

I teach at TCS for the connection to land, people and community that this school gifts me each day. Spending time outside teaching, learning and playing with the Sweet Ferns gives me a deep sense of purpose that I do not believe can be replicated anywhere else. Even on the hardest days I come to school knowing that I am dedicating my time and energy to giving my students an experience that I believe in. I have learned so much about myself—both as an educator and human being—while working at TCS, and it is my wish to give back to this wonderful community in every way I can. 

Oliver Mexas aka ‘mr. oliver’ (he/him);

morning support teacher, sweet fern class

I work at TCS because every class feels like a family. We know each other well, care for each other deeply, and know the struggles and gifts of every individual. 

I work at TCS because every child deserves an intimate and meaningful connection with the land and the place they grow up in. And they deserve a team of resourceful and dedicated mentors to guide this connection. 

I work at TCS because the world is not divided up into restricted and tidy subjects, and neither should a child’s learning journey. It is a common occurrence for questions of botany, nonviolent communication, wildlife tracking, and math to spontaneously arise from children during play time. And just as often, themes of mindfulness, ecology, and arts are woven into the process of kindergarteners learning how to read. 

I work at TCS because children’s natural instincts are encouraged rather than suppressed- instincts such as connection with trusted peers and adults, inquiry and curiosity, awe and wonder, play and movement, deep focus on topics that they are passionate about, and a strong relationship with the natural world. 

I work at TCS because the whole child is fostered and uplifted by the whole school- emotionally, physically, and mentally.

KREG MCCUNE aka ‘mR. kreg’ (he/him),

afternoon support teacher, sweet fern class

As a parent who has watched this community grow, adapt and thrive over the past four years of my children’s time at The Community School, I am excited to be a part-time teacher with the Forest Kindergarten Program.  Participating in a program like this has been an interest and a dream of mine for over a decade and I am so pleased to take part of the Forest Kindergarten at TCS.  

Forest School programs promote a culture of wonder, resilience, imagination and connection to the natural world that is well suited to the early education and social-emotional needs of young children. As both an educator and parent, I’m a strong advocate for providing our youngest community members with the opportunity to learn through play and exploration while immersed in nature.  

Alisa Hearn aka ‘ms. alisa’ (she/her),

LEAD teacher, lower elementary grades

I teach at TCS for the deep community. The relationships with my fellow faculty are supportive, creative, and full of collaboration. Our small class size allows for the growing of strong meaningful bonds with our students. TCS encourages flexibility to follow their curiosities and inspires cross pollination across the grades. This gives longevity to those strong bonds as teachers feel like we are always an active participant in each child’s learning journey. The many shared experiences the school holds allows for more time with families. These times create wonderful moments to have meaningful conversations and future collaborations. As a place based school, we are all about the wider community. When a community member visits or when we head out around the island, the students are able to really see and feel how we are all an important part of the world we live in. This inspires them to become caring and giving members of their local community. These many parts are what give TCS that feeling of deep community. It is why I love teaching here.

Angela Rumore aka ‘ms. angela’ (she/her)

support teacher, lower elementary grades

Autumn Soares aka ‘ms. autumn’ (she/her)

LEAD teacher, upper elementary grades

The reason I chose to teach at The Community School is that the things I value most about teaching are alive here. A love of learning, for students and teachers, is fostered through discovery and exploration, and as a result of the meaningful work and collaboration that happens daily. At TCS, there is a strong sense of community. I witness my students forming deep roots in the broader community and developing a genuine love of place. Authentic partnerships develop with parents and community members throughout the year during outings, classroom visits, and celebrations. Successes are celebrated, and challenges are addressed with intention and a problem-solving approach. I feel fortunate to work in a school that focuses on the whole child, helping to create well-rounded citizens. I teach at TCS because all students should have access to this type of education.

sam murray aka ‘mr. sam’ (he/him); 

lead Teacher, Middle School grades

I became a teacher because I had incredible mentors during my own education, and I want to be a part of that for someone else. My favorite teachers were the ones who taught me to explore, to question and test things, and gave me a lifelong love of science and the outdoors. At TCS, exploration is what we do. Our kids have so much more than just a classroom. We ask our students tough questions, investigate the Island’s natural resources, and constantly engage with experts in our community. The opportunities that we have to ground learning in community connections is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. I teach at TCS, because I want my students to learn in the classroom, outside the classroom, and from all of our friends and partners. 

maria chambers hutchins aka ‘ms. maria’ (she/her); 

support Teacher, middle school grades

I loved school as a child and was always sad in June to have it end. I teach because I want more children to have this experience. I have taught in a number of wonderful Independent Schools over the years, but when I found the Community School, I knew I had found my place. 

I love engaging students in work that is not only hands-on but also real and meaningful and connected to the place where we live. Knowing and understanding the natural systems and landscape of home but also the human communities that are nestled here. Working closely with members of our community to better understand the work they do. Cultivating curiosity and love of learning, developing independence but also interdependence; resilience as well as strength. And ultimately raising students who go out into the world rooted but with strong wings.

Creative Practice at TCS

Weekly practices that nurture creativity, skill, & care

Music, handwork, and woodworking are woven into each student’s weekly rhythm at The Community School. Through these practices, students learn to listen closely, work patiently, and take pride in the process of making. Our specialty teachers guide students in developing both artistic expression and practical skills rooted in care, collaboration, and perseverance.

Administration & Operations

Leadership, admissions, and school operations

Jasmine Smith aka ‘ms. Jasmine’ (she/her); 

founder & executive director

sydnie white aka ‘ms. SYDNIE’ (she/her); 

Administration & Admissions Director

I work at The Community School because I believe in the power of place-based education and strong, connected communities. My background spans education, nonprofit work, and the creative sector, and I’m drawn to environments where thoughtful systems support meaningful relationships. At TCS, I get to build structures that help our school grow while staying rooted in collaboration, care, and clear communication.

As both a staff member and a parent, this school is personal to me. Seeing my own child learn and thrive here reinforces why I do this work every day. I value TCS’s commitment to inclusivity, community support, and learning that honors both children and the place we call home. Being part of a school where families, educators, and the wider island community truly support one another is why I choose to work here.

Chris hearn aka ‘mr. chris’ (he/him); 

facilities manager