Jessica Labbe
Program Owner
Jess is a Nature Based Educator and Ambassador committed to environmental education and improving early childhood development through nature based exploration. She holds a Bachelors of Arts in Early Childhood Education and has worked for the past 20 years with preschool aged children outside.
In 2020 she opened The Village Nest Cooperative.
Jess has a passion for inspiring imaginative play and can often be found telling stories about unicorns and mermaids to anyone who is interested. 
In her personal time, you can find her on nature walks, kayaking, enjoying the beach, camping, or somewhere in her garden. 

Caroline C.
Program Co-Director &
​Co-Teacher of Microschool Heron Class (5-7 year olds)
​
Caroline was born and raised on the East Coast Seacoast and grew up immersed in outdoor activities at various camps.
She holds dual degrees in Economics and Environmental Studies, a testament to her interdisciplinary interests and commitment to addressing complex challenges. After graduating from undergrad, Caroline returned to her coastal roots and found VNC, an organization that aligned with her values and aspirations! She has been with the program for the past 5 years. 
Eager to deepen her understanding and impact, she is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Nature-Based Education, focusing on early childhood development for ages 3-10 years old. 
When Caroline is not working she finds solace and joy in diverse recreational activities. Whether she is spending time with her beloved feline companions, cooking up a new recipe, carving slopes on skis, or trying something new, her zest for exploration and discovery remains unstoppable.

Devyn R. 
Lead teacher of Hawk Classroom (3-5 year old)
Hi there! My name is Devyn, and I’m so excited to be joining your children on their learning journey here at The Village Nest Cooperative. I studied at Keene State College to earn degree in Psychology, where I focused on child development and early education. Though I haven’t graduated yet, I am continuing my studies online at UNH. Over the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of working with children with many different learning styles, including many with special needs, and I’m passionate about creating inclusive, nurturing spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to grow and learn in their own way.
I’ve always loved spending time outdoors, especially listening for birds, spotting animals, and soaking in the beauty of the natural world. The Village Nest gives me the perfect opportunity to combine my love for nature with my dedication to early childhood education.
When I’m not teaching, you can usually find me reading a good book, playing video games, or lounging in a hammock with friends, preferably under the trees!
I’m so grateful to be a part of this community and can’t wait to learn and explore alongside your little ones!

Emma B. 
Assistant Teacher in Hawk Classroom (3-5 year old)
As a child, I was constantly in mud, finding frogs, worms and salamanders, and staying busy with my two brothers​. I have a Bachelor's degree in hospitality management and this is currently a career pivot, as I am working towards getting my Master's in elementary education - a passion that has always been at the root of who I am. Children are the future and it is my goal to help them be bold and encouraged. 
My favorite part about teaching in nature is the ability to connect with students about the environment around us and how it can change and grow, just like them.

Selena A.
Lead Teacher in Owl Classroom (2-3 year old)
Hello everyone! From a very young age, I have always enjoyed the outdoors and helping care for children. I used to help my mother with incoming foster children by helping them set up the rooms and helping them feel safe to adjust to our home. If my mother had baby’s placed in her care, I helped with feedings and diaper changes as well.  I spent all my summers in the Midwest on my grandfather's farm with my twenty-plus cousins. We had lots of farm chores to do we enjoyed them except having to clean up the bull pen. That one was not so fun, and we sure did have to be quick. After chores were all said and done, we got to go swimming in my grandfather's lake, ride the ATVs, go mud sliding, hay bale hopping, play on the tire swing, draw with slate stone in the driveway, and so much more. We ran barefoot, wild and free; it was my favorite time of year. Now to find a job here at The Village Nest, where it brings those two foundations of my life together, is beyond wonderful. I’m excited to get to know you all and your children!

Special shout out to our substitute staff and "specials" team

Bash
Facilities Manager & Substitute Staff

Sydney
Substitute Staff