Who we are
At Boots & Branches, we offer a Christ-centered, nature-based Pre-K program and Homeschool Enrichment program recognized by the state of Pennsylvania as a camp. We believe each child is a precious creation of God, full of potential and wonder, and deserving of an environment that nurtures both their heart and mind.
Our program combines outdoor play with purposeful learning, encouraging children to explore God’s creation while developing socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. With a focus on child-led discovery supported by thoughtful teacher guidance, we foster foundational skills in language, math, and character — all through the lens of Christian values.
We are more than a school — we are a community that plants seeds of curiosity, kindness, and faith in the lives of young learners.
Our Mission
Our Mission is to cultivate a lifelong love of learning, nature, and God in our young explorers. Rooted in Christian values, we are dedicated to fostering curiosity, creativity, and resilience through hands-on, outdoor experiences. We believe in the power of play, discovery, and connection to God’s creation as the foundation for holistic development. Through a nurturing, faith-filled environment, we empower children to grow into confident, compassionate, and environmentally conscious individuals who live with purpose and contribute positively to their communities and God’s kingdom.
Value Statement
We honor each child as a unique and beloved creation of God, and we recognize His handiwork in the natural world around us. Our values are firmly rooted in the teachings of Christ—faith, love, stewardship, and grace—guiding us as we nurture the spiritual, emotional, and intellectual growth of every child through immersive experiences in God’s creation.
We are committed to:
Faith: Cultivating a deep and personal relationship with God in each child, grounding them in biblical truth and a love for Christ.
Love: Creating a Christ-centered community where every child feels seen, valued, and loved, reflecting the unconditional love of Jesus.
Stewardship: Teaching reverence for God’s Earth and empowering children to be faithful caretakers of His creation.
Wonder: Encouraging awe and curiosity through hands-on exploration that reveals the majesty of God’s design.
Integrity: Modeling and nurturing Christlike character—honesty, kindness, humility, and responsibility in all we do.
Together, we strive to build a nurturing, faith-filled environment where children grow in Christ, embrace learning with joy, and walk confidently as disciples who honor God in all areas of life.
Meet the Team
-
FounderKelli is a Prek-4 certified teacher in PA and has obtained a nature-based teacher certification. She’s taught behavioral elementary education for 5 years with the Chambersburg Area School District. Before that she was a social worker and behavioral therapist helping families and kids with their social and mental challenges.
After experiencing so many kindergarten and first grade students struggle with the challenges of adapting to the structure of school, she wanted to establish a program that could help kids learn and grow in an environment that could allow them to explore but also instill in them the skills necessary to exceed in elementary schools.
Kelli also has a daughter that has increased her love and appreciation for the outdoors. Her toddler absolutely LOVES to be outside in every type of weather, which is one of the reasons Boots & Branches was created. There’s nothing like seeing her daughter’s eyes light up when she’s outside, digging for worms and bugs, asking questions, jumping in muddy puddles, her sense of wonder amplified…childhood being re-established as it should be. All of that is SO worth it, and Kelli wants to offer that same opportunity for children throughout the community.
-
Class Teacher“To see the wonder in a child’s eyes when learning in nature is a gift that is anew every single day, in every single moment. What could be better?"
Andrea is a mom of two that has gained some interesting experiences throughout her parenting with a daughter who is autistic. Andrea was blessed to be able to stay at home with her children for 5 years. During that time she spent most, if not all, of their time outdoors exploring at parks, lakes, forests, fish hatcheries, jumping in all the muddy puddles, and experiencing unique adventures in their own backyard. She enjoys guiding children through song, reading, and getting their hands dirty in nature!
Andrea enjoys singing, reading, and writing music. She is passionate to the core for all humans and advocating for all types of minds. Working with children in an outdoor environment has awakened her wonder, and it allows her to seize priceless moments in nature as an opportunity for teaching. Andrea hopes to spark a love and curiosity of nature and learning in children and their families.
-
TreasurerChase is a Financial Advisor and has navigated the challenges of operating a business for over 10 years. He loves the outdoors after growing up in Alabama and spending his childhood in creeks, woods and on the lake. He enjoys hunting and fishing and wants to help kids learn to appreciate the outdoors.
