Who We Are

Kyleen Ellingsen

I have wanted to be a formal educator since I was 8 years old, and that is what I have passionately applied myself to since a young age. Upon completion of my time at Western Washington University, I received a major in Elementary Mathematics Education, and endorsements in Elementary Education and Middle Level Mathematics. I spent cherished time teaching in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade classrooms. Eventually, my career path led me to IslandWood’s Education for the Environment and Community graduate program followed by a masters in Curriculum and Instruction through the University of Washington. I had high expectations of my continued education, and wanted to focus on improving my teaching practices in a more engaging and interactive way. After graduation in 2021, I look forward to returning back to the classroom.

We are outdoor educators looking to help parents find ways for their kids to learn outside. The founders of Home Growin’ are graduate students working on their Masters in Education to become leaders in the world of outdoor education and teaching for social justice. We are teachers, learners, adventurers, gardeners, hikers, and explorers!

After graduating with a degree in Ecological Management and Restoration from UC Davis, I worked seasonal jobs and traveled. Environmental research, ski instructing, outdoor education camps, and international travel filled a fun two years. I love to hike, backpack, and camp; I even lived in my tent for 6 months last year for a research position. I consider myself a California botanist and love spending time identifying plants. I chose to attend the IslandWood Graduate Program to gain the skills and experience I need to fulfill my dream of directing an outdoor education program. After completing my M.Ed. in 2021, my plan is to pursue positions where I can direct an outdoor education school, develop an outdoor education curriculum, and help train outdoor educators.

Professional Portfolio