Lynde Meenach

Owner and Teacher

I’m Lynde. I was raised right here on our family’s farm, homeschooled on this land spending my days barefoot in the woods—building forts, exploring nature, and learning through hands-on play. For over 40 years, this farm has been in our family, and I love continuing that legacy and sharing it with Muddy Roots.

Before starting the forest school, I spent more than 10 years in the corporate world, where I built skills in leadership, organization, and team development. Alongside that, I’ve devoted over a decade to working with children in outdoor programs, including as a counselor and leader at Camp Widjiwagan and later as director of Nashville Metro Parks’ nature camps. My background in psychology has given me tools to support children’s emotional growth—helping them build empathy, resilience, and confidence while exploring the natural world.

I’m blessed to have my husband, Cole, who designs and builds the forest school spaces that make our days so magical.

We’re so excited to welcome your family into this community—it truly means the world to us.

Michaela Miller

Forest School Teacher
Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday Class

My name is Michaela Miller.  My husband Bryan and I live in Spring Hill with our 6 children.  Both my husband and I have spent most of our lives in Middle Tennessee and I have been blessed to have known Lynde her whole life.  

I’m a second generation homeschooler and have a Liberal Arts degree with a major in Theology and a minor in English.  Muddy Roots allows me to use both of these loves while accompanying children as they explore God’s creation in nature and build friendships and learn through reading and imaginative play.  

I have a great love for being outside and for animals.  Helping the children gain skills through outdoor play and the excitement about the wildlife they find and learn about is truly a joy.

Sarah Widener

Forest School Teacher
Tuesday Class

My name is Sarah Widener, and it is a blessing to work with children. I graduated from Cincinnati Christian University with a degree in Biblical Studies and Early Childhood Education. I am so grateful to have the privilege of observing the wonder and joy our students display at Muddy Roots Forest School. I enjoy being outdoors and watching things grow. The reward of nurturing children, animals and plants has drawn me to my teaching role, and I love the Reggio Emilia approach. Children who love exploring will be lifetime learners. I believe God has gifted each child with unique interests and talents. Being outdoors and having freedom to enjoy the forest can do so much for our growth and development.

My husband and I enjoy spending time at our farm share and learning new skills. My hobbies include reading, baking and seed sprouting.