Our Mission:

Drew Dotson - Lead Teacher

Mrs. Drew has extensive experience working with preschool-aged children and is passionate about fostering growth through play-based learning. She incorporates nature into her teaching to encourage curiosity and exploration. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor adventures with her husband and four children, with a special love for camping by rivers.

Liv Watkins - Teacher

I am from Central Minnesota and find my energy when playing in the snow, climbing rocks, or swimming in a lake. Throughout my childhood and into adulthood, I have always learned best through hands-on experience and creative exploration. During my time at the University of Minnesota Duluth, I worked as a rock climbing instructor and outdoor guide for 3 years. I have experience helping participants of all ages and physical abilities feel successful and comfortable in the outdoors. My formal education in Spanish Studies and Art provided me with the opportunity to study in Costa Rica and work in Mexico and I am thrilled to bring my passion for speaking and teaching Spanish to field school! I am committed to helping kids discover their passions and exploring education with an intercultural perspective. When I’m not working, you can find me making art, drinking tea, cooking, or playing guitar.

Eli Beck - Teacher

I grew up in the desert of Southeastern Utah and the mountains of Southwestern Colorado, where I learned about the world exploring slot canyons, playing in rivers, and clambering on rocks. For me, there's always been something special about being in a community in nature that I've never been able to adequately describe. I learned early on in my career that I love working with kids, and after studying education at Brown University, working 3 seasons as a summer camp counselor, and 5 years as a wilderness therapy guide in Utah, I couldn't be more delighted to have found Stillwater. When I'm not working at Stillwater or in my other role as a psychotherapist, I love to spend time with my wife and young daughter exploring the outdoors around Spokane.

Sidney Neddenriep - Programs Director

I have spent four years teaching in Montana, Arizona, and Washington through the Public Education system. My experience in education ranges from rural towns to inner-cities and everywhere in between! As an educator, I have seen first-hand the importance of nature, play, and fostering inquiry among young minds. I am passionate about providing a space of peace and social-emotional awareness to learners and am so excited to experience this on the beautiful homelands of the Spokane Tribal people. When I am not working with Stillwater, I am spending time with my courageous daughter, wonderful husband, and two rescue dogs. I find peace through trail running, camping, XC skiing, reading and baking.

Michelle Herman - Operations Director

I grew up in rural Iowa with two older brothers and 32 acres of wide open space to explore which was the springboard that launched me into a lifelong love of the outdoors and the desire to share it with others. Right after college, I headed out west to pursue outdoor education and commercial guiding and spent 7 years taking people of all ages into the backcountry on whitewater rafting, backpacking, rock climbing, and mountaineering adventures. I discovered my love for teaching and cultivating curiosity as a preschool teacher at an early childhood learning center in Spokane, and it is such a joy to be able to combine my love for teaching and spending time with children with my passion for the outdoors. When I’m not working with Stillwater, you’ll find me off the grid exploring new places, cooking, trail running, mountain biking, canoeing, and climbing with my husband, Henry, and daughters Jubilee and Haddie.