FOUNDER/HEAD OF SCHOOL

Alicia Olivieri is one of the founders and the head of school at Cosmic Roots. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UT Austin, Alicia is deeply inspired by positive psychology and attachment theory. Her passion lies in creating a nurturing environment for children and empowering adults to reach their full potential. She has meticulously hand-selected a strategic and intentional team to bring Cosmic Roots to life.

Alicia brings extensive experience in business management, having successfully guided multiple businesses to financial success, including a bookstore that fueled her love for learning and education. This experience has greatly influenced her approach to developing a unique curriculum for Cosmic Roots, blending various teaching philosophies with a primary focus on child-led, project-based nature education.

aolivieri@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL, ADMISSIONS AND OPERATIONS

Michelle Wong, is a proud mom of three energetic kids ranging in age from 4-10, and the Assistant Head of School at Cosmic Roots. Originally from San Antonio, TX, she studied Business Administration at the University of the Incarnate Word and brings over 15 years of experience in Business Administration, hospitality sales, and event planning, along with 5 years supporting educational enrichment, to her role at Cosmic Roots. Several years ago, she shifted her focus and left the workforce to become a better partner, parent, and home educator; and lead a life of authenticity and peacefulness.

Her passion for holistic childhood education grew as she discovered and learned about different childhood philosophies, and found alternative education methods such as Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, and Farm Schools. She believes in fostering a lifelong love of learning, both in and out of the classroom, and is excited to help build our village at Cosmic Roots, where families can find a nurturing community.

mwong@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL - CURRICULUM AND PROGRAMMING

Darleen Rodriguez is a dedicated professional with over 20 years of operational expertise and nearly a decade of educational experience.

She led the Lualima Community Microschool for two years before merging to create Cosmic Roots Nature School. As a homeschooling mother of two, Darleen has over seven years of experience across microschools, enrichment programs, and charter schools, giving her a deep understanding of the unique challenges in education.

Beyond her educational focus, Darleen coaches small business owners and franchises on profitability and best practices. Her passion for community building is reflected in her leadership of natural-minded groups, including a nature co-op and a Crunchy Momma group focused on children's wellness. At Cosmic Roots, Darleen focuses on developing curriculum and programs while supporting and fostering community connection between families .

drodriguez@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

LEAD PRIMARY GUIDE

Ms. Paige is the Lead Primary (ages 3-6) Guide at Cosmic Roots Nature School, bringing a deep passion for teaching and a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. An experienced educator with a Master’s in Early Education and 18 years in the classroom, Paige Wood is passionate about nurturing young minds through curiosity and exploration. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, Paige creates child-centered, nature-connected learning environments that encourage discovery. A dedicated hiking and nature enthusiast, Paige brings the wonder of the outdoors into every aspect of teaching.

Pwood@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

LEAD LOWER ELEMENTARY GUIDE

Laura Gann is thrilled to be the Lower Elementary (1st - 3rd) Lead Guide at Cosmic Roots this year. With both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of North Texas, Laura has been teaching since 1994, working with children ages 2–10. A mom of four and longtime Round Rock resident, she loves the outdoors and brings that passion for nature into her teaching. She looks forward to building community at Cosmic Roots and supporting children as they grow through joyful learning and exploration.

Lgann@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

LEAD UPPER ELEMENTARY GUIDE

Laura Krause comes to Cosmic Roots with a wealth of experience, but most importantly, with deep knowledge and love for teaching children. Laura has over a decade of teaching experience in fourth and fifth grade, most recently with Georgetown ISD and previously with Leander ISD. A graduate of Texas State University and longtime Central Texas resident, she is passionate about fostering excitement for learning and helping students reach their individual goals. Laura lives in Salado with her husband and two dogs, and in her free time enjoys biking, gardening, painting, and spending time with family.

ldumaiskrause@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

LIVING ARTS INSTRUCTOR

A mother of four, Ms. Lisa is a natural with children, and her warmth and passion never fail to draw students to her. With experience as a teacher’s aide in a public-school setting, Montessori, and a Waldorf school, as well as a homeschooling mom, she brings a wealth of knowledge. A talented artist and lover of nature, Ms. Lisa will be leading our Art, Herbalism, and Handiwork lessons. Her holistic approach to education aligns beautifully with our Cosmic Roots philosophy!

Lquick@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

HIGH SCHOOL LEAD GUIDE

Dave grew up just south of Boston and spent over 20 years in Beaufort, SC before moving to Texas. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Writing from the University of South Carolina and has taught in a variety of settings, from Nature’s Classroom in Charlton, MA, to K–12 classrooms and even university-level ESL.

A nature enthusiast, Dave enjoys trail walks, exploring ecosystems, reading, fixing broken things, and playing sports (badly :)). At Cosmic Roots, he’s excited to guide and inspire the new High School class as they learn and grow through their connection with nature.

Dhelmer@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

ASSISTANT GUIDE - LOWER ELEMENTARY

Latha is originally from India and brings over 20 years of experience as a math tutor and elementary school teacher. She loves gardening, yoga, meditation, reading, and learning new math skills. Latha’s favorite part of teaching is supporting students, so they feel confident, understood, and inspired. This year at Cosmic Roots, she looks forward to nurturing curious minds and little hearts while encouraging a love for nature and the environment.

Guide@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

ASSISTANT GUIDE - PRIMARY

Faith@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

ASSISTANT GUIDE - UPPER ELEMENTTARY

GUIDE - ADOLESCENT

Annette lives in Georgetown with her husband, six children, and a lively household of pets. She has over 25 years of experience working with children, including as a nanny, daycare teacher, and assistant guide for Adolescents at a Montessori school.

A lover of nature, camping, and holistic living, Annette enjoys plants, crafting, jewelry making, and sewing. She looks forward to supporting adolescents as they grow, learn, and flourish throughout the year.

Guide@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

COACH + SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Originally from the Arlington, TX, Coach Lance moved to Georgetown three years ago and has a deep love for the outdoors, drawing, and building micro-ecosystems. With a background in multiple sports, including football and soccer, Coach Lance brings both experience and enthusiasm for physical education. As a proud dad to a 15-year-old, he is passionate about guiding and supporting the growth of our youth through movement and play.

AFTER SCHOOL LEAD + SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Sharia has six years of experience in education and a background in business management. Passionate about hands-on, child-led learning, she especially enjoys the Montessori method, which she also practices with her young daughter. Sharia is excited to bring her experience and enthusiasm to a community that values curiosity, kindness, and growth.

EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Maegan Kizziar is the Executive Administrative Assistant at Cosmic Roots, where she plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the school. Although she does not have children of her own, Maegan has a deep love for being around children and takes great joy in contributing to their growth and development.

With years of experience working in childcare centers and in administrative roles within schools, Maegan is adept at managing tasks and supporting the needs of both staff and students. She has been a valued member of Ms. Alicia's team in various capacities for some time, and her commitment to making sure everything runs efficiently, and everyone is well taken care of is central to her role. Maegan’s dedication and organizational skills help create a positive and productive environment at Cosmic Roots.

mkizziar@cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org

SECURITY & SITE MANAGER

Virgil Cecil, a Georgetown native, graduated from Georgetown High School and has a long career in the concrete industry, starting at age 14 and retiring at 63. Specializing in building schools, Virgil has a deep understanding of their infrastructure and operations.

With four children and now six grandchildren, Virgil’s family has strong ties to education—his ex-wife was a school teacher and is now an elementary school principal, while their youngest son is an Elementary School Music Teacher.

At Cosmic Roots, Virgil’s role is multifaceted. He is primarily responsible for safety and security of the campus, and for maintaining the facility. He is motivated by seeing the smiles on these kids’ faces and his desire to be of service. His work reflects a transition from his rugged background to a role where he can calmly and lovingly support the children's learning and growth, drawing on the skills he has accumulated throughout his life.