About Us

Leslie-Jo “Leslie” Ashby is a passionate educator who believes children learn best when they feel safe, seen as individuals, and are genuinely excited about learning. She earned her degree in K–8 Education from Western Washington University, graduating first in her class. She also holds additional training in Special Education, Social and Emotional Learning, yoga, and mindfulness.

Leslie brings over five years of public school teaching experience and spent two years running a private homeschool program, where she worked closely with families to support children’s individual needs. Parents often appreciate her calm, thoughtful approach and her ability to connect with students who may feel overwhelmed or disengaged in traditional school settings. Leslie is especially dedicated to outdoor learning, emotional well-being, and helping children build confidence, independence, and a love of learning.

Kimberly Burns is an experienced educator with more than thirteen years of teaching experience and a strong focus on helping children grow academically with confidence. She holds two Master’s degrees, one in Elementary Education and one in Teaching English to Language Learners, and is trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach to reading and literacy.

Families value Kimberly’s ability to meet children exactly where they are. She specializes in supporting students who need extra help with reading, writing, or language development, while also challenging students who are ready to go further. Kimberly is known for creating structured, supportive learning environments where children feel successful, capable, and proud of their progress.

As co-directors of Roots Learning Center, Leslie and Kimberly share a commitment to partnering closely with families. They believe education works best when parents, children, and educators collaborate with trust and transparency. Together, they have designed a learning environment that balances strong academics with outdoor exploration, social-emotional growth, and individualized attention.

Parents can expect a thoughtful, nurturing space where their child is known as a whole person, not just a student, and where learning is guided by curiosity, respect, and care.

Roots Learning Center is where children are invited to grow in connection with nature, community, and themselves. We are a holistic, nature-based learning community rooted in developmentally appropriate, child-centered education. Our program blends academic skill-building with real-world exploration, emotional development, and creativity. Learning happens through play, inquiry, projects, and relationships. 

We believe that children thrive when they are respected, empowered, and surrounded by trusted adults who value creativity, critical thinking, and connection. Our free-range learning model allows for risk-taking, student agency, and deep engagement with the natural world.

Check out Roots featured in The News Tribune: