Two Educators, A Friendship & A Dream

A decade-long friendship between co-founders Abbi Collier and Michelle Laidler began in Flint, Michigan teaching at a public charter school. They quickly learned their similarities in values, character, teaching philosophy, and more. As their career paths took them to different local school districts their friendship held strong. 

In 2021, following COVID-19, Abbi made the difficult decision to leave the classroom and focus on motherhood. While having the privilege to raise her two young children at home, Abbi rekindled her joy and sentiment for teaching and education through play and being outdoors- rain or shine. 

During this time, Michelle was completing her 5th year as a sixth-grade language arts teacher. Her passion for sharing literature with students and exemplifying grit pushed her through the learning curve of COVID-19 online teaching.

The school years flew by, babies at home became toddlers and then preschool-age children. Abbi was fully immersed in motherhood, adding another joyous little into her family, while also opening her home to Michelle’s youngest and other teachers’ children to give them peace of mind while working outside of the home. 

Quietly, and slowly at first, an idea started humming between the friends.  

‘How do we capture our passions for slow, intentional living, and education?’

While conversations led to more conversations about this ideal world, Michelle was facing an internal struggle. Her soul was set aflame but her deep love for the classroom was missing. After some reflection, Michelle put her teaching career on hold to investigate the uncomforting feeling of doubt.

On an ordinary day, in Abbi’s living room, the two women came together to solve one of life’s biggest questions: “What’s next?” 

Author Roy T. Bennett wrote in his book The Light in the Heart, “Instead of worrying about what you cannot control, shift your energy to what you can create.” Abbi and Michelle did just that.

Between the two, they brainstormed, researched, and funneled all ideas into a business plan. 

With unwavering support from their partners, their rough first-draft plan started to take shape and the discovery of Forest School emerged.

Pinewood Trails Forest School will be open for the fall semester of 2024. Early applicants have the best chance of enrollment. Enrollment begins April 15, 2024.