Meet Our Teachers!

Ms. River

I’m River, the Mele’aina School Director and Ginger Class Lead Teacher. I received my B.A. in Liberal Studies at Western Washington University. Soon after, I attended Antioch New England Grad School and received my Masters in Education and Waldorf Certification in 2003.

I’ve taught at the Whidbey Island Waldorf School, the Haleakalā Waldorf School, opened my own early childhood program ‘Roots and Wings’ in Southern Oregon, and finally moved back to Maui in 2015 with my family. After teaching for 2 more years at the Haleakalā Waldorf School, I opened the Mele’aina School at Pono Grown Farm Center in 2017. I’m delighted to be moving into our second year at Mele’aina as a recognized Maui county licensed program!!

I love to create joyous traditions with children and families, and I also enjoy simple gifts such as reading, walking my dog, and exploring nature with friends and family.

Ms. Arista

My name is Arista Mayo. I attended the University of Santa Cruz, California and earned a Bachelors in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. My reintroduction to childcare was a divinely inspired surprise after meeting River working at the Pono Grown summer camp three years ago. The magic immediately began to flow as we realized the synchronization of our passions, hopes, and beliefs for the protection and celebration of childhood.

While I have a background in Biochemistry, my true alignment with joy has flourished into being a teacher’s assistant and a lead teacher at Mele’aina for two years. I deeply love being a part of continuing the tradition of storytelling, learning to listen deeply to the children beyond just words, and facilitating the reciprocal relationship building between child and Nature. I try every day to allow space for Spirit within and around our school for I feel that in the end, it will always be the greatest teacher. I’m continuing to deepen my understanding of Waldorf education through ongoing mentoring and WECAN (Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America) teacher conferences.

Ms. Mariana

Hello, I'm Mariana. I was born and raised in Brazil and have lived in Maui since 2021. I have a Master of Science degree in Tropical Forestry, which I obtained in Manaus, Amazonas, the heart of the world's largest continuous rainforest. Upon completing my Master's degree, I felt compelled to follow my heart's calling and switch career paths from Forestry to Education. I have completed over a year of my Waldorf Teacher Training program at Intamores in Brazil. I'm still committed to carrying on my duty as a caretaker of nature and nurturing small seeds, our keiki, which is why I'm excited to join Mele'aina and immerse myself in the principles of Waldorf Education and human development. I am dedicated to expanding my knowledge and expertise in this field and I am thrilled to be part of the daily routine of the children and the school community.

Ms. Rochelle

My name is Rochelle Coop, and I’m honored to serve and care for the children at Mele'aina. I have been owner and operator of Happy Hearts Childcare LLC, a safe and nurturing, Waldorf-inspired childcare business run in my home, next door to Haleakala Waldorf School where my daughter attended school for 11 years. I am a counselor by nature, with a natural empathetic ability. Being a mother is the most valuable and rewarding education I‘ve had, as well as my biggest challenge and joy.

I have over 20 years of experience working with children, including co-founder and teacher for the Sudbury Maui Learning Center, Child care provider, Mediator, Child and family counselor, and keiki camp creator and director. I have studied and practiced the Non-Violent Communication Model of compassionate listening by Marshall Rosenberg for over 25 years and served as a compassion mentor here on Maui. I find the tools in this model to be at the core of my skill in working with children and families, and in my own everyday life. I am so excited and optimistic to be part of this wonderful community supporting and helping each other raise happy hearted, healthy, and balanced children.

Ms. Lula

My name is Lula. I’m currently studying towards my degree to be a Doctor of Philosophy in Holistic Natural Health and Nutrition. Painting, yoga, and cooking are some of my passions. I’ve been blessed to work so closely with tiny humans for the past 10 years. I love to watch things click for them and help them feel safe in their bodies. I spent time volunteering on the PonoGrown farm, tending the land. I’m excited to now extend my time on Pono Grown Farm with involvement at the school.