David Lee

Assistant Director

David plays a critical role in the planning, vision, and communication of Appalachian Forest School, and has since the very beginning. He will have a bio if he ever takes time from his day job and supporting role at AFS to write one. 

Reb Claytor

Lead Instructor

Reb is also a Shenandoah Valley native. From childhood camping trips to working for the U.S. Forest Service (North River Ranger District) in the George Washington National Forest, she is no stranger to the many outdoor resources the local area has to offer. She has a passion for environmental recreation and finds that there is no better way to encourage a child's growth than through exploration and adventure! Reb graduated with an Environmental Science degree from Bridgewater College and furthered her experience with environmental education as a Park Ranger in South Florida. She is a certified Wilderness First Responder and has her First Aid and CPR certification for children. In her spare time, she enjoys paddling, hiking, longboarding, coaching, spending time with family and her dog Sophie, and touring the Valley on her motorcycle. 

Susannah Oda

Assistant Instructor

Originally from Richmond, Virginia, Susannah has been living in Harrisonburg for the past ten years. She enjoys spending time in nature and sparking creativity in children’s lives through outdoor exploration. Susannah holds a MA in Teaching from James Madison University and is a licensed teacher in the state of Virginia. She is certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR. Susannah spent two years teaching fourth grade with Harrisonburg City Public Schools. She has implemented place-based, project-based learning into her teaching philosophy and follows a restorative justice approach to social and emotional well being. In the past ten years, Susannah has worked as an adventure team director at a summer camp, a facilitator for an outdoor learning center, and a tour guide for rock climbing and zip lining in West Virginia. In her free time, she enjoys camping and hiking in the great outdoors, painting, and cozying up with a good book. 

Deidrah Velker

Assistant Instructor

Another Shenandoah Valley native, Deidrah, grew up in the mountains surrounding Harrisonburg, partaking in all kinds of outdoor adventures. It was during those years she realized she wanted to give others a chance to experience the same love for the outdoors she has. Deidrah worked as a manager for the Adventure Program at JMU, leading trips for college students and for Camp UREC, a summer camp for 5-12 year olds. Deidrah loves working with kids, and especially enjoys the wonder and curiosity they bring to any situation. Through these adventures, as well as certifications in Leave No Trace, Wilderness First Aid, and CPR training for children, Deidrah has gained a confidence in leading in the outdoors. She currently lives on a converted school bus, covered in plants. In her free time she jumps into any body of water she can, hangs out with her bike, Herb, adventures with friends and family, and is on the constant lookout for a dog to pet!