Meet our Staff

Director and founder

Gina Root

afternoon Lead Teacher Rolla/Archery instructor

Tausha AuBuchon

Morning Lead Teacher rolla/Archery instructor

Emily Forstrom

I was born in Montana and that’s where my love for nature and travel started. Some of my favorite things to do with my family are traveling to national parks, camping, hiking, and canoeing. I have been teaching for over 5 years. In this beautiful outdoor setting I am able share my passion for nature while providing the opportunity to empower students with important life skills. As an educator, my aim is to inspire curiosity and encourage students to become active participants in their learning. By immersing children in this outdoor setting, it encourages them to observe, question, and discover the intricacies of the world around them. ROCS creates an environment where students can do just that and I am excited to be a part of their journey.

Morning Teacher-rolla

Sabrina Davis

My family and I moved back to Rolla Missouri in 2021. Born and raised here, I adore the area and the community. I enjoy spending time outdoors and I’ve always been fascinated by weather. Some of my favorite activities include hiking, biking & exploring the river on our boat. The atmosphere of ROCS stole my heart. I am thrilled to be a part of a beautiful support system that allows children to thrive in nature. Engaging with children and encouraging their curiosity is a passion of mine. I’m a creative, a dreamer, and a researcher. I look forward to channeling my creativity and sharing time and space with the most curious beings on the planet, children. ROCS is an incredible gift to this community and I’m honored to be a part of it. 

Lead Morning/Afternoon Teacher- Waynesville

Lara Howard

Being born and raised a farm girl in rural Missouri, my relationship with nature started early and runs deep. The majority of my childhood was spent outside and that’s still where I prefer to be as an adult! Whether it’s working, playing, or learning I’ve always felt that the outdoors provides the perfect backdrop and support to whichever activity it may be and in the most meaningful ways! 

As a member of the Waynesville ROCS team, I’m excited to share my love of the natural world and my commitment to being a good steward to the land we walk on and this planet that sustains us. I’m eager to help kiddos realize that we’re not just connecting with nature, we are nature!! 

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Archery Instructor/ Nature Center Caretaker

Brian Davidson

afternoon Teacher rolla

Theresa Davidson

Passing on my love for our environment and conservation education is part of who I am.  I just retired from 35 years of federal service with the US Forest Service and US Fish and Wildlife Service as a Fish and/or Wildlife Biologist. Outdoor education was always a collateral duty throughout my career.

I love seeing the wonder in children's eyes when they discover something new in the world around them.  I like sharing ways to document their learning - through art, journaling, or just observation - looking for the big and small things that make up our environment.  I am already enjoying my time with ROCS and hearing the stories the children talk about, their observations, their favorite flowers or animals, and their future dreams. 

Morning Teacher-rolla

Crystal Mischke

I was born in Michigan, but Missouri has always been home to me. I love spending time with my family and working with children. I have had the privilege of homeschooling my children for many years. My family and I enjoy being outside, spending time at the river, and taking trips to state and national parks and historic sites. I have worked in the public school system for 15 years and I believe children learn best through hands-on activities and active involvement in their own learning. I am excited to be part of ROCS and encourage children to explore the world around them.

Morning Teacher- rolla

Audrey Schroer

I was born and raised in central Missouri and after many moves, and exploring different areas, my family planted ourselves in Rolla in 2024. I loved the ROCS program from the moment I first saw the classroom and after two years as a parent of ROCS' pre-k students and board member, I am delighted to continue my involvement in the organization as a morning preschool teacher. I love being outside with my family and being present for kids' observations and discoveries in nature. Growing up in this region, the Ozarks have always felt like "home" to me, and I hope everyone who comes through ROCS' programming leaves with that same appreciation that they carry wherever life takes them! 

Morning Teacher- Waynesville

Megan Spencer

We are a military family, and because of this, we are constantly moving every few years, which lets us see and experience different parts of the country. Thankfully, last year this brought us to Missouri, which has been full of amazing experiences and introduced us to the unique landscapes this state has to offer.

I have always been drawn to and enjoyed exploring nature, but since my daughter was born, my curiosity about understanding the ways of our magnificent Mother Earth has completely ignited, along with my love of sharing this knowledge with younger generations. I am so thrilled to be a part of ROCS and excited to see this program grow!

Administrative Assistant