Staff Directory
Rita Glynn (rita@camelotacademy.org)
Administration
Education: MS in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling (CRC, LCMHA)
More About Me:
I am the proud mama to my young son. Though I did not grow up in nature, my interest in nature-based education first began during research for my Bachelor's degree Capstone Project on the long-term benefits of play-based schooling and early education practices in countries such as Denmark. My interests grew after completing my Master's degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling at UNC-Chapel Hill and working as a therapist for children ages 4+. In my work as a therapist, I noticed a strong need for greater amounts of preventative care for children's social, emotional, and physical well-being and felt drawn to therapies that took a holistic approach to children’s wellness, drawing from Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Mental Health perspectives.
At Camelot Academy I have taught Kindergarten and have offered Wellness classes at the farm property for students grades K-12. In August 2021, I completed certification in nature-based teaching through Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools. I have found a true passion for the power of nature-based experiences for child development and find myself constantly inspired and excited by all of the growth opportunities that I get to witness and be a part of with kids outdoors.
Amy Shields (shields@camelotacademy.org)
Admissions Administrator and General Administrator
Working in Education since 2007; Teaching since 2011; at Camelot since 2023Education: Masters of Education with First Class Honours, Bachelor of Teaching (Honours) with First Class Honours and a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) with a Major in Professional Education. All qualifications were achieved at The University of Waikato in New Zealand.
Professional Development: In addition to my role as a classroom teacher, I've held various leadership positions throughout my career. These include serving as Deputy Principal, Team Leader, Digital Technologies Leader, Education Outside the Classroom Leader, Project Manager, Lead Event Organizer, and Administrative Assistant.
I’ve also shared my expertise as a presenter at several educational conferences, covering topics such as collective impact, collaborative teaching, fostering a culture of coaching, the design thinking process, and promoting student agency.Travel: From a young age, travel has been a source of excitement and inspiration for me. Since turning 18, I’ve had the privilege of living in five different countries, exploring 27 others, and visiting every continent except Antarctica. I’m passionate about discovering new food, enjoying walking tours, immersing myself in seasonal traditions and spending time outdoors, connecting with nature.
More About Me: I love exploring cookbooks, both for the recipes and the beautiful food photography. Music and movement are important to me, and I’m a firm believer that a good dance party can turn around any bad mood. Hiking is my favorite way to slow down, reflect, and stay grounded in the present moment.