sundrop primary Program director & lead guide
Tiana Mammoser
Tiana is a passionate early childhood educator, with a Bachelors in Fine Arts, and a Masters degree in Education. Prior to her most recent experience teaching third grade, she spent years in the preschool environment, which she describes as her “true home.” Tiana recently completed her Forest School Teacher Training Certificate from the Forest School Training Institute in Tennessee, and is working towards full Montessori certification. She is a mother of two, an avid outdoor enthusiast, and is highly motivated to nurture childrens’ innate desire to learn and connect with nature. She has been Sundrop’s Lead Teacher and Program Director since 2022.
LEad guide - sundrop primary
Tabbitha Belcher
Tabbitha is a long-time early childhood educator (over 10 years), with most of her years spent in HeadStart classrooms. Tabbitha achieved her Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, and continued school for her Bachelor’s until she became a mother. Tabbitha has begun to work on her certification in Montessori education. Watching children develop new skills and grow independence is one of her greatest joys. Tabbitha is a wife, and mother of two. Her children often guide the families’ next adventures, such as bug/butterfly houses, zoos, children’s museums, fishing and the woods. She enjoys camping, hiking, beach days and waterfalls.
Jacqueline Commyn
Assistant guide - sundrop primary
Jacqueline Commyn is originally from New Baltimore, MI, and moved to the Higgins Lake area at the end of 2020. She is set to graduate this summer with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and has experience working in ISDs, autism centers, and various daycare settings.
She enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, going to the gym, baking, and cooking—but most of all, she values time with her family and friends. Jacqueline has two dogs, Jasmine and Julie, who keep her on her toes. She also loves to travel and takes trips whenever she can.
Jacqueline has always had a passion for working with children and creating a nurturing environment where they can grow and learn. She’s excited to begin the year and looks forward to serving as the assistant teacher!
Danielle Howard
Assistant guide - sundrop primary
Danielle has lived in Northern Michigan for most of her life, with the exception of a couple of recent years spent in Wisconsin. From a young age, she knew she wanted to become an educator, but wasn’t sure how to take the first step. In 2021, she began working in early childhood education and quickly realized it was exactly where she wanted to be. Watching children grow, develop their individuality, and being able to make a positive impact on their lives has been incredibly rewarding for her.
In 2023, she earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her wife and two stepsons. Fishing and playing softball are two of her favorite activities.
Sundrop explorers Program Lead
Jackie Wagner
Jackie brings nearly two decades of experience in early childhood and elementary education to her role as Program Lead at Sundrop Explorers Academy. With a strong background in both classroom teaching and program leadership, she is deeply committed to creating supportive, well-run learning environments where children, educators, and families thrive together. Jackie has served in leadership roles across community-based programs in northern Michigan, where she led staff teams, supported families, and guided long-term program growth through collaboration and clear communication.
Jackie holds a Master’s degree in Special Education, along with degrees in Education Studies and Early Childhood Education, and has begun training in Montessori education. She brings a strong passion for nature-based, child-centered learning and has particular strength in supporting diverse learners and mentoring educators. As Program Lead, Jackie oversees daily program operations, supports teaching staff, and partners closely with families to ensure a warm, responsive, and community-centered learning environment.
Sundrop Explorers Academy Assistant guide
Brad Bumstead
Brad Bumsted brings a calm, capable presence to his role as an Assistant at Sundrop Explorers Academy, with a background rooted in safety, hands-on learning, and working confidently in outdoor environments. A former U.S. Navy Nuclear Machinist Mate and Staff Instructor, Brad is highly trained in safety protocols, mentorship, and maintaining focus in complex, high-responsibility settings. His more recent work as an arborist has deepened his connection to nature and strengthened his skills in outdoor awareness, teamwork, and risk management. An Eagle Scout and lifelong learner, Brad supports children and lead staff through attentive supervision and hands-on assistance, helping create a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment.
Forest School After SChool Program Lead
Sarah Vinyard
Sarah is a Roscommon native who served nine years active duty in the United States Air Force in the field of Environmental Control. She graduated from Central Michigan University majoring in sociology and psychology, with a focus on youth and adolescent studies. Her love of working with and mentoring children drew her to work in the local school districts. Sarah is passionate about Northern Michigan flora and fauna, is a wife and mother of three boys, and cares for the family’s various pets. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys hiking, kayaking, and spending time with her family.
Forest School After SChool Assistant
Madison Larive
Madison is always looking for a new adventure or a new way to help the people around her! She currently lives in St. Helen and is a graduate of the Houghton Lake Alternative Education program. She was searching for a job that she felt most comfortable and passionate about, and filling the role as the FSAS assistant has proven to be the right fit! Madison is creative and curious and is always hunting down the next art project, including building legos. She loves spending time with her dog, Duke, and kitty, Milo. Madison is excited about this new career opportunity to care for children while furthering her experience and professional development within a school setting. Most importantly, Madison aspires to be able to make a child feel safe, comfortable, and happy.
Join the team!
Interested in teaching at Sundrop? We’d love to hear from you!