Marial Leisge is the founder of Ocean State Kids, a nonprofit organization focused on encouraging parents to become their child’s most influential teacher. Inspired by her own journey into motherhood and the unexpected challenges and joys it brought, Marial transitioned from a career in branding and marketing to creating a thriving community of parents looking to become the biggest advocate for their children. After navigating the frustrations of the public school system and researching alternative education methods, she discovered nature schooling and felt a deep calling to foster a community for like-minded families. In just one year, Ocean State Kids has grown exponentially, now supporting over 100 families across Rhode Island through outdoor learning programs that emphasize parent involvement and children’s developmental needs. Marial’s personal experience as a mother to her son Otto, who is a Gestalt Language Processor, has profoundly shaped her perspective on education and inclusivity. Balancing the needs of her family with her work, she made the heartfelt decision to step back from direct leadership roles to focus on her son’s growth and confidence. Her journey as a parent has sparked a passion for advocacy, particularly for children with unique learning styles. Whether it’s simply watching airplanes with Otto or crafting programs to empower parents as educators, Marial is dedicated to creating spaces where curiosity, connection, and community can flourish.

Kassia O'Reilly is a seasoned and passionate early childhood educator who has dedicated her career to nurturing young minds. Her diverse experience spans private tutoring, working with toddlers in Waldorf and Lifeways programs, and teaching kindergarten for nearly a decade at an inner-city charter school. Kassia excels in crafting engaging and educational lessons that cater to the needs of young children. Her expertise extends beyond early literacy and mathematics; she is also skilled in developing and implementing curricula that promote social and emotional learning, thus fostering the holistic development of her students. With a deep commitment to supporting each child's unique growth and learning journey, Kassia O'Reilly continues to make a significant impact in the field of education.

Savanna joined the Ocean State Kids community with her son, George, in the spring of 2024. Having spent her youth exploring the great outdoors of Texas, she later relocated to Rhode Island as an adult and, upon becoming a mother, sought a like-minded community of families raising children with a love for nature, activity, wellness, and lifelong learning. Enter OSK—seemingly too good to be true! Since then, OSK and the families involved have become cherished and integral parts of their daily lives. The joys of discovery and play in nature, coupled with the warmth of the OSK community, have created the perfect environment for both George and Savanna to learn, socialize, and grow together. Before becoming a mother, Savanna built a career in nonprofit and association management. In 2015, she founded a management firm, serving as Executive Director for several professional associations and charities across the country. She has also produced hundreds of professional and social events. Now, she lends her nonprofit management expertise and fundraising skills to OSK, helping to ensure its stability and success both now and in the future.

With boundless love for her two children, a spirited seven year old and a precious five month old, Marlen immerses her family in nurturing their curiosity and cultivating their passion for learning. Marlen's homeschool lifestyle is grounded in exploration and discovery, with a strong emphasis on outdoor education. Marlen is the Lil' Compton Explorers Group Leader, based in Little Compton, Rhode Island.

As a new mother to sweet Jaxen, Jess appreciates firsthand the joys and challenges of parenting. This has fueled her commitment to providing enriching experiences for both children and their families. Her personal experiences as a parent over the last seven months have deepened her empathy and insight into the needs of young learners, allowing her to connect with them on a meaningful level.

Early childhood education holds a special place in Sarah’s heart.  She is a passionate believer in slowing down childhood, the power of unstructured play, and exposing children to nature at a young age to build problem-solving skills, resiliency, and empathy. As a mom of two, her favorite thing to do with her children is to explore and see how nature sparks their natural curiosity and brings them endless joy.  Sarah is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who has over a decade of experience teaching children of all ages and abilities. She is skilled at creating individualized socio-emotional and educational programs based on the science of learning and behavior.

KK Roussinos grew up on Aquidneck Island and spent eight years in Massachusetts working as a Spanish teacher, department head, coach, and houseparent at a boarding school. While she loved her career, the fast-paced lifestyle left her craving more time with her young children, George (3) and Max (2). KK and her husband returned to the island to embrace a slower, more intentional way of life. She is incredibly appreciative of OSK programs, which have allowed her to connect with local families. While she is tutoring Spanish on the side, her primary focus is on raising her boys and creating a childhood filled with outdoor adventures and meaningful experiences.

Tara Kaine, mother to Edwin and Rylee, has a background as an occupational therapist. She has always been passionate about the outdoors and deeply values the therapeutic benefits of nature. For nine years, Tara worked in early intervention with children aged 0-3, supporting their development through play and movement. After welcoming her second child last year, she made the decision to stay home full-time, embracing unstructured days filled with play and outdoor adventures. She joined Ocean State Kids to connect with like-minded parents and provide her children with opportunities to build lasting friendships while exploring nature. The connections she has made so far have been incredible, and she has cherished the many wonderful days spent outside with her family and community. Tara was excited to step into a leadership role, bringing her expertise as an occupational therapist to help this amazing program continue to grow and flourish for both parents and children.

Kristen Clemente is a mother to two wild nature lovers, Teddy and Cece. While Kristen has always loved exploring the outdoors, her children have brought out her most adventurous side. Kristen has been an herbalist for eight years. Although she is not currently practicing in the community, she enjoys making herbal remedies at home for family and friends. During her career in herbalism, Kristen taught classes and led local plant walks for both adults and children. Kristen’s greatest passion is working with children. She is currently the Director of Kingfish Swim Academy and has nearly two decades of experience teaching children life-saving skills and building confidence in the water. Her greatest joy in life comes from her two children and the opportunity to teach them—whether in the pool, at home, or out in nature. Homeschooling has been an interest of Kristen’s even before she had children. Finding Ocean State Kids has been a tremendous blessing for her family, making a lasting positive impact on their lives. OSK has built a wonderful community of unique families who are learning and growing together. Kristen is excited to join OSK as a group leader, where she looks forward to facilitating a positive, child-led learning environment and helping the program continue to thrive.

With a background spanning public schools, private museums, and nonprofits, Katie’s career has been dedicated to getting children outside into nature to play and create. Though she started as a public school art teacher, she has worked all ages across Massachusetts, Virginia, and Rhode Island in art, history, science and environmental education. Now, she is committed to guiding children through hands-on outdoor experiences that blend exploration with learning, nurturing their curiosity and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the environment.

Kate Fay is a seasoned Nonprofit Financial Advisor with a passion for supporting organizations that make a difference. Kate brings her expertise to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability. With a keen eye for detail and a strategic mindset, Kate navigates budgeting, grants, and financial planning to maximize resources for the program's mission. Through her diligent financial management, Kate plays a vital role in enabling the program to continue its vital outdoor education efforts.

Meet Trisha Pires, a true Aquidneck Islander with a psychology degree and over 10 years of experience in early childhood education, particularly in emotional regulation. But motherhood? That was the real game-changer. It opened her eyes to the cracks in the system and solidified her belief that the heart of any thriving society starts right at home. Trisha’s path has been anything but ordinary. From her days as a teacher to a stint in corporate America, she’s now a homeschooling mom who embraces nature, questions the status quo, and dives deep into creating a life that’s as intentional as it is enriching. Her greatest joy? Providing a safe and free-to-be environment for her daughter—and soon, her son—where they can grow, explore, and thrive. For Trisha, guiding her children hand in hand through a childhood rooted in nature, while they guide her through motherhood, is not just a career choice—it’s her greatest calling.

Jackie Paiva is a photographer who resides in lovely Rhode Island, with a diverse background in creative content, branding, and visual storytelling. With over 10 years of experience in marketing and a passion for crafting captivating visuals, Jackie brings a unique artistic vision to Ocean State Kids, and the true nature of the joys of childhood. Jackie embodies the spirit of our outdoor learning community and has the ability to help share our stories with artistic and impactful imagery.

Kelsea Godek is a loving mother to Maeve (5) and Benny Jr. (3). She loves the ocean, coffee, long drives, and spending time outside in nature. Where? All over New England, but home is Aquidneck Island, Rhode Island. There is something so special about living on the coast. The island has an abundance of farm land and gorgeous coastline. What more could you ask for? She especially love exploring with her family and looking for new photo spots. Why? Being a mom and wife to a veteran & firefighter, she is motivated more than ever to provide my community with lasting memories that can be cherished for years to come.