Alexis Matthews-Cheney is excited to welcome a school year filled with curiosity, adventure, and meaningful learning. With many years of experience teaching children of all ages, Alexis brings a thoughtful and grounded approach to education. She holds an Associate’s Degree from NHTI and continues her professional growth through ongoing coursework and professional development at Antioch University New England.

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Alexis is passionate about hands-on, child-led learning and believes that following a child’s interests is the foundation for deep engagement. Watching curiosity spark—leading to joy, confidence, and discovery—is what fuels her work as an educator.

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Raised in Boscawen, Alexis grew up immersed in the natural beauty of New Hampshire. From a young age, she spent her days skiing, hiking, gardening, and cooking—experiences that continue to shape her connection to the outdoors. Now, as a wife and mother, she enjoys coaching, volunteering, cooking, and sharing the wonder of New Hampshire’s forests, seasons, and landscapes with her daughter.

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As Director of The Dewey School, she is thrilled to bring her love of nature, exploration, and joyful learning to the community, supporting each child in their unique journey and fostering a deep connection to the natural world.

Erin Meeh grew up in Defiance, Ohio, and attended Wright State University, where she discovered her passion for early childhood education. During the summer before her final semester, Erin came to New Hampshire to work as a nanny—and fell in love with both the state and her future home.

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After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Erin returned to New Hampshire to be with her husband, Daimon, and to raise their three children. She brings a warm, nurturing presence to the classroom, blending her love of learning with a deep appreciation for the natural world.

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Erin enjoys traveling, spending time at the lake or the beach, and cherishing moments with family—both locally in New Hampshire and back in Ohio. She is excited to bring her energy, experience, and love of discovery to The Dewey School, supporting children as they explore, create, and grow.

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She is inspired to foster each child’s curiosity, connection to nature, and joy in learning, embracing the hands-on, explorative philosophy at the heart of Dewey’s mission.

Rhianna DeCosta is excited to join The Dewey School team. A recent graduate from NHTI, she brings a strong foundation in early childhood education and hands-on experience nurturing young learners. Rhianna embraces Dewey’s values of curiosity, creativity, and community connection, learning alongside children while supporting their growth academically, socially, and emotionally.

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Raised in New Hampshire, she loves adventure, spending time in nature, and trying new experiences—a quality she hopes to inspire in the children she works with.

 

Rhianna is dedicated to fostering each child’s curiosity, confidence, and connection to the natural world, reflecting the hands-on, explorative philosophy at the heart of Dewey’s mission.

Annie Bell has pursued studies in art and early childhood education at both Montserrat College of Art and NHTI. She gained invaluable experience in child development and literacy during her years of service with AmeriCorps, including the New Hampshire Reads program.

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Over the last decade, Annie has shared her passion for creativity and learning in a variety of settings. She has taught at a Montessori school, inspired children at a local extended day program, and provided childcare in her own home—all while regularly attending continuing education courses in both art and early childhood education. These experiences have strengthened her belief in the power of hands-on exploration, process-based learning, and following each child’s unique interests.

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Annie also teaches group and private art lessons for children and adults, sharing her love of creativity beyond the classroom. She is thrilled to be part of The Dewey School team, bringing her expertise and enthusiasm to support each child’s growth through play, art, and discovery. In a Mary Poppins sort of way, she is unflappable, blending warmth, structure, and joy in every interaction.

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She is inspired to nurture each child’s curiosity and creativity while fostering a deep connection to nature, community, and the Dewey approach to joyful, hands-on learning.

Brianna Demers is honored to be part of The Dewey School, a nature-based learning community. Born and raised in New Hampshire, she transitioned from a decade as a corporate educator to early childhood education, drawn by a desire for heart-centered, meaningful work. At Dewey, she nurtures young minds and spirits, believing that connection with the earth, each other, and our inner wisdom fosters real learning and transformation.

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In addition to teaching, Brianna offers Reiki sessions and hosts workshops focused on healing, self-expression, and personal growth. Whether exploring the woods with children or facilitating workshops, her purpose is to help others feel seen, supported, and empowered.

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Miss Bri is excited to support each child’s curiosity, creativity, and connection to nature, embracing the hands-on, explorative philosophy at the heart of Dewey’s mission.