Ugh, a waitlist, it's not our favorite either. Regardless if the program is 'full' or 'coming soon' please fill out the waitlist to be notified of all program availability. [CLICK HERE]
leadership team
leadership team
Marial Leisge
Marial Leisge’s extensive experience in marketing strategy and leadership was built upon decades of her own creative journey with photography, web design, content creation, and marketing consulting. From establishing her own Rhode Island-based marketing company, Visual Manor, to serving as the Marketing Director for RE/MAX, Marial has used her experience to build the Ocean State Kids brand. After becoming a mother in 2021, Marial established Ocean State Kids as a nonprofit organization focused on creating outdoor educational programs for young children in Rhode Island. It's mission is to create outdoor learning environments that nurture creativity, risk-taking, and our children’s connection to nature.
Kassia O'Reilly
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
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.
Marlen oliva
LIL' COMPTON EXPLORERS GROUP LEADER
With boundless love for her two children, a spirited seven year old and a precious five month old, Marlen immerses her famly 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.
Jamie Meeks
AQUIDNECK ISLAND KIDS GROUP LEADER
Jamie is the mom of Grayson, a sweet boy with endless curiosity for the world around him. It is this seemingly limitless curiosity that compelled her to pursue homeschooling. She believes all children are natural learners who don't see much difference between work and play. She values preserving this outlook for as long as possible. Through homeschooling she seeks to provide opportunities for children to learn through experience and exploration of the world around them, with gentle guidance. With a background in higher ed administration and adult education she brings experience and knowledge to her holistic approach to learning.
Bethanie volpe
DIAMOND HILL EXPLORERS GROUP LEADER
Embracing my role as a mother of two amazing children, Kingsley (3) and Eleanore (1), I’m Fully immersed in the joys and challenges of my “mom era”. My days are dedicated to curating meaningful experiences that foster my children’s growth and confidence. Beyond motherhood, I’m passionate about real estate, my book clubs and forging new friendships within the community. Bethanie is the Diamond Hill Explorers Group Leader, based in Cumberland, Rhode Island.
DILENA STARR
SMITHFIELD ESTRELLITAS GROUP LEADER
From a young age, as the oldest of four, Dilena’s love for children has been deeply ingrained. Throughout her childhood and into adulthood, she dedicated her time to tutoring, leading children's groups, serving as a camp counselor, volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters and Best Buddies, and hosting international students. As a mother to an almost two-year-old, she has a deep compassion for all moms facing fertility challenges, having experienced her own long journey. She cherishes each day as a blessing and enjoys spending quality time with her husband, three dogs, and her beautiful daughter.
Kate Fay
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.
Carol Manchester
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Carol Manchester is a passionate advocate for outdoor education and community engagement. As the Community Outreach Manager for Ocean State Kids, she bridges the gap between the program and the local community, fostering connections and promoting environmental stewardship. Through our programs and partnerships, she ensures that Ocean State Kids remains accessible and inclusive to all.
Kelsea Godek
BRAND & LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER
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.
Kristen ferry
EVENT & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
Kristen Ferry is mama to two little ones who completely flipped her world upside down in the best way possible. Kristen is a lover of the outdoors, the mountains, the beach, and everything in between - but this girl's camping days are over. She appreciate insect life, but doesn’t want to be sleeping with them. She was born in Germany and raised as an Army brat, but has lived on Aquidneck Island most of her life. Kristen provides stunning photography for our events, but also families across Rhode Island. Whatever ideas you have, make some magic with Kristen Ferry.
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HELPING OCEAN STATE KIDS
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May you continue to raise your son and let him raise your in return."
"Witnessing the creative explosion that motherhood brings and seeing you channel that creative spirit into something that not only nurtures your son, but the children of a community you’ve built from scratch. Isn't it wonderful how we discover new layers of ourselves through this role? May you continue to raise your son and let him raise your in return. " - Sofia
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