Class of 2006 graduate built a nature-based preschool program that has grown from five campers to about 80 families
FERNDALE, Mich. — Ferndale High School alumna Erin (Furze) Stokes, class of 2006, is the latest graduate featured in Ferndale Public Schools’ Alumni Spotlight series, which celebrates the careers and community impact of Ferndale Eagles.
Stokes is the director of learning and wellness at Skyline Camp and Retreat Center. After joining Skyline year-round in 2015, she created Wild Child, a preschool camp program centered on building social and emotional intelligence. WILD stands for Wonder Inspired Learning and Development.
Wild Child takes place outdoors during the fall, winter and spring. The program launched in 2018 with five campers and has since served about 80 families. In the summer, Stokes helps run Skyline’s traditional camp programs, overseeing staff and campers' health and wellness.
Stokes holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in educational leadership and a Wilderness First Responder certification. She lives in Almont.
“My main goal in high school was to be a wallflower, but a few teachers noticed me anyway and gave me opportunities to lead,” said Stokes.
At Ferndale High School, Stokes was active in color guard, choir and theater. She served as a choir section leader, led the props crew, and was assistant director for a school production.
She returned to Ferndale while earning her master’s degree and interned at Ferndale Upper Elementary under mentor Katie Jefferys. “She taught me the importance of connection and communication when you’re a leader,” said Stokes.
“Erin’s story shows how a Ferndale education can come full circle, from finding her voice as a student to mentoring young learners of her own,” Superintendent Camille Hibbler said.
The Alumni Spotlight series highlights Ferndale High School and University High School graduates who are making a difference as entrepreneurs, educators, artists, health care professionals, public servants, military members and community leaders. Alumni can share their own story or nominate a fellow graduate through the Ferndale Alumni Spotlight Submission Form.
About Ferndale Public Schools
Founded in 1887, Ferndale Public Schools serves approximately 3,100 students from the communities of Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Oak Park, Royal Oak Township and portions of Hazel Park. The district provides a comprehensive educational experience from early childhood through high school, offering rigorous academics, innovative learning opportunities, award-winning arts and athletics, career and technical education, and comprehensive social-emotional supports. Recognized for its commitment to equity, inclusion and student-centered learning, Ferndale Public Schools empowers every student to discover their potential, achieve academic success and become engaged members of their communities.
To learn more about Ferndale Public Schools, visit the website. To stay up to date on district news, events and announcements, visit the News page.