Rachel Woods

owner & Managing director of educational programming

Rachel took over Dragonfly Nature Programs in 2015 and since that time and Dragonfly Nature Programs has more than tripled its reach.

With more than two decades of teaching experience, she has held a NC science teacher license, was Nationally Board Certified in science instruction and has earned an Environmental Education certificate through the NC Office of Environmental Education & Public Affairs. This involved over 100 hours of training with wildlife & education professionals throughout the state of NC. You can read more about Rachel’s experience in the program here.

Rachel also serves as a NC Climate Ambassador through the Path to Positive Communities council. She advocates for local climate policy and education by engaging local and regional leaders on climate change issues. Climate Ambassadors all across the country are inspiring civic leaders and residents to act on climate solutions now. This work protects the ecosystems Rachel loves and teaches about.

Visit these pages to learn more about Rachel’s environmental advocacy work outside of the classroom:

Wildlife Encounters of a Homebody

The Borrowed Classroom

In the Community

Rachel understands….

that children learn best through interaction and when they are provided a chance to question their own experiences. The age appropriate programming provided by Dragonfly Nature Programs allows a child’s questions and interests to direct their experience.  Rachel's advanced training, experience with students of all ages and ability levels and love of nature makes her uniquely qualified to work with young people in this capacity.

Rachel believes...

that children are naturally curious.  Nature provides plenty for them to be curious about. Nature encourages children to use the full capacity of all senses while offering buffers and refrain from our busy modern world.  If we don't take the time now, to allow children to better understand nature, as their curiosity wanes, so will their tolerance for the natural world. 

Lily Swinea

Education Program Specialist

Lily joined Dragonfly Nature Programs in 2025. She has been working with children since 2012 and has been an educator since 2019. Her career has given Lily the opportunity to work in swamps, canyons, and even a space museum. She is a new transplant to North Carolina after spending a few years in Kansas and growing up in Alabama. Lily is excited to call Raleigh her new home. 

Lily Understands…

that students and teachers need an occasional break from the classroom routine and that off-campus field trips are not always possible. Being able to create a fun learning experience in the classroom through outreach can provide a breath of fresh air for everyone. Lily knows how important it is to cover the learning standards and will do so in creative ways. She also knows how to help students have fun while not letting things get out of control. 

Lily Believes…

learning about nature is important for everyone but especially children. In our age of technology, environmental education is more important than ever. Children need a break from screens and nature provides the perfect escape. Lily has seen children transform from withdrawn to full of wonder during outdoor explorations. Each child is different and nature is so diverse that there is something for every child to fall in love with. For Lily, it was fungi.