Christina McDowell

Christina McDowell

Christina McDowell

Discovery Education Coordinator

Christina is thrilled to serve as the Discovery Education Coordinator at Lava Hot Springs Academy. She believes learning should feel alive– rooted in place, rich with wonder, and deeply relevant to the lives of children. Whether through hands-on projects, meaningful challenges, or outdoor exploration, she is passionate about helping students experience education, not just consume it.

With over 10 years of teaching experience and a background in charter school development, Christina brings both vision and practical experience to her work. She holds a B.A. in Educational Studies from Western Governors University and is a licensed Career and Technical Education teacher. Christina has been trained in Project Based Learning through PBLWorks and Place-Based Education through Teton Science School. In 2023, she designed and launched a thriving forest school.

In her free time, you’ll likely find her soaking in remote hot springs, mountain biking, tending to her sheep, gathering herbs, or sitting around a campfire with her family. She has been happily married for 25 years and is the proud mother of two extremely adventurous grown sons and one equally bold little girl who keeps life interesting.