About Us
Forest Path is a non-profit early childhood centre. We offer family drop-ins; camps; and a preschool program, all free of charge. We are led by two experienced Early Childhood Educators and report to a Board of Directors.
The Seed That Started It All
Forest Path Preschool began as a long-held vision of founder Lyra Howell, an artist and educator with a passion for Early Childhood Education. Early in her Montessori training, Lyra encountered the work of Dr. Montessori and was inspired by its roots in serving children without access to care. She wrote a manifesto in the end pages of her book, outlining a tuition-free school open to all. That tiny seed, planted in 2016, was never far from her thoughts.
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In summer 2025, the idea began to take shape. Lyra reconnected with Gwen Beal, a former YMCA colleague who shares her passion for early education. In 2026, they launched Forest Path Preschool, hoping to pave the way for many more schools of its kind. Even the smallest seed, they believe, can grow into the most beautiful tree.
Our Mission
At Forest Path Preschool, our mission is to nurture a deep and meaningful connection between children and the natural world while supporting their growth as confident, capable, and compassionate individuals. Our mandate is to make this accessible by removing all fees, making the program 100% free for all participants.
Meet Our Team
Lyra Howell
Founder & Co-Educator
Lyra’s passion for early childhood education began over 20 years ago. Fresh out of art school, she spent several years teaching at a children's art studio, where she soon realized that working with young children was her true calling. She returned to school to study Early Childhood Education, earning a diploma from George Brown College, and subsequently a diploma from The Foundation for Montessori Education and a Bachelor's of Education in Early Childhood Studies from the University of New Brunswick
Gwen Beal
Program Director & Co-Educator
Gwen Beal is a teacher, artist, and advocate for high quality early learning. Originally from Toronto, she relocated to Saint John in 2021 and quickly became involved in the local early learning and creative communities. Gwen holds a Bachelor of Education (Primary/Junior), a Bachelor of Child and Youth Studies, and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education.
Our Board of Directors
Forest Path Preschool is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors made up of volunteers from across the country, including members of our local school community. Bringing together diverse professional backgrounds, lived experiences, and a shared commitment to early childhood education, the Board provides governance, oversight, and strategic guidance to support the organization’s mission and long-term sustainability.
Meeting quarterly, the Board acts with integrity, care, and accountability in the best interests of the children, families, educators, and community we serve. Their collective support helps ensure Forest Path Preschool remains rooted in accessibility, inclusion, creativity, and meaningful early learning experiences.
We respectfully acknowledge that we are on the traditional and unceded territory of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi’kma’ki, and Wabanaki peoples. For generations, they have cared for and protected these lands, waters, and forests. We are grateful to learn and play in these natural spaces, and we honour their enduring connection to this land.