505-205-2411
Welcome to Wild Horses
At Wild Horses Forest School, we believe that learning is most meaningful when it is hands-on, experience-based, and deeply connected to nature. Our approach is rooted in the following principles:
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Learning Through Doing – We emphasize real-world skills, from foraging and gardening to animal care and traditional homesteading. Children and families engage in practical, hands-on experiences that build confidence and self-sufficiency.
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Connection to Nature – We see the natural world as the best classroom. By spending time in forests, fields, and barns, students develop a deep respect for the land, understanding the cycles of life and their role within them.
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Community and Collaboration – Learning happens in a shared space where all voices matter. Families and children work together, teaching and supporting one another, fostering a strong sense of belonging and interdependence.
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Child-Led and Inquiry-Based – Instead of rigid lesson plans, we encourage curiosity-driven exploration. Children ask questions, experiment, and discover answers through experience, allowing their interests to guide their learning.
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Holistic Development – Beyond academics, we prioritize emotional intelligence, problem-solving, resilience, and practical life skills. We aim to nurture capable, mindful, and resourceful individuals who feel connected to themselves, their community, and the natural world.
Our inspiration
Our family has always found joy in the outdoors—exploring, discovering, and learning through nature’s lessons. But it was my children who truly opened my eyes to just how powerful this kind of learning can be. Watching them navigate challenges, solve problems, and grow in confidence through hands-on experiences in nature made me realize something profound: the world needs more of this.
As a former Air Force Medical Service Corps officer, my career was built around care—caring for people, for systems, and for the well-being of others. That same passion now drives me to create opportunities for children to learn in the way that my own have—through curiosity, adventure, and deep connection with the natural world.
My children showed me the incredible value of this kind of education, and now I feel a calling to share it with others. Because every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive in the place that has always been our greatest teacher—nature itself.
Meet the Team
While this is our core operational team, we also have an incredible team of volunteers that includes family members, spouses, friends, and community members. Without volunteers we wouldn't be able to make Wild Horses a reality!
Founder and instructor
Kali Herbst
Kali grew up on a horse farm and has been riding, driving, and training horses since childhood. Her passion for equine work began early, and by fifth grade, she was already volunteering at her first horse therapy center. Throughout her time in the military as a Medical Service Corps officer, she continued this passion by volunteering at multiple horse therapy programs across the country.
Kali ultimately chose to leave her career as a military officer to focus on what matters most to her—educating the next generation, embracing the outdoors, and fostering a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. Since leaving the military, she has immersed herself in learning traditional skills such as foraging, butchery, canning, gardening, hunting, and fishing. Through dedication and hard work, she has brought the farm to a place where nearly all of their food is self-sustained.
Before founding Wild Horses, Kali earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology and went on to complete a Master’s in Business Administration. She is currently a K-8 art teacher, where she finds joy in encouraging creativity, mindfulness, and hands-on learning. Through her work, she hopes to inspire children and families to reconnect with nature, develop practical skills, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
Forest School Instructor
Bittzy Hagen
Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, Bittzy worked in the ag industry, where she gained hands-on experience and a deep passion for livestock care. After high school, she served as a barn manager at Equity Livestock in northern Wisconsin, where she handled everything from tagging and weighing cattle to bottle-feeding calves and cleaning pens. While living in northern Wisconsin, she also did relief milking for local farmers, further developing her skills and love for animal care.
Though health complications led her to step away from barn work, Bittzy transitioned to an office role with a local transportation company in southern Wisconsin. Still, her heart remains with the farm. She has played a huge role in bringing Bella, our homestead cow, into our lives and is actively learning to train her first horse, Basil. Her passion for farming, animals, and sustainable living is an invaluable part of our team, and she’s excited to help us expand our homestead.
Volunteer
Steve Herbst
Steve earned his degree in Resource Management, Law Enforcement, and Soil Science from UW-Stevens Point. He owns Riverside Solar, providing residential and commercial solar solutions, and also serves as a Sales Manager for Eagle Point Solar in Dubuque.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Steve enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, and continuously finding new ways to integrate nature into everyday life. His recent ventures include maple syrup tapping and raising chickens, pigs, and turkeys. Dedicated to the well-being of both animals and children, he plays a vital role in maintaining the farm, ensuring it remains a safe, sustainable, and thriving environment for all.
Volunteer
Pat Herbst
​With over 42 years of experience as an agronomist, Pat brings a wealth of knowledge in soil science, crop care, and farm skills. Throughout his career, he’s helped countless farmers earn national awards for their crops, thanks to his expert guidance. Every year, Pat eagerly takes the lead in preparing our garden and overseeing the sweet corn patch, ensuring the best possible harvest.
Born and raised on this very farm, Pat’s connection to the land runs deep. His father farmed the same soil, and his mother and father would be filled with pride knowing that their land is still in use by family, continuing a legacy of teaching youth about agriculture and the outdoors—a cause they both would have wholeheartedly supported.
Interested in
becoming a volunteer?
At Wild Horses Horse School, families aren’t just participants—they’re part of a growing community! Each family brings unique talents and perspectives, enriching our shared learning experience. We’ve seen children form deep friendships while foraging for plants and families support each other through activities like milking Bella or processing chickens. Together, we’re rediscovering what it means to live in harmony with nature and one another. Volunteer Opportunities we invite you to get involved! Whether you’d like to help during events, assist in the garden, or share a special skill, there’s always a place for you here.
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Contact us
