Who we are

We are a dedicated team of educators united by a shared passion for helping children build a strong foundation for lifelong learning. With years of experience spanning preschool, elementary, and secondary education, we bring a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise to early childhood development. As parents to a combined 17 plus children, we understand the joys and challenges of raising children, and we infuse that care into everything we do.

Our approach blends the power of positive affirmations, movement, and hands-on learning to foster confidence, curiosity, and readiness for kindergarten. Rooted in both innovation and evidence-based practices, our program is designed to meet children where they are and help them grow—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. With a special emphasis on developing motor skills and fostering a love for learning, we are here to support every child’s unique journey with compassion and commitment.

In addition, we’ve worked closely with children during the critical transition to kindergarten and understand the challenges they face. Our team includes experienced, certified Idaho special education professionals who are skilled at recognizing individual learning styles and tailoring instruction to meet each child’s unique needs. We believe in creating an inclusive, supportive environment where every learner can thrive and grow—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

Lexie Cole Co-Founder

  • Co-Founder

    Hello, my name is Jamie Buell and I am so excited to introduce myself as co-founder of Curious Roots Learning Academy. We have been working tireless to bring you the most thoughtful, evidence based, and caring program for those littles in your life you love so much.

    After spending the past 15 years teaching and coaching out of state, I recently returned to Idaho Falls with a renewed passion for early childhood education. I’m a proud mom of five—two of whom have already completed their bachelor’s degrees and are now pursuing graduate and doctoral programs. Education has always been at the heart of our family—my husband, Jason, is also a special education teacher here in Idaho Falls—and I’m so excited to share that love of learning with our community’s youngest students.

    I am K-12 certified with the state of Idaho, hold a master’s degree in Special Education, and a dual bachelor’s degree in Business and English. My teaching experience spans preschool through high school, with a focus in special education—particularly in math, science, and meeting the unique needs of diverse learners. I’m also certified in early childhood motor development through the National Youth Alliance, and I believe strongly in the connection between movement, confidence, and school success.

    My passion for teaching preschool age children began years ago while leading youth education programs at Tautphaus Park Zoo, and then had the pleasure of watching my mother-in-law, Connie, inspire generations of local children with her love of reading. She taught reading in School District 91 for over 30 years, and I believe she’s smiling down as I step into this new adventure. Over the past years, I’ve seen firsthand how hard the transition to full-day kindergarten can be for so many kids—especially when it’s their first structured school experience. That’s why I’m passionate about creating a preschool that builds strong school skills, confidence, and a love of learning from the very start.

  • Co-Founder

    Hi there! I’m Lexie Cole, a longtime Idaho Falls resident, wife, and proud mom and stepmom to five amazing kids. Ever since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to work with children—I used to tell my family I dreamed of having ten kids when I grew up! While I didn’t quite hit that number, I’ve spent much of my life helping raise a big, blended family, and I know just how important those early years are.

    I’ve worked in both daycare and school settings, including several years supporting early learners and most recently serving as the secretary at Hawthorne Elementary. That experience deepened my love for childhood development and the magic of early learning. Helping children grow—socially, emotionally, and academically—is one of my greatest joys.

    My dream for this preschool is simple: to create a place where children feel safe, seen, and inspired to grow. I believe in strong communication with families, hands-on learning, and meeting each child right where they are. I can’t wait to welcome your little ones into our school family!

  • Mandi brings a wealth of knowledge and heart to Curious Roots Learning Academy. A certified teacher with over five years of preschool teaching experience, she has a gift for helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Mandi believes in creating a classroom where children feel safe, encouraged, and excited to explore the world around them.

    Her background in early childhood education allows her to balance structured learning with playful discovery, giving each child the tools they need to thrive as confident, curious learners. Families love her warm personality and her dedication to making every child feel valued and supported.

  • Hi, I’m Graedyn Buell, and I’m excited to support the movement and motor skills side of Curious Roots! I spent last year working as a paraeducator and PE teacher at Hawthorne Elementary, where I discovered how much I enjoy helping young learners grow through movement and play. I also coordinate youth sports programs and camps for the City of Idaho Falls, giving me daily insight into how physical activity builds confidence, coordination, and community.

    While I won’t be at Curious Roots full time, I’ll be actively involved in designing and supporting the movement curriculum. I’m passionate about helping kids develop their motor skills in fun and engaging ways that build the foundation for classroom success. I look forward to being part of the journey as our students grow strong—in both body and mind!

  • Hi, I’m Jason Buell. I’m currently a special education teacher at Compass Academy and basketball coach at Idaho Falls High School. I hold a master’s degree in Special Education and Curriculum Design and have spent my career working with students of all abilities, helping them grow both academically and personally.

    While I won’t be at Curious Roots full-time, I’m thrilled to be involved behind the scenes and will be in and out to support students whenever I can. I believe deeply in the importance of early education and giving children a strong foundation in their learning journey. I’m proud to be part of this family effort to help young learners thrive.

  • Hi, I’m Brad Cole. I work full-time teaching Radiological Control (Rad Con) out at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), where I help train the next generation of nuclear professionals in safety and science. With a passion for education and a strong background in technical instruction, I understand the value of building a solid foundation from an early age.

    While I won’t be at Curious Roots every day, I look forward to helping behind the scenes wherever I can. Whether it’s supporting classroom projects, helping with logistics, or cheering on our little learners, I’m proud to be part of this meaningful work and excited to contribute to a place that values growth, curiosity, and community.

Contact us

Curious about our programs or want to enroll? Fill out a quick form and we’ll be in touch soon with more information about our classes. We can’t wait to connect with you and help your child’s learning take root!

Please include your students name, age, and class preference in the message section of this form.