Lessons from the Land to the Classroom: Welcome to Kipekee Chronicles

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: mother, teacher, mentor, advocate, and now, a passionate permaculture enthusiast. (Permaculture is a system of sustainable design that works with nature to create thriving, self-sustaining ecosystems—where every element, from the smallest seedling to the tallest tree, plays a role in balance and growth.) Each role has been a classroom of its own, teaching me patience, adaptability, and the profound power of connection.

So, how do education, family, and a love for nature come together to create a meaningful life? For me, they are the cornerstones of everything I do—a foundation for growth, resilience, and the joy of nurturing potential, whether in the classroom, the community, or the earth beneath my feet.

Like seeds sown into fertile soil, these experiences have taken time to grow. Teaching has been my greatest joy—a space where I’ve nurtured young minds the way one tends to delicate seedlings: shielding them from harsh winds, enriching their environment, and encouraging them to stretch their roots deep and their leaves high.

For more than two decades, I’ve witnessed resilience blossom in my students—just as I’ve seen plants rise after harsh conditions. Breakthroughs emerge like tender shoots pushing through compacted soil. I’ve guided teens through seasons of struggle, supported families as they navigated the ever-changing terrain of education, and celebrated the small yet meaningful victories along the way. As the founder of a Kip McGrath tutoring franchise in Karen, Nairobi, I cultivated a community dedicated to improving outcomes, creating opportunities, and transforming lives—much like composting the soil to nurture healthy, sustainable growth.

Recently, my journey expanded into the world of permaculture. It began with a half-acre of untamed land—overrun with weeds, barren patches, and towering eucalyptus trees that had drained the soil dry. To many, it may have seemed chaotic, but to me, it whispered potential: a patch of earth, like a child’s mind, waiting for care, patience, and the right conditions to thrive.

As I began transforming this land, I planted my first seeds—resilient Carissa hedges, hardy fruit trees, and tough herbs like rosemary that could endure unpredictable weather. I watched bamboo, strong yet flexible, bend but never break in the wind, and I tended to young saplings, waiting patiently for their roots to take hold. In each moment, the land echoed the lessons I’ve learned as a teacher and parent:

• Patience, like waiting for seeds to sprout, is essential when nurturing growth—whether in plants or children.

• Resilience, like bamboo that sways with the storm, allows us to endure challenges and adapt with grace.

• Adaptability, like vines seeking new pathways to the light, is key to flourishing when circumstances shift.

This blog, Kipekee Chronicles, is where these lessons come to life. It’s a space for reflections, stories, and practical advice drawn from teaching, parenting, and sustainable living. Whether it’s observing before acting, celebrating small wins, or building strong foundations, every post offers meaningful takeaways you can apply in your own journey.

In addition, I provide specialized support for families navigating:

• Special Education Needs: Tailored strategies to help children thrive academically and socially.

• Curriculum Choices: Expert guidance on IB, A-Level, IGCSE, BTEC, and American systems to suit your child’s strengths and aspirations.

• College Scholarships: Practical advice on preparing standout applications and securing future opportunities.

• Language Learning: Personalized tutoring for non-English speakers to build confidence and achieve academic success.

At Kipekee Chronicles, my mission is simple: to help families and individuals uncover their strengths, embrace their potential, and create futures that align with their goals. This isn’t just a blog—it’s a community where education meets passion, where growth is celebrated, and where every small step forward inspires meaningful, lasting change.

I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s grow together. 🌱