Make Me A Thriver

Make Me A Thriver Ashley Rehder Of Ruby Ranch

By Holly Dodge

Among the rolling hills and vast fields of Pemberton, lies Ruby Ranch — a community farm for makers, explorers and tinkers of all ages. The creation of high school sweethearts Nickolas and Ashley Rehder, Ruby Ranch offers education through a new lens. The Rehders live on the farm with their three daughters, Anniston, 12, Mille, 10, and Rosie, 4.

Despite neither having grown up on a farm, Ashley's vision for Ruby Ranch was inspired by her extensive work in early childhood education. As a kindergarten teacher at Hoover Elementary, she observed the profound benefits of unstructured, hands-on play in fostering children's development. Her early childhood education underscored the importance of outdoor and natural play, setting the stage for what would become Ruby Ranch, a classroom without walls.

The summer of 2018 saw the first round of summer camps at Ruby Ranch Barn, starting with just three teachers, 15 students as well as goats, chickens, and ducks. Today, Ruby Ranch Barn teaches preschool and kindergarten and thrives with a staff of 11, including six licensed elementary education teachers, outdoor STEM instructors, and a chef.

Ruby Ranch offers a unique educational experience that blends traditional learning with nature-based activities and emphasizes outdoor education. Children learn math, phonics, and writing through interactive play with natural elements, guided by teachers who observe and nurture their development. The farm hosts over 50 farm animals and has trails and a pond where kids can learn and play during their developmental years.

Over the years, Ruby Ranch's summer camps have blossomed, shaped by innovative ideas from the staff. From horse camps to athletic camps and "wild and free" style camps, there's something for every child. On the second Saturday of each month, the farm is also open to the public of all ages to explore and interact. Families can go on tractor rides, horse rides and even view alpaca shearing. There is also an indoor area for art activities that appeal to all ages. Since 2020, Ruby Ranch Barn has been a nonprofit that has benefited from generous donations, such as water tables and mud kitchens from the Mankato Clinic Foundation. Looking ahead, Ashley envisions further expansion and continued community engagement, driven by the growth and change she witnesses in her students, staff and herself.

Balancing home and work is undoubtedly challenging for the Rehder family, especially as Ruby Ranch continues to grow. However, they rely on their dedicated team, fostering

a sense of family and community that characterizes the farm. Ashley shares that the farm has evolved from the community that accompanies it. According to Ashley, Ruby Ranch continues to thrive by seeing the growth in others.

Ruby Ranch is more than just a place of learning — it's a thriving community where children and adults alike reconnect with nature, discover their potential and find inspiration.

Learn more about Ruby Ranch and plan your visit at rubyranchbarn.com