COUNTRY LIFE KIDS CAMP
"Where Kids can be Kids"
An Ohio Non-profit Corporation
Tina Bildstein, Founder & Camp Director
Tina Bildstein stands at the helm of Country Life Kids Camp as its founder and director, bringing over two decades of dedicated service to youth sports and education. Her extensive experience includes coaching roles at the University of Akron, Wayne College, and Thiel College, where she has not only coached but also mentored countless athletes, fostering their growth and potential.
Ben Stobbs,
Athletic Program Coordinator
Ben Stobbs, Athletic Program Coordinator, brings more than 25 years of teaching and coaching experience to Country Life Kids Camp along with the motivation to make a positive impact on the lives of the campers and promote their athletic talents on the playing field.
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Ted Kellner,
Wildlife Coordinator
Ted Kellner is a lifelong outdoor enthusiast and is using his gifts and talents as the camp’s Wildlife Coordinator.
Matthew Bildstein
Fitness Instructor
Matthew has watched the camp grow since he was 6 years old. He became officially involved in Country Life Kids Camp in 2015, through the “Camp Counselor in Training” high school mentoring program. He is a graduate of Padua Franciscan High School and a highly motivated student in the Williams Honors College, studying electrical engineering at The University of Akron. Matthew’s greatest strength is his determination to succeed. This is most evident as he was a high school three-sport varsity athlete (Basketball, Cross Country, and Track and Field) succeeding at the highest level while still earning a 4.1 GPA.
He was nominated by his coaches to be involved in the Athletic Leadership Council, called Positive Coaching Alliance because of both his athletic and leadership achievements.
Matthew has a dedicated passion for fitness and became the head Boot Camp Fitness Trainer in 2018. He is looking forward to utilizing his athletic skills and knowledge in basketball, soccer, and agility to teach and inspire young athletes how to lead on and off the field or court. Matthew has played a vital role in collaboratively developing and co-teaching the Young Engineering program. He enjoys sharing his talents with campers helping them learn the basics of engineering through all of Country Life Kids Camp’s regionally recognized STEAM programs. Matthew’s passionate personality and determination to reach higher levels of performance makes him invaluable to the program and campers look to him for leadership, guidance and support in their own endeavors.
Olivia Nigro
Hello! My name is Olivia Nigro, and I’m excited to be joining the Country Life Kids Camp team. I graduated from the University of Akron in 2024 with a B.S. in Adolescent and Young Adult Social Studies Education and a minor in Psychology. I currently teach middle school social studies at St. Francis de Sales School in Akron, where I also help lead the after-school program and advise the yearbook club.
I began working with children in 2023 and am truly passionate about forming meaningful relationships with them and serving as a positive mentor in their lives.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, going on walks and runs, spending quality time with family and friends, and being outdoors—whether that’s swimming, hiking, kayaking, or anything else nature has to offer.
I can’t wait for an amazing summer and to contribute to the wonderful Country Life Kids Camp community!
Maddie Boltz
We’re delighted to announce that Maddie Boltz is returning for her second year at Country Life Kids Camp, bringing her dynamic leadership to the Cooperative Games Fitness Track. A 2019 Cloverleaf High School alumna, Maddie’s athletic prowess shone through in basketball, volleyball, track, and golf, complemented by her role as class president.
Maddie’s academic journey led her to Baldwin Wallace University, where she earned a degree in early childhood education and continued to excel in track and field. Now, she’s inspiring young minds as a 4th-grade teacher at Brookpark Elementary in the Berea City School District, where she also contributes to an afterschool tutoring program and the Girls on the Run initiative.
When she’s not shaping future generations, Maddie enjoys the thrill of hiking, exploring National Parks, and creating memories with friends. As a team leader, she’ll be spearheading the cooperative games course and imparting valuable life skills to campers.
With a heart full of passion and a spirit brimming with enthusiasm, Maddie is gearing up for this year’s Special Events and another summer packed with fun and learning to make a positive impact at Country Life Kids Camp.
Jessica Radecky, Asst. Director
Jessica Radecky “Mama J” is an Independent Contractor and has proudly been with Country Life Kids Camp for 13 years as an Assistant Camp Director and Curriculum Developer.
Taylor Barnum
Taylor Barnum has been with Country Life Kids Camp since 2019 when she started in the camp’s “Staff In-Training Program” for those students attending college. She is co-teacher for the Young Naturalist program and loves to integrate your knowledge of natural sciences and passion for the outdoors into her lessons.
Taylor graduated from Cloverleaf High School in 2017 and just recently graduated from the University of Akron in August of 2020 with her Bachelor of Science in Geology. Taylor’s ambition to continually learn the wonders of the outdoors as well as her love of rocks shines through her work. Her favorite activity at camp is questing for rocks and fossils in the creek. She loves to watch the campers’ excitement as they bring different rocks to the surface asking her about each one desiring to know more. Outside of camp, Taylor spends her time playing her ukulele, hiking with her dog, going on road trips. She currently works as an event coordinator and talent acquisition specialist for GIG where she works with nonprofit organizations such as the Humane Society of the U.S (HSUS), Child Fund International (CFI), and the World Wildlife Foundation (WWF). Taylor’s beaming personality, friendly demeanor, and willingness to help others is what makes her a great addition to our CLKC team.
Maddison Stafford
Maddison Stafford is a vibrant force at Country Life Kids Camp, bringing her expertise as an Independent Contractor since 2022. Her journey began in the camp’s “Staff In-Training Program,” designed for college students eager to make a difference.
As a lead teacher, Maddison illuminates various subject areas, including religion and coaching character, with her wisdom and passion. Her role extends to the athletic fields, where she serves as a soccer coach, instilling teamwork, and sportsmanship in young athletes.
A proud graduate of The Ohio State University, Maddison earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in May 2023. She now shapes young minds as a full-time kindergarten teacher at Medina Christian Academy, where her dedication to nurturing the next generation shines brightly.
Maddison’s teaching philosophy is rooted in creating an environment that encourages critical thinking, fun, and lasting memories. Her diverse field experience includes roles at a local charter school in Columbus and three years teaching various grade levels.
Beyond the classroom, Maddison’s heart beats for athletics. A Medina High School alumna, she led her soccer team as varsity captain and earned the distinction of being a two-time All-Conference and All-County player. Her collegiate journey saw her playing soccer at a Division 1 level on scholarship at Miami University.
Today, Maddison’s love for soccer and mentorship converges, offering countless opportunities for youth to discover the transformative power of sports. As she continues her role as CLKC’s soccer coach for the 2024 season, Maddison’s goal remains steadfast: to inspire children to embrace sports and the life lessons they impart.
Join us in celebrating Maddison Stafford, a true champion of growth, learning, and the spirited game of soccer at Country Life Kids Camp.
Kelley Stobbs
Kelley Stobbs is excited to start her first summer with Country Life Kids Camp as an instructor of Social Emotional Learning paired with the Coaching Character framework. She strongly believes in the individual development and growth of every child, both socially and emotionally.
Kelley is sharing 26 years of classroom teaching experience with the camp. Currently she is a second grade teacher in Medina City Schools. She has been with MCS for 23 years. Kelley started her career in Vandalia Butler City Schools as a first grade teacher after graduating from BGSU. After moving to Medina, Kelley earned her Masters Degree in Reading from Ashland University. She and her husband, Ben, have three children. All three are in college and pursuing their goals and aspirations both in the classroom and in life.
Danielle Syroney
Danielle Barbato Syroney is excited to bring her energy to Country Life Kids Camp this year as an instructor in both the areas of Christian Teachings and Arts & Crafts! This native NE Ohioan is a product of seventeen years of Catholic Education and has worked and/or volunteered at each of her alma maters, including Incarnate Word Academy, Padua Franciscan High School, and Xavier University.
Danielle has been a trainer for the National Coalition Building Institute, a retreat leader, a recruiter for (and trainer of) student ambassadors, a Tae Kwon Do instructor for an afterschool enrichment program, and a volunteer for St. Francis Xavier School. The integrity with which she works and her ability to connect with students will definitely shine through at Country Life Kids Camp!
Danielle’s work history has always involved creativity and her love of design. After various roles in media, marketing, and publications, she began a company in 1999 (now doing business as All Things Eventful) which specializes in custom-filled theme gift baskets for individual & corporate clients, special event design & décor, and personalized promotional items & keepsakes. Her home-life is often spent crafting and decorating with her two grade school sons. She whole-heartedly believes that while not everyone may master typical “right brain activities”, the simple act of exploring creativity in this way can stimulate “left brain activity.” Danielle looks forward to helping foster—or unlock—your child’s God-given artistic abilities this summer!
Hello! I’m Angelo Johnson, and I’m thrilled to be rejoining the Country Life Kids Camp (CLKC) family this year. After a brief hiatus to focus on post-college life, I’m ready to dive back into the vibrant community that makes CLKC so special.
A proud graduate of Manchester High School in Akron, OH, I carried my passion for sports and education to Baldwin Wallace University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Adolescent Young Adult Education with a focus on Integrated Social Studies in the spring of 2023.
Angelo Johnson
My athletic journey has been a cornerstone of my life, having played both football and baseball throughout high school. At Baldwin Wallace, I continued my football career for three years until an injury led me to discover a new role as a wide receiver coach. This experience solidified my love for coaching, which I now pursue at Westlake High School, alongside shaping young minds as a teacher in the Elyria School district.
I eagerly anticipate engaging with campers through a variety of sports, helping them enhance their athletic skills and foster a love for physical activity. Here’s to a summer of fun, learning, and sportsmanship!
Jackie Rodriguez is joining our team with 15 years’ experience teaching 7-12 Mathematics with Brunswick City Schools where she currently holds the position as BHS math department chair. Jackie was an advisor for Rachel’s Challenge for 5 years and is a member of the PBIS team at BHS. Both groups are devoted to promoting kindness, compassion, and positive relationships in and outside the classroom as well as sponsoring community outreach.
Jackie Rodriguez
She also has 11 years of experience with pre-school and elementary students as a children’s ministry teacher at Heartland Community Church and 6 years of experience as a Cub Scout leader for pack 3507, a Boy Scout of America leader for boy troop 507 and girl troop 7507 in Medina, and a merit badge counselor for 15 BSA merit badges.
She is also the mother of 3 boys so there is no limit to the fun and crazy things she will do to make learning fun for everyone! She has a passion for developing curriculum and teaching in a fun and humorous way so that kids do not even realize that they are learning! She hopes to inspire and guide your child to be a confident leader and strategic thinker!
Hi! My name is Annalise Paliga. I am returning for another summer working at the camp that has meant so much to me since I was a child. I am a proud graduate of Walsh Jesuit High School where I was involved in Campus Ministry and Volleyball. My experiences at Country Life Kids Camp inspired me to study Early Childhood Education and Special Education at The Ohio State University. I’m passionate about supporting children and helping create meaningful camp experiences. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, exercising, playing pickleball, traveling, attending concerts, and spending time with family and friends.
Annalise Paliga
