What inspired you to become a teacher?
I have always loved school. I love learning and spreading the joy of school and curiosity to students.
Who inspires you the most?
My best friend has always inspired me to be the best person I can be. I have also been inspired by many influential teachers along the way.
What adjectives would you use to describe your presence in the classroom?
Fun, friendly, caring, helpful
How has becoming a teacher changed for you over the years?
I have taught many subjects over my 24 years at Country Day: PE, Spanish, Library, 1st, 2nd, and now, 6th. Every time I switch roles I’m inspired to learn everything I can about the subject. It keeps teaching exciting!
If you weren’t teaching, what career would you have chosen?
I would love to work in a library, work with animals, or maybe even be a park ranger in a national park.
Growing up, who was your most inspirational teacher and why?
Mrs. Moore was my high school English teacher two years in a row. She was so much fun. she had all these mannerisms and little sayings that have stuck with me all these years. She also was the first (and last) teacher I ever had who would conference with us about our writing. She was way ahead of her time!
What impact or legacy do you hope to leave to your students?
I’ve always wanted my students to love coming to school. My hope is that their fondness for school will transfer into a lifetime of learning. I also hope to build empathy and compassion through books and discussions as well.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement as a teacher so far?
Although it takes many years and many teachers to see the result, watching an 8th-grade student who struggled with learning to read become a fluent reader is a powerful experience.
What are some of the most important life skills you hope to instill in your students?
Take a chance! Be brave. You might be wrong, but they only way to achieve anything is to experiment and fail until you get it right. Persevere!