Education: Graduated from Kettering Fairmont in 1994. Earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from the University of Dayton in 1998. Earned a master's degree in literacy from the University of Dayton in 2006.
How long have you been teaching? I have been teaching in the Northridge Schools since the fall of 1998. I spent my first four years in the district teaching kindergarten at Grafton Kennedy Elementary. I taught fourth grade for 11 years at Grafton Kennedy and then Esther Dennis Middle School. I am currently in my second year teaching fifth grade.
What's your favorite thing about Northridge? I enjoy working in a small, close-knit community.
Describe your teaching philosophy in 10 words or less: All children can learn, but each follows a unique path.
Favorite hobbies? I enjoy running and cycling. I also love to curl up with a good book. I can read for hours and hours. I also love anything that has to do with hedgehogs.
Favorite movie or TV show? I could never name just one. It really depends on my mood. I enjoy comedies and science fiction the most.
What is your greatest achievement as a teacher so far? I have two accomplishments of which I am particularly proud. I earned my National Board Certification in 2008. This process helped me to reflect upon my teaching skills and to improve student learning. I am also in my second year as a STEM Fellow with the Dayton Regional STEM Center. In this role, I collaborate with area teachers and industry leaders to create engaging learning experiences for students.
What is your favorite thing about your job? I love learning! I love to see students' faces light up when they grasp a new concept. I enjoy students' excitement about new topics and finding ways to satisfy their curiosity. I also learn many things from my students. Not a day goes by that I don't learn something new.
What do you do on a snow day? Sleep in!!! Then find a good book to read.
About the Author