8th Grade Language Arts 

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Prior Experience: 

1993-2000 Cabrillo Middle School, Santa Clara California 

2000-Present Wilson K-8, Oro Valley AZ   8th grade ELA

Why I am committed to Wilson K-8

Wilson is a unique and special community. It is my community.  My own children have come through this school and with 23 years invested here, Wilson is my home.  The students and teachers at Wilson demonstrate care and consideration for others by being kind, respectful, and responsible problem solvers who make a difference in our world.  I place a high value on children being our future and I do my best to ensure all students are given personalized learning opportunities to meet their individual needs in order to reach their fullest potential.   

My Defining Moment in Education

Through the years, I found a level of connectedness with middle school students that was energizing. The daily exposure to their inquisitiveness, uniqueness, and desire to figure out how to manipulate themselves in their ever-changing world was a challenge I felt compelled to pursue. Helping students learn new curriculum and seeing their confidence increase with each success, continues to motivate me to work hard in my profession. As I reflect on the students I have taught over the years, I am always in awe in regards to the responsibility and impact I have on future generations

Core Educational Beliefs

"Gentle pressure relentlessly applied."  I believe that students rise to the expectations of the teacher. I expect them to be thinkers and contributors in the classroom and take responsibility for their learning. I do not give up on students and this includes pushing them to persevere with content that may be difficult or time-consuming. We learn from asking questions and from being creatively stimulated to explore. Today's students need to be engaged in their learning and I know it is my responsibility to encourage, motivate, and remind students that they are all capable learners and important individuals.

Hobbies and Interests

Marathon Training

Coaching Wilson XC and Track 

Assistant coaching a USATF-certified local Track Team OVRoadrunners