I am originally from Milwaukee, WI, home of Lake Michigan, cheese, and Green Bay Packers fans!   Shortly after completion of my undergraduate study, I moved to Tucson. I met my husband, who is also a teacher, here in Tucson, and we have two wonderful children. In my free time I enjoy watching Aaron Rodgers complete Hail Mary passes, watching Green Bay Packer football in general, reading, camping, crocheting, scrapbooking, and spending time with my family.

Defining Moment in Education

Sometimes a defining moment, an inspiring moment, is the look in a student’s eyes as understanding dawns after a struggle. Sometimes an inspiring moment is a “thank you” from a student or parent. 

Sometimes you don’t realize that an inspiring moment is happening until years later when a former student thanks you in their valedictorian speech or a former parent thanks you for your support all those years ago.

For me, it’s impossible to list just one defining moment or one inspiring moment.  My students inspire me every day with their kindness and resilience. 

Core Educational Belief (Describe your basic/fundamental educational beliefs.)

 I believe in the Amphitheater Core Values of:

• Achievement
• Caring
• Diversity
• Fairness
• Honesty
• Kindness
• Respectfulness
• Responsibility
• Service to the community

Prior Experience

I have been teaching in the Amphitheater School District since 1999, and I have been at Coronado since 2014. I have taught both elementary and middle school grades, and I am happy to be here at Coronado.  I am impressed with the parent and community support that helps to make Coronado a welcoming place for students to learn and grow.  I am proud to be part of the cougar family.

Professional Accomplishments and Associations

• Graduated summa cum laude
• AVID site coordinator
• AVID trained educator
• Coronado Dyslexia Training Designee
• Member of both the American Reading Association 
• Completed College and Career Readiness course to make Coronado an AZCan College and Career Ready School
• Former TARC board member
• Member of the Arizona Association for Gifted and Talented
• Involved with the Odyssey of the Mind program as a mom, coach on a world finalist team, and judge.

The most meaningful honors and awards are those that come from students and colleagues. World’s Greatest Teacher mugs and heartfelt notes show that I am making a positive impact.  

Education Degrees & Certification

B.A. in psychology and education, Hamline University

M.Ed. in early childhood education and reading, Northern Arizona University

Certification: 1-8, reading endorsement, 7^th-8^th grade English Language Arts endorsement, Sheltered English Immersion endorsement, early childhood endorsement, gifted education endorsement