Hello. I am originally from Northwestern Pennsylvania, where the first oil well was created by Colonel Edwin Drake. This town was once thriving but is now a small rural community, so I grew up in the country. By nature, I should be a Pittsburgh Steelers fan: however, I am a Cincinnati Bengals fan. I moved to Virginia Beach after graduation and have been back and forth there for 13 years. I have also lived in Atlanta and Charlotte, but now reside here in Raleigh.

I have been teaching for 20+ years. I have taught pre-k, kindergarten, second and third grades. I was also a reading specialist/literacy coach for 7 years. My heart brought me back to the classroom to spend time enjoying teaching and watching students flourish. I went to Clarion University of PA for my undergraduate and graduate degree. I am also a National Board Certified teacher.

I have a 9-year-old son who is also attending Millbrook this year. He is in 4th grade and is learning the ropes along with me. We have 3 dogs that welcome us home each day and keep us on our toes.

I enjoy the calmness of the beach, camping, and reading. We take several family camping trips during the summer months and can't wait to venture out into some NC parks. I find that the sound of the waves helps calm the soul and mind. Plus, my son loves the water, so off to the beach, lake, pool, or waterpark is always on the agenda.

I believe that teaching is a calling and not for everybody. It comes with highs and lows, but it is worth it all at the end of the day. I truly believe that showing a child that they are loved and cared for at school makes all the difference. Throw in a pinch of humor and the academics will follow.

Why I love our magnet theme, Environmental Connections...

I get to watch students thrive through the inquiry process and learn to take ownership of the world they live in.