How do you show your school spirit?

I show my school spirit through my service within the school. I like to be a part of the decisions that will make Parkwood Middle School the best learning environment for our kids. I love attending extracurricular events to cheer on all of our students' talents!

What or who inspires you?

My son and my students inspire me every day. I want to do the best job I can to give them the tools they will need to be successful in life. This younger generation has experienced so much in their short time and yet they continue to work and strive for success.

In which other teacher’s class would you like to enroll for a day? Why?

I would love to join one of our fine arts classes. I am always fascinated by the creativity and skill it takes to create new and beautiful things. I love working with teachers who have a creative and outside-of-the-box approach to life. 

What is one of your hidden talents?

I am a cake decorator. I have worked for grocery stores for the last 20 years and have taught myself the basics of grocery store cakes. I love learning new techniques and enjoy the time I spend creating something that will bring joy to someone’s day. 

If you could pass on any wisdom to your students, what would you share?

I would tell them to pay attention to the little things in life. Life is so busy as you get older and gain more responsibility. Take time to enjoy the little things in life, to laugh, and to spend time remembering why we get up each morning. Remember to enjoy the things that bring you joy.  

What is a professional motto or quote that you “work” by?

This quote from Margaret Mead sums up my “work” as a teacher:

“Children must be taught how to think, not what to think.” As a teacher, it is my job to help students learn how to think, how to make decisions, and how to filter the reams of information they are bombarded with daily. Students need to be able to craft their own opinions, mottos, and values in life. They must be able to decide what is important to them and what is a priority in their lives. To be successful, students need to be active participants in their own lives. They need to learn that they have a voice and their voice is important. 

What do you enjoy most about working in UCPS?

I love working in a district that celebrates teamwork and embraces different voices. UCPS encourages all teachers, parents, and students to be active participants in a student’s school career. I think a team approach to learning is a key aspect to the success of UCPS and its diverse schools. 

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

My superpower would be teleportation. I would love to be able to visit my friends and family at a moment’s notice. I want to be able to travel to all the corners of the world. 

List five adjectives that describe your personality.

• Positive
• Passionate
• Determined
• Encouraging
• Understanding

What do you teach and why did you become a teacher?

I teach middle school English Language Arts. I have always wanted to be a teacher. I am a lifelong learner. I love the school environment. Schools encourage people to learn new and exciting things. I want to be a part of that learning process and I want to pass on a passion for exploration to all of my students.