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

I am a K-5 Art Teacher. I became a teacher after volunteering with the school art program. I knew that I had finally found my favorite place to be, which is teaching art to kids.

How do you show your school spirit?

I dress up for everything. If there is an opportunity to wear a special shirt, costume or any other outfit, I am all for it! I have been at my school since it opened in 2007 and I am the biggest Hawk cheerleader there is.

What or who inspires you?

I am inspired by people who care. I am touched most by those adults and kids who make a difference in their communities. There is a lot of negativity in the world these days and I find joy in those people who reach out to help when others are unable.

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

I would love to enroll in Mrs. Jennifer Grieco’s fifth-grade class. She is one of my teacher inspirations. Her class is always so encouraging and welcoming. 

What is one of your hidden talents?

I love to sing. If I wasn’t a teacher, I would have loved to be an actor on Broadway.

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

I always tell them not to be so hard on themselves. Parents and teachers sometimes forget that kids are their own worst critics and this self-doubt and negativity plays a large part in who they will become as teenagers and adults.

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

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”– Nelson Mandela.

What do you enjoy most about working in UCPS?

I love the people who work in UCPS. There is always someone who makes time to encourage me, listens to me, and helps when needed. I feel like the people I work with are family.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Healing powers.

List five adjectives that describe your personality.

• Organized
• Empathetic
• Anxious
• Friendly
• Motivated.