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

This is my first year teaching eighth grade math after having taught seventh grade math for years. I am a teacher today because of the excellent teachers I was lucky enough to have when I was in school. My second grade teacher, Mrs. Osborne, made school my favorite place to be. I came home one day, at age 8, and told my parents that I would be a teacher when I grew up. I then had many other inspiring and engaging teachers through upper elementary, middle and high school that kept that dream alive!

How do you show your school spirit?

I attended Monroe Middle School and am a proud graduate of Monroe High School. I make sure that my students know how proud I am to be a Redhawk! I work hard to help change people’s sometimes negative perceptions about Monroe and help my students build a sense of pride in their school and community. You will also find me cheering on my current and former students outside of school in their extracurricular activities. 

What or who inspires you?

My biggest inspiration is my daughter, Jules. When I look at my students, I think of Jules in 9-10 years and what kind of math teacher I would want her to have. I try to teach with that in mind. If it’s not good enough for my own child, it’s not good enough for my students. I also strive to do my best work so that I leave a legacy that will make her proud to be my daughter. She’s the thing I’m most proud of in the world and I want to be my best for her. 

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

There are so many teachers at the Health Sciences Academy at Monroe Middle that make me wish to be their student for a day! I wish I could name all of them! The two that immediately come to mind are Ms. Kibler because I think her humor and style makes math class really engaging and fun and Ms. Saxton because of the work she does to create an inviting ELA classroom that focuses on positivity and growth. 

What is one of your hidden talents?

I am very crafty. I love making my daughter’s Halloween costumes and birthday cakes because doing creative things helps me recharge. I truly enjoy all things artsy – sewing, embroidery, painting, sculpting, baking, etc. 

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

It would be to not grow up too fast. Adolescence and your teenage years can be awkward and difficult at times. But don’t wish it all away. There is lots to enjoy while growing up and plenty of time to worry about adult things after you graduate. Get involved in extra-curricular activities and enjoy doing fun things with others your age. You will learn a lot of skills and gain some great friendships, while enjoying just being young!

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

“If we teach today’s students as we taught yesterday’s, we rob them of tomorrow.” – John Dewey

I believe good teachers should always grow and change with their students. There is always more to learn about the best ways to teach the students we have in front of us today. It’s important to be reflective about our practice and how we can improve our craft. I hope to never get to the point where I feel that I’ve got it all figured out as a teacher. I hope I always have the drive to teach today’s students in new and effective ways. 

What do you enjoy most about working in UCPS?

The best thing for me is working in the county and school I was raised in. It’s been a really full-circle life experience to come back to Union County and teach at my old middle school. Monroe Middle really feels like home to me, and the kids/parents/staff/faculty are an extended family. 

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

I would love to teleport or fly. Any superpower that would allow me to travel to far away places easily would be a dream!

List five adjectives that describe your personality?

• Energetic
• Creative
• Reflective
• Funny
• Passionate