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

I teach fifth grade. I became a teacher because of my experiences working with wonderful educators growing up. My sixth grade teacher was a major influence on my educational experience and my growing desire to connect with students in a classroom setting.

How do you show your school spirit?

I have the privilege of having a last name that starts with the same letter as our school mascot. As #GriffinGators, we work hard to be proud of everything we do inside and outside the walls of our classroom.

What or who inspires you?

My Aunt Mary and my Aunt Margaret inspire me. They were teachers in my formative years and were able to share so many stories of their love of teaching with me.

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

I would love to be a part of Ms. Amy Bleakley's third grade classroom. Amy is someone that works so incredibly hard to see her students succeed. She saw some amazing growth in her third graders last school year, so I would definitely love to be a student in her classroom!

What is one of your hidden talents?

I was a rower in high school. I went on to coach rowing in the summers I attended college and coached my former high school team for five seasons after college. We went to National Championship regattas for many years while I was coaching.

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

I want my students to know that relationships matter and have great importance in your life for years to come. Being an effective communicator will assist you on life's journey.

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

"When you can't control what's happening, challenge yourself to control the way you respond to what's happening. That's where your power is."

What do you enjoy most about working in Union County Public Schools?

I love working for a positive administration and with collaborative and supportive colleagues.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

The superpower I would like to have is teleportation. There are so many places in the world I would love to be able to see!

List five adjectives that describe your personality?

• Loyal
• Enthusiastic
• Supportive
• Helpful
• Silly