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

I teach 8th grade math, more specifically Math 2. I became a teacher because I love teaching math to others. I used to take the used textbooks from my elementary school when a new edition was adopted and pretend to hold class at home. I also had a phenomenal math teacher in high school that made me want to be like her. 

How do you show your school spirit?

I show school spirit by participating in the school culture. I attend after school events for students to cheer them on, I dress for every spirit week day (who doesn’t love pajama day), and I take pride in my work and building.

What or who inspires you?

My late mother. She was such a hard worker, generous person, and loved those around her.

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

Ms. McHugh, our drama teacher. She produces the most wonderful plays and transforms students with her passion. My own daughter begged to attend theatre camp after going to our school’s production.

What is one of your hidden talents?

I can take almost any words you say and connect it to a song and start singing the lyrics. My colleagues are over this talent!

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

I always get asked, “When are we ever going to use this?" The truth is, most careers won’t need the level of math I am teaching, but every person can benefit from the skills learned in the course. Those skills are hard work, perseverance, forming and defending an argument, and seeing structure and patterns around you.

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

"Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire." –William Butler Yeats

What do you enjoy most about working in UCPS?

My colleagues and students. I also appreciate that I am trusted to make sound decisions about how to implement the standard course of study for my class. 

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

I would love to have the power to read people's minds. It would make helping students so much easier.

List five adjectives that describe your personality.

• Giving
• Quirky
• Hard-working
• Detailed
• Trustworthy