About Me

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As a first generation college student, with varied experiences living, learning, and working in rural, suburban, and urban areas, I knew I needed to be a part of the village needed to empower ALL students. I decided to change careers and become a general education teacher over 20 years ago - with a focus on equity, access, and opportunity. 

Thankfully, I was adopted into a public school family with a strong, like-minded school culture. Our international student population included newcomers, first generation students, and students from working class and wealthy families. Leadership was loving, yet firm, and the staff was unbelievably diverse as well. I soon realized why folks didn’t leave. We cherished the relationships that developed as we got to know families, generation after generation. 

Today, with two decades of classroom and out-of-classroom experiences, across grades, in both general and special education, I want to bring people together to make change so that an  inclusive experience is the norm. We know that education is a means to better the lives of all children, families, and communities. Schools are also places where students can discover unique strengths and passions and develop skills that will lead to choices and opportunities across a life full of meaning and learning. 

Connect with me to learn more about how I can support you in your journey towards equity, inclusion, and student empowerment!

I am excited for this chance to pass along the ideals that I will forever carry in my soul. 

1. Everyone belongs and everyone can learn in safe and supportive environments.
2. Learners will rise to the occasion with high expectations and celebrations of success.
3. Fair isn’t equal. We get what we need.
4. Foster authentic relationships with and between students and families.
5. Use collaborative teaming, with meaningful family engagement, to be responsive to student variability.
6. Ask “how,” not “if."
7. It’s “we,” “us,” and “our.”
8. Model what you want to see in both words and actions.
9. Maintain a spirit of inquiry and reflection at all levels.
10. Use resources flexibly, creatively, and strategically.