Hello! I was born in the Quad Cities in Illinois and attended Western Illinois University, where I earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education.

I eventually moved to Chicago to teach 2nd, 3rd, and 4th graders in the Chicago Public Schools.  I went back to graduate school and earned a Masters degree in Reading at Northeastern Illinois University.  I am also a National Board Certified teacher in Early and Middle Literacy.

I am now pursuing a teaching career in school districts along the Illinois/Wisconsin border.

I love to travel when I am not teaching. I often use my traveling experiences as teaching opportunities.  I feel that it important for both my students and myself to view ourselves as global citizens.

I believe that children learn best when they are challenged through higher level thinking and questioning in a safe environment.  I love to create meaningful, authentic expereinces through careful planning and preparation.

I consider my life as a pursuit of  knowledge for personal and professional reasons!