What inspired you to get into the field of education?:
I have been a tutor and teacher since middle school, when my brother was homeschooled. I would come home from public school and my dad would ask me to help look over his essay or grade spelling tests. This led to a love of helping others find their passions and craft happiness.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?:
I love the day-to-day opportunities to serve others. The chances to collaborate and cooperate with teachers, students, and the community daily here at Polaris are what keeps a smile on my face.
General background information (years in education, degree(s), Universities/Colleges attended):
I have been in education, formally, since 2001, when I began working for Poudre School District as a tutor and Discovery teacher at Centennial High School. From there, I was given a chance to teaching 7, 8, and 9 grade English as well as journalism, creative writing, and theater, at Cache La Poudre Junior High for four years. When Fossil Ridge HS opened, I move there to take on journalism, creative writing, and theater. When my husband was admitted to a Physician Assistant program in Denver, I worked for two years for Cresthill Middle School in Highlands Ranch, where I taught for the 7th grade Gifted and Talented team. From there, we moved back to my home mountains, Buena Vista, where I worked in both Leadville and Salida. The two years I was in Salida I served as the Director of Academic Affairs for the district. When it came time to raise a family, my husband and I moved back to Fort Collins where I have worked at the central admin building, Lincoln Middle School, and now Polaris. Phew! Can I just say I am glad to be home, here at Polaris!
2014- Director of Special Education (in progress), UNC
2009- Leadership and Policy Studies, UCD
2006- MA in Rhetoric & Composition, CSU
2001- BA in English and Secondary Education, WSU
1998- AA in General Studies, CMC Timberline
Interests/Hobbies:
I love to spend time with my family. We do many cruiser bike rides, play at the parks and museums, and cook together. We also love local music and frequent the outdoor festivals in the area. One of my side hobbies is as a photographer; I am also a self-published poet. Mostly, I just love living in this great area and being a part of such a wonderful community.
Thought Provoking Quote:
“The planet does not need more ‘successful people’. The planet desperately needs more peacemakers, healers, restorers, storytellers and lovers of all kinds." -Dalai Lama
My Classroom
Courses Taught:
None currently, but I can often be found out and about, visiting in all classrooms.