How long have you been in education? I just completed my 22nd year in education. I taught 1st Grade for 2 years at Holy Family of Nazareth in Irving, 2nd Grade at St. Monica Catholic School for 11 years, 2nd and 3rd Grade at the Dallas International School for 5 years, and I am now finishing year 4 as a 2nd Grade Teacher at Lakewood Elementary.

What is your teaching/leading style? I call my teaching style the "Guided Discovery" approach. I act as a facilitator rather than just lecturer, guiding my students to discover knowledge on their own. I firmly believe that my style fosters student engagement, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for lifelong learning. It also encourages collaboration and communication among students, creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment.

What is your favorite part about teaching? The kids are 100% my favorite thing about teaching!! But I particularly enjoy the aspect of fostering curiosity and critical thinking in my students. Seeing them engage with new ideas, ask questions, and explore concepts independently or in groups is my favorite part. Additionally, witnessing the "aha" moments when my students make connections or discover something new bring me a great sense of fulfillment.

A quote or mantra you model your teaching after? "Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn." - Benjamin Franklin   

Where might we find you outside of the classroom? My husband, Erik, and son, Colin (10), spend most weekends at the soccer field and travel the world during the summers. We've been to Europe, Asia, Australia, South America, and many national parks in the US. We enjoy time at White Rock Lake too. You also might run into me at Hudson House or on the patio at Taco Joint, Manny's, or Haystack, biking around White Rock, or golf carting in the Lakewood 4th of July Parade, an all time favorite of my family! I love popping into The T Shop or Talulah & Hess to grab a quick gift.