How long have you been in education? My background is in Child Development. I was a stay-at-home mom during my children's little years. During this time, I sensed a need for quality early childhood programs for littles. I also treasured spending time with my kids and watching them learn. Out of this was born Mornings with Mommy, a mommy and me program for 0–5-year-olds and their caregivers. I've been directing and teaching this program for 10 years now. It's expanded to include two more programs that grow along with kids: Power Hour and GROW Preschool!

What is your teaching/leading style? It is important to me that all the early childhood programs I lead inspire an intrinsically-motivated love of learning in young children, build strong families by including parents in their children’s early learning experiences, and foster a sense of community by serving as a welcoming gathering place for the people of East Dallas. 

What is your favorite part about teaching? I love the opportunity to see the world through a child's eyes. Everything is new and big and exciting. Sharing this point of view with the children I teach motivates me as I join them in exploring the big, beautiful world that they see.

Who is your role model/mantra in education? I love Lisa Murphy's work on play as the foundation of early childhood learning. Learning is playing and playing is learning. What’s wonderful in my role is that I get to play every day. This keeps me young at heart. In the words of George Bernard Shaw, “We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”

Where might we find you outside of the classroom? I am blessed with a wonderful family- my husband, Travis, and our three kids- and I’m blessed to live in the wonderful state of Texas! The combination of family and Texas makes me so happy. We love to explore Texas landscapes, enjoy live Texas music, and consume all the tacos we can eat. Texas forever!