My love for teaching started on the ski slopes in Colorado and directly led me to receive a dual degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from University of North Dakota. I have been a classroom teacher for almost 30 years in over 5 states, the majority were spent in 4 different areas around Alaska.  I am currently living in Sitka but I have also called Delta Junction, Pedro Bay and Chignik Lake home.  I have also lived in Austin, Bellingham, Seattle, Vail, Park Rapids and Grand Forks.

I have used diverse classroom designs such as one-room school rooms, looping, multiple grades, trauma-informed, etc. which steered me towards a master's degree in Instructional Design.  I have worked with ASMP for two years as a mentor support to early career teachers and I strongly believe in the effectiveness of mentoring.  

My philosophy is a child-focused, trusting experience that uses place-based resources in the individual education process.  As an eager learner myself, I can’t wait to see more cultures, varied instruction and engaged learners.

I am an avid knitter.  I love to read, hike and listen to music.