A native of Minnesota, I left the state in 2000 following my graduation from the University of St. Thomas, where I earned a degree in Business Communications.  I left to explore an opportunity in Chicago as a teacher in a poverty-affected neighborhood through a volunteering program called Amate House.  I spent two years as a full-time volunteer teacher in some of Chicago’s most culturally diverse, economically challenged neighborhoods.  I worked with many Spanish speakers and spent time studying Spanish in Mexico and Guatemala.  This experience taught me many things; most importantly, it solidified my desire to pursue education as a long-term career.

            After completing two years as a volunteer teacher, I simultaneously enrolled in a Master’s in Education program at DePaul University in Chicago and took a full-time position as a second-grade teacher at Epiphany School.  I completed my Masters degree in 2006.  Later that year, my husband and I decided to return to Minnesota to be closer to family and raise a family of our own.  We now have three children, Alayna (Senior-17), Quinn (Freshman-14) and Colin (6th grader-12) and a five year old dog named Benny and live in South Minneapolis.   

            25 years into my teaching career, I continue to enjoy bringing compassion, enthusiasm, and intelligence into the classroom.  I take great pride in my students at Windom and in the educational community that will be created this year. With classroom experience in grades K-5  and TOSA reading/math specialist I look forward to working with many students and families this school year as a 3rd grade teacher in room 208!