Degrees and Certifications
-Kean University: B.A. Elementary Education and History, May 2005
-Rowan University: M.Ed. Teaching Leadership, August 2022
-NJ Certifications: Elementary Education K-8, Teacher of English as a Second Language, Teacher Leadership Endorsement
Teaching Experience
-3rd and 4th Grade in Scotch Plains, NJ (2005-2007)
-English Kindergarten in Oita, Japan (2007-2009)
-4th ELA Grade in Plainfield, NJ (2015-2017)
-ESL, 5th, 6th & 8th ELA Grade in Keyport, NJ (2017-2023)
-7th Grade ELA in Oceanport, NJ (2023-present)
Why did you want to become a teacher?
I have been working with children since I was 14 years old. I originally wanted to become an aerospace engineer and planned to attend the Naval Academy. However, working with children in my local YMCA as a teenager changed my mind. I knew almost right away that I wanted to become a teacher and was dedicated to achieving my goal.
How has travelling changed you?
I have been very fortunate to visit so many unique places. It has helped me understand the person that I am and shaped what I hope to achieve. I have experienced how schools function in several countries. This has helped me develop my lesson plans to be diverse and interactive. I also hope to share my experiences with my students in the hope that they may want to travel and explore the world, just as I have.
Do you think technology is important?
Absolutely! It is very important for students to be exposed to a blended learning environment. I utilize Google Classroom for most assignments. My hope is that students learn to use the internet respectfully and responsibly to further their education.
Why is it important for students to feel challenged?
I feel that challenges are important for students because they force them to think and grow in different ways. Students who do not feel challenged often become bored quickly. If the course is too easy, it might be time to raise the standards. Ideally, each student should be challenged to increase their own abilities and move forward.