I have been teaching at Elderberry Elementary for seven years. During that time, I have had the opportunity to teach reading intervention (K-6) and kindergarten through third grade. Each experience has shaped my teaching philosophy and taught me that students thrive when we believe in their abilities and give them meaningful challenges. Most importantly, I have learned the value of creating opportunities for students to do hard things. When given the chance, students rise to the challenge and are often the very best people to support their peers’ learning. I believe my role as a teacher is to create space for and facilitate these meaningful learning experiences.

One of the greatest influences on my teaching has been studying the science of reading. Learning how reading shapes our brains, builds empathy, and is, in my opinion, the greatest invention in human history has had a tremendous influence on my teaching. Some of my favorite books on the science of reading are Proust and the Squid and Reader, Come Home. Studying the science of reading has also deepened my appreciation for children's literature.

There are so many incredible classics in children's literature that every student should have the chance to read. At the same time, there are countless new books that spark curiosity and excitement for reading through fun, imaginative, and beautifully written stories. Because of this, building my classroom library has become one of my favorite hobbies. I hope it inspires students to become lifelong readers who love discovering and sharing great stories.

My classroom library began with a generous donation from a retired teacher. Since then, I have carefully expanded it by collecting books from library sales, thrift stores, used bookstores, and anywhere else I can find gently loved books. Every addition is chosen with my students in mind, and I love knowing that each book has the chance to bring joy to the students in my classroom.

When I'm not teaching, you can usually find me reading a good book, enjoying a matcha, walking my corgis, playing disc golf, or going to the movies with my family.