I am a product of Oak Park and still live here with my two daughters and husband! Growing up I attended Longfellow Elementary School, Julian Jr. High, and Oak Park River Forest High School.  I received my degree in Elementary Education with endorsements in reading and math from Illinois State University and my Master's in Reading from Concordia University. This will be my 18th year teaching in the district.  I am currently in the process of becoming Nationally Board Certified! In my free time I love spending time with my family and friends, being the Fundraising Chair on the Hatch PTO, being the Room Parent for both my children's classrooms, doing volunteer work,  playing games,  and going to restaurants.  

I was awarded the "Those Who Excel" award in the Teacher Category through District 97 and was awarded "Excellence in Teaching" through the Illinois State Board of Education.  The "Those Who Excel" program annually honors individuals that make a difference in students' lives and contribute positively to the culture of the school district in which they serve. 

In addition to this, I was one of 9 finalists in the state of Illinois to be named "Teacher of the Year" in 2012-2013! I am now part of the Illinois State Teachers of the Year Association (ILSTOY) &  the National Network of State Teachers of the Year (NNSTOY).

I used to team-teach with Mrs. Pines from 2016-2023 in "Smines City". In 2020-2021, we received the "Those Who Excel" award in the Team Category.   In 2022 the Illinois State Board of Education awarded us the "Award of Meritorious Service"! 

Over the past 10 years I have spearheaded a service project to help local non-profit organizations. The goal is always to donate 100 new items in honor of the 100th day of school. I have done this for various organizations including PADS, Housing Forward, and A House in Austin. This service project is important to me because I have always believed in giving back and have done many philanthropic events for various non-profits over the past 25 years. I believe it is important to teach the whole child and teach kids the importance of helping others. 

This year, through this 100th day service project, we were able to celebrate the 100th day of school with both our hearts and minds. Ms. Meierhoff’s 1st grade class and Mr. Wittenborn’s 4th grade class helped us collect over 580 items for Migrant Ministry for refugee families!

I was entered into a national contest for "Ameria's Favorite Teacher". I have made it through 4 rounds of cuts and am in the Top 5 of my group. Currently I am in 2nd place! Would you like to take a minute to vote for me? You can vote for free every day. Click here. Thanks in advance!