I am a product of Oak Park and still live here! 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.  I also recently became Nationally Board Certified! This will be my 20th year teaching in the district.  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 my children's classrooms, doing volunteer work,  playing games,  going to the spa, and going out 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).

To read more about this prestigious award, click on the articles below:

Wednesday Journal Article

Illinois State University Article

Illinois State Board of Education Article

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"! 

To read more about this award, click the article below:

District 97 Article

During the 2023-2024 school year I was entered into a national contest for "America's Favorite Teacher". While I did not win, I made it to the Quarter-Finals for which I am very grateful. Thank you all for the votes and kind words!

Over the past 10 years I have spearheaded a few different service projects to help local non-profit organizations including PADS, Housing Forward, and A House in Austin. 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. ❤️

Two years ago I spearheaded a 100th day service project, with Ms. Meierhoff’s 1st grade class and Mr. Wittenborn’s 4th grade class to celebrate the 100th day of school with both our hearts and minds. We collected over 580 items for Migrant Ministry for refugee families!

Last school year, Ms. Dahl's kindergarten class joined us, and together we collected 248 items for Oak Park and Forest Park's CommUNITY Fridges, which provide food and supplies to those in need.

This year I became Nationally Board certified!! Click the icon to see my credentials.