Professionally:
I currently hold a Masters in Arts and Teaching, an additional +30 credits in education, and a CT 006 Certification. I have been a CT TEAM mentor since TEAM’s inception. Because of this, I have had the pleasure of working as a cooperating teacher twice during my career as well as mentoring several new teachers.
I started my career in 1999 in Wallingford at Moran Middle School. I taught there for three years before changing districts to be closer to home. My tenure in the Seymour School District spans 24 years, where I taught sixth- and seventh-grade Language Arts. I began my Seymour career on the Blue Team as an ELA teacher, moved to the Purple Team as an ELA teacher, returned to the Blue Team as a Social Studies teacher, and this year to the Red Team as a Social Studies teacher.
Personally:
I recently celebrated 24 years of marriage with my amazing husband, Kevin. We live in Shelton with our English Cream Retriever named Sky and a cat named Kitty. Yes, our cat's name is Kitty. We are in our third year of being “empty nesters.” Our daughter Chloe is a senior at Florida Atlantic University (Go Owls) in Boca Raton, FL where she is majoring in Business Marketing. She is a sister of ΔΦΕ and is her Chapter's Vice President. She is very busy overseeing her sorority's academic affairs as well as planning social events. She is living my dream life on the beach.
I am a very proud member of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Sarah Riggs Humphreys-Mary Silliman Chapter. My family patriot’s name was Jonathan Beardsley. I'm also a certified Zumba instructor!
My Philosophy:
My philosophy of education as a middle school teacher centers on recognizing the unique potential within each student and cultivating a love for learning. I prioritize tailoring the educational experience to accommodate diverse learning styles and backgrounds, ensuring that every student feels engaged and empowered in their learning journey. Education, for me, extends beyond academic pursuits; it encompasses the development of critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, and character. By encouraging inquiry-based learning, valuing diversity, and promoting lifelong learning, I aim to instill a sense of curiosity, open-mindedness, and adaptability in my students. Collaboration and a strong sense of community are essential elements in my approach, enabling students to feel safe, respected, and supported in their endeavors. Ultimately, I aspire to guide students toward ethical and responsible citizenship, empowering them to contribute positively to the world around them with integrity and empathy.