Biography

I grew up on a small dairy farm in New Auburn, WI. I am a graduate of the New Auburn High School. I attended the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire where I earned my Bachelor of Music Education degree. I started teaching in the Siren School District the fall of 1987. I earned my Masters of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin River Falls in 2010. I am a member of NAfME (National Association for Music Education), WMEA (Wisconsin Music Educators Association) and was recently inducted into the ASBDA (American School Band Directors Association). In 2016 I received the Herb Kohl Teacher Fellowship award. I have been a long time member of the Northwinds British Brass Band based out of Rice Lake where I play percussion. I play clarinet in the Bill Bittner Memorial Dixieland Band and the Dan Zimmer Polka Band. I am the director of the Siren Community Band. I jump at the chance to play in local "pit bands" and in whatever other playing opportunities come my way. I am passionate about music education and music performance and hope my students learn to love it too! My other duties at school include being a Middle School volleyball coach and the district Facilities Director.

My daughter Riley attended and graduated from the Siren School District and the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point with a teaching degree. She is now a 3rd grade teacher in Neillsville, WI. I lead a crazy busy lifestyle that I love. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, reading and crafting of any type.