I am so happy to be your teacher this year. I can’t wait to get to know you! Let me tell you a little bit about myself:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

I grew up in Randolph, NJ and graduated from Randolph High School in 2011. I went on to Montclair State University and graduated in January 2016 with my bachelor’s degree in English. In May 2023, I completed my Master's in Instructional Leadership at Centenary University.

This will be my 8th year at SMS, but my 10th year teaching. In addition to teaching, I'm the cross country coach, and I plan the annual Washington, D.C. trip!

FAVORITE THINGS

Food: Tacos, pizza, sushi

Animal: Dogs and cows (Blair is my black lab on the left!)

School Supply: Pentel RSVP Ballpoint pens

Drink: Tea and seltzer (you'll see me drink a cup of Bigelow Ginger Peach Turmeric tea every day)

Book: East of Eden by John Steinbeck has been a favorite this year!

TV Show: Gilmore Girls
Color: Muted greens

Candy: Hot Tamales

Movie: Breakfast at Tiffany's or Mystic Pizza

Music: I like all kinds of music, but The 1975 is my favorite band.

Hobby: Reading (follow my Instagram @mrsbottireads to see what I've finished lately!) or anything outdoors (hiking, camping, kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, fishing... you name it!)

MY PHILOSOPHY
As your teacher, it's important for you to know that I believe in two things:

1. Do your best every day.

I have high expectations and will push you to do your best, both as a student and as a person. Our best might look different every day; we all have days when we are too tired, too busy, too distracted. It’s about finding strategies to overcome those obstacles, challenging yourself to do better, and not giving up on yourself.

2. Every day is a clean slate.

We all make mistakes, and I will never hold that against you. Every day is a chance to try again, and I invite you to take those chances. We all have the ability to change and grow, if we let ourselves.

I am always here for you. Stop in for extra help or just to chat any time! 😊