I grew up in North Dakota. Besides a pretty normal childhood, I developed many of my early passions: camping, hunting, fishing, and backpacking. However, my 7th grade life science teacher left a lasting impression on me that certainly guided me to where I am today. One seemingly insignificant bird unit ignited a passion that still burns bright. I learned everything I could about birds. I even got into nature photography because of it. In the end, it set me on a path towards going to the University of Montana for Wildlife Biology. Soon after starting college, I realized I wanted to inspire kids just like I was back in 7th grade. So, I switched majors to biology education and became a teacher.

A few weeks into my freshman year of college, I met Allison Dal Santo. She grew up in this far off place called South Beloit and went to Hononegah and Prairie Hill before it was two schools. Fast forward 16 years, Allison and I find ourselves with 4 spunky, curious, and awesome children who are carrying on the Prairie Hill legacy. Our family has quite the little "homestead" with a massive garden, maple syrup operation, and definitely a lot of outdoor fun.

I began my teaching career in a tiny district in North Dakota. I essentially was the science department and taught every student from 8th to 12th grade. That is when I truly began to feel like I was the science guy (or feller, if you will). That certainly broadened my horizons beyond the world of wildlife. After North Dakota, I taught chemistry and physics at Winnebago High School for two years. I even spent two years as the 7th and 8th grade science teacher at Willowbrook where I did things like blow up balloons. That is always exciting! 

In 2021, I changed my role in the education world by pursuing one of my other passions - computer science. I've earned my Master's degree in computer science, and I now am a senior software engineer with the EdTech company, ExploreLearning. I help teachers in a different capacity by developing education tools I used as a science teacher (Gizmos) and my kids use to learn math (Reflex and Frax). 

I hope to continue my educational involvement by being on the board of education at Prairie Hill School District. Education is in my heart, I don't plan to let it fade. Please consider voting for me on April 4th, 2023.