About

I thoroughly enjoy bringing new technology and instructional strategies together to transform and improve learning for all learners. This is my passion!

In my current role as an Instructional Design Specialist at Kingsport City Schools, I have played a pivotal role in equipping a diverse group of educators with the tools and strategies necessary to achieve student learning objectives. I implement tailored coaching cycles for teachers and deliver targeted instructional technology training on topics like blended and personalized learning. I have developed comprehensive multimodal professional learning opportunities to enhance teacher proficiency in curriculum development and course design methodologies within the Canvas learning management system. I also guide subject area teams through the PLC process and assessment data analysis to identify areas for growth and further application of methods that are working. As Remote Learning Coordinator for the district, I designed self-paced eLearning modules for teachers, students, and parents and provided additional distance learning opportunities to ensure program success.

Before moving to Kingsport, I served 10 years as a Technology Instructional Mentor for Lockhart ISD, which fortified my expertise in effectively integrating technology with proven teaching strategies that enhance curriculum delivery. I was responsible for mentoring teachers and staff on the effective use of digital tools for instruction and productivity, creating technology-integrated curriculum and training materials, and developing and leading professional development. I produced a comprehensive multi-media repository of instructional technology resources and disseminated pertinent information on educational technology trends to teachers and administrators, ensuring alignment with district goals and objectives. I led initiatives to evaluate, implement, and leverage technology across content areas and grade levels. Most notably, I conceptualized, branded, and launched the district’s Visionary Instruction Plan (VIP), which transformed instructional practices and helped build stakeholder support for the strategic phase-in of devices for 6,000+ students and 400+ teachers. I also played an integral role in the district’s implementation of  Google Apps, distance learning, and teacher-led Edcamps.

My prior experiences as Marketing Manager at Greenleaf Book Group, Product Marketer at Thomson West, and Marketing Research Supervisor at Orman Guidance Reasearch equipped me with leadership, strategic planning, project management, and business communication skills. I successfully led comprehensive marketing campaigns, developed online and offline promotions, supervised marketing research, designed advertising materials, produced multi-media products, collaborated in cross-functional teams, and cultivated beneficial relationships with clients and vendors.

I have a positive attitude, strong work ethic, ongoing desire to learn, a good sense of humor, and fresh enthusiasm for designing innovative and engaging instruction. I work to stay informed of the latest digital trends in education by participating in workshops, attending conferences, listening to podcasts, and following social media and industry newsletters. I am proficient with popular EdTech tools, having earned many certifications, and have presented at the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) and Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) conferences.

As for my personal life, I grew up in Minnesota, so I’m still a long-suffering Vikings fan, but I lived 15 fun years in Austin, Texas and now reside in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee. I am happily married to my high school sweetheart, and we have two amazing children. In my free time, I like to see live music, watch movies, read books, and go hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, and fishing whenever I can. And of course... I like playing with the latest technology gadgets at work and home!