My Story:
I have had the opportunity to be a part of many children's lives for 24 years now! I spent my first 2 years teaching 3rd graders and the other 22 years working with 2nd grade students! I have taught at other schools, but I have been at Palmcroft Elementary for the past 19 years! I LOVE being a Palmcroft Panther! I received my bachelor's degree from Northern Arizona University in 1999, with an ESL endorsement. I also hold my Early Childhood Endorsement. I hold the status of a highly qualified teacher. I have also received recognition in the 2010-2011 year as Palmcroft's K-3 Teacher of the Year and again in 2012-2013 and 2018-2019 school years! In 2016, I was recognized as Yuma School District One's High Five Employee of the Month for September!
1. I'm a DIE-HARD ARIZONA CARDINALS FAN! BIRDGANG! RISE UP RED SEA!
2. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 22 years now.
3. I have 2 amazing sons! My oldest son, Logan will be entering Northern Arizona University this year as a Freshman and my youngest son, Seth will be a 11th Grader at Kofa!
4. I LOVE polka dots!! They are everywhere in the classroom!
5. I am a DECEMBER baby! I was born a week before Christmas!
6. I LOVE DESIGNING! I own a Teachers Pay Teachers store and create items for other teachers and our room! I also create floral arrangements and have my own ETSY store!
7. I LOVE music and I love to sing!
Teaching Philosophy:
I believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. It is my desire as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, teaches responsibility, and invites a sharing of ideas. For myself, teaching provides an opportunity for continual learning and growth. One of my hopes as an educator is to instill a love of learning in my students, as I share my own passion for learning with them. I feel there is a need for compassionate, strong, and dedicated individuals who are excited about working with children. In our competitive society it is important for students to not only receive a solid education, but to work with someone who is aware of and sensitive to their individual needs. I am such a person and will always strive to be the best educator that I can be.
Drink:
Starbucks! I LOVE Skinny Vanilla Lattes!
Food:
I LOVE Chips and Salsa! I love carne asada, enchiladas, and TACOS!!
Snacks:
Dark Chocolate is YUMMY! I also like ice cream! Mint chocolate chip is my FAVORITE! I also love WATERMELON!
Color:
RED is my favorite! My team rocks CARDINAL RED!
Sport:
FOOTBALL is my thing! I LOVE my Cardinals!
Animal:
I love DOGS! I have 3 Boxer dogs! Josie, Bailey, and Maisy!
Flower:
I love tiger lilies, orchids, and poppies! In winter, I LOVE poinsettias!
Hobbies:
I love going to football games, listening to music, singing, creating graphic designs and wreaths, and being with my family!
