My favorite part of being an educator is connecting with my students, and learning about their interests inside and outside of school. I am deeply committed to learning along with my students, and I strive to adopt a growth mindset in all that I do. I am awestruck by the passion and ingenuity of young people, and their drive to create a better world.
I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in English Education from Colorado State University and was given the opportunity to work with students across the Poudre School District. This is my fifth year teaching sixth grade English Language Arts at Kinard. I have spent time as an AVID tutor, coached Odyssey of the Mind, and mentored students in the Rocks and Minerals competition of Science Olympiad. My students are shining lights in my life!
I grew up in a tiny town in North Idaho, and have lived in Fort Collins for over twenty years. I have a wonderful husband and a big orange cat. When I'm not teaching, I love to be outside, especially spending time along the Poudre River. I also enjoy cooking elaborate dinners that use every dish in the house, visiting art museums, and the Denver Botanic Garden is one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon. Reading is also an integral part of my life life. I look forward to showing my students how reading can enrich their own lives, and the powerful ability storytelling has to build empathy for others. I am proud to be a part of the incredible community of learners at Kinard!