Biographical Sketch:
I was born in Dodge City, Kansas but was raised in Texas. I moved from Texas to Colorado in June of 2014. I have a loving husband, Alan, that I have been married to for 27 years. We have a 23 year old daughter, Shai, and a 21 year old son, Malachai.
Education Background:
I earned my B.S. in Elementary Education with an Endorsement in Early Childhood Education and Specialization in Math from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas in December of 1998. I am certified in the state of Colorado in Elementary Education and Secondary Math.
Why I became a teacher?
I always knew I wanted to be a teacher! Until the 5th grade, I rarely spend a full school year in a location before we moved again. I got to experience many different schools, many different teachers, and the art of making new friends. I loved to learn and had many great teachers that always made me feel welcome. I wanted to share my love of learning with others and help students that struggle. As I entered high school, I discovered that I LOVED math and although I was not the best mathematician, I enjoyed the puzzle and discovery of Algebra. This was when I decided to become a MATH teacher!
Favorite Books:
I LOVE to read! I can't pick a favorite! I have many favorite authors...Fredrik Backman, Janet Evanovich, Joann Fluke, Mary Higgins Clark, Elizabeth Gilbert, Jodi Picoult, Nicholas Sparks and Stieg Larsson to name a few.
Interests & Hobbies:
Other than reading...I enjoy swimming, hiking, camping, paddleboarding, watching sports (GO CHIEFS!), doing puzzles, crafts, watching anime and spending time with my family.
Courses Taught:
I have taught Algebra I, Pre-Algebra, 8th grade math, 7th grade math, 6th grade math, 5th grade math and science, 4th grade math interventions, 3rd grade (all subjects). Two years ago I added Algebra II to my bag of tricks. I loved the students...but not the math. So far 8th grade content is my favorite to teach!
About my classroom:
I want all students to see themselves as mathematicians by the end of the year. Math is a language that can be spoken in all countries and I am here to help you become proficient in this language. My hope is for you to strengthen your perseverance and find the joy in collaboration and problem solving. My classroom environment is designed to be low stimulation, calm and inviting. I do not prefer the overhead fluorescent lights in my classroom, so I use lamps, special lights, and natural light instead. Diffusers around the room add to the calming effect that supports engagement and learning.