Grade/Subject at what school: Kindergarten at Maple Glen Elementary
Number of years teaching: Five
Background/Schooling: Bishop Chatard High School, Indianapolis; Bachelor of Science, Ball State University; and Transition to Teaching Elementary Education K-6, Taylor University.
Why did you become a teacher? My story is a little untraditional given that teaching is my second career. When my youngest daughter started Montessori preschool, I was offered a part-time position as the school’s science teacher. I fell in love with the kids, their insatiable desire to learn, and the excitement I felt at the start of each day. I knew from then on teaching was my true calling.
What goals do you have for your students? Simple, love school and love to learn. I ask my students at the end of each day, ‘How many of you had fun once today? Twice today? Three times today? All day?’ When the answer is consistently “all day” I know we are well on our way.
What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills? Read, read and read! Read to your child, let them read to you and let them see you read.
What is your favorite movie? “Talladega Nights”
Who is your favorite musician or band? Music is huge in my family and our style is incredibly eclectic ranging from alternative, punk and southern rock all the way to the Rat Pack.
What’s something your students might not know about you? I was an analytical chemist before I starting teaching.