Grade/subject: English, Westfield High School
Number of years teaching: 16
Background/schooling (college & high school): Glenbrook South High School, Glenview, Ill.; and bachelor’s in English at Butler University.
Why did you become a teacher? I love the energy that young adults have. There is something magical when people learn something new, but there is often more energy and joy when this happens with a young adult. I wanted to be around that every day.
What goals do you have for your students? To reach their full, positive potential as students and as people.
What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills? First, demand that students read more. Secondly, don’t be afraid to let their children get out of their academic “comfort zone.” It’s good to be challenged.
What is your favorite movie? “The Godfather.”
Who is your favorite musician or band? REM
What’s something your students might not know about you? I nearly broke four minutes for the mile (4:05).
