Grade/school: U.S. History and AP U.S. History at Westfield High School
Number of years teaching: 25
Background/schooling: Lawrence Central High School, Indianapolis; bachelor’s in history and English, Ball State University; and master’s in education, Indiana Wesleyan University.
Why did you become a teacher? My dad always believed that teaching was a noble calling. And both of my parents sent the message very clearly to my siblings and me that education really, really matters. I became a teacher because I wanted to be part of something that is both noble and important.
What goals do you have for your students? My goals for my students are that they continue to hone reading, writing, and thinking skills; that they learn at least a little (hopefully a lot!) about the historical development of our country; that they develop good time-management skills; and that they are working to become self-directed learners.
What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills? High school juniors are very busy people and usually are more independent than they’ve ever been (they can drive!). Westfield parents do a fantastic job of creating a home environment in which education is valued and helping these semi-independent students learn how to prioritize and manage their time.
What is your favorite movie? Apollo 13
Who is your favorite musician or band? Don McLean, Neil Diamond and John Denver
What’s something your students might not know about you? I’m an eighth-generation Hoosier. My original Hoosier ancestor, Michael Fox, was a Revolutionary War veteran who moved with his family to Indiana in 1820 – when the state was only 4 years old. So, I come from a long line of people who found a place that they liked and stayed there!
