Grade/Subject at what school: Project Lead the Way, Westfield Middle School.
Number of years teaching: Nine.
Background/Schooling (college and high school):
Fremont High School.
B.S. elementary education/computer education, Ball State University.
PLTW Certificate, Purdue University, Kokomo.
Why did you become a teacher? “Like many teachers, I had some amazing educators that inspired my own journey. My mother, Sharon Abriani, who is a great educator, has always shown me how important education is, both inside and outside the classroom. Mary Sacquitne, my elementary teacher, used creative lesson planning and fun activities to keep her students, including me, motivated and learning. Finally, during my senior year of high school, I had the opportunity to cadet teach with Merry Mattia in a kindergarten classroom. Mrs. Mattia eventually let me teach the lesson for the day, and this led me to where I am today.”
What goals do you have for your students? “My main goal for my students is to feel what success is like through failure. In the course that I teach, the students have the opportunity to make mistakes, create design flaws, but still be able to guide themselves to success through problem-solving.”
What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills? “I would encourage parents to allow the space for their student(s) to be and think differently.”
Name your favorite movie. “‘The Sandlot.’”
Name your favorite musician or band. Ben Harper.
What’s something your students might not know about you?
“I am an Eagle Scout.”
