bio
With eight years of teaching under my belt, I have a world of experience – literally! After being born and raised in southern Louisiana, I attended Louisiana State University (go Tigers!) and graduated with top honors from its highly respected teacher preparation program. Upon graduation, I was recruited by a great school in Richardson, Texas. Following one of the best first years of teaching (I was named one of the New Teachers of the Year for the school district), I decided to try living abroad. I accepted a position teaching English to Japanese students in Japan. This wonderful experience really changed my philosophy of education and my outlook on the world in general. After a year in Japan, I decided to stay abroad but move to another country – Belgium – to pursue a Master’s degree in education. I thoroughly enjoyed my European education and overall experience as an international student. I have truly gained valuable insights into education and the world.
Upon earning my master’s degree, I moved to Bloomington, Indiana. My first year in Bloomington was spent at Marlin Elementary School teaching in the 4th, 5th, and 6th grades multi-age program. This was a new experience that helped me grow professionally in many ways. For my second year I got to teach 3rd grade at Fairview Elementary, a Title 1 school; yet another unique and wonderful experience. In the summer of 2006 I moved to the Merrifield area of Fairfax County, Virginia. I began a great position teaching 4th grade at Wolftrap Elementary in Vienna, Virginia where I spent three years learning and growing as an educator. During my time at Wolftrap, I also earned a degree in school administration from the University of Virginia. After seven years of experience at the elementary level, I decided I needed a new experience. I chose to take on the challenge of teaching middle school. My first year of teaching English at Thoreau Middle School in Vienna, Virginia was absolutely amazing. I look forward to my second year of teaching 7th grade English as part of the Thoreau Middle School family!