Classroom Teacher
Grade 1
Role
As a primary classroom teacher for all subjects, I work hard to stay current on curriculum, standards, and to get to know the interests and strengths of each student in my care. Together, we create a safe, happy, and responsive classroom community where every student is engaged, challenged, feels important, and is supported. In addition to curriculum, it’s important to me to teach and model kindness, respect, empathy, and humor to my students.
Professional Background
“Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” – Dorothy Gale
My entry into a classroom was not unlike Dorothy’s memorable landing in Oz. Fortunately, I didn’t take out a wicked witch, but rather, I have been surrounded by and blessed with Glindas since my landing at ATS in 2001, first as a kindergarten assistant, and in 2007 as a first grade teacher. Not a day goes by that I’m not grateful for the Glindas who have helped me along the way. I teach for the joy of it. My students make me happy and make me laugh.
- Certificate Candidate, Changing Education Through the Arts (CETA), The John F. Kennedy Center, 2018-2020
- Teacher of the Year, Arlington Traditional School, 2018-2019
- Mentor Teacher, 2017-2018
- National Board Certified Teacher, Generalist/Early Education, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, 2014
- Master of Education. Marymount University, 2007
- Bachelor of Arts, Visual Communications, Trinity College, 1983
Personal Interests
Animals! Historical Fiction! Illustration! Running! Humor! Coffee! Jane Goodall! Musical Theater! Six Year Old Children!
Literary Connection
Mo Willems’ Elephant and Piggie books…they allow my inner Gerald to come out! I also do judge books by their covers and admire the artwork of Eric Carle, Lori Keller, Beatrix Potter, Quentin Blake, Peter Reynolds, Pete Oswald – I could go on and on!
