I completed my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Illinois in Chicago. I later attended National-Louis University in Evanston and began substitute teaching at the same time. I completed my Master of Arts in Teaching degree and then began teaching in our district in 1995. I began my career teaching 4^th graders and I have been working with 5^th graders since 2001. I feel very fortunate to be working in our wonderful district and work hard every day to help my students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

I try to make a personal connection with each individual and hope that each student feels special because of this. I have been having a VIP of the Week for many years and the feedback from former students is so positive that I continue to do this. I ask students to write something specific about each VIP and as I share those comments, each VIP smiles ear to ear. Giving each student this positive attention is my goal. Preparing students for middle school is always at the forefront of planning each lesson and I adjust my expectations with this in mind. Fifth graders are becoming more and more independent, although they still continue to need guidance. Preparing them for the demands of middle school involves writing longer pieces with support and evidence, reading a wide range of material, pushing students to apply the basic math skills acquired, using technology for learning, and solidifying the concepts that have previously been introduced.

I was born in Chicago and went to elementary school at St. Margaret Mary’s through sixth grade. When my family moved to Skokie, I attended Fairview for seventh and eighth grades. I also went to Niles West High School and so I am very familiar with our community. As a fellow Lincolnwood resident, two of my children have graduated from our school district and one currently attends Niles West. I also have an eighth grader and a second grader.  My eldest will be in his second year at Michigan State University. I know we have a wonderful school, with a wonderful staff, and wonderful people. I especially value the diverse community in which we live and know that my children are more accepting of others with friends from all different backgrounds. Thank you for entrusting our school and teachers with helping your child grow each year.

Please contact me at any time with comments, questions, and/or concerns.