
Education & Experience:
I’ve been working with children since I was old enough to be a junior counselor at my local summer camp growing up. Through the years, I’ve held various positions in both outdoor recreation and academic settings, all of them involving work with children of varying ages. My outdoor experiences include backpacking, rock climbing, rafting, lifeguarding, caving, and bushcraft as a guide for youth. I hold a bachelor’s degree in education plus a professional teacher certification in the state of Tennessee and previously in the states of South Carolina and Alaska. I began teaching in 2014 in a rural village in Arctic Alaska where I worked for 7 years filling various positions including: 5th grade instruction, K-5 music, and program director for the district after school theatre program. During this time I also volunteered in my community as a certified EMT and volunteer firefighter. The past 2 years I’ve worked as a 6th grade math teacher in the state of Tennessee.
Teaching Philosophy:
My teaching philosophy centers around student-centered learning, where children's natural curiosity drives their educational journey. I believe that when students are encouraged to explore and ask questions, they become more engaged and motivated learners. I also aim to instill in them the belief that they can tackle challenging tasks and persevere through difficulties, building resilience and confidence. Recognizing that each child is unique, I see my role as providing the safety, support, and guidance they need to thrive and become their best selves.
Favorite thing about kids:
I love how kids bring a natural curiosity and boundless excitement to their encounters with the world around them. Middle school is normally the time when we see kids begin to hide some of that excitement and wonder, but it’s still there beneath the surface. I love the moments where they let their guards down and allow themselves that moment of freedom to be fully themselves. There’s nothing quite like seeing the light bulb go off in their heads when something finally "clicks," and their sense of humor often keeps me on my toes and with a smile. The challenging questions my students ask not only inspire growth, but also push me to rethink and explore the world in new ways for myself. As long as I’ve worked with kids, no day has ever been boring and I’ve never been allowed to become stagnant.
Favorite thing about WBNS:
One of my favorite things about working at WBNS is the school's commitment to connecting with the natural world and fostering Earth stewardship. I love that we prioritize hands-on, student-based learning, which really engages students in their education. It's also inspiring to be part of a staff that is so focused and dedicated to supporting student growth. It’s a truly special place to work.
Quote to share:
"Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where Nature may heal and cheer and give strength to body and soul alike." – John Muir
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