I believe that education should be child-centered and should create opportunities for students to discover and explore. A positive, safe environment is key to a prosperous learning environment, which can be achieved through clear expectations and procedures. Children should constantly be engaged in their learning and should be excited and encouraged to ask questions and learn how to find their own answers. The key to a successful education is being able to ask “why” and use critical thinking skills to discover and apply the answer.

I spent my K-12 educational years in a suburban district in Middleburg Heights, OH. For my bachelor’s degree, I attended the University at Buffalo to pursue a degree in Mathematics with a minor in Education.

After graduating from there, I moved on to Roberts Wesleyan College, where I am currently in my last semester pursuing a Master of Education in Initial Childhood/Students with Disabilities and Special Education. Once I have completed this and have passed the required certification exams, I will have a certification in Childhood (1-6) and Special Education (1-6).

I was a mathematics tutor for a 1 1/2 years in Amherst, NY as well as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for Multivariable Calculus at University at Buffalo. I was a teacher aide in a kindergarten special education class in Chili, NY. I was a student teacher in a Grade 2 CIT classroom (inclusive education) from August 2014-December 2014.

I have played the clarinet for 12 years and greatly enjoy listening to local music. I also enjoy painting landscapes and reading mysteries. I love being outdoors and hiking or golfing. I also enjoy running and yoga.

I scored 30 out of a possible 36 on the ACT test.