Becoming well-educated is the best thing a person can do for him/herself in life. Nothing should be valued higher than education and learning in America. That being said, not all students learn the same. Therefore, students must feel comfortable and safe before learning can begin, while being taught in a manner that reaches students on an individual level.

After graduating in the top five of my high school class, I went on to study at The College of New Jersey, a very selective state school. In college, I began as an English major, then switched to English teaching (secondary education).

I was a teacher in a New Jersey middle school for seven years. I taught English Language Arts throughout my tenure. My career began with small group basic skills classes for remediation. I then moved to a mainstream classroom with mixed-level learners, where I had to differentiate lessons to accommodate all students, including special education. I also spent time tutoring after school for test prep and homework help.

While working as a teacher, I established a book club for 8th graders, which met once a week and discussed a variety of books. Outside of school, I enjoy hiking with my husband and dog throughout the Pacific Northwest. I was involved with Taekwondo for several years, attaining brown belt status. I love to read, bake desserts, and spend time outside.