Children are intelligent and deserve to feel that their gifts are being recognized. As a result, I strive to let them know that I recognize their strengths. I encourage students to utilize their strengths in order to help them better understand the subjects at hand.

I have a bachelor’s degree in English-Creative Writing from Western Michigan University. While at Western Michigan, I was part of Sigma Tau Delta, the English Honors Society. Prior to my undergraduate studies, I spent two years at Kalamazoo Valley Community College where I made the Dean’s list each semester.

I served as an on-campus substitute teacher and hall monitor at Portage Central Middle School for an assignment lasting from February to May of 2013.

I am a volunteer at Portage District Library. I offer my time to Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes as well. I am also a musician who sings for the Steve Howes Band in Augusta and Hickory Corners, Michigan.