Wouldn't the world be so boring if we were all the same? Not only do I appreciate the difference in every child, but I encourage it! Keep in mind that there are many different learning styles (auditory, visual, kinesthetic, etc.) that make each of us unique and in turn rely on differentiated instruction to bring out our best. That is my goal for your child this year... to bring out their personal best! I have a strong belief in building on our areas of strength and strengthening our weaknesses. Let's raise the bar together for your child and watch them grow!
I have had the privilege of working for the Hopewell Area School District for the last 17 years. After 5 years of a challenging workload to complete the requirements for two majors, I graduated from Slippery Rock University in 1995 with a degree in both Elementary Education and Special Education; with an emphasis in Emotional Support. Before I moved to Hopewell in 1997, I had the opportunity to work with Emotional Support in the Hermitage Area School District where I was born and raised. Once in Hopewell, I was hired as a Learning Support Teacher for 3rd and 4th, and then moved on to the regular classroom in 1999. I feel that my background in Special Education has been a gift in the regular classroom, as it has helped to prepare me for the many challenges that all children face academically (all levels of disabilities and areas of "giftedness"), behaviorally, and socially.
I also had the opportunity to experience my student teaching in Ireland. What an amazing journey it was for me! I enjoyed learning more about my family's roots and have had the joy of bringing my experiences to the classroom with our family Heritage Project.
Being a part of Hopewell goes beyond my classroom walls. This community is where my family calls home. Whether we are enjoying a baseball game behind our school or spending our summers poolside at Treehaven Swim Club, our family finds comfort in the closeness of our community.