About Me.
I am an experienced elementary educator dedicated to creating a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment where all students can thrive. My instructional practice emphasizes rigorous, standards-aligned, data-driven lessons that are responsive to individual needs. I design personalized, inquiry-based learning experiences grounded in hands-on problem solving and real-world relevance to foster deep understanding, learner autonomy, and critical thinking. As a collaborative team leader and certified Lead Teacher, I bring extensive experience differentiating instruction for diverse learners, partnering with families, and contributing to reflective professional communities committed to continuous improvement and student growth.
Education
2012
Xavier University
Montessori Elementary I (ages 6-9) and Elementary II (ages 9-12) Credentialing Program. Resulted in full AMS certification in both age levels for all subjects.
2006
Miami University
MAT, Biological Science
Focused on best practices for teaching biological science in the K-12 classroom by providing a strong science foundation along with pedagogical studies.
1997
Indiana State University
BA, Elementary Education with a middle school minor
2010-Present
Dater Montessori Elementary, CPS
Lead Teacher
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4th-6th grade language arts (2010-2013), 6th grade science and social studies (2013-2023), 4th-6th science and social studies (2023-2024) 4th-6th math teacher (2024 to present)
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Led a team of 18 upper elementary educators facilitating communication with administration, professional development and instructional growth.
2008-2010
Duvall Elementary, Mt. Healthy City Schools
Fifth Grade Teacher
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Taught all subjects in a self-contained classroom 2008-2009.
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Due to my students growth, all special education students were moved to my room for the 2009-2010 school year. I team taught with reading and intervention specialists within the classroom setting.
2000-2002
St. Bernard Taylor Creek
Fourth/Fifth Grade Teacher
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Taught reading, language arts, and science for two fourth grade classes and moved with them to fifth grade.
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Facilitated a school-wide, student-created/run health fair.
2002-2004
St. Lawrence, Lawrenceburg, IN
Fourth Grade Teacher
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Taught all subjects in a self-contained classroom
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Taught 2nd Grade Technology and 3rd Grade Science while my students attended religion classes.
1997-1999
St. Lawrence, Lawrenceburg, IN
5-8 Language Arts, 6-8 Science and Social Studies