Teaching Experience
2009 - 2015
Preschool Teacher
I taught preschool at Childtime Learning Centers for several years as I was getting my college education. I worked in both assistant and lead capacities, facilitating and supervising the learning of kids aged 3 - 5. While working at the early childhood level I gained many valuable experiences that would prepare me for my later work at the elementary level.
2015 - Present
Elementary Teacher
I currently teach 2nd grade for Livonia Public Schools. I've formed many great relationships over the last several years, and collaborated with outstanding professionals. I've taught and learned from some awesome kids. I created a "Stomp" drum club for students after school, participated in the district Equity and Engagement Committee, and led a documentary discussion group for fellow teachers district-wide. LPS is a great place to call home!
Education
2010 - 2014
University of Michigan
I received a Bachelor of Arts for Elementary Education from U of M in 2014. My focus of study was English Language Arts. I completed my student teaching assignment at Dearborn Academy in Dearborn, MI.
2018-2019
Michigan State University
I received a Master of Arts degree from MSU in December of 2019. My focus of study was literacy, but I took many courses relating to the psychology and philosophical foundations of education. MSU's MAED program provided an extraordinaty opportunity for me to grow as an educator.
Personal and Professional Development
January 2016
Dave Burgess:
Teach Like a Pirate
Dave Burgess is a teacher, writer, and public speaker. His mission is to help other educators maintain their passion for teaching while designing incredibly engaging lessons, making meaningful connections with students, and changing lives. After attending his workshop, I went away feeling energized. His high-engagement approach is something I bring to work with me each day.
July 2017
St. John's Summer Teachers Institute
St. John's College in Annapolis Maryland is a liberal arts college dedicated to the reading and discussion of great works in literature, philosophy, science, and mathematics. Each summer they host a week-long seminar for teachers. In 2017 the topic was "Science and Society, Promises and Perils." We read and discussed works by Francis Bacon, Jonathan Swift, and Philip K. Dick. The democratic discourse between St. John's tutors and the attendees made quite an impression on me. This method of discussion has become very important to my read-aloud practice in the classroom.
May 2019
Understanding
Systemic Racism
This educational experience was provided by ERACCE: Eliminating Racism and Creating/Celebrating Equity. During this three-day course facilitators from various backgrounds provided a deep-dive into the history and current manifestations of racism within our institutions. On the third day we discussed ways of moving forward. As an educator, it is not hard to notice the inequalities the exist within our society. This training provided the tools for me to ensure that all stakeholders within our school receive fair and equitable treatment.