Grade/subject at what school: Fifth grade technology, Westfield Intermediate School
Number of years teaching: 14
Background/schooling (college & high school): Lewis Cass High School, Walton; bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Purdue University, West Lafayette; and master’s degree in technology education, IUPUI
Why did you become a teacher? My fifth-grade math teacher, Mrs. Blackman, encouraged me through a difficult year and made a big difference in my life. Also, I was blessed to have many encouraging and positive teachers in my life who made me feel like I could do anything I set my mind to. I have carried this positive energy with me and aspire to pass it along to my students.
What goals do you have for your students? I just hope that they grow to love learning. I want to spark their interest so they are curious learners and want to seek knowledge. My goal is that if I can teach them that their attitudes are their superpowers, that alone will have them soaring to the highest heights.
What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills? I feel the single most important thing for parents to do is just to be aware of what is going on within the classroom. When students know that their parents are connected, then each child strives to succeed. I always suggest that parents enrich their child with extra reading, writing and math support. These curriculum skills are essential for any student to succeed in school.
What is your favorite movie? “Grease.” I watch it with my children, and they dance to the music, too.
Who is your favorite musician or band? I love any music I can dance to. I grew up dancing to Michael Jackson and now dance to Black Eyed Peas.
What’s something your students might not know about you? I have two goals that I have yet to fulfill. I want to take dancing lessons and a karate class. I love to dance! Where I grew up, we did not have dance lessons, only gymnastics. I hope to one day dance to many styles of music. My father took karate lessons when I was younger, and I was always fascinated watching him practice at home. I think it would be fun to earn a belt in karate.
