Grade/subject: Business (sometimes U.S. History), Westfield High School
Number of years teaching: 19
Background/schooling: Shenandoah High School, Middletown; bachelor’s in secondary education and business administration, Grand View College, Des Moines; and master’s in education, Viterbo University, LaCrosse, Wisc.
Why did you become a teacher? I didn’t start college wanting to become a teacher. I started tutoring students in college, next thing I know, I am seeking a teaching degree. And, I have loved every minute.
What goals do you have for your students? I want to prepare my students for their college years, their careers and life. I want my students to realize their gifts and potential. Every student is special; sometimes a student just needs to figure out what makes her/him special.
What do you encourage parents to do at home to help their children strengthen particular skills? Just let your kids talk about what they learned in school. Sometimes when they start talking about a concept or lesson, it clicks or makes more sense to them.
What is your favorite movie? “Bull Durham”
Who is your favorite musician or band? Taylor Swift
What’s something your students might not know about you? I was very quiet and shy in high school … and I had really big hair.
