About
Thank you for reading more. I appreciate your reading my website. This is one way I reflect on my practice and open communication up with the world of other talented and inspirational educators. Let's connect on social media, links are ^ above in the header!
I love exploring ideas and opportunities bringing progressive teaching and learning practices to all learners. I have my hands in many aspects of education in service of all learners and community:
~I am an instructor at Moreland University where I get to spread my love of learning helping teacher candidates develop their practice, lead No-Cost PD for the global community and write for the Beyond Borders Blog.
~I am an instructor for World Leadership School using experiential education to reimagine learning creating next generation leaders.
~I facilitate Love and Logic workshops for parents and educators.
~I lead a weekly Tinkergarten class focused on learning through outdoor play.
~I am a volunteer SCUBA diver for Mote Marine Laboratory cleaning their big shark tank.
~I volunteer with Canine Companions as a puppy raiser.
~I organize Read Aloud events to celebrate diversity and inclusion in Sarasota, FL
From 2019-2021, I served as the Lower School principal at GEMS American Academy of Qatar where my team was responsible for the education and wellbeing of 650 students aged PrK through grade 5. I started my admin career as the Elementary Principal at the Pan American School of Bahia in Salvador, Brazil. I have been an educator since 1996, first teaching as a Residence Hall leader at NC State University. Going on from there, I taught science outdoors and have taught first, second and fifth grades, as well as, being a Literacy Coach and PYP Coordinator. I have taught in the USA (North Carolina, Ohio, California, and Colorado), Egypt, Brazil and Qatar! My original academic background is in the sciences- Biology, Botany and Ecology. I have 2 Bachelor of Sciences and an Honours Degree from New Zealand in Ecology. My interest shifted when I realized my passion was to educate around a larger topic than science, I desire to help people become the best version of themselves making the world a better place. I then pursued and obtained a Masters degree in Elementary Education with a focus in interdisciplinary learning and then a decade later I earned my Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Principal Licensure at University of Northern Colorado in 2018. Now, I am studying with Fairy Dust Teaching doing the Wunderled Approach certification.
I love to learn, travel, explore, hike, run, swim, read, hang out with my dogs and PUBLISH picture books! My husband is a AP & DP History, Government, Geography and TOK teacher. He is also a wonderful illustrator, cook and my personal barista! I am so grateful for the interesting lives that we lead. There is never a dull moment learning together!
Here are links to my resume and my educational philosophy.