I grew up playing and learning at Riveredge Nature Center both on field trips and with my family, so from the moment I heard about Sugar Maple Nature School, I absolutely fell in love with it  -  I officially found my dream job! I am excited for the opportunity to teach awesome, nature-loving kids, while learning just as much from them! Together we will not learn to solve the problems of the future, but prepare to solve the problems of today by helping make a difference in the here and now.

I started in education with a degree as a Sign Language Interpreter where I worked in the elementary and high school levels. After seven years, I realized I wanted to play a more intricate role in the classroom so I went back to school and earned degrees in Elementary Education, Secondary Education and Geoscience. Since graduation I have taught 6th grade Physical Science and 8th grade Earth and Space classes. It has always been a philosophy of mine that students acquire more knowledge through thematic, hands-on, inquiry, and what better place to do so than on the gorgeous grounds of RNC!

When I am not at school, my favorite things are to spend time with my wonderful husband and two amazing children. We can be found segment-hiking the Ice Age Trail, reading, kayaking, and camping. I also pretend I know how to garden. (Veggies I can do - flowers…I need some work!) Additionally, we have two cats - Carmel & Storm, a dog named Mr. Beaker and a fish we call Mildew - in an endearing way of course. (And hopefully by the time you’re reading this I will have convinced my husband we also need honeybees, chickens, and fainting goats! )

I am honored for the opportunity to play a role in your child’s journey!