Biography
I grew up in Appleton, WI, on the opposite side of the state. After graduating, I moved to La Crosse and attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. In 1998 I received my bachelor's in Education (grades 1-9) and a minor in English. My first teaching job was in California. Even though I really enjoyed the warm weather and being close to the ocean, I missed the 4 seasons of Wisconsin.
After settling back in La Crosse, my first teaching position was in Cashton, Wisconsin. I was a Title I teacher for the intermediate. This meant that I worked with students who struggled in Math and Reading. Eventually that position transformed into Intermediate Inclusion Teacher. I taught at Cashton Elementary School for 7 years. It was there that my passion for teaching Reading solidified.
I decided to go back to school at UW-L for Reading. I graduated with my Master's degree in Reading from UWL in 2006. Currently, I have my Reading Teacher license and Reading Specialist license.
I wanted to to find a position where I could continue to pursue my interest in reading. This led me to West Salem Middle School. The 6th Grade Reading Teacher had been the only position I had applied for in the past several years. Imagine how ecstatic I was to get the job!! Every day is exciting. I enjoy sharing my passion with the students and helping them find theirs. Watching students grow in all aspects of their life is extremely gratifying.
Why did you become a teacher? Always known I wanted to work with children in some capacity from 3rd grade on, too much schooling to become a child psychiatrist ... becoming a teacher I could still support children and be a part of their growth and successes!
What do you love most about the West Salem School District? The autonomy given to teachers as well as our mission statement: Passion to Ignite Creativity, Innovation and Excellence, it leaves the door wide open for creating a multitude of opportunities!
Favorite classroom memory: When I was in 5th grade, our class always organized surprise parties for our teacher, Miss Dodge. The principal had to come in and ask us to stop, even thought she loved the idea, the parties were happening too often... From my own, it is always the Greek Drama Festival, how students can come together, be so creative and have FUN with learning!
Best piece of advice for students: Be true to yourself, don't lose yourself in spite of your friends.