I began teaching at Orion in 1999 with a classroom of 20 fourth and fifth graders. Since then I’ve taught fifth, fourth, four-five, third-four, and third grades. What drew me to Orion was the small school setting, family- like atmosphere, and opportunity to use my creativity to teach in a less structured environment. I was also attracted by the strong parent volunteer commitment.

In 2000 I began job sharing with Ronnie Georges, a fellow teacher I met at Notre Dame de Namur University while completing our Teaching Credentials. Working on projects together there we found we had very similar philosophies about teaching. We’ve been partners so long we can read each other’s minds. Children learn best in a safe, caring environment where they are encouraged to take risks and be responsible for their own learning. In our classroom we consider not only the intellectual but, the emotional development of our students.

My husband Karl and I live in Emerald Hills, and one of the great things about working in the community where I live is seeing my students and their families outside of school. I often run into current and former students around town --- in the grocery store, movie theatre, etc. It’s great fun to catch up and see how they’ve grown.

I am the mother of two grown children. My daughter Lauren and son Kyle, both moved back to the Bay area after college. I love the teacher movie “To Be and To Have” and one of my favorite books on teaching is called: In the Company of Children. I’ve spent a good portion of my life in the company of children, and it has brought me great joy.

Prior to becoming a teacher I also worked as an Assistant Controller for a large national bank and as accountant for Alexander Grant in Washington, D.C. and Arthur Andersen in Tokyo, Japan where my daughter Lauren was born. I have a BBA from George Washington University and a Teaching Credential from Notre Dame de Namur University. I enjoy traveling, reading, hiking, Pilate’s, and cooking for my friends and family.