I began teaching over 30 years ago in a 6th grade classroom. Since that time, I earned my EdD in Curriculum and Instruction and have also worked my way into directing the school musicals. I have taught students with learning disabilities, high ability students, as well as gifted students with an exceptional IQ in a self-contained setting along with teaching in a regular classroom. Additionally, I have served on several curriculum committees — most notably on Social Studies and Language Arts where we have worked together to align curriculum with the Common Core and C-3 Framework. I have also worked with the gifted committee restructuring the gifted program in our district.
Believing in students ability to construct their own learning, I employ a teaching style that allows students to engage themselves in education in such a way that they make the learning their own — thus deepening their understanding. Questioning is essential in my classroom. I also incorporate technology in most of my lessons and center much of my teaching around simulations and problem-based learning.
Aside from being acknowledged in my own district for innovative teaching, in 2009 I was chosen to be Teacher of the Year based on a student nomination. Then, in 2012 I won the Random House National Award for Teachers of Literacy earning me a $5000 grant to use to further literacy in my school. I have also presented at various gifted conferences.
2021 Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Northern Illinois University 1994 MSEd in Curriculum and Instruction from Northern Illinois University 1991 I earned a BA in Elementary Education from Calvin College in Michigan.
I have a doctorate in curriculum and instruction and educational leadership. My focus is on gifted education and social-emotional development.
2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, Homeschool
English Language Arts, Creative Writing, Reading, Vocabulary, Specialty, Science, Social Studies, Ancient History, Civics, U.S. History, European History, World History, Arts & Music, Drama, British History, Geography, Other (ELA), Life Skills, Gifted and Talented, Critical Thinking, Literature, Classroom Management, Study Skills, Problem Solving, Writing, Oral Communication, Reading Strategies, Holidays/Seasonal, Back to School, Halloween, The New Year, For All Subjects, Informational Text, Test Preparation