I have been teaching professionally since 2005. I attended Roberts Wesleyan for both my Bachelor’s in Education, as well as my Master’s in Special Education. I have played many different roles over the years: my first at North Star Christian Academy, my second and third in Las Vegas, Nevada. From there I worked back in New York at BOCES 1 for two years before I settled at Destiny Christian School for ten years. I tutored privately for two years after Destiny closed their high school, and now I am happy to serve the students and their families -as well as my colleagues, here at Vertus.
What is your philosophy as a teacher?
My personal view of teaching is to cater to each child’s way of learning. We are all gloriously different, and the tapestry of students I have taught over the years have all needed different means of support. It is up to me as an educator to find what works best for each individual.
What motivates you to be at Vertus? (what is your “why?")
I could tell from the moment I checked out the website that Vertus was different. The Vertus staff truly cares about students and relationships with them. This understanding was further realized when I came into the school and interviewed. After I was hired as a special education teacher, I saw in action the teamwork other schools only dream of. The cliché, “It takes an entire village…” is fully realized at Vertus. I believe that teachers transform lives. I believe that teaching touches the very heart of future America. I believe Vertus aligns with my standards of excellence, impact, and integrity.
Who are you outside of Vertus?
I am first and foremost proud to be a follower of Christ. I am also a wife and a mother of six: five boys and one princess. We do everything together as a family. We are still old-fashioned in the sense that we have dinner together every night. We love traveling, camping, hanging out, watching movies, cooking together, and trying new ethnic restaurants. I personally enjoy growing things in many gardening spaces that you can’t typically purchase at the local supermarket. I also love writing historical fiction.
What is your motivational message for students, current or future?
Dream big dreams and follow your heart. Work hard for what you want and you will achieve it. When you get knocked down, get up again and make a difference. Always be kind; it will come back to you when you least expect it and when you most need it. Your future is full of possibility; it is up to you to make it happen.
