About the instructor...
Although I have been teaching for 15 years, I find I still look forward to the adventure each new year will bring. My three year old daughter, Kaya Lou, and the 150 students I teach each year give my life light and laughter. I am grateful and blessed to be surrounded by amazing young minds and eager hearts.
I earned my bachelor's in teaching English and Communications classes from Western Michigan University, moved directly to California, and taught there for my first two years. I returned to Grand Rapids and earned my masters in English at Grand Valley State University. For as long as I can remember I have loved books, writing, and kids. I hope to make my enthusiasm for learning and kindness contagious.
Recently I have begun teaching and coaching debate and forensics. These are two of my most challenging but rewarding courses; both offer students opportunities to compete against other schools for trophies, recognition, and scholarships. All seven classes listed above offer something different to learners and many students opt to take several. One of the biggest benefits of teaching is having students year after year and witnessing their growth into amazing young adults. I have confidence that your student(s) will be one of them and look forward to aiding them on their journey.
I earned my bachelor's in teaching English and Communications classes from Western Michigan University, moved directly to California, and taught there for my first two years. I returned to Grand Rapids and earned my masters in English at Grand Valley State University. For as long as I can remember I have loved books, writing, and kids. I hope to make my enthusiasm for learning and kindness contagious.
Recently I have begun teaching and coaching debate and forensics. These are two of my most challenging but rewarding courses; both offer students opportunities to compete against other schools for trophies, recognition, and scholarships. All seven classes listed above offer something different to learners and many students opt to take several. One of the biggest benefits of teaching is having students year after year and witnessing their growth into amazing young adults. I have confidence that your student(s) will be one of them and look forward to aiding them on their journey.
In my spare time, I enjoy traveling within the US with my family as well as camping, hiking, gardening, and anything that involves being surrounded by nature and the outdoors. My greatest joy is spending time with Kaya. We are expecting another little one in January and are eager to see the growing dynamic and love between them.
I am a social creature by nature so I very much enjoy spending time with students outside of the classroom as well. Whether it's a potluck at my house, volunteering at Habitat for Humanity, working together to feed the homeless, or venturing on a trip to Mackinaw to compete in Forensics, I find that relationships with my students are one of the most rewarding aspects of my life.
Raised on a pig farm, I also am drawn to the countryside and a a bit of a homesteader. I can much of what I grow and enjoy the company of several cats and chickens on our property.
I am a social creature by nature so I very much enjoy spending time with students outside of the classroom as well. Whether it's a potluck at my house, volunteering at Habitat for Humanity, working together to feed the homeless, or venturing on a trip to Mackinaw to compete in Forensics, I find that relationships with my students are one of the most rewarding aspects of my life.
Raised on a pig farm, I also am drawn to the countryside and a a bit of a homesteader. I can much of what I grow and enjoy the company of several cats and chickens on our property.