I graduated from the University of Portland with a BA in Elementary Education and a Reading Endorsement. I then earned an MED in Curriculum and Instruction from Trinity Washington University in Washington, DC. I began my career in DC as a volunteer, teaching in an inner-city Catholic school. After two years, I returned to Oregon and began teaching in the Archdiocese of Portland. I have taught first grade, fifth grade, and currently teach fourth grade. I find great joy in watching students grow in their faith, in their academic abilities, and into responsible and independent young people. Outside of the classroom I enjoy spending time with my husband and two boys going on bike rides, hiking, visiting amusement parks, and traveling.