MY EXPERIENCE
I began teaching eighth grade in Bridgewater in 1999.  Before that, I was a basic skills instructional assistant in fifth grade.  I have also worked with kindergarteners, second graders, and high school students, so my range of experience is vast.  I graduated cum laude from Montclair State University.  I am highly qualified in both English and elementary education.  I have taken several masters courses through Drake University and I have continued my education through BRRSD's teacher's college. I am always seeking workshops, podcasts, and classes that will better me as a teacher.

WHY I CHOSE MY JOB
I probably like middle school the best because I am so close to the mentality of the students.  I love their senses of humor and how they look at the world through such optimistic eyes.  Sometimes I wish I were more like them.  Okay, maybe not like the smell in the gym lockers, but I certainly love what I do.  I still sometimes am awed that I get paid for what I do; everyone should have a job so rewarding.  While the paperwork can be grueling at times, when I help even one child learn something new, I know the day was worthwhile.  

MY FAMILY
When I am not wearing my "teacher hat," Eric and I are parents to Megan (age 19) and Tyler (age 17).  Megan loves her job at a local dairy farm. Tyler is a AAA hockey player and a senior at Pingry.

 

Becoming a parent has completely changed the way I view teaching.  I may not understand the exact situation in your family, but I know being a parent is not always an easy job.  

MY "FAMILY"
So I mentioned that I have two children at home, but did I also mention that I have about seventy-five other children?  They are all teenagers, too!  Unfortunately, they are only mine for 40-80 minutes a day before they go home to their real parents, but I love the "in loco parentis" clause in the agenda because though we are teachers, we are also acting as parents, too.  If I can do anything to make your child's experience a better one, please let me know. 

 

LEISURE TIME

I enjoy spending time outside of school facilitating the Color-a-Smile club and the games club, volunteering for various charities, and cheering for my hockey player.  For these reasons, my reading wish list is never-ending, but I love spending my free time reading for pleasure.