What school do you currently work at?
Queen of Peace Catholic Academy
What grade/age do you teach?
Pre-Kindergarten
How long have you been a teacher?
15 years
Why were you inspired to teach?
I had many teachers I loved growing up who made me love school. My mom was also a teacher. And I love kids!
What is your favorite activity to do with your students?
I love painting and doing other crafts with them. I find it relaxing! I also love singing and dancing with the kids.
What advice would you give to parents of children starting in your class?
Pre-K is an exciting but also anxious time for both parents and the children because it is the first “real” school for the kids. Know that we love your kids as our own, and we really do want what is best for them. It is important for parents and teachers to work together so that our kids can succeed. I am grateful to the many parents over the years who have trusted me to play such an important role in their children’s lives.
What is your favorite part of the school day?
Centers time. It is when the kids get to do free play, which is always fun to listen to and watch. My assistant, a parent volunteer and I also call the children to do a brief one-on-one or small group activity. This is a great time to really get to the know the kids and form a nice relationship with them.
How do you wind down from a long day of teaching?
Being with my husband and our two young daughters.
What do you like to do outside of the classroom?
Anything with my family, whether it is going to a park or the pool. I also love anything crafty.
What has been your funniest interaction with a student?
Being with 4-year-olds every day means a LOT of laughs, but the most memorable one would probably be from my first year of teaching. My principal came in for a visit while the kids were looking through books and visiting with each other during a transition time. We were sitting by two other children and talking, when a little boy leaned over and kissed a little girl on her lips.
What is your favorite book?
The “Harry Potter” series!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am proud to be a teacher. I have been teaching for many years and at the same school, so I have gotten to know lots of families over the years. Many of them have become like family to me.