I have been an elementary educator since 1989! ! I am currently teaching second grade, but have also taught third grade, first grade, fifth grade, and Kindergarten. I am hard at work earning my Reading endorsement and hope to eventually work as a small group intervention specialist. I love all things literacy-related, and own 20 tubs of picture books that I use to enhance my instruction across all subject areas.

I love planning thematic, integrated units. My district is currently using the Daily 5/CAFE in Reading/ELA and Math In Focus. I am an advocate of developmentally appropriate instructional practices, and incorporate literature into all areas of my teaching. I use music and movement to engage and interest my students. I also use my vast repertoire of songs and poetry to teach all subjects and have a rhyming good time!

Elementary Educator of the Year, 2000, Sylvania Schools

Completed Reading endorsement through Heidelberg College's online Thinking Works program designed by Dr. Eileen Carr. May 2015-May 2016 Masters of Education with Technology Endorsement, May 2008, Lourdes University, Sylvania, Ohio; Elementary Education Certification, December 1989, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio; B.A., English/Journalism, August 1983, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio.

Proud mother of two young adults. Known to be sassy, sensitive, and slightly humorous. Collector of children's picture books. Avid reader, writer, and blogger. Crafter, quilter, guitar player. Addicted to caramel lattes and holiday movies on the Hallmark Channel. Self-described "hippie chick" who loves folk music from the 60's and 70's. Prone to wearing jangling bracelets and dangling earrings. Dog-lover and Santa-collector. CONTACT: storiesandsongs2@gmail.com