Lantern & Compass Teaching

I was an educator and paraprofessional with a deep appreciation for the art of hands-on learning. Over the years, I’ve worked closely with students across diverse learning needs and grade levels, helping them grow not only academically but also cognitively. My teaching philosophy is grounded in evidence-based pedagogy that supports learning by doing, thinking, and writing rather than relying heavily on technology. Research consistently shows that handwriting, note-taking, and paper-based learning activate critical brain pathways tied to comprehension, retention, and creative thinking. In my classroom, that means fewer screens — and more pencils, paper, and purposeful movement. The resources I design for Teachers Pay Teachers are crafted to engage students in meaningful practices that sticks. Each printable encourages independence, reinforces foundational literacy and skills, and supports all learners — from general education to 504/IEP and gifted students. Whether it’s decoding words, connecting across disciplines, or discovering the joy of language, I believe in keeping learning tactile, intentional, and human, where curiosity leads the way and paper still holds the power to spark understanding.

My teaching style blends structure, creativity, and connection. As both a teacher and paraprofessional, I’ve seen firsthand how students learn best when lessons engage the whole brain — not just their eyes and screens. I design lessons that invite students to write, think, and explore through hands-on activities that promote focus, comprehension, and confidence. I believe in the power of paper-based learning. Research continues to show that when students physically write, highlight, and manipulate information on the page, they build deeper memory connections and stronger reading comprehension skills. That’s why I focus on printable, low-tech resources that help learners slow down, think critically, and make meaning that lasts.

My educational journey has been shaped by a lifelong love of learning and a deep curiosity about how people grow, think, and connect through knowledge. I hold a B.A. in Psychology and have completed graduate coursework in Psychological Science. In addition to my academic training, I’ve worked as both a teacher and paraprofessional, supporting students in literacy, foundational reading, and critical thinking skills. These experiences have given me a front-row seat to the diverse ways students learn and how evidence-based, hands-on methods can transform understanding. My background in psychology directly informs my classroom practice and resource design. I strive to create lessons that not only teach content but also strengthen cognitive skills like attention, memory, and language processing. My approach bridges the science of learning with the art of teaching, helping students build knowledge that lasts. Whether I’m creating morphology lessons, reading comprehension materials, or cross-disciplinary printables, each resource reflects my belief that education should nurture both the mind and the heart. I also emphasize the importance of building critical thinking and analytical skills, essential not only for academic success but for lifelong growth and problem-solving beyond the classroom.

My educational journey has always been guided by curiosity and a deep desire to understand how things work — whether in the mind, the world, or the written word. With a strong background in psychology, education, and research, I’ve learned that knowledge is more than information — it’s the key that opens doors to what once seemed impossible. That same curiosity has led me down paths I never imagined: from tracking submarines for the military, to designing and building my own tiny house from the ground up, to now writing novels that explore new psychological and scientific theories. Each experience reflects my belief that learning isn’t confined to classrooms or textbooks — it’s a lifelong adventure that blends discipline, creativity, and courage.