I was honored to receive the Carpe Diem Award, which recognizes excellence through curiosity, inquiry, research, and meaningful contributions to teaching and learning.
This recognition is especially meaningful to me because it reflects the work I am passionate about: improving math and science curriculum, exploring research-based strategies, supporting fellow teachers, and designing learning experiences that help students think deeply and engage with purpose.
I was recognized for being innovative, reflective, and committed to continuous growth as an educator, math and STEM leader, and mentor to colleagues. I was also selected to participate in the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Teacher Innovator Institute, an experience that reflects my commitment to STEM education, innovation, and real-world learning.
These values are also at the heart of my teaching style, which is structured, inquiry-based, and student-centered. I believe students learn best when they can explore ideas, ask questions, make connections, use strategies, and explain their thinking.
My resources are designed with clarity, scaffolding, and brain-based learning in mind. I often include guided practice, visual models, retrieval practice, spiral review, reflection prompts, and real-world problem-solving opportunities.
My goal is to help teachers create learning experiences where students feel capable, curious, and confident. A shining teacher moment for me is seeing students who once felt unsure in math begin to take risks, explain their thinking, and proudly say, “I understand this now.”