I started my teaching journey in Federal Way, Washington, at The Career Academy at Truman. From Washington, I came back to Arizona where I was born and raised to teach at Villago Middle School here in Casa Grande. Most of my teaching career, I have worked with students to provide academic and social emotional support in either extended resource settings or self-contained classrooms. Each student within my classroom provides a spark to the WHY I do this. My teaching career has always focused around working with special needs students because I am also a parent of a special needs adult. I am an individual who has sat on both sides of the educational table providing the unique opportunity to understand both dynamics. I received my bachelor’s degree from St.Martin’s University in Lacey, Washington, and then pursued my master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction with an emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorders/Behavior Analysis at Arizona State University.  

I grew up in Globe, Arizona, where I graduated from Globe High School in 1989. Yes, a long time ago. I then entered the military where I served in the United States Army for 10 years. I am a mom to two sons, who are grown, a wife, and a dog mom to four (4).  My happy place is outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hanging out by the campfire. 

Favorite quote and philosophy:
“What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.”  ------ Albert Pike