I attended elementary and high school in small rural areas in western Massachusetts — Bernardston and Northfield, respectively. The positive, small school experience led me to attend a small college, but one that was away from where I grew up (I needed a change of scenery). This led me to Saint Joseph's College of Maine. My time at Saint Joseph's was quiet, but it opened my mind and heart to education as a job and a passion (and led me to meet the love of my live, my husband).

After receiving my degree in 2003, I moved to the Berkshires in Massachusetts and took a job in special education working with an autistic student. This experience increased my knowledge and understanding of special education. After a year, I felt that the four-and-a-half hour drive to Maine to see my fiancé was too much, so I moved back to Maine.

Upon moving to Maine in June 2004, I took a job working in Title I, supporting first through fourth grade students in the areas of math and reading at Steven's Brook Elementary located in Bridgton. In 2005, my Title I position was moved to Sebago Elementary in Sebago, Maine.

The few years that I worked in Title I offered me many opportunities to explore instruction and practice. I started my master's degree in literacy through Lesley University. During one of the courses, I was inspired to make a difference at my school through multicultural education. This led to my application and the award of a grant to start a multicultural reading program with first- through fourth-grade students.

In 2007, I applied and received a third grade teaching position at Songo Locks Elementary School in Naples, Maine. During my first year at Songo Locks, I completed my master's degree in curriculum and instruction with a specialization in literacy, language, reading, and writing. To support my growth and other staff members' growth in the understanding of educational practice, I have led study groups in instructional practices with reading strategies and answering constructed response questions.

Besides my passion for education, I enjoy running, traveling, and spending time with my husband and my cat, Oreo.