How long have you been a teacher?

This is my first year at NA! It’s been awesome so far :). 

Where else have you taught?

I’ve also taught at Wheaton North, which is in Illinois. It’s kind of like the North Allegheny of the Chicago suburbs.

Where did you go to college?

I went to Wheaton College. A highlight was living in a house with eight of my friends my senior year — it was epic. 

Was math your favorite subject growing up?

I could never pick a favorite subject! I obviously liked math, but I’ve always loved reading and writing, too. I also really liked chemistry and history. Pretty much, I just love learning new things, no matter what it is.

What is something people might not know about you?

I’ve lived in 4 different states! I was born in New Jersey, moved to Rhode Island, moved again to the Philly area, and then to Illinois (where I’ve stayed the longest). It’s so fun to be back in PA. 

Do you like teaching at NA so far and why?

It’s been awesome! I’ve loved getting to know all of my students and teaching in a building with just juniors and seniors — that’s different than what I’ve done in the past, but the vibe is really cool. 

Do you prefer teaching high school?

YES. I actually started out in college as an elementary education major (lol) but quickly realized that I’d rather be in high school! I was a camp counselor in the summer, and one session I worked with high schoolers and LOVED it! Teaching high school also meant that I had to major in math in college, which gave me the opportunity to take some really challenging but cool math classes.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I like to do lots of things. My husband and I love to be outside, so we go on walks/hikes all the time. I also love to read, cook/bake, make bread, find cute fall decorations for my house, and hang out with friends/family. 

If you could have any other job what would it be and why?

It would be super cool to work in camp ministry. I was a camp counselor all of high school and college, and I loved it. It would be epic to do something with camp full time.

What is your favorite song and why?

My favorite song right now is “Carry You Home” by Alex Warren. It’s just so good! 

What is your dream vacation spot?

I would LOVE to take a road trip to the Pacific Northwest. It’s so beautiful! 

Are you a cat or dog person and why?

I’m a dog person — I had a Collie growing up, and she was awesome. 

What do you want your students to learn from you besides math?

I want them to learn how to be joyful, how to persevere through hard things (even if that hard thing is math), and how to always be proud of the work they’re doing. 

How do you navigate through stress? 

Truthfully, I’m stressed a lot! Something that helps me is oftentimes just doing the thing that I’m stressed about. Once I do it once, it’s easier for me to do it again. 

What is the best thing to ever happen to you?

Getting married! My husband’s name is Braden, and he’s the best.