I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. (I love the sunshine!) I attended the University of Arizona where I received a degree in Elementary Education.  Following graduation, I taught in Arizona for six years.  I then I relocated to Chicago and have been so lucky to find a home here at AJLA.  This is my fourth year working as a second grade teacher at AJLA, and I love it! Ms. Herlitz and I are excited to work with our second grade community and to learn and grow together.

      Last year I finished my Master’s degree in Language, Literacy, and Culture at UIC! During school breaks, I enjoy spending time with my family and dogs, and I also enjoy traveling.  I love to see and learn about new places.  This summer I was fortunate enough to spend a month traveling in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Cambodia.  

     I am passionate about both teaching and learning.  With this passion in mind, I have embarked on a goal to travel over every school break to learn at least a little bit about all of the amazing places there are to see. I hope to share these experiences and enthusiasms with all of the students.  I also hope to learn from the experiences, languages, and cultures represented here at AJLA and specifically in our classroom. As a part of this goal of learning, I am always open to your input and feedback - it is important to me to learn from you and the students!