I have been teaching for twenty-one years at this school in every grade from K - 5 except 2nd. The 2008/2009 year will be my thirteenth year teaching fifth grade. Before I taught, I was a sales manager in Hawai'i. I have two grown daughters and two troublesome cats (or maybe it's vice versa). My hobbies include computers, baseball, odd music, and teaching.

My educational goal is to build a class in which the kids are responsible for themselves and their learning. I have "looped" with classes, which means I go from grade to grade with the same kids. It's challenging (always have to think of new activities and you can get too attached), but I'm convinced it makes a world of difference for the kids.

I love teaching and have little desire to do anything else. I'm a believer in full-time teaching, which means I try to be accessible at all times - my students and their parents are allowed and encouraged to call, text, or e-mail me at home and in the classroom.