Introduction to Fireflies / Lightning Bugs

I have classes pertaining to science, reading/ ELA, life skills, geography and social studies. 

However, I also teach social skills, preparing students for the workforce, anger and stress management, environmental causes, vegan and gluten-free lifestyle, cooking, gardening, sustainable lifestyle, and life/ confidence coaching. 

M.Ed.,  M. Psych., & M. Business 
Education:
Associate's- Legal Studies from Edison College
Bachelors- Special Education from Florida Gulf Coast University 
Masters- Special Education from Walden University 
Masters Certification- Psychology with an emphasis on life coaching from Grand Canyon University 
Masters- Business Leadership and Organization from Western Governors University 
I have also completed doctorate-level classes in the field of psychology with a focus on emotional and behavioral disorders for school-aged children. 

Educational certifications in Florida and Kentucky: Special Education K-12, Elementary Education K-6, English 5-9, Physical Education K-12, Reading endorsement, ESOL/ ESL/ELL endorsement 

I have taught at Kagan and Cambridge schools. I have completed numerous Kagan certification courses. Most of my time teaching in public education was in low-income schools, high-risk students, emotional/behavioral disorders, and international schools. 

In addition to the above certification areas, I have also taught:
Biology (general education, special education, and advanced placement)
Social / Personal skills
Algebra/ Pre-Algebra
Gifted 

I have served as a teacher leader and coach for new teachers, reading coach for students and teachers, and case manager for students with IEPs. 

Vocational certificates/ training: 
Correctional Officer Academy- state of Florida and Texas, state exams/certification

Other Certifications: 
Reiki Practioner
Life Coaching
Health coaching

Prior to becoming a teacher, I was a correctional officer. I completed two training academies and license exams. I worked in adult male facilities in both Florida and Texas.

I also teach ESOL (English as a second language) to students and adults living around the world. 
I have served as a judge for Thomas Alva Edison's Science and Research Fairs.

My teaching style is heavily influenced by my background in psychology, working with individuals with emotional and behavioral disorders, and appealing to the unique needs and interests of all students. I believe classes should be interactive and fun, leaving students with memorable experiences. When students are excited and intrigued by new information and learning, they develop a love for learning. In my classroom, I want all students to feel safe, excited, appreciated, valued, and understood. 

I am very active in my community! I started a Pin-up group in my area in order to embrace the vintage clothing style and encourage other women to get involved in community outreach. The group has over 40 female members and we devote a great deal of time to volunteering for local non-profits in our community. Additionally, many of us have been published in magazines (Yes! Including me!) I help promote community service/ outreach and encourage women to get their children involved in our community events as well! 

Additionally, I have owned and operated my own businesses while teaching full-time. 

While living in Florida, I owned and operated a pet sitting/ boarding business. I had over 200 customers and cared for their dogs, cats, horses, donkey, goats, chickens, and many other animals. I am a HUGE animal lover! 

Both of my dogs are rescues and I am actively involved with community service work that serves to protect and care for animals. 

Through my personal business, I offer  Reiki services, life/ health, and confidence coaching to adults and children. I am a contracted life coach, life coach blogger, and served as an editor for a non-profit life coaching organization and serve on the board of directors as the secretary and fill-in Vice President.