Playful Prairie Dogs

     If I hadn't become a teacher, I'm almost certain I would have become a dolphin trainer. Or a zoologist. Or perhaps, a park ranger. So, it makes perfect sense that I love teaching classes about animals!
     What makes my teaching style unique is how I integrate multiple subjects around one central theme. That theme, or class, begins with the science around an animal. From there, I can branch off into a geography, history, or even a cultural lesson. Different genres of writing are easily taught through this central theme, as are a variety of math concepts. And creating STEAM lessons ties in perfectly with my love for integrating.
     I earned my master’s degree in elementary education (Kindergarten-Grade 6) from Sacred Heart University. I have taught 5th, 2nd, and 3rd grades in the same public school dating back to 2007. Last year (2019), I was awarded a fellowship through the Seedlings Educators Collaborative. This fellowship has allowed me to continue to deepen my knowledge, experience, creativity and passion for project and place-based, integrated learning.
     I truly believe children learn best when the learning is real. When it is integrated. And when it is fun! I do not feel learning should be isolated into individual subjects. Kids learn best when there is a seamless flow between reading, writing, science, social studies, math, music and art. And sometimes sport. I have seen so many of my students thrive through this type of learning over the years.
     Outside of teaching, you can find me at the rink playing ice hockey, on the slopes ski racing, working out at Crossfit, catching a wave surfing, or competing in a triathlon. A fun fact about myself is that I played professional baseball and semi-pro ice hockey in the NWHL. When I'm not involved in a sport, you can find me travelling the globe with my husband Aaron, or challenging him to try a new sport or activity. And he is always up for the challenge in spite of the fact he is 100% blind!
    My strength as an educator lies in my ability to take a topic, such as an animal, and then teach multiple subjects through that one topic. I welcome you to join one of my classes to see how integrated learning works. I have always said that if I could open up my own one room schoolhouse and teach "my way", I would do it in a heartbeat! Outschool is my one room schoolhouse and I hope to welcome you into my classroom soon!